Clinical Nurse Specialist for Colorectal Oncology (Part-Time)

Job overview

An exciting opportunity has arisen at Ashford & St Peter's Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust for an experienced, highly motivated band 7 Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) in Colorectal Oncology. The post is part time, with a level of flexibility within the established colorectal nursing team.

The post holder  should be SACT trained,  will provide expert clinical leadership and specialist nursing care for colorectal patients receiving SACT. Will deliver nurse led clinics along side 2 dedicated and motivated Oncologists.

The role requires advanced clinical knowledge in colorectal oncology excellent communication skills,  and the ability to work autonomously. Support will be provided for further development of specialist knowledge and skills and consideration for advanced practice.

A developmental role form a band 6 to 7 may also be considered.

Main duties of the job

To be the key worker for colorectal cancer patients receiving chemotherapy, coordinating care and providing continuity throughout treatment.

Deliver nurse-led SACT assessment clinics, including pre-chemotherapy assessment, ongoing review during cycles, assessment of treatment tolerance and symptom burden.

Undertake comprehensive holistic needs assessments and develop individual care plans in partnership with patients and carers.

Provide expert assessment and management of chemotherapy related toxicities, providing advice, intervention and escalation to the Acute Oncology team.

Working with the SACT delivery unit, ensure the safe delivery of chemotherapy.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

• The Colorectal Oncology CNS is responsible for providing expert, autonomous, nursing care to patients receiving SACT. The post holder will support patients throughout their chemotherapy journey, ensuring safe delivery of treatment, proactive toxicity management and deliver high quality patient centred care.
• Provide comprehensive chemotherapy education, including regimen specific side effects, self management advice and safe netting to the hotline.
• Provide psychological support and holistic needs assessment throughout treatment with timely referrals to supportive care and other services.
• Provide clinical leadership within the colorectal chemotherapy service, contribute to the further development of the service, participate in service improvement projects.
• Adhere to clinical governance and risk management processes related to SACT delivery, attending governance meetings.
• Maintain professional competence and  SACT certification.
• Attend the weekly colorectal MDT, providing specialist clinical input.
• Initiate and promote collaborative working relationships and effective communication between all members of the MDT to improve the management and outcomes of patients within this specialist area.