Job Summary
On Ward 11 we are looking for a caring, compassionate and motivated individual to join our team. Ward 11 is an acute medical Oncology ward, which specialises in complex chemotherapy regimens, based within one of the leading cancer centres in Europe. On Ward 11 we are committed in the investment of excellent individuals who want to be part of an organisation that is dedicated to providing the most advanced cancer care. We are committed in the provision of exemplary patient care and this is demonstrated in our collaborative team approach.

We are a 28 bedded ward, which is comprised of open bays and side rooms. We care for a variety of different disease groups. This provides an array of exposure, broadens knowledge, and expertise within the field of oncology. We treat patients with a full range of diagnostic, inpatient, and treatment needs. Alongside administering complex chemotherapy regimens, we also support patients during their treatment with the symptoms and side effects of treatment. We care for palliative patients providing symptom control and also end-of-life care.

Main Duties of the Job
As a Staff Nurse you will be responsible for meeting the medical, physical and emotional needs of our patients; ensuring effective communication is practiced with patients and their families at all times.We ensure that you are prepared to start your career with us by offering you an 8-week supernumerary period where you are closely supported by a clinical practice facilitator and you will also have a designated sister/charge nurse alongside for your added guidance as we value your wellbeing and progression. This period enables you to have the knowledge and skill to deliver exceptional care that every patient deserves.

The role as staff nurse on Ward 11 includes:

• Managing acutely unwell patients.
• Provide specialist oncological nursing interventions.
• Recognise deterioration in patients' condition at an early stage.
• Keen to progress within cancer care and undertake specialist training within the role, such as standardised chemotherapy training (UKONs).
• Providing Palliative and End of Life Care.
• Patient education.
• Liaising with the MDT and being the patients advocate.
• Effectively communicating with patient and relatives.
• Clear, accurate documentation.
• Pro-active team player.
• Keeping up to date with current guidance and implementing evidence-based practice.

About Us
The Christie is one of Europe's leading cancer centres, treating over 60,000 patients a year. We are based in Manchester and serve a population of 3.2 million across Greater Manchester & Cheshire, but as a national specialist around 15% patients are referred to us from other parts of the country.

We provide radiotherapy through one of the largest radiotherapy departments in the world; chemotherapy on site and through 14 other hospitals; highly specialist surgery for complex and rare cancer; and a wide range of support and diagnostic services. We are also an international leader in research, with world first breakthroughs for over 100 years.

We run one of the largest early clinical trial units in Europe with over 300 trials every year. Cancer research in Manchester, most of which is undertaken on the Christie site, has been officially ranked the best in the UK.

Job Responsibilities
PROFESSIONAL

• 1. As part of the ward team help achieve and maintain a high standard of patient care.
• 2. To welcome patients and introduce them to the ward routine.
• 3. Undertake the nursing care of patients, ensuring privacy & dignity is maintained whilst being aware of physical and psychological needs.
• 4. To be aware of the needs of relatives, and to give them support and advice.
• 5. Take individual responsibility for the nursing care of a group of patients, as a registered nurse.
• 6. To participate in the rehabilitation of patients and give relatives any necessary instructions.
• 7. Ensure that prescribed drugs and treatments are given correctly and in accordance with the Hospital Procedure and Policy, and work within NMC guidelines.
• 8. To follow the procedure when notifying relatives of seriously ill patients and those who have died.
• 9. To liaise with medical and para-medical personnel and community organisations.
• 10. To participate in internal rotation to night duty as required.
• 11. Regularly attend team meetings to remain updated regarding changes within the ward, and within the Trust.
• 12. Manage and generally supervise the ward in the absence of senior staff.
• 13. Provide a supportive role within the ward for nursing, medical and clerical Staff.
• 14. To give a clear and accurate update at change of duties and ensure accurate documentation of nursing interventions.
• 15. To participate in the emergency/continuing care of patients and give any necessary instructions, including transfer information.
• 16. Participate in nursing procedures appropriate to the ward.
• 17. Support and assist in the induction/training of junior staff/Health Care Assistants acting as mentor to designated staff.
• 18. Be able to act as ward co-ordinator and ensure the safe and timely through put of patients, liaising closely with admission staff, medical staff and other wards.
• 19. To liaise with medical and para medical personnel and community organisations.
• 20. To highlight areas of improvement/development within the department and undertake relevant projects.
• 21. To participate in ward/unit/Trust initiatives i.e. Productive Ward.
• 22. To act as support for other ward nurses in relation to acute emergency care.
• 23. Safely escort patients to other areas, and act as an escort for patients during transfer to other departments/hospitals as required.
• 24. Assist in the provision of meals/refreshments for patients whilst meeting their nutritional needs.
• 25. Assist in the general housekeeping duties of the ward.
• 26. Help to maintain a safe environment and report faults/risks etc to the nurse in charge.
• 27. Liaise with staff members responsible for stores/stationery and ordering and assist in the maintenance of stock levels.
• 28. Handle patients personal possessions, and ensure cash and valuables kept securely as per policy.
• 29. Correct care and custody of controlled drugs and aid the safe storage of medicines, in line with Trust Policies.
• 30. Assist medical staff with procedures.
• 31. Carry out certain procedures such as venepuncture, cannulation and the administration of Chemotherapy, and be prepared to learn new skills relevant to the role.
• 32. To cross cover other ward within unit, to ensure adequate staff cover over both wards, when required.

EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT

• 1. To be responsible for own personal development and for maintaining a personal development plan.
• 2. To complete the ward preceptor pack, and ward training packs.
• 3. Complete Principles and Practice of Intravenous Skills Programme and Cannulation Skills Training and update annually.
• 4. Annually attend all mandatory study days as per Trust and unit guidance.

PERSONAL

• 1. Demonstrate a pleasant and approachable manner and help create and promote a good working relationship.
• 2. Show professional and courteous manner when answering the telephone and other enquires.
• 3. Maintain confidentiality with regard to patient information both at work and outside of working hours.
• 4. To be aware of and adhere to all policies including: sickness and absence, confidentiality, uniform and responsibilities under the Health and Safety at work act and be familiar with all risk assessments pertinent to the ward.
• 5. Report and record all accidents and complaints according to the agreed policy.
• 6. To be aware of limitations and utilise the preceptor system for any issues that arise.
• 7. To show respect for members of the team and endorse the wards philosophy of giving mutual support.
• 8. Adhere to trust uniform policy.

Person Specification
Qualifications
Essential

• RGN Level 1
• Degree or Diploma in Health Care Studies

Desirable

• Post Graduate certificate in cancer care / oncology
• Post graduate certificate in teaching and assessing

Experience
Essential

• Experience or interest in caring for Oncology/Palliative care patients

Desirable

• 1 year post qualifying experience in a Medical or Oncology setting

Skills
Essential

• Good communication skills
• Ability to deliver high standard of nursing care
• Computer literacy
• Understanding need for evidence based practice

Desirable

• Venepuncture
• Cannulation

Knowledge
Essential

• Participate in personal development

Desirable

• Care of patients receiving radiotherapy and chemotherapy or end of life care

Values
Essential

• Ability to demonstrate the organisational values and behaviours

Other
Essential

• Rotation to night duty
• Team player
• Willingness to be involved with ward/unit/Trust initiatives

Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.

Certificate of Sponsorship
Applications from job seekers who require current Skilled worker sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications.

UK Registration
Applicants must have current UK professional registration.