RSV vaccines: what’s the latest?

Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) is a common virus that can affect people of all ages. It is particularly serious in infants and the elderly, leading to severe respiratory infections and is a major cause of hospitalisations in these age groups. In June 2023, the Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) recommended an immunisation programme […]
AED Training: Restart a heart, why every second counts

Sudden cardiac arrest is a life-threatening condition that requires immediate intervention. When someone experiences sudden cardiac arrest, every second counts. While Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) is crucial in maintaining blood flow to vital organs, it alone cannot restore abnormal heart rhythm. In such critical situations, having access to an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) and knowing how […]
Boosting Flu Vaccine Uptake

The 2023-24 flu vaccine programme is now well underway, having commenced in schools and for those most at risk alongside the Autumn 2023 COVID-19 booster programme in early September 2023. Flu vaccines play a crucial role in helping to safeguard individuals, communities and in protecting our National Health Service (NHS). Healthcare professionals can all help […]
Sexual health in primary care and community pharmacy: positive developments and the challenges still faced

Sexual health is an important element in the overall physical health and mental health of an individual. Sexual contact can lead to the transmission of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) which, if left untreated, can lead to serious health complications. The public need access to advice from health professionals who are knowledgeable about sexual health and […]
Promoting a learning based culture in the workplace

Promoting a learning based culture in healthcare settings is essential in order to meet standards of practice to be able to deliver high quality safe and effective patient care. In a field where evidence based practice is critical, promoting a positive learning based culture helps to develop continuous learning and enables individuals to stay up […]
How to keep up to date in Travel Health

As travel health professionals we have a vital role in ensuring the health and safety of our travellers whilst away. The field of travel health is fast paced and constantly evolving. With these rapid changes means that it is more important than ever to stay up to date. Why is it important to keep up […]
Preparing for your NMC nursing revalidation

Revalidation – it shouldn’t be a scary word or something as nurses we fear. If you keep on top of the requirements and are prepared, revalidation should be a breeze. In fact, we can even go so far as to say revalidation can be seen as a positive, constructive tool for self-evaluation, reflection and to […]
Why are so many pharmacists signing up for flu training?

More confusion and yet a sudden surge in last minute sign-ups for flu training among UK pharmacists: Unraveling the trend As we approach the flu season, there has been a noticeable surge in the number of UK pharmacists signing up for flu training despite the continued confusion and changes with service requirements. In this blog […]
Ten reasons to do a flu vaccination update

As someone who trains on flu each year, I regularly encounter individuals seeking to enhance their knowledge and proficiency – not only in flu but also in immunisation in general. Often, some are aware of the need for improvement, while others only realise it during the training session. In today’s rapidly evolving world, staying abreast […]
Flu & Immunisation Training Standards: Part III – Immunisation Training for Healthcare Support Workers (HCSWs)

Welcome to Part III of our series. Today we will examine the training standards for Healthcare Support Workers (HCSWs) and how the administration of flu & immunisation differs for this group of practitioners. Background to the Standards The National Minimum Standards and Core Curriculum for Immunisation Training of Healthcare Support Workers document sets out a […]