Job summary
A unique opportunity has arisen on Smithers ward to join our dynamic team. We are looking for a highly motivated nurse who wants to contribute to maintaining our high standards of care.

Smithers ward is a friendly 23-beded oncology ward caring for patients with a wide range of cancers throughout their treatment pathway. On the ward we specialize in SACT administration, surgical treatments, symptom management and palliative care.

Smithers ward is committed to supporting ongoing professional and personal development, with a ward-based practice educator this allows us to fulfil this aspect and ensure individuals gain clinical competencies in a timely manner. In addition, the hospital offers academic programs and modules via the Royal Marsden school and on Smithers ward we support engagement in these.

The ward is often fast paced but is a very welcoming and supportive environment, we pride ourselves on our positive teamwork and offer flexible working opportunities. This job is open to newly qualified nurses or nurses who want to develop into more senior roles.

Main duties of the job

• To plan, document, deliver and evaluate evidence-based nursing care for patients in a responsible and efficient way, which has been drawn up in conjunction with the co-ordinator of the shift
• To develop a greater awareness and understanding of the needs of patients with cancer and the different treatment modalities administered within the unit.
• To develop an understanding of the roles and responsibilities of managing a shift with the guidance of the Ward Sister/Charge Nurse.

About us
The Royal Marsden NHS Foundation Trust is a world-leading cancer centre. Our role is to offer our patients the best cancer care available anywhere in the world, and to continue to make a global contribution to finding better ways of diagnosing and treating cancer. We employ over 4,500 staff in a diverse range of careers including nursing, medical, science, radiography, pharmacy, occupational therapy, finance and administrative services. We have two hospitals - one in Chelsea, London, and one in Sutton, Surrey - as well as a Medical Daycare Unit in Kingston Hospital.

At The Royal Marsden, we deal with cancer every day, so we understand how valuable life is. When people entrust their lives to us, they have the right to demand the very best. That's why the pursuit of excellence lies at the heart of everything we do.

At the heart of the hospital is our dedicated team. We offer a stimulating and dynamic working environment, a wide range of staff benefits, learning and development opportunities and clear career pathways. There are opportunities to work flexibly across a range of areas and specialities and we welcome flexible working requests from point of hire to support employees work life balance. We are looking for employees who aspire to excellence, share our values and can play a crucial role in our on-going achievements.

Job responsibilities
For further information please refer to the job description and personal specification
These responsibilities will be carried out under the guidance of the shift co-ordinator:

• To complete the first level assessment of the patients needs to gain an understanding of the physiological, psycho-social, spiritual and cultural needs of the patients with cancer and their families and to develop a positive, realistic and supportive attitude to ensure that the needs of the patient and family are met.
• To assist with teaching patients in preparation for investigations, treatment and home care
• To be aware of the side effects of any treatment in progress, and adopt a problem-solving approach to minimise the potentially adverse reactions.
• Be involved in the direct delivery of skilled specialised nursing care with supervision until competent, e.g. wound dressings, removal of drains, and insertion of urinary catheters.
• To develop an awareness of the protocols involved for patients undergoing clinical trials.
• To be aware of all hospital policies and procedures and collaborate with other health care professionals to ensure that these are observed.

Person Specification
Education/Qualifications
Essential

• Registration
• Evidence of ongoing professional development

Desirable

• Qualification in oncology or speciality
• Diploma or Degree level study (or equivalent)
• Recognised teaching qualification

Experience
Essential

• Experience in intravenous drug administration
• Sufficient post registration nursing experience in oncology or speciality to be confident and competent in using the required skills to do the job

Desirable

• Experience in chemotherapy administration
• Experience in Clinical Management
• Evidence of relevant teaching experience
• Knowledge and understanding of clinical trials management

Skills Abilities/knowledge
Desirable

• Venepuncture and/or cannulation skills
• Evidence of effective negotiating and influencing skills
• Ability to lead a team
• Ability to motivate others

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.

UK Registration
Applicants must have current UK professional registration. For further information please see NHS Careers website (opens in a new window).

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.
Applicants must have current UK professional registration.