Vicky Harmsworth

Victoria (Vicky) Harmsworth – Advanced Nurse Practitioner | Women’s Health

Victoria (Vicky) Harmsworth is an experienced Advanced Nurse Practitioner and Independent Prescriber with more than 20 years of nursing experience across acute hospital care, general practice and advanced clinical practice. Vicky holds a Master of Science in Advanced Practice, alongside her nursing qualifications and V300 Independent Prescribing qualification. She has worked as an Advanced Clinical Practitioner since 2019, following seven years as a Practice Nurse at Standish Medical Practice.

Clinical Background

Vicky began her nursing career within the Intensive Care and High Dependency Unit at Wigan Infirmary, where she spent approximately ten years caring for acutely unwell patients, including those requiring respiratory support and haemodialysis.

She later moved into General Practice, developing extensive experience in chronic disease management, diabetes, asthma, COPD, vaccinations and preventative healthcare before progressing into advanced clinical practice.

Today, Vicky works autonomously as an Advanced Nurse Practitioner, assessing patients, making clinical decisions and prescribing where appropriate.

Women's Health

Women's health is a particular area of expertise and interest for Vicky.

She provides supportive, confidential and individualised care to women throughout different stages of life, with particular experience in:

• Menopause and perimenopause
• Hormonal health and HRT
• Cervical screening (smear tests)
• Contraception and contraceptive reviews
• Coil fitting and management
• Contraceptive implant insertion and removal
• General women's health concerns

Vicky holds recognised competencies in intrauterine techniques and contraceptive implant insertion and removal, alongside cervical cytology training with ongoing updates.

Her extensive primary care background means she is also able to consider women's health concerns within the context of a patient's wider medical history, medication and overall health rather than treating symptoms in isolation.

Approach to Patient Care

Vicky is passionate about creating an environment where patients feel comfortable discussing concerns that can sometimes be difficult or personal.

Her approach is friendly, straightforward and patient-centred, taking time to listen to symptoms and concerns, explain available options and involve patients in decisions about their care.

Alongside her specialist interest in women's health, her Advanced Practice experience allows her to assess and manage a broad range of general health concerns, arrange appropriate investigations and provide ongoing clinical management where required.

Qualifications & Clinical Competencies

MSc Advanced Practice
Independent Prescriber (V300)
BSc Nursing Studies
Diploma in Professional Studies in Nursing
Letter of Competence – Intrauterine Techniques
Letter of Competence – Contraceptive Implant Insertion & Removal
Cervical Cytology Trained