Triage Dental Nurse
Job Summary
37.5 hours per week (part‑time applications welcome). The role works alongside call handlers on the unscheduled care helpline, providing clinical assessment, prioritisation and advice to patients seeking unscheduled dental care. You will identify patients who need urgent appointments, book them, and offer self‑care advice where appropriate.
Responsibilities
* Respond to patient calls in a professional, timely manner.
* Provide evidence‑based clinical assessment, prioritisation and advice within your GDC scope of practice.
* Book patients for unscheduled dental appointments based on clinical need and patient circumstances.
* Explain NHS patient charges and exemptions accurately.
* Offer self‑care information or alternative dentist options to those not eligible for an appointment.
* Strive to improve performance and quality, following PCDS clinical governance and performance review procedures.
* Assist with audit and data collection of triage‑booked appointments.
* Maintain accurate, contemporaneous records of the triage process and advice given.
* Utilise translation services or other communication aids for language or hearing barriers.
* Communicate effectively with patients, representatives and agencies.
* Work flexibly across a 7‑day service and adapt to a fast‑paced environment.
* Participate in professional development, maintaining a portfolio in line with GDC registration requirements.
* Support PCDS team in performance improvement and quality initiatives.
* Other duties as reasonably requested by management.
Qualifications
* NEBDN qualification / City & Guilds NVQ3 or equivalent in Dental Nursing.
* Current Dental Nurse GDC registration without restrictions.
* Basic Life Support certification.
* Evidence of CPD and a current Personal Development Plan.
Experience
* Experience in a primary or secondary dental care setting.
* Post‑qualification dental nursing care experience.
* Competence in recognising and managing medical emergencies.
* Computer and IT literate – good PC skills.
Desirable
* Additional dental nurse qualification.
* Immediate Life Support training.
* Experience in NHS urgent care or salaried community dental service.
* Experience treating children and adults with special needs.
* Experience of minor oral surgery.
* Previous use of Dentally software.
* Management or leadership experience.
Personal Attributes
* Good assessment and decision‑making skills.
* Patient‑focused and enthusiastic.
* Calm, empathetic and respectful.
* Effective verbal, written and non‑verbal communication.
* Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
* Strong time‑management and prioritisation under pressure.
* Appreciation of cultural and ethnic diversity.
* Adaptable to change and able to appraise and reflect on practice.
* Enhanced DBS check required due to contact with children and vulnerable adults.
Employer Information
Livewell Southwest
The Dental Access Centre, Baring Street, Plymouth, PL4 8NF
Website: livewellsouthwest.co.uk
Other Information
Salary: £27,485 – £30,162 per annum (pro‑rata).
Contract: Fixed term, 6 months.
Working pattern: Full‑time, part‑time, job share, flexible working.
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