This engaging course is designed to equip healthcare support workers (HCSWs) and non-clinical reception staff in GP practices with the essential skills to identify and respond to early signs of patient deterioration. Through practical training and evidence-based strategies, participants will enhance their ability to assess, unwell patients and refer effectively, ensuring timely interventions and improved patient outcomes.
ABCDE of Patient Assessment
Identifying the presenting problem
Recognising normal vs. abnormal findings
Respiratory distress
Signs of infection
Pain assessment
Neurological symptoms
Chest pain or stroke symptoms
Significant trauma
Allergic reactions
Mental health
Red Flag Presentations
Sepsis overview
Overview of the National Early Warning Score (NEWS) tool
Introduction to the Paediatric Observation Priority Score (POP) tool
When to seek immediate help
Referring to healthcare professionals
Documentation and reporting
Triage considerations – under/over triage
Importance of accurate patient prioritisation
Active listening and empathy
Asking the right questions
Communicating with diverse patient populations
Practical scenarios and case studies in identifying symptoms and assessing urgency
Q&A session and discussed
This course is suitable for HCSWs and Non-clinical staff such as receptionists working in primary care.
Yes, you will be issued with a certificate on successful completion of the course
Assessment by the instructor will be continuous throughout the course
This course has been developed in line with NICE Clinical Knowledge Summaries, NICE Guideline [NG51] on Sepsis, and BMA guidance on Care Navigation and Triage in General Practice. However, it is essential that all staff—clinical or non-clinical—undertake supervised practice within their workplace. Individuals should only carry out patient assessments autonomously when both they and their employer are confident in their competence to do so.
This one-day ‘Recognising the unwell patient’ course is designed for both clinical healthcare support workers and non-clinical reception and administrative staff in GP practices who are on the frontline, responsible for patient bookings and monitoring waiting rooms. It emphasises the critical role these personnel play in early patient recognition.
The course equips participants with essential skills to identify signs of illness and deterioration, covering basic patient assessment, recognition of common signs and symptoms, effective communication, and appropriate response protocols. By enhancing their knowledge, attendees will be better equipped to promptly and appropriately assess patients with various illnesses, identify red flag presentations, and call for urgent assistance when necessary.
Developed in line with UK National Standards and Guidelines (including those in England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland) and guidance from the NHS and NICE.
Peter Hughes
Michaela McCall
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£160.00
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Barbara Robert –
As a new starter to the role of a receptionist I found this course very informative and helpful
Laura Felton –
Very informative, would recommend
Karen Roberts –
Very interesting and lot’s of useful information to put into practice.
Samantha Hughes –
I thoroughly enjoyed the course, it was informative, interesting and our trainer was brilliant
Dawn Hughes Lloyd –
Excellent, great knowledge and deliver by the trainer to the group. Great interaction and respect from all and good networking and education. Excellent really enjoyed it and feel I have taken such a lot from this.
Jacqueline Simon –
Raj is a very good trainer.. would welcome further training from him.