Did you know we have a Nurse Practitioner at NSDL?
Nurse Practitioners – what are they and when should you see one?
What is a Nurse Practitioner?
Nurse Practitioners are the most autonomous and senior nurses in the Australian health care system. They have the authority, expertise, and clinical experience to diagnose and treat patients of all ages, with a variety of health conditions. There are only around 3000 Nurse Practitioner’s in Australia, and their title is protected and endorsed by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia.
How does a Nurse Practitioner differ to a Registered Nurse?
Nurse Practitioners are registered nurses who have undertaken specialist post graduate education in addition to specific Nurse Practitioner masters level study. Nurse Practitioners have an extended clinical role to:
Diagnosis and treat a variety of health-related conditions
Construct, implement and evaluate therapeutic management plans for patients, carers, and their families
Initiate and receive referrals to other healthcare professionals
Order and interpret appropriate tests to assist in diagnosis and management of healthcare conditions, such as blood tests and ultrasound
Prescribe appropriate and necessary medications
Nurse Practitioners have access to MBS and item numbers and may apply for Medicare rebates, they also have access to PBS medicines. Nurse Practitioners are valuable members of healthcare teams, working collaboratively with other health professionals to ensure patients receive the best care available.
What is a Dermatology Nurse Practitioner?
Dermatology Nurse Practitioners diagnose, investigate, and manage conditions of the hair, skin, and nails. A Dermatology Nurse Practitioner can help to open health access for both acute and chronic skin conditions by providing high quality, affordable and holistic care solutions to patients. Dermatology NPs may manage a range of conditions by providing end to end patient care with the use of both pharmacological (medications) and non-pharmacological approaches and interventions.
Have you met our Dermatology Nurse Practitioner Pene?
Pene has been working at NSDL for 3 and ½ years and has over 20 years nursing experience. She has a Post Graduate Certificate in Dermatology and a Masters of Nurse Practitioners from the University of Queensland, where she was honoured with the Deans commendation for academic excellence. Pene works alongside our Dermatologists, Registered Nurses, and Dermal Clinicians to offer a range of holistic services to our Dermatology clients. Pene has expertise and special interest in Acne, Rosacea, LASER Dermatology, pigmentary disorders, skincare, cosmetic procedures, and scar revision including self-harm wounds. She also works collaboratively with our Dermatologists to provide support and follow up care to a broad range of clients affected by dermatology conditions. Pene is also a trainer and faculty member for Allergan Aesthetics, makers of BOTOX® and Juvéderm dermal fillers.
When should I book to see Pene?
If your GP has specifically recommended you see a Dermatologist for your skin concerns, please follow this recommendation. Seeing a Nurse Practitioner does not require a referral; however NP’s can continue to work in collaboration with your GP if you wish. Pene can also internally refer you to one of our specialist Dermatologists if your condition requires escalation and extra support.
Book to see Pene if you are wanting advice and/or treatment planning for:
· Mild to moderate acne (teens and adult)
· Mild to moderate rosacea (facial flushing/redness)
· Ageing concerns of the skin including pigment, redness, volume loss, wrinkles, or sagginess
· General skin care advice and product planning, including in pregnancy
· Scar management recommendations, including self-harm wounds