Job overview
We are seeking a motivated and compassionate Band 6 Junior Sister to join our dynamic clinical team. This role is pivotal in supporting the smooth operational running of the ophthalmic department, ensuring high standards of patient care, and providing clinical and managerial leadership to nursing staff.
As a Junior Sister, you will work closely with the Matron/Charge Nurse and multidisciplinary team to promote a safe, effective, and person-centred environment. You will be expected to act as a role model, supporting the development of junior staff, supervising clinical practice, and contributing to service improvement initiatives.
This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced ophthalmic nurse looking to expand their leadership responsibilities in a supportive and forward-thinking setting.
Main duties of the job
To provide highly specialist ophthalmic care to patients.
To assess and provide treatments under the supervision clinicians.
To develop extended roles within different specialities.
To education and train junior staff including band 5 nurses, healthcare assistance and ophthalmic technicians.
To deputise for nurse in charge.
Detailed job description and main responsibilities
1. Clinical Leadership and Patient Care
- Provide expert nursing care and support for patients undergoing ophthalmic assessment, treatment, and procedures (e.g. cataract surgery, intravitreal injections, Pre and post operative care and laser treatments).
- Act as a clinical leader within the ophthalmology unit, ensuring safe, effective, and evidence-based care.
- Maintain high standards of infection control, aseptic technique, and patient safety in line with clinical governance and NICE guidelines.
2. Staff Supervision and Development
- Supervise and support Band 5 nurses, healthcare assistants, and students, acting as a mentor and clinical assessor.
- Deliver training and competency development in ophthalmic-specific procedures (e.g. instilling eye drops, visual acuity testing, post-operative care).
- Contribute to staff appraisals, preceptorships, and revalidation processes.
3. Service Coordination and Operational Management
- Assist in the day-to-day running of clinics, theatres, and minor procedure rooms, ensuring efficient patient flow and optimal resource use.
- Liaise with consultants, optometrists, and multidisciplinary team members to coordinate care and manage any delays or issues.
- Participate in rota planning, sickness monitoring, and leave allocation.
4. Quality, Safety, and Audit
- Take a lead role in incident reporting, complaints resolution, and root cause analysis related to ophthalmic care.
- Monitor and contribute to compliance with CQC standards, local policies, and national guidelines.
- Lead or participate in service improvement projects and audits to enhance care delivery and patient experience.
5. Communication and Patient Education
- Provide clear, compassionate communication to patients and their families about eye conditions, treatments, and post-op care.
- Support visually impaired patients with accessible information and signposting to appropriate support services (e.g. Eye Clinic Liaison Officers).
- Act as a point of contact for patient queries, complaints, or concerns within the department.
6. Professional Development
- Maintain up-to-date knowledge of ophthalmic nursing practices and technologies through CPD, study days, and relevant training.
- Take responsibility for your own professional development and clinical competence.