RCN Bulletin newsround - 7 September

News and updates from RCN Bulletin.

Standards for outpatient record content and structure

RCN members are asked to comment on standards on the content and structure of outpatient records.
They aim to provide guidance and facilitate recording and communication of the increasingly complex procedures and interventions carried out in outpatients departments.
The standards also contribute to safety and quality of care as they are introduced with electronic patient records.
They have been produced by a group led by the Royal College of Physicians and the Department of Health.
To take part in the questionnaire, visit   www.surveymonkey.com/s/outpatient_headings_consultation by 19 September.

Prescription chart standards published

A new publication, called Standards for the design of hospital in-patient prescription charts is now available on the RCN website.
The report defines the standards which guide the design of a prescription chart which could be used by hospitals, as well as inform the development of a national UK prescription chart.
The publication signposts example charts from across the United Kingdom, which do not meet every standard but provide a range of ways of addressing specific chart design features.
To read the publication, visit www.rcn.org.uk/prescriptioncharts

Toolkit launched

The RCN has welcomed the launch of a toolkit that will ensure equality within the workforce in the NHS in England.
The toolkit, by NHS Employers, will assist NHS organisations with equal pay audits and links to their Equality Act duties.
Nicola Lee, RCN Employment Relations Adviser, said: ‘The RCN has been a partner in the discussions that developed this important toolkit because ensuring equal and fair pay is important in maintaining  equality of opportunity and preventing discrimination in the workplace.’
The toolkit can also be adopted by staff not on Agenda for Change contracts. Wales is expected to utilise the toolkit in due course and Scotland has been supportive of its development as a framework.
For more information, search for the toolkit at www.nhsemployers.org

Apply for funding for foreign projects

Nursing and other health care staff can apply for a fellowship to which will pay for an opportunity to study a project abroad.
The Winston Churchill Memorial Trust offers fellowships covering a range of categories, including medicine and health.
Proposals should establish how experience oversees would enhance effectiveness in your career or field of interest.
For more details, visit www.wcmt.org.uk. The deadline for applications is 4 October.