Detailed job description and main responsibilities

The general duties include:
1.    To participate in the monitoring and evaluation of standards of care, using ‘Essence of Care’ as a framework, ensuring that Corporate and nursing objectives are achieved. 

2.    To assess, plan, implement and evaluate individualised care, providing support to other members of the multidisciplinary team.

3.    To act as team leader in the supervision of the professional work of nursing staff at Band 5 and below, exercising good leadership and control. 

4.    To take charge of the ward on a regular basis.

5.    To liaise with all patients and their relatives and ensure that they are kept informed of treatment and progress and to participate in the provision of advice and support. 

6.    To adopt a pro-active role in meeting the Clinical Governance agenda. 

7.    To promote evidence-based practice and to take an active part in any relevant research / audits being undertaken.

8.    To participate in the discussion of clinical developments with the Matron and Senior Sister/Charge Nurse and to assist in the implementation of changes benefiting the standards of care to patients.

9.    To inform the Senior Sister / Charge Nurse of any complaints or adverse events received, reporting on what action has been taken, in accordance with Trust policies and procedures.

10.    To ensure compliance with Infection Control standards, in line with Trust policy.

11.    To organise the reception of patients and visitors in accordance with recognised procedures.

12.    To ensure patients and relatives have access to medical staff to discuss treatment and progress.

13.    To arrange the care of patient's property, with their permission, in accordance with policies and within the limitations of hospital responsibilities.
14.    To teach patients and relatives about continuing treatment programmes, limitations of illness or self-monitoring of disease process and supply information about specialist self-help agencies and to support patients and their families.

15.    To train nurses at Band 5 and below in clinical and management skills.

16.    To participate in the induction / in-service training of staff who are new to the ward area.

17.    To train and supervise junior staff in collaboration with the Education and Training Team. 

18.    To inform the Senior Sister / Charge Nurse of any training and development needs at appraisal or as identified.

19.    To participate in the Continuous Assessment of Practice for pre / post registration course members and the assessment of competencies.

20.    To act as facilitator for trained members of staff undertaking professional development programmes as necessary.

21.    To adhere to the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) Code of Conduct at all times.

22.    To assist in the planning of duty rotas, organising 24-hour nursing cover and adequate skill mix, acting on shortfalls in staffing levels which will affect the standards and delivery of patient care and informing Senior Sister / Charge Nurse.

23.    In the absence of the Senior Sister / Charge Nurse, to undertake

For an overview of the position, please refer to the attached Job Description and Person Specification document. This includes a detailed breakdown of the key responsibilities, role expectations, and the qualifications we are looking for.