Cytology Update for Registered HCPs (RCN and CPD Services accredited 3 yearly update)
This accredited Cytology Update course ensures cervical sample takers remain current, confident and fully aligned with the latest NHS Cervical Screening Programme (NHSCSP) standards. Designed for clinicians already trained and competent in cervical sample taking, this half‑day update provides a comprehensive, evidence‑based review of cervical screening practice, including the 2025 changes to screening intervals, HPV primary screening and programme developments.
Participants will explore screening eligibility, appropriate testing, interpretation of HPV and cytology results, referral pathways and governance responsibilities. The session also focuses on practical sample‑taking skills, transformation zone sampling, documentation, failsafe systems and incident management.
Teaching is case‑based and clinically focused, supporting safe decision‑making, reflective practice and high‑quality cervical screening.
Who Should Attend
This course is suitable for:
- Practice Nurses
- Nurse Practitioners
- Advanced Clinical Practitioners
- General Practitioners
- Sexual Health Clinicians
Participants must already be trained and competent in cervical sample taking. This is an update course and does not provide initial training.
What This Course Covers
The programme provides a structured update on:
- NHS Cervical Screening Programme overview and current policy
- HPV primary screening and cytology triage
- 2025 changes to screening intervals and eligibility
- Interpretation of HPV and cytology results
- Identifying when screening is appropriate and when referral is required
- Practical aspects of sample taking and transformation zone sampling
- Use of equipment and optimising sample quality
- Managing complex and special populations
- Addressing barriers to screening and improving uptake
- Documentation, audit, and sample taker responsibilities
- Failsafe systems and incident management
Where appropriate, recent programme developments and emerging evidence are discussed to ensure clinicians remain current and confident in practice.
Learning Outcomes
By the end of this course, participants will be able to:
- Apply current NHSCSP guidance to cervical screening practice
- Implement the 2025 extended screening interval pathway appropriately
- Identify when cervical screening is indicated and when alternative referral pathways are required
- Interpret HPV and cytology results within the screening pathway
- Demonstrate understanding of governance, documentation and failsafe responsibilities
- Reflect on individual practice and identify areas for ongoing professional development
- Engage in peer discussion and reflection
Ideal for clinicians delivering cervical screening who require a structured, accredited 3‑yearly update.
Accreditation and Certification
Please note this course is RCN Accredited with BBO Training until 17th March 2027. The RCN cannot confirm competence of any practitioner.
