General Practice Nurse

Job responsibilities

CLINICAL • to assess the needs of patients and provide appropriate care or treatment, in conjunction with a GP or independently, as appropriate, and according to practice policies and protocols • to assist in the provision of care to patients with chronic diseases and to undergo any training required to become proficient in these areas as required by the practice. • to undertake a range of general nursing duties, to include wound care, ear syringing, venepuncture, electro-cardiography, giving immunisations and vaccinations, and any other procedures such as have been agreed with the practice and to undertake the training required to perform these tasks • to be competent to undertake health screening procedures, eg. cervical screening, and give patients appropriate health promotion advice • to document the process of assessment of patient need and delivery of care • to evaluate the outcome of care and where appropriate identify changes that may need to be made to an individual patient’s care management • to assist in the provision of care for housebound patients with chronic diseases to the same standards as those able to attend the surgery. • offer advice about childhood and adult vaccinations and ensure vaccines are administered under patient group directions • Ensure infection control guidelines are maintained GENERAL • to undertake training for additional clinical skills as required for the role • to promote and participate in monitoring a safe, comfortable and therapeutic environment • to participate in regular team meetings and attend practice and other meetings as and when required • to act as a mentor or preceptor for learners and other staff as appropriate • to be aware of and adhere to the NMC code of professional conduct and accountability, and scope of professional practice, providing the required evidence of professional development to maintain entry in the NMC register • to ensure that Health and Safety requirements are met • to adhere to the practice data protection and confidentiality policies • to ensure that templates are completed to enable maximum QOF points to be obtained

Qualities

Essential

• Able to demonstrate enthusiasm to developing nursing skills
• An understanding, acceptance and adherence to the need for strict confidentiality
• Ability to use own judgement and resourcefulness
• Ability to work as part of an integrated multi-skilled team
• Excellent communication skills
• Able to work under pressure
• Excellent time management skills
• Able to work in a changing environment
• Able to use own initiative
• Flexibility of working hours/ability to work at the desired times

Desirable

• Ability to work without direct supervision and determine own workload priorities

Qualifications

Essential

• RN currently on NMC register
• Evidence of continuing professional development
• Driving licence and car owner

Desirable

• Diploma or further training in - Asthma / COPD /Diabetes chronic disease management
• INR accredited
• Contraception Qualification

SKills

Essential

• Advanced nursing skills:
• Venepuncture
• Immunisation and vaccination
• Cervical cytology
• Wound management skills
• Ability to assess, implement and evaluate a programme of care
• Good communication and organisational skills
• Ability to work alone and in a team
• Flexibility
• Basic computer skills

Desirable

• Proven ability to supervise unqualified staff and assist in training

Experience

Essential

• Knowledge of evidence-based practice and clinical governance
• Previous practice nurse experience

Desirable

• Minimum of 3 years post-registration experience
• Experience of Asthma, COPD , Diabetes chronic disease management
• Awareness of current research and clinical audit procedures
• Familiarity with SystmOne clinical system

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).