Job Summary

Under the supervision of the IPU Charge Nurses and in collaboration with the multi- disciplinary team the post holder will actively participate in the delivery of evidence-based person-centred specialist palliative care. The post holder will be accountable for the assessment, development, implementation and evaluation of programmes of care delivered within the IPU which should meet the needs of patients, their families and the service. The post holder will work within the professional standards of practice and behaviour held in the NMC Code.

The post holder will show evidence of leadership skills and guidance to junior nursing staff and untrained staff. They will develop own clinical experience and be responsible for the teaching, supervision and assessment of student, junior and untrained members of nursing staff.

Main Responsibilities

• Assessment of individual patient care needs and subsequent planning, implementation and evaluation of care.

• Carry out safe and effective patient care while maintaining high levels of dignity and respect.

• Work collaboratively with all members of the MDT ensuring effective communication and the delivery of high standards of care.

• Provide comfort, support and compassion to patients and their families during their admission.

• Actively participate in patient journey from admission to discharge or death

• Advocate for your patients when appropriate

• Ensure safe storage and administration of medicines and treatments according to local and national policy

• Act as a role model for junior staff and students to enhance their knowledge, communication

• skills and clinical decision making.

• Maintenance of accurate and relevant nursing documentation through both electronic and paper based systems. Ensure all nursing documentation is tailored for each individual and reflects person centred care.

• Promote the named nurse concept by striving to achieve continuity for patients and their families through effective communication and acting as named nurse for a delegated caseload.

• Demonstrate specialist clinical knowledge and skill with continuous professional development to maintain optimum levels of clinical practice

Person Specification

Education / Qualifications

Essential

• Registered Nurse with current NMC registration

Knowledge / Experience

Essential

• Post registration experience, with a proven interest in palliative care.

• Effective written and verbal communication skills including listening skills.

• Effective time management skills with the ability to prioritise workload.

• Evidence of continuing professional development and lifelong learning.

• Ability to fulfil main duties and responsibilities as outlined in job description.

• Able to commit to one shift per week when required.

• Post registration qualification relevant to specialty or equivalent experience or willingness to work towards.

• Evidence of application of research and audit.

Ability / Skills

Essential

• Excellent communication skills

• Medication administration

• Proficient in basic nursing care and providing support within' activities of daily living.

• Drug calculations

• Measuring of vital signs & ability to interpret them appropriately

• Awareness of how to use general nursing equipment i.e. Fresenius infusion pumps, BD Bodyguard Syringe Drivers, Glucometer, Bladder scanner
  
  

Personal Qualities

Essential

• Compassionate/empathetic

• Display the hospice values: Kind, Compassionate, honest and inclusive towards patients, relatives, staff, volunteers

• Able to practice self-care and look after own mental wellbeing

• Ability to manage own emotions during potentially challenging/emotive conversations

• Able to maintain professionalism and display desired characteristics when under pressure and during potentially difficult circumstances
  
  

Closing date: Friday 8th May, 4:30pm

Interview date: TBC