Specialist Screening Practitioner

Job overview

Due to the expansion of the Bowel Cancer Screening Programme in Cornwall, we are seeking a dedicated nurse to join our NHS Bowel Cancer Screening Programme as a Specialist Screening Practitioner. This pivotal role involves facilitating early detection of bowel cancer and improving patient outcomes through the delivery of specialist nursing support throughout the screening pathway.

Working autonomously within NMC professional boundaries, you'll be part of a multidisciplinary team providing high-quality, patient-centred care.  Based within Gastroenterology in Specialist Services and Surgery, you'll coordinate patient journeys from referral through to follow-up, ensuring safe and effective delivery of care that meets national screening programme standards and key performance indicators.

This role has been approved for advertising; however, it is also being assessed as a suitable alternative employment opportunity. As a result, the vacancy may be withdrawn or there may be a delay before shortlisting can begin.

This role is open to all applicants. However, in line with Cornwall First recruitment principles, initial shortlisting will prioritise applicants from Royal Cornwall Hospitals NHS Trust, Cornwall Partnership NHS Foundation Trust, and the Integrated Care Board for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly.

Main duties of the job

You'll conduct comprehensive pre-assessments of patients referred through the bowel screening programme, assessing fitness for procedures through holistic needs assessment and identifying potential risks. Using specialist knowledge and advanced communication skills, you'll provide detailed information about colonoscopy procedures and obtain informed consent.

You'll act as a role model to others, supporting staff development and contributing to departmental development and change. The position requires you to support the Lead SSP in management and mentorship of newly appointed staff, whilst actively participating in public awareness campaigns and community engagement activities.

The role involves clinical support during endoscopic procedures, participation in health promotion,  multidisciplinary meetings, contribution to audit, research and quality improvement activities. You'll maintain clinical competence through ongoing professional development and provide clinical training for new staff members.

Working under the supervision of the CNS Lead Specialist Screening Practitioner, you'll collaborate closely with the Clinical Matron for Gastroenterology, the Clinical Director BCSP, and Programme Manager. Your role involves working in partnership with endoscopy teams, colorectal specialists, pathology, radiology, anaesthetics and cancer services across the trust.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

PLEASE NOTE: To view the full Job Description and Person Specification, please click the supporting document on the right-hand side.

To be an employee of the NHS you need to successfully complete the following:

• Identity Checks
• Professional registration and qualification checks
• Employment history and reference checks
• Occupational Health clearance
• Satisfactory Disclosure and Barring Service check
• Right to work in the UK

For further information please visit:

https://www.nhsemployers.org/topics-networks/employment-standards-and-regulation

We reserve the right to close this advert early.

We may be able to offer flexible working. Please discuss at interview.

We may be able to offer sponsorship but this is not guaranteed.