Nursing Associate

Job overview

Ward C11 at Royal Blackburn Hospital is a dynamic , forward thinking 22 bedded care of the elderly ward. We are recognized for our ability to provide safe personal and effective care and strongly believe in our organisational values – Putting the patient at the heart of all our care, acting with integrity, respecting each individual (patients and colleagues). We are a ward which embraces changes which enhance our ability to deliver the care needed to our community. We are a ward that has a comprehensive multi-disciplinary approach to caring for all our patients.

For the experienced registered nurse we offer them the opportunity to develop their leadership skills and knowledge. Supporting them with classroom based activities which will then be followed up in the workplace by allowing them the chance to coordinate and lead a shift and attending the daily MDT. Ward C11 believes in a full MDT approach to patient care and you will get the opportunity to work with all the members of the team ensuring that the patient receives the optimum care available.

Main duties of the job

You will be given the opportunity to expand your clinical skills and if required can attend the venepuncture and cannulation course, the care of the bereaved patient and mentorship. As a teaching ward you will also be responsible for passing on your knowledge and skills to student and cadet nurses, giving you the opportunity to educate and train our future nurses.

For the newly registered nurse we offer a full preceptorship course which is classroom based study days and then backed up with ward based practice. Preceptorship. The registered nurse will then be able to complete the following activities for their patients and gain the following knowledge and skills:

• Recording and monitoring vital observations, including blood sugars
• Assessing, planning and implementing care for a variety of patients with different care needs and providing direct care.
• Venepuncture and IV administration
• Administering medication as per ELHT policy
• Administering intravenous medication
• Ensuring nutritional status is maintained
• Accurately documenting in the notes all activities/changes which need to be recorded and review of the care plans
• Supporting safe discharges for patients, sometimes complex discharge planning
• Care of the poorly patient - life support and AIMS

The successful applicants will need to be flexible, enthusiastic and be able to demonstrate excellent communication skills – including numeracy and literacy.

Working for our organisation

In return we offer a competitive salary, uniform, company pension scheme and full training and development skills, including a comprehensive preceptorship package.

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

We require motivated and hardworking registered nurses to support our expanding nursing team and provide support, healthcare and information to patients and their families working days and nights including bank holidays and the Christmas period. The successful applicant must be extremely confidential and professional when carrying out their duties due to the nature of the work.

The role of the registered nurse is that of an able and competent worker who can carry out a wide range of supervised and unsupervised care duties directly with the patient which will support the work of the multi – disciplinary team

Being a band 5 registered nurse on ward C11 is at times demanding, but on the whole is extremely rewarding. You may be the first point of contact for many patients and members of the general public seeking information and support from the hospital and so you need to be confident .

Person specification Qualifications Essential criteria

• Registered 1st Level or equivalent as verified by the NMC

Desirable criteria

• To have knowledge of current research applicable to the post’s specialist area.

General Intelligence Essential criteria

• Able to take on board new ideas, skills and knowledge.
• Ability to problem solve.

SPECIAL APTITUDES Essential criteria

• Able to manage the care for a group of people and prioritise workload with minimal supervision
• Be proficient at calculating medication doses
• Able to write basic reports
• Able to train less qualified carers/learners
• Moving and handling, customer awareness, computer/keyboard skills

Desirable criteria

• Able to present reasoned discussion
• Evidence of continuous development

DISPOSITION Essential criteria

• Be able to work in a team
• Be supportive of team members
• Able to communicate effectively to patients, visitors and colleagues
• Able to listen actively
• Able to reflect on one’s own work
• Have effective interpersonal skills
• Be enthusiastic, conscientious and sympathetic

Desirable criteria

• Be able to work with minimal supervision within the job description

CIRCUMSTANCES Essential criteria

• Be able to fulfil; various shift patterns on the ward, inc. nights. Able to adapt to change
• Proven ability to keep information confidential

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