HOW TO SEE THE NURSE PRACTITIONER

The nurse practitioner’s can see patients with a wide range of common conditions and undertakes examinations, makes diagnoses and offers treatment. It is very appropriate for you to see the nurse practitioner with coughs, colds, sore throats, stomach upsets, rashes, asthma, hay fever, skin problems, infections and childhood infectious diseases. They have appointments available that can be booked in advance at the patients’ request for appropriate problems. These will include clinic appointments such as diabetes. Doctors and nurses work to protocols for such problems so it doesn’t matter who you see; you will get the same sort of consultation.

They also has appointments that can be accessed more quickly on the day you wish to be seen if you think the problem needs more urgent attention. If your problem requires a prescription she is able to provide one, and if the problem turns out to be more complex our NPs are well supported by all the doctors if further help is required.

Remember many minor ailments do not need a visit to the doctor and can often be self managed with help from the pharmacist.

The receptionists may guide you into booking a nurse practitioner appointment instead of always requesting to see your doctor. Susan and Judith run afternoon/ evening emergency surgeries on some days when all patients may see their first.

HOW TO SEE THE PRACTICE NURSE/HEALTH CARE ASSISTANT

Appointments are offered throughout the day Monday to Friday.
Some appointments can be booked in advance but some appointments can be booked on the day they are needed. All the nurses can deliver a wide range of nursing care and procedures but some have extra specialist skills.

It is important that you tell the receptionist what you want the nurse to do so that an appropriately skilled nurse can be booked for you. You may be asked by the doctor or another nurse to book a nurses appointment but you can also book directly to see them for things you view as appropriate. Ask the receptionist if you are not sure.

APPOINTMENTS FOR YOUNG PEOPLE

You can be sure that anything you discuss with any member of this practice – family doctor, nurse or receptionist – will stay confidential. This includes contraceptive and sexual health services for which you do not have to be accompanied by an adult.

All the nurses and doctors, especially Dr Richard Burack who has a special interest in young people’s health care, will willingly see under 16 year olds on their own, or with their friends or parents, often at short notice if required.

Even if you are under 16 nothing will be said to anyone – including parents, other family members, care workers or tutors – without your permission. The only reason why we might have to consider passing on confidential information without your permission, would be to protect you or someone else from serious harm. We would always discuss this with you first.

If you are being treated elsewhere – for example at a hospital or Brook Centre – it is best if you allow the doctor or nurse there to inform the practice of any treatment you are receiving. If you have any worries about confidentiality, please feel free to ask a member of staff.