Detailed job description and main responsibilities

PROFESSIONAL

1.     As part of the ward team help achieve and maintain a high standard of patient care.

2.     Welcome patients and introduce them to the ward routine.

3.     Undertake the nursing care of patients, ensuring privacy & dignity is maintained whilst being aware of physical and psychological needs.

4.     To be aware of the needs of relatives, and to give them support and advice.

5.    Take individual responsibility for the nursing care of a group of patients, as a registered nurse.

6.     To participate in the rehabilitation of patients and give relatives any necessary instructions.

7.     Ensure that prescribed drugs and treatments are given correctly and in accordance with the Hospital Procedure and Policy, and work within NMC guidelines.

8.     To follow the procedure when notifying relatives of seriously ill patients and those who have died.

9.     To liaise with medical and para-medical personnel and community organisations.

10.  To participate in internal rotation to night duty as required.   

11.  Regularly attend team meetings to remain updated regarding changes within the ward, and within the Trust.

12.    Manage and supervise the department in the absence of senior staff.

13.  Provide a supportive role within the ward for nursing, medical and clerical Staff.

14.  To give a clear and accurate update at change of duties and ensure accurate documentation of nursing interventions.

15.  To participate in the emergency/continuing care of patients and give any necessary instructions, including transfer information.

16.  Participate in nursing procedures appropriate to the ward.

17.  Support and assist in the induction/training of junior staff/Health Care Assistant’s acting as mentor to designated staff.

18.  Be able to act as ward co-ordinator and ensure the safe and timely through put of patients, liaising closely with admission staff, medical staff and other wards.

19.  To consult with medical and para medical personnel and community organisations.

20.  To highlight areas of improvement/development within the department and undertake relevant projects.

21.  To participate in ward/unit/Trust initiatives i.e. Productive Ward.

22.  To function as support for other ward nurses in relation to acute emergency care.

23.  Safely escort patients to other areas, and act as an escort for patients during transfer to other departments/hospitals as required.

24.  Assist in the provision of meals/refreshments for patients whilst meeting their nutritional needs.

25.  Assist in the general housekeeping duties of the ward.

26.  Help to maintain a safe environment and report faults/risks etc to the nurse in charge.

27.  Liaise with staff members responsible for stores/stationery and ordering and assist in the maintenance of stock levels.

28.  Handle patient’s personal possessions, and ensure cash and valuables kept securely as per policy.

29.  Correct care and custody of controlled drugs and aid the safe storage of medicines, in line with Trust Policies.

30.  Assist medical staff with procedures.

31.  Conduct certain procedures such as venepuncture, cannulation and the administration of Chemotherapy, and be prepared to learn new skills relevant to the role.

32.  To cross cover other wards within unit, to ensure adequate staff cover over both wards, when required.

EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

1.     To be responsible for own personal development and for maintaining a personal development plan.

2.     To complete the departments preceptor pack, and departments training packs.

3.     Complete Principles and Practice of Intravenous Skills Programme and Cannulation Skills Training and update annually.

4.     Annually attend all mandatory study days as per Trust and unit guidance.

PERSONAL

1.     Demonstrate a pleasant and approachable manner and help create and promote a good working relationship.

2.     Show professional and courteous manner when answering the telephone and other enquires.

3.     Maintain confidentiality regarding patient information both at work and outside of working hours.

4.     To be aware of and adhere to all policies including: sickness and absence, confidentiality, uniform and responsibilities under the Health and Safety at work act and be familiar with all risk assessments pertinent to the ward.

5.     Report and record all accidents and complaints according to the agreed policy.

6.     To be aware of limitations and utilise the preceptor system for any issues that arise.

7.     To show respect for members of the team and endorse the departments philosophy of giving mutual support.

8.     Adhere to trust uniform policy.