Staff Nurse

Job Description

Senior Staff Nurse - Elderly ward
Band 6
Guernsey

MINIMAL QUALIFICATIONS

· Statutory first level qualification as a Registered Mental Nurse Part 3/13
· Experience of working at band 5 for two years within an elderly care setting
· Hold / be willing to obtain a recognised post-basic certificate appropriate to the speciality at diploma level
· Mentor Preparation Course or equivalent course
· NVQ Assessor Course D32/33
· Able to demonstrate management experience and be willing to undertake further post registration training

AIMS OF POST

· The postholder carries responsibility for the assessment of care needs, the development, implementation and evaluation of programmes of care and assists in the setting of standards of care.

· In the absence of the Ward Manager, is designated to take charge of a ward and the deployment and supervision of nursing staff.

· Assist in the ongoing education and development of junior staff and actively participate in all aspects of nurse education as required. When required, advise other members of the multi-disciplinary team on all aspects of care within the ward.

FUNCTIONS

Professional

1. At all times execute the duties and responsibilities of a Registered Nurse, professionally in accordance with the United Kingdom Central Council for Nurses and Midwives code of professional conduct and accountability.

2. By example assist in setting and maintaining standards of care which reflects the ward / unit’s agreed philosophy of caring for the elderly.

3. Ensure that nursing care plans meet the specific needs of the resident, retaining
prompting their independence, dignity and self-respect through a rehabilitative, socio-therapeutic approach which gives meaning to the resident’s day and quality of life.

4. Assist in promoting and maintaining a warm, homely, relaxed and safe environment.

5. Encourage residents and / or relatives to personalise bed areas / room(s).

6. By example ensure that all staff make visitors welcome, where necessary, be available to meet relatives and friends of residents, keeping them fully up-to-date with the resident’s progress.

7. Where necessary, participate in the Unit’s Relatives Support Group meetings.

8. Wherever possible, ensure that the physical, psychological and spiritual needs of the residents are met.
9. Assist the Ward Manager in ensuring the nutritional needs of the residents are met, food being presented in an appetising manner.

10. Ensure that junior staff are aware of and observe confidentiality at all times.

11. Act as Team Leader in the absence of the Ward Manager.

12. Assist the Ward Manager in the supervision of all forms of residents’ care.

13. Undertake such duties and responsibilities as delegated by the Ward Manager.

14. Actively promote and maintain agreed written Bailiwick and Clinical Standards of Nursing Care. Participate in auditing clinical standards of nursing care as required.

Administrative

1. Be aware of and if required, assist medical staff in observing the legal requirements of the Mental Health Laws (Guernsey).

2. Assist in ensuring the effective economical use of all available resources.

3. Ensure and maintain clear lines of communication and that the Ward Manager is fully consulted in all matters relating to the ward.

4. Assist in ensuring that all nursing staff are aware of and adhere to all health and social services policies and procedures.

5. To take all possible steps to safeguard the welfare and safety of residents, staff and not least oneself, in accordance with the Health and Safety at Work (General Ordinance) Guernsey 1987. For example, regularly assess individual patients’ handling, transferring and lifting requirements, documenting same and how they are to be met effectively and safely on the patient’s care plan.

6. Act-up for the Ward Manager as required or requested.

Education

1. Undertake post-basic education as deemed appropriate to service / personal development needs.

2. Assist in identifying educational / development needs and participate as required.

3. Participate in research projects as appropriate.

Personnel

1. Assist in introducing a new member of staff to their duties ensuring that they become familiar with the Board of Health policies and procedures, in particular the Fire Evacuation / Emergency procedures.

2. Where appropriate, assist in the preparation of annual Staff Development and Performance Reviews.