NON-MEDICAL PRACTITIONERS' ROLES IN OUT-OF-HOURS CARE

▪ This is a summary: the full paper can be accessed atnursingtimes.net

Davies, Blake BSc, SPQ A&E, RGN, Dip EM, REMTP

Blake Davies, BSc, SPQ A&E, RGN, Dip EM, REMTP, is lecturer practitioner, NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde and University of Paisley.

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THIS ARTICLE HAS BEEN DOUBLE-BLIND PEER-REVIEWED

Nursing Times 103(35):p 30-31, August 28, 2007.

ABSTRACT:

Davies, B. (2007) Non-medical practitioners' roles in out-of-hours care. Nursing Times; 103: 35, 30-31.

A retrospective review was undertaken, mapping 8,466 patients' presenting complaints to the NHS Education for Scotland competency framework for out-of-hours practitioners within the Clyde division of Greater Glasgow and Clyde Health Board. The results showed that 88-93% of presentations could potentially be seen by non-medical practitioners (NMPs). This offers healthcare providers the opportunity to develop more cost-effective services, while giving nurses and other NMPs new and exciting career options.