Bridging the Gap: A Paediatric Nurse’s Journey into General Practice

As she celebrates her ‘Southwest Community and Primary Care Child and Young People Nursing Award 2025′, general practice nurse Katie Chalmers shares her journey from hospital wards to general practice nursing.

From Hospital Wards to Community Care

Transitioning from acute paediatric care to general practice nursing has been both a challenge and a privilege — one that has deepened my understanding of how vital continuity and compassion are to children and families across all stages of life.

I began my nursing career within the Royal Devon University Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust, working on Bramble Children’s Ward and the Neonatal Unit. These early experiences built a strong foundation in holistic, family-centred care and teamwork. I later worked as a Bladder and Bowel Specialist Nurse, supporting children, young people, and adults living with long-term conditions — a role that strengthened my skills in education, empowerment, and person-centred practice.

Finding My Place in General Practice Nursing

To strengthen this transition, I completed a postgraduate course in the Fundamentals of Practice Nursing through the University of Plymouth. The course has been invaluable, helping me build confidence in managing both adult and child health within primary care. It deepened my understanding of population health, chronic disease management, and the essential role of practice nurses in delivering holistic, evidence-based care.

Innovating for Children and Families

Drawing on my paediatric background, I introduced Starlight sensory distraction boxes in our practice to help children feel more at ease during procedures such as blood tests and vaccinations. Simple sensory tools can make an enormous difference, helping young patients build positive associations with healthcare.

I also undertake paediatric bloods within the surgery — a service that has been greatly valued by local families and has strengthened our practice’s ability to provide inclusive, family-centred care.

Recognition and Reflection

This year, I was honoured to receive an award for Children and Young People’s Nursing at the South West Community and General Practice Nursing Awards. This recognition means so much to me personally, but it also highlights the growing importance of paediatric expertise within general practice.

Looking Ahead

As healthcare continues to evolve, paediatric nurses have a vital role in bridging the gap between hospital and community care. My goal is to continue championing the needs of children, young people, and families within primary care — ensuring that every encounter, no matter how routine, is a positive and empowering one.

ENDS

Fundamentals in General Practice Nursing at the University of Plymouth is led by Queen’s Nurse Sharon Evans. The 2024/2025 course is one of the specialist practice qualifications endorsed by the QICN.