The Primary Clinical Care Manual (PCCM) incorporates clinical care guidelines and the Health Management Protocols (HMP) which are essential for the implementation of the Drug Therapy Protocols (DTP) for Registered Nurses in rural facilities and isolated practice areas, Sexual and Reproductive Health Programs, Nurse Practitioners, Indigenous Health Workers and Paramedics as authorised in the Health (Drugs and Poisons) Regulation 1996.
The DTP specifies the content for the HMP in the PCCM. The HMP sets out the approved conditions and restrictions applying to the administration and supply of drugs listed in each DTP.
HMP are distinguished throughout the PCCM from other clinical guidelines by this icon 4. More detailed information on using the PCCM, including the HMP, is set out in the Guidelines section following.
The clinical care guidelines and HMP in the PCCM are no substitute for consultation with a more experienced or qualified colleague. They are intended to assist staff to gather data, which will inform later consultation with more experienced colleagues, or to choose an appropriate course of action. Importantly, the PCCM incorporates advice about when to consult with, or seek advice and assistance from, a Medical Officer.
The PCCM is a resource for Registered Nurses, Indigenous Health Workers, Nurse Practitioners and Paramedics. Registered Nurses, Indigenous Health Workers, Nurse Practitioners and Paramedics are individually accountable for their own practice. Use of clinical care guidelines and HMP in the PCCM by Registered Nurses, Indigenous Health Workers, Nurse Practitioners and Paramedics must be based on their existing competence and scope of practice.
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