General Practice Nursing (GPN): A Dynamic and Rewarding Career
General Practice Nurses (GPNs) work in GP surgeries to deliver comprehensive, patient-centered care as part of the wider primary healthcare team, including GPs, Advanced Practitioners, Nursing Associates, Health Care Assistants, Allied Health Professionals, Physician Associates, Care Coordinators, Care Navigators and many more roles including those studying various health-related training programmes.
GPNs play a crucial role in promoting health and wellbeing within the community, caring for patients ranging from infants to older people. They make a significant impact in primary care by providing a wide range of services including:
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Cervical screening and other national / local screening programmes Consultations including undifferentiated diagnosis Contraception and sexual health Ear care advice Electrocardiograms (ECGs) |
End of life, palliative care and terminal illness Health checks, including learning disability Long term conditions: Asthma, COPD, CVD, Diabetes Mental health Minor illness and minor injury National vaccination schedule |
Non-medical prescribing Skills in management Travel health and vaccination Wound care … and more |
GPN is a diverse and skilled role
The GPN role is incredibly diverse, requiring knowledge across the entire life course and all body systems to assess, plan and deliver high quality, comprehensive care. The specific skills needed vary depending on the patient population and NHS-commissioned work.
Autonomy and Collaboration
GPNs enjoy high levels of autonomy and are key decision-makers in patient care. They work in partnership with other clinicians, leveraging each team member’s unique skills to deliver the best outcomes for patients. As well as providing direct patient care, GPNs have a teaching and support role, working with patients to enable self-care or teaching family members how to care for their relatives. GPNs also adhere to the NMC Code (2018) and contribute to the education, training, supervision and assessment of students and colleagues, sharing their knowledge and expertise to help others grow professionally.
Accountable, holistic, evidence-based care
At the heart of the GPN role is holistic, evidence-based, patient-centered care, achieved by adhering to professional standards, considering all aspects of patient well-being, and integrating the latest research into their practice to improve health outcomes or support those with terminal illnesses.
Career Opportunities
Many GPN positions are advertised on the NHS Jobs website. Additionally, there are pathways into GPN in Leeds through the West Yorkshire Training Hub, by visiting the Leeds Local Medical Committee website or contacting the Professional Lead for General Practice Nursing: gil.ramsden@nhs.net
Here is the presentation from the webinar: Career slides Jan 2025