Acupuncturist

To work with and support an inter-disciplinary team of nurses, rehabilitation assistants, physiotherapists, speech and language therapists, psychologists and occupational therapists delivering care and rehabilitation. Provide acupuncture within their individual sphere of competency, to meet client needs and in line with professional procedures and guidelines communicating sensitive condition related information in an empathetic and reassuring way. Work as part of a complementary therapy team to assess client needs and in partnership with the client devise a treatment plan to meet those needs. Inform clients, carers and the STEPS team about the benefits and side effects of acupuncture as appropriate Monitor and review the effectiveness of the therapy given and modify as necessary To work autonomously with support available from a senior therapist as required.

To provide supervision, support and guidance to other members of the interdisciplinary team. To contribute to service development initiatives and always promote high quality care for clients. To escalate issues as required following STEPS guidance and operating procedures. To be compliant with the clinical governance requirements operating within STEPS procedures.

To participate in clinical audits and research as and when directed by a supervising therapist. To assist in carrying out procedures relating to the personal care and nutritional needs of clients and assist in dealing with emergencies as required. To be flexible and able to offer support to other clinical areas as required. To be able to deliver joint sessions with other therapists.

This job description is an outline which reflects the present requirements of the post and is not intended to be an exhaustive list of duties.