Senior Staff Nurse - Vernon Ward *Elective Surgical Ward*

Job overview

*** Previous applicant need not apply ***

Vernon Ward (Elective Surgery Ward) is looking for an enthusiastic, dynamic & caring senior staff nurse, who wants to develop their acute nursing & leadership skills in order to deliver good quality care to patients. Successful candidates will be joining a supportive, friendly team who are committed to ensuring excellent patient care. This Ward caters to Multispeciality patients under elective pathway. The successful candidates must be enthusiastic, hardworking, dynamic & highly motivated to work in this fast paced environment. Have excellent communication skills & be able to work as part of the multidisciplinary team.

We can offer on going professional development on the ward & training opportunities relevant to the clinical area.

Main duties of the job

To support and deputise for the Ward Senior Charge Nurse to ensure  the provision of excellent nursing care and the effective management  of staff and other resources. Also to carry out the day-to-day management and co-ordination of the ward/department. To ensure that there are education and training opportunities for all staff,  including pre and post registration students and /or providing specialist knowledge if working in a clinical area where a post registration course is essential e.g critical care setting.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

PROFESSIONAL/CLINICAL 1.1 To ensure that nursing care is assessed, planned, implemented and evaluated using research evidence as appropriate. 1.2 To provide leadership, motivating the ward /department team to ensure  excellent nursing care, providing support and the supervision of more junior staff. 1.3 To ensure that all nursing procedures are carried out in accordance with St George’s Healthcare NHS Trust policies taking appropriate action in emergency situations. 1.4 In conjunction with the multidisciplinary team, be responsible for setting, monitoring and maintaining excellent standards of care particularly for patients with multiple needs who require complex packages of care. 1.5 Maintaining personal contact with patients, relatives and carers, being  sensitive to their needs for courtesy, dignity and privacy and ensuring a friendly environment at all times. 1.6 Managing the ward/department in the absence of the Ward Sister/Charge Nurse. Co-ordinating the clinical team and delegating duties as appropriate, maintaining safe staffing levels and informing the Senior Nurse of any problems or incidents that might arise. 1.7 Ensuring that accurate and timely nursing records are maintained, monitoring standards and taking appropriate corrective action as necessary. 1.8 Storing, checking and administering drugs in accordance with Trust policy,  1.9 To work in an unsupervised capacity throughout all areas of the speciality including wards and outpatients. 1.10 To prioritise own work and that of others to ensure the ward/department is managed effectively. 1.11 To contribute to the local resolution, investigation and follow up action of any informal or formal complaints, taking the lead in the absence of the Ward Sister/Charge Nurse. 1.12 To provide specialist knowledge and expertise in a specified clinical area or speciality.

ORGANISATIONAL 2.11 Co-ordinating the admission/reception of new patients in conjunction with the Bed Management Team. 2.12 Arranging in consultation with the multidisciplinary team and the Bed  Manager the discharge/transfer of patients and initiating appropriate community care  services. 2.13 Communicating and co-operating with other wards and departments giving accurate information as required, particularly with regard to notification of incidents and accidents to staff, patients and visitors. 2.14 Maintaining and monitoring a safe and clean environment within the  clinical area in accordance with the Trust Health and Safety, Clinical Risk and Infection Control Policies. 2.15 Representing the ward/department at meetings participating in audit,  research, Projects and co-ordinating the appointment of link nurses for areas of clinical expertise. 2.16 Maintaining and monitoring levels of stock and ensuring that there are adequate supplies and that resources are used effectively. 2.17 Handling, checking and storing patient’s cash and valuables in accordance  with Trust policies. 2.18 Undertake the completion of the ward/department staffing rota as a delegated duty, ensuring that there are appropriate staffing levels and skill mix to meet patient care needs. 2.19 To take appropriate action to address unexpected changes and situations, informing the on call Senior Nurse or Manager as necessary. 2.10To be familiar with and use the PAS system and any other computerised system integral to the running of the service. 2.11 To actively contribute to Clinical Governance and achieving the goals of the Service Delivery Unit and the Nursing Strategy.  2.12 To demonstrate a willingness to lead and motivate a team, providing clear  direction and consistent leadership at all times.  2.13 In conjunction with the Ward Sister/Charge Nurse assist in the recruitment  selection and retention of nursing staff.

EDUCATION AND RESEARCH 3.1 In consultation with the Ward Sister/Charge Nurse take a lead role in the education and assessment of all pre and post registration students in accordance with the University and Trust requirements. 3.2 Undertake the regular performance review of staff, setting clear and achievable objectives appropriate to the grade and role. 3.3 Ensure that all nursing staff attend mandatory training and that attendance is accurately recorded at ward/department level. Feb 2013 3.4To be responsible for personal and professional development and practice, recognising own limitations and the need for continuing education  3.5 To take a lead in initiating, implementing and evaluating new ideas and   changes in clinical practice.     3.6 In conjunction with the Ward Sister/Charge Nurse plan and participate  in the orientation of new staff and the development of junior staff.  3.7 Promote health education and provide appropriate information and advice to patients and their carers.  3.8 Participate in and lead quality initiatives to promote and ensure that nursing  care is evidence and research based.

GENERAL 4.1 To act in accordance with the NMC Code of Professional Conduct for Nurses, Midwives and Health Visitors and to be accountable for own clinical practice and professional actions at all times. 4.2 Ensure continued and effective registration with the NMC. 4.3 To have responsibility for the health, safety and welfare of self and others and to comply at all times with the requirements of the Health and Safety Policy. 4.4 To ensure confidentiality at all times, only releasing confidential information obtained during the course of employment to those acting in an official capacity. 4.5 To promote equal opportunities for staff and patients in accordance with St George’s Healthcare and University policies to ensure that no person receives less favourable treatment than another on grounds of sex, race, marital status, religion, colour, creed, nationality, ethnic or national origin or sexual orientation. 4.6 Be aware of and work within the policies of St George’s Healthcare NHS Trust carrying out such duties as may be required and are consistent with the responsibility of the grade.