Latest publications
Published: 01 May 2013
Recent RCN publications
Genital Examination in Women: A Resource for Skills Development and Assessment
Download Genital Examination in Women: A Resource for Skills Development and Assessment (PDF 388.8 KB). [See how to download PDF files]
The ability to carry out genital and bimanual examinations is now a key requirement for many nurses working in primary, secondary and community care settings. In 2004, the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) undertook a scoping exercise with relevant stakeholders and the results of this exercise have been built on and developed to create this guidance document. The purpose of this document is to provide standards and sample assessment tools for training in genital examination in women for nurses working in sexual and reproductive health settings, and related health and social care settings. This guidance will enable suitably qualified health care professionals to undertake genital examination in a competent and safe manner; to help trainers and assessors in the training process; and to ensure safe practice for women needing a genital examination.
An RCN Training and Education Framework for Fertility Nursing
Download An RCN training and education framework for fertility nursing (PDF 400 KB). [See how to download PDF files]
The Royal College of Nursing (RCN) Midwifery and Fertility Nursing Forum recognised the need for clarity about the training and education requirements of nurses and midwives working at different levels of practice. In response, the forum commissioned an online survey to establish the current training and education available to support the increasing role extension and opportunities for career progression. A key finding was the need to provide career and professional development guidance for practitioners working in the area of fertility care (Peddie et al., 2011). This framework has been developed in consultation with experts (nursing, education, research and sonography) to ensure the vision for fertility nursing in the 21st century can be met across the UK.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and Cervical Cancer - the Facts (PDF 120.4 KB)
Download Human papillomavirus (HPV) and cervical cancer - the facts (PDF 120.4 KB). [See how to download PDF files]
Worldwide, after breast cancer, cervical cancer is the second most common cancer that affects women. This publication provides up-to-date information about human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and its causative association with cervical cancer, together with information on the latest developments related to the identification and treatment of HPV. Designed to enable practitioners to deliver informed care to patients and clients, the publication contains guidance to uphold good practice and facilitate open and supportive communication with patients about HPV.
Other useful publications
Ectopic Pregnancy and Miscarriage: Diagnosis and Initial Management in Early Pregnancy of Ectopic Pregnancy and Miscarriage. (National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence, December, 2012). Go to guidance webpage on the NICE website.
Fertility: Assessment and Treatment for People with Fertility Problems. (National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence, February, 2013). Go to guidance webpage on the NICE website.
Enhanced Recovery in Gynaecology (Royal College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists (RCOG) Scientific Impact Paper 36, February 2013). Find out more and access the paper on the RCOG website.
Pelvic Organ Prolapse - Information For You (RCOG, March 2013). Read this patient information on the RCOG website.
Cervical Smears and Pregnancy - Information For You. (RCOG, March 2013)
Read this patient information available on the RCOG website.