September 2002
Research and Teaching

Nurses lead the world in new role

Nurses in Bradford are easing the workload of doctors by becoming the first in the world to take on a specialist diagnostic role.

Pam Quinn and Helen Ludkin are among eight nurses from across the country to successfully complete a course to become nurse hysteroscopists. They are now qualified to diagnose menstrual problems, a role traditionally done by doctors.

The course has been developed by Bradford Hospitals NHS Trust, national pioneers of direct access outpatient hysteroscopy, in partnership with the University's Division of Midwifery in the School of Health Studies, and the British Society for Gynaecological Endoscopy.

Left to rught: Pam Quinn and Helen Ludkin.

Course co-ordinator Sian Jones, consultant gynaecologist at Bradford Hospitals NHS Trust, said: "This is the first time anywhere in the world that nurses have been able to do this. It really is very important and the trust is very excited about it.

"It means people like myself can concentrate on operating."

The nurses will be able to help post-menopausal women with irregular bleeding and those with heavy periods.

The 12-month course comprises theory, problem-solving case studies and workshops for practical skills.

Nurse hysteroscopist Pam Quinn said: "It has been hard work but we have advanced our practice and we are very proud to be part of something that is pioneering."

next

top of page