Training program helps keep practice nurses on point with immunisations

The Gold Coast Primary Health Network (GCPHN) recently hosted a one-day course to enable a group of practice nurses enhance their immunisation skills.

Held in late November, the course, facilitated by Vaxworks Health Services and adapted from Pharmaceutical Society of Australia (PSA) Immunisation Training Program, comprised modules to help the nurses deliver successful immunisation services, including the administration of injections.

It covered key topics such as the principles of immunisation, addressing myths and barriers, vaccine administration and post-vaccination care, childhood vaccines for preventable diseases, and more.

Facilitated by VaxWorks Director Damian Gray, the GCPHN class welcomed Melanie Schulz and Anna Canton from Southport Medical and Dental Centre, Arrabella Richardson and Tayla Cox from Robina Medical and Dental Centre, Robyn Garden from Robina 7 Day Doctors, and Ashlee Sills from MedCentres Pacific Pines.

They joined the ranks of over 9,000 health professionals who have already completed the program, contributing to the successful delivery of more than 17 million immunisations across Australia.

Arrabella and Ashlee said they’ll take plenty away from the experience.

“As a recent graduate I’m always keen to expand my knowledge about immunisations,” Arrabella said.

“The guidance on communicating with parents [uncertain about vaccines for their children] was especially valuable,” she said.

Ashlee also enjoyed learning more about childhood immunisations.

“I’m in my first year working as a nurse, so I found the training helped me gain some confidence in administering immunisations; the main takeaway being childhood vaccines and how to deal with stressed parents,” Ashlee said.

“Another takeaway was learning how to do catch up immunisations, and I found working in pairs or in a group really helped me understand things better,” she said.

GCPHN CEO Matt Carrodus said the course highlights the importance of clinical upskilling.

“It’s a great example of the Gold Coast Primary Health Network working with partners to ensure we have a local workforce well equipped to deliver better outcomes for our community,” he said.