Course Description:

Designed specifically for Registered Nurses and Allied Health Professionals new to immunisation practice, this course provides essential training on the national immunisation schedules for both adults and children. The curriculum is structured around the Public Health England standards, encompassing vaccine schedules for influenza, PPV, Shingles, MMR, COVID-19, and the management of childhood immunisations, including catch-up programs as per Green Book Guidance.

Learning Outcomes:

Comprehensive Understanding of the UK's Immunisation Schedules for All Age Groups:

o Gain a solid grasp of the current UK immunisation schedules, encompassing all standard and additional vaccinations from infancy through adulthood.

o Explore the rationale behind schedule structures and the importance of adherence to ensure optimal community health outcomes.

Knowledge of Vaccine-Specific Considerations:

o Delve into the particularities of administering key vaccines such as those for influenza, pneumococcal disease (PPV), Shingles, Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR), and COVID-19.

o Understand the indications, contraindications, and potential adverse effects to ensure informed discussions with patients.

Proficiency in Managing Incomplete Immunisation Schedules:

o Learn to navigate the challenges associated with incomplete immunisation schedules, particularly in pediatric cases, in accordance with Green Book Guidance.

o Develop strategies for effective catch-up immunisation, taking into account past vaccine history and current health status.

Practical Skills in Vaccine Administration:

o Enhance practical skills in the safe administration of vaccines, focusing on both subcutaneous (SC) and intramuscular (IM) injection techniques.

o Emphasize best practices to minimise discomfort and ensure effective delivery of vaccines.

Course Programme Highlights:

Essential Immunology and Vaccine Mechanisms:

o A thorough review of immunological concepts relevant to vaccination, including how vaccines stimulate immunity and the different types of vaccines used in practice.

o An exploration of the body’s defence mechanisms and how vaccines contribute to disease prevention.

Detailed Overview of Adult and Childhood Immunisation Schedules:

o Comprehensive coverage of the specific vaccines included in the UK schedules for both adults and children, highlighting recent updates and changes in practice.

o Discussion of the public health impact of routine immunisations and the role of healthcare professionals in maintaining high coverage rates.

Legal, Ethical, and Professional Responsibilities in Vaccine Administration:

o An examination of the legal frameworks governing vaccine administration by registered professionals, including informed consent and record keeping.

o Ethical considerations such as patient autonomy, confidentiality, and equity in vaccine distribution.

Revision of Practical Injection Technique Sessions:

o Interactive sessions revisiting injection techniques with hands-on practice opportunities, to refine skills and increase confidence in vaccine delivery.

o Emphasis on technique optimisation for efficiency, patient comfort, and reduction of vaccine wastage.

Introduction to Adult and Child Immunisations for Registered Professionals