Establishing an educational programme for nurses to supply emergency hormonal contraception (combined method) to...

Area of Science:

• Nursing Education
• Sexual Health
• Public Health

Background:

• The University of Central Lancashire developed an innovative educational program in 1995.
• The North West Regional Health Authority sought to increase emergency hormonal contraception (EHC) accessibility.
• The program aimed to empower family planning nurses to supply EHC under protocol.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and implement an educational program for family planning nurses.
• To equip nurses with skills for supplying emergency hormonal contraception (EHC).
• To enhance the availability and accessibility of EHC for young people.

Main Methods:

• A 3-day educational program was developed.
• The curriculum complemented existing ENB 901/900 training.
• Nurses were assessed both theoretically and clinically.

Main Results:

• 139 nurses from the North West region attended between 1995-1998.
• The program provided specific skills and knowledge for the extended nursing role.
• The extended role offers potential for wider accessible sexual health services.

Conclusions:

• Extending the role of family planning nurses in supplying EHC improves service accessibility.
• Appropriate training is crucial for nurses undertaking extended roles in family planning.
• Clear protocols and accountability are essential for nurse-led medication supply.