- counselling skills including active listening and a non-judgemental approach
- knowledge of psychology
- the ability to accept criticism and work well under pressure
- sensitivity and understanding
- patience and the ability to remain calm in stressful situations
- to be flexible and open to change
- customer service skills
- knowledge of English language
- the ability to work well with others
- to be able to carry out basic tasks on a computer or hand-held device
As part of your day-to-day duties, you could:
- set up and running clinics for conditions like asthma, diabetes, heart problems and skin disorders
- offer advice on family planning and contraception
- take blood and urine samples and other specimens and swabs
- perform routine procedures like ear syringing, applying and removing dressings and treating wounds
- offer specialist information and advice on blood pressure, weight control and stopping smoking
- carry out infant injections, vaccinations and travel immunisations
- give advice to patients on long-term medical and nursing needs
You may need to wear a uniform.
You could work at a GP practice.
Your working environment may be physically and emotionally demanding.
You could specialise in health promotion, chronic disease management, diabetes or asthma care.
With experience and qualifications you could become a nurse practitioner, managing your own caseload of patients.
You could also move into management, teaching or research.
You can find out more about becoming a practice nurse from Health Careers.
