Practice Nurse Services

Our practice nurses provide a wide range of patient services including:

Blood Tests

Blood tests (to be recommended by the doctor only) are taken by our practice nurses and healthcare assistant – please ring reception for the result of your test, 1 week after it is taken, on 01305 262886 after 11:00.

Cervical Smears

Our nurses run a cervical smear clinic for routine smears. You will receive a written invitation when your smear is due. Please contact the surgery to make an appointment. Cervical smears are recommended from the age of 25, every 3-5 years depending on your circumstances. Regular cervical smears can detect cells which could become cancerous in the future. If detected they can be removed, so preventing the disease.  You will receive a letter from the screening service within 2 weeks to inform you of your test result.

Dressings

Assessment and dressing of wounds and ulcers is undertaken by our nurses. Please note: If you sustain a cut or laceration that you believe requires medical attention, you are advised to attend Accident and Emergency or a Minor Injuries Unit as soon as possible. Early attention can speed up the healing process.

Chronic Disease Monitoring

The nurses carry out monitoring for patients with diabetes, asthma, ischaemic heart disease (“angina”) and Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease. Appointments can be made via reception.

Immunisation

• Children – Child immunisations are carried out by our practice nurses in accordance with the national immunisation schedule. Information about childhood immunisations can be found here. You will normally receive an invitation through the post. If in doubt your health visitor or doctor can advise.
• Influenza - Usually advised in October/November for all people over 50, or those with conditions including diabetes, heart, lung and kidney problems and some asthma sufferers. Travel Vaccinations – Please see above Travel Vaccinations page.
• Hepatitis B Vaccination - This can only be provided if certain conditions are met; it cannot routinely be provided for occupational purposes. If your employer asks you to obtain a Hepatitis B vaccination please contact the practice manager who will be able to provide you with an explanatory letter.

Over 75 Health Checks

When you reach the age of 75, you are entitled to an annual health check with the practice nurse. Please book your appointment at reception.