Overview
Provide chair side support to clinicians during clinical assisting in the care and management of the patient throughout the patient’s treatment journey, including pre-operative and post-operative care during Conscious Sedation procedures following appropriate training. To act as a chaperone at all times. Work involves routine contact with children and adult patients, including those with complex medical histories, mental health problems and learning difficulties, with exposure to blood, saliva and other bodily fluids.
Ensure preparation and organisation of clinical environments where procedures are undertaken (which may include hospital operating theatres, recovery areas and secure mental health units). Maintain a high standard of infection prevention and control at all times in accordance with relevant guidelines. Prepare and present dental materials, dressings, medicaments, instruments and equipment as requested by the clinician. Following accredited training, provide support in Conscious Sedation procedures under the supervision of the clinician.
Responsibilities
* Provide verbal and written pre- and post-operative advice/instructions for patients and carers in collaboration with the team.
* Monitor patients’ physical signs before, during and after treatment to recognise condition changes and take appropriate action, including recovery after sedation or difficult procedures.
* Check haemostasis prior to patient discharge.
* Recognise and participate in the management of medical emergencies when required; maintain competence annually (e.g., CPR, BLS, ILS, PILS).
* Decontaminate, prepare and store dental equipment and instruments in line with local and national policies; ensure reusable devices are maintained to a high standard (HTM 01-05).
* Perform and record validation tests for decontamination and sterilisation equipment; decontaminate, prepare and transport equipment and prosthetic laboratory work as needed.
* Process and store digital radiographs and, where applicable, non-digital radiographs in compliance with IRR/IRMER and Health & Safety regulations.
* Control and order stock including dental supplies, medical gases and associated drugs; where applicable, stock control and receipt of controlled drugs in line with Trust policies.
* Assist clinicians with epidemiological surveys in schools or other establishments, including planning, organising, data input and administration duties; determine urgency of clinical enquiries and direct appropriately.
* Maintain patient confidentiality and communicate effectively with clinicians, staff, other healthcare professionals and external organisations.
* Relieve/cover at other clinics and activities within reasonable distance to meet service needs.
* Practice in accordance with GDC Standards for the Dental Team; maintain GDC registration and undertake continuing professional development (CPD) in line with GDC requirements.
* Demonstrate awareness of safeguarding and act appropriately when required; participate in in-service training and support induction of new staff or work experience visitors.
* Maintain professional appearance and adhere to Trust Uniform and Dress Code policy and Employee Code of Conduct.
Qualifications and Requirements
* Experience in clinical dental nursing support and familiarity with sedation processes (inhalation and/or IV sedation) under supervision.
* Strong infection prevention and control knowledge aligned with HTM 01-05.
* Competence in monitoring and responding to patient conditions; CPR/BLS/ILS/PILS certified; annual recertification as required.
* GDC registration and commitment to CPD in accordance with GDC requirements.
* Good communication skills, ability to work within a multidisciplinary team, and safeguarding awareness.
* Ability to manage stock, prepare equipment, and coordinate with clinicians for patient care and administrative duties.
To be appropriately dressed within the clinical environment in adherence to the Trust’s Uniform and Dress Code policy and to act in accordance with the Trust’s Employee Code of Conduct.
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