Derby launches initiative to fill vacuum in refresher training for ENT nurses

Following the announcement of a training budget for registered nurses, registered allied health professionals and registered midwives, the nurses in ear nose and throat (ENT) outpatients at the Royal Derby Hospital began the search for a course to update their skills and knowledge. The CPD budget announced by NHS England in 2019 provides a total of £1000 over a 3-year period (not yearly and not recurrent) per registered nurse. In our search, we found courses advertised on aural microsuction, but nothing that covered the breadth of ENT specifically for nurses.

At the Royal Derby Hospital ENT department, we have been holding regular training sessions with our ENT consultants and allied professionals to maintain and enhance our knowledge of all things ENT. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, previous extradepartmental training had to be cut to meet the demands of the hospital.

Since becoming aural care practitioner in March last year, I have been instrumental in instigating new training sessions. These have been a great way to expand and share knowledge within the department and provides us with an opportunity to get to know our colleagues better.