Detailed job description and main responsibilities

• Deliver high quality, compassionate care under the direction of a registered Nurse (or other registered professional dependent on the setting) with a focus on promoting health and independence.
• Work as part of a designated clinical team delivering care that focuses on the direct needs of the individual
• Carry out specific delegated clinical tasks and responsibilities to a high standard and competency
• Where appropriate work without direct supervision, at times delivering care independently in line with the individuals plan of care, within designated parameters of practice of the Nursing associate role, accessing clinical and care advice when needed
• Maintain understanding of all elements of the nursing process and be able to assist the registered nurse in on-going assessment, planning, management and evaluation of care
• Use Trust documentation or electronic records to record the outcome of assessment and evaluation of care
• Support individuals with all aspects of care including daily living, providing person-centred care and promoting health and independence i.e. Making Every Contact Count
• Support individuals with all aspects of care including daily living, providing person-centred care and promoting health and independence through awareness raising and care navigation to other professionals as appropriate
• Demonstrate the principles of safe administration of oral medicines under the direct supervision of a Registered Nurse.
• Perform and record clinical observations including blood pressure, temperature, respirations, pulse
• Undertake clinical tasks including cannulation, venepuncture, ECGs
• Accurately record nutritional and fluid intake
• Ensure the privacy, dignity and safety of individuals is maintained at all times
• Demonstrate the ability to recognise changing priorities seeking advice and guidance from the Registered Nurse or other registered care professionals as appropriate

·         Deliver effective care following plans determined by the registered nurse or other registered care professional and provide feedback on progress against the plan

·         Manage and monitor the condition and health needs of individuals within their care following administration of medication, and to escalate as necessary

·         Undertake tasks that are relevant to the speciality including cannulation, venepuncture, ECGs and any additional tasks that are required by speciality / organisation as reflected in Trust policy

·         Perform and record clinical observation including blood pressures, temperature, respirations, pulse, peak and oximetry measurements and any agreed additional requirements within speciality and competence

·         Accurately record nutritional and fluid intake to identify signs of dehydration or fluid retention and escalate as necessary

·         Use contemporary nutritional assessment tools

·         Assist with feeding and drinking and support the delivery of artificial nutrition and hydration using oral and enteral routes as set out by Dietician and/or SALT Team

·         Measure and interpret blood glucose levels

·         Recognise emergency situations, administer basic physical first aid, including BLS

·         Observe and monitor comfort, pain levels, rest and sleep patterns

·         Use appropriate positioning and pressure relieving techniques

·         Monitor wounds and undertake wound care using appropriate evidence-based techniques.

·         Use aseptic, non-touch techniques

·         Care for, manage and insert catheters for all genders including all associated documentation

·         Manage the administration of oxygen using a range of routes and approaches

·         Use appropriate nasal and oral suctioning techniques

·         Manage inhalation, humidifier and nebuliser devices.

·         Recognise and take immediate steps to respond appropriately to uncontrolled symptoms and signs of distress including pain, nausea, thirst, constipation, restlessness, agitation, anxiety and depression

·         Review preferences and care priorities of the dying person and their family and carers, and ensure changes are communicated as appropriate

·         Provide care for the deceased person and the bereaved respecting cultural requirements and protocols.

·         Exercise professional accountability and comply with Trust policy in relation to the safe administration of medicines

·         Manage and monitor effectiveness of symptom relief medication

·         Assist in the implementation of appropriate action to meet the specific physical, emotional and psychological, social, cultural and spiritual needs of individuals, families and carers

·         Assist the Registered Nurse with complex care as deemed appropriate