Advanced Clinical Endoscopist

Job overview

The Advanced Clinical Nurse Endoscopist will work as an autonomous, JAG-accredited practitioner within the Endoscopy Unit at James Paget University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust. This senior clinical role is pivotal in delivering high-quality, patient-centred endoscopy services and supporting the strategic development of the unit.

Key Purpose of the Role:

• Perform advanced diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopic procedures independently, including assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of patients with gastrointestinal conditions.
• Lead on specific elements of the endoscopy service and contribute to service development, ensuring compliance with JAG accreditation and Global Rating Scale (GRS) standards.
• Provide professional leadership and act as a role model for clinical excellence, supporting workforce development and mentoring trainee endoscopists.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to enhance patient experience, safety, and outcomes through evidence-based practice.

Main duties of the job

Provide professional leadership and accountability by personal example to ensure the delivery of a high quality, patient centred service across Endoscopy.

To  work as a JAG  accredited  autonomous  practitioner within  agreed  protocols, guidelines and care pathway boundaries.

Perform advanced and specialised clinical skills in assessment, diagnosis and treatment of Endoscopy patients to enhance the patient/carer experience.

To lead on specific elements of the clinical service.

To lead the delivery of safe, effective quality of care for the Clinical Endoscopists, working closely with Endoscopy Clinical Lead, Divisional Lead Nurse/Matron, Consultants and members of the wider multidisciplinary team.

To proactively recognise and identify opportunities for service improvement.

To work closely with the endoscopy management team to comply with GRS /JAG and maintain accreditation.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

Main Duties and Responsibilities

Clinical Responsibilities

• Work as an independent, JAG-accredited Advanced Clinical Endoscopist performing diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopic procedures.
• Assess patient suitability for endoscopic investigations, considering physical, psychological, and social factors.
• Perform advanced clinical skills in assessment, diagnosis, and treatment, including biopsies and polypectomy.
• Request and interpret pathology and radiology investigations in line with agreed protocols.
• Provide clear information and support to patients, ensuring informed consent and understanding of procedures.
• Communicate sensitive or complex information effectively using advanced communication skills.
• Maintain accurate documentation of all procedures and patient interactions.
• Administer intravenous sedation and drugs within patient group directives or as an independent prescriber.

Leadership and Management

• Provide professional leadership and accountability for clinical endoscopists.
• Manage and support the endoscopy team, including trainee endoscopists.
• Participate in strategic development of the Endoscopy Unit and attend relevant meetings.
• Ensure compliance with JAG accreditation and Global Rating Scale (GRS) standards.
• Review and manage complaints and adverse incidents related to endoscopy services.

Service Development

• Lead on service improvement initiatives and innovation in clinical practice.
• Develop and implement clinical pathways, protocols, and governance systems.
• Contribute to long-term strategic planning for endoscopy services.

Education, Research, and Audit

• Act as an educational resource for staff and trainees.
• Lead and participate in audits, including annual JAG GRS quality and safety reviews.
• Engage in research and evidence-based practice to enhance service quality.
• Support training and development of trainee endoscopists.

Professional and Safety Responsibilities

• Maintain a safe clinical environment and adhere to infection control policies.
• Comply with health and safety regulations and ensure staff training.
• Uphold confidentiality, equality, diversity, and safeguarding standards.