1. Short summary / abstract
This document sets out national standards for immunisation training approved for use in England, Northern Ireland and Wales. Its aim is to ensure that there is consistency in the training provided across the country and to act as an aid in areas where training is not currently established.
The document makes available guidance to trainers who provide the basic training and regular updates so that a high level of knowledge and a positive attitude towards immunisation are achieved which are important determinants of a successful immunisation programme.
The guidance contains: -
· A brief overview of immunisation training in other countries
· Aims and objectives of national minimum standards in immunisation training
· The six national minimum standards
· Core knowledge and essential topics which should be incorporated into the training programme
· Training update days – areas to be included
· Assessment of competencies – both theoretical and clinical
· Delivery of the immunisation training
· Topics for training the trainer
· Resources required both financial and teaching
· Implementation and evaluation of the standards
The new measures are intended for those staff working in primary care where the majority of vaccinations are given, such as nurses, midwives, doctors and pharmacists but acces to the training ahould also be given to any staff who administer or advise on vaccination.
2. What question is the document addressing?
This document sets out national immunisation standards approved for use in England, Northern Ireland and Wales for immunisation training.
3. Type of study
Training Package
4. Methods valid & appropriate?
Yes
Comments:
This is the first nationally agreed standardised immunisation training programme and follows a survey carried out in 2003 by the HPA of immunisation training which found that standards varied widely across the country and that with re-organisation district immunisation co-ordinators lead role had been transferred and sometimes diluted to PC level. It should be read with the accompanying ‘Core Curriculum for Immunisation Training’
5. Results / recommendations reliable?
Yes: Produced by expert advisory group hosted by the HPA, with advice, recommendations and support from a wide number of key organisations.
6. Any major problems and biases?
The main problems will be with implementation of the training programme and potential lack of resources in skilled staff and finances to support its priority status.
7. Any other important / relevant studies which confirm or contradict?
1.Core Curriculum for Immunisation Training http://www.hpa.org.uk/infections/topics_az/vaccination/training_menu.htm
2.Department of Health. Immunisation against Infectious Disease. (The Green Book) plus updates available on line http://www.dh.gov.uk/assetRoot/04/07/29/84/04072984.pdf
3.Cummins A, Lane L, Crowcroft NS. Survey of local immunisation training in England – the case for setting national standards. Communicable Disease Public health 2004;7(4):267-71
4.National travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) http://www.nathnac.org
5.Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation (JCVI) http://www.advisorybodies.doh.gov.uk/jcvi
8. Keywords
Immunisation vaccination standards training public health competence
Reviewer's Details:
| Name: | Sue Wiseman |
| Post: | Nurse Consultant –Infection Control, DH |
Affiliations
(Society / Organisation / Advisory Committee): | Member Advisory Committee on Dangerous Pathogens
Health Protection Adviser Royal College of Nursing P/T
Member Infection Control Nurses Association |
*** Note: These are the views of a professional expert rather than an official statement from his or her society, organisation or advisory committee.