Cytology Update course

The course covers the following material:

• Cervical Screening Programmes and Annual Reviews and the impact of new research on new initiatives in sample taking.
• A refresher in the anatomy and physiology of the cervix.
• Taking cervical samples in relation to health and safety, infection control, and confidentiality.
• The outcomes of taking cervical samples in relation to inadequacy rates and what we can do to reduce them.
• HPV and the impact on testing and its relation to cancer and warts
• An insight in colposcopy.
• What is normal and what do we need to know when taking a cervical sample?

Who is it for?

This is a requirement set by the NHSCSP. All staff who are taking cervical samples must complete a cervical update every 3 years.

Timetable

This course runs over either a half day or one full day.

Benefits

You will receive a certificate of attendance that can be used as part of your:

• CPD requirement (35 hours of Continuing professional development in the past 3 years)
• NMC registration (and from the end of 2015 it can be used for revalidation)
• NHS Cervical Screening Programme for sample-taker's 3-yearly update requirement.

By the end of the day you will:

• Have knowledge of the changes that are occurring in relation to sample taking
• Be aware of the cohorts of women who are less likely to attend for samples
• Understand the impact of HPV in the development of cervical cancer and its impact on changes to cervical sampling
• Understand the importance of the prior notification list and which women need to be screened out of program
• Reflect on the correct methods of sample collection, record keeping and audit
• Understand what happens in the laboratory and what information is require in relation to completing the HMR101 request/reporting form and failsafe initiatives to ensure safe practice.

The course consists of a PowerPoint presentation, scenarios, storytelling, group work, discussion and a quiz.

A certificate will be awarded.

There is no formal assessment, though participants are asked to review their last 2 samples for adequacy rate prior to attending the day.

This course is worth either 3 or 7 hours of CPD.

This course is provided by the School of Health & Psychological Sciences.

Applicants must be a registered nurse or doctor who has completed a prior training course and has experience as a cervical sample taker. Please note that upon booking your place, you will be contacted to confirm your NMC pin number.

English requirements

You will need a good level of spoken and written English to enrol on this course.

The tutor will give relevant reading and references within the presentation.