Detailed job description and main responsibilities

PROFESSIONAL

• Assessment and prioritization of the needs of the critically ill patient and their family, specifically tasks such as patients requiring respiratory support, cardiovascular support, cardiac/invasive monitoring, inotropic support. Ensuring provision of client centered care which focuses on the promotion of health as well as illness
• Ensure accurate documentation of patient care in accordance with hospital policies and standards. Develop and maintain communication with people about difficult matters and/or in difficult situations
• Assess educational and informational needs of patient and family, providing up to date information enabling them to participate in the planning of care.
• Enhance care within the clinical area by using relevant research outcomes when planning and delivering nursing care.
• Evaluate nursing care – inform nurse in charge/unit Sister and medical staff of patient’s changing healthcare needs.
• To be a role model for potential post holders by demonstrating competent skills that have been determined in accordance with the needs of the unit.
• Maintain safe practice according to Hospital Policies and Standards.
• Ensure all prescribed drugs and treatments are given in accordance with Hospital Policy.
• Participate in internal rotation to night duty as required.
• Prepare patients for safe transfer to other critical care areas and liase with relevant nursing, medical and para-medical personnel and relatives.
• Carry out patient transfer to other critical care areas in absence of transfer team.
• Prepare patients for safe and timely transfer to ward areas.
• Carry out and facilitate preoperative visits.
• When appropriate/necessary, in rotation with other Staff Nurses, take charge of    the unit in the absence of the band 6/unit Sister, ensuring that standards of care  and unit management are maintained.
• Help foster a supportive working environment and maintenance of staff morale, promoting a culture in which staff feel valued and able to reach their potential.
• Act as a preceptor/mentor to new unit staff and Pre and Post Registered Nurses.
• Be aware of responsibilities with regard to Health and Safety At Work Act. Maintain and develop an environment and culture that improves health, safety and security. 

EDUCATION

• The staff nurse is responsible for their own personal development and maintaining a personal development plan Maintain own awareness of current nursing practice.  Use relevant educational opportunities to maintain the highest standards and up to date care offered to the patient with cancer.
• Supervise clinical staff and disseminate knowledge and current developments. Develop oneself and others in areas of practice.
• Participate in planned programmes of appraisal with the band 6 Team leader/ unit Sister. 
• Liaise with the School of Nursing, participating in the teaching of basic and   post   basic learners and training assessments.
• Ensure own learning and development needs are met. Complete unit preceptorship/induction pack.
• Attend annual updates in: Fire safety, BLS, Moving and Handling and Radiation Protection.
• Undertake necessary education and learning relevant to Critical care.

PERSONAL

• Demonstrate a pleasant and approachable manner and help create and promote a good working relationship
• Show professional and courteous manner when answering the telephone and other enquires
• Maintain confidentiality with regard to patient information both at work and outside of working hours
• 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 CCU
• Report and record all accidents and complaints according to the agreed policy
• To be aware of limitations and utilise the preceptor system for any issues that arise
• To show respect for members of the team and endorse ward 10 philosophy of giving mutual support