Are you a new nurse working in general practice?
Our practice support team are available to provide you with a Practice Nurse orientation session which includes a copy of our Practice Nurse Resource Guide.
We can also provide you with ongoing support to help you learn and succeed in your new role.
These sessions can either be an in general practice or a virtual visit.
If you would like to book an orientation session or have any questions, please contact practicesupport@cesphn.com.au
CESPHN Health Professionals Network
New Nurses working in the Central and Eastern Sydney PHN region can register for our Health Professionals Network for free, allowing you access to our newsletters, immunisation education and many other CPD events.
Practice Nurse Networking Event – Inside the Box: Cardiac Implantable Devices in Primary Care
Join us for an evening of connection, collaboration and conversation.
This is a fantastic opportunity to meet fellow nurses, share experiences, exchange ideas, and build valuable professional relationships whilst learning about Implantable cardiac devices – including pacemakers, implantable cardioverter-defibrillators (ICDs), cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT) devices, and cardiac monitoring devices.
Welcome drink on arrival and dinner will be served.
To find out more and register – Practice Nurse Networking Event – Inside the Box: Cardiac Implantable Devices in Primary Care
Nurse prescribing starting in 2026
In September last year, The Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) released a registration standard and guidelines to support RN prescribing.
This means that eligible RNs will be able to prescribe Schedule 2, 3, 4 and 8 medications once they have had approved training and in partnership with an authorised health practitioner.
The first graduates from approved training organisations are expected in mid 2026.
To find out more – Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia – More access to prescribers under landmark change
Apple Watch hypertension alert to prompt GP check-ups
GPs are expecting to see more patients coming in to discuss their blood pressure, following the launch of a new Apple Watch feature which alerts users to consistent signs of possible hypertension risk which has been approved by the Therapeutic Goods Administration (TGA).
Access article here – RACGP – Apple Watch hypertension alert to prompt GP check-ups
Whooping cough cases are at their highest level in 35 years
Since monitoring began in 1991, Australia saw its highest number of whooping cough cases during 2024 and 2025 with 82,513 cases recorded.
Whooping cough is difficult to control because immunity, whether gained through vaccination or natural infection, decreases over time, leading to outbreaks every two to three years.
To find out more – Whooping cough cases are at their highest level in 35 years – so why the surge? | NCIRS
Who’s accountable if an AI health tool gives incorrect advice?
With the launch of ChatGPT Health and Claude for Healthcare in January 2026, it’s shown that they are rapidly replacing traditional internet searches as the first stop for health-related questions. They provide conversational, seemingly personalised advice, but these advantages come with significant risks.
For further information – Who’s accountable when your AI health assistant gets it wrong? – Medical Republic
The Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia is seeking feedback on the revised Enrolled nurse and Registered Nurse Standards of Practice.
The EN and RN standards for practice identify the knowledge, skills and professional attributes needed for safe and competent practice as an EN or RN in Australia.
Feedback closes Friday 13 March 2026.
To access the survey – Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia
Jean Hailes for Women’s Health – Introduction to women’s health for nurses
This course aims to provide nurses with foundational knowledge about women’s health and nursing in the women’s health context.
For further information – Introduction to women’s health for nurses | Jean Hailes
GRANT OPPORTUNITY – Active Australia Innovation Challenge
Have a new idea to get your community active?
The Heart Foundation’s Active Australia Innovation Challenge is offering grants of $10,000, $20,000 or $30,000 for new, innovative programs that get more people moving in local communities.
We’re looking for exciting and new approaches that are tailored to the unique needs of your community. Whether it’s a fresh concept or a clever twist on an existing idea, the goal is simple: help your target group move more and have fun doing it.
Applications close: Sunday 1 March 2026
To apply – Active Australia Innovation Challenge (AAIC) | Heart Foundation
SCHOLARSHIP OPPORTUNITY
Australian College of Nurse Practitioners
Primary Care Nursing and Midwifery Scholarships
https://www.acnp.org.au/pcnmsp
Aged Care Nursing Scholarship Program
Immunisation Update
For the latest Immunisation update please click here – https://cesphn.org.au/general-practice/practice-support-and-development/immunisation-gp/immunisation-news-alerts
Health Referral Forms
