Hyper Acute and Acute Stroke Nurse

Job overview

The Acute Stroke Unit at Darent Valley Hospital comprises 21 Hyper Acute Stroke beds and 25 Acute Stroke beds, offering specialist care across the stroke pathway. We are seeking dedicated Band 5 Registered Nurses to join our expanding team. Successful candidates will be supported in their professional development, with opportunities to work across the Hyper Acute Stroke Unit (HASU) and Acute Stroke Unit (ASU), alongside structured mentorship from a preceptor and the Stroke Professional Development Nurse (PDN).

The post holder will be responsible for delivering high‑quality nursing care within the HASU and ASU, including the assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation of individualised programmes of care. The role involves supervising junior staff, contributing to teaching activities, and providing safe and effective care for hyperacute and acute stroke patients, including those requiring post‑thrombolysis and post‑thrombectomy treatment.

Main duties of the job

The post holder will be responsible for delivering the highest standard of individualised and holistic patient care in both hyperacute and acute settings. Care will be provided in collaboration with the multidisciplinary team to ensure safe, effective, and compassionate treatment tailored to patient needs.

In addition, the role requires working effectively within a large multidisciplinary team, supporting colleagues, and contributing to a positive team culture. The post holder will supervise and mentor junior staff and students, uphold Trust values, and consistently demonstrate compassion, respect, integrity, and teamwork in all aspects of practice.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

The post holder will deliver high‑quality nursing care tailored to the needs of stroke patients, including those requiring complex post‑treatment support. They will communicate sensitive information to patients, carers, and families with empathy and professionalism, while working closely with the multidisciplinary team to ensure safe, coordinated care.

Additional responsibilities include supporting the Senior Ward Sister with staffing, audits, and governance activities, reporting incidents in line with Trust policy, and promoting a safe working environment. The post holder will maintain professional registration, comply with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) Code of Conduct, and engage in ongoing professional development. Upholding Trust values of compassion, respect, integrity, and teamwork will be central to all aspects of practice. For a comprehensive outline of clinical, managerial, professional, and educational responsibilities, please refer to the attached job description.

For a comprehensive outline of the role, including clinical, managerial, professional, and educational responsibilities, please refer to the attached job description.