Clinical Nurse Specialist, Rapid Investigation Service
Join to apply for the Clinical Nurse Specialist, Rapid Investigation Service role at University Hospital Southampton NHS FT
Job Overview
University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust is delighted to offer a fantastic opportunity to work with us. Please see below for detailed job description of the role. The main duties of the job: An exciting opportunity has arisen for a band 6 Nurse to join the Wessex Rapid Investigation Service (RIS). RIS is a fully virtual service, covering the Wessex region (Dorset, Hampshire and the Isle of Wight), offering a cancer fast‑track pathway to patients experiencing non site‑specific symptoms which might be explained by an underlying diagnosis of cancer.
In conjunction with the senior nursing team and GP colleagues, you will be responsible for triaging referrals, completing a full patient history via the telephone, deciding on most appropriate next steps, and coordinating care as appropriate. You will be responsible for presenting your patients at the virtual MDT, and making onward referrals where required.
The successful candidate will be given full training to enable a rapid and seamless approach, so that all patients are cared for as effectively and efficiently as possible. You will be well supported in this role, and we would look to reinforce your development with the HTPA and DADM modules as required.
Working for our organisation: University Hospital Southampton is one of England's largest acute teaching Trusts, offering a wide range of learning and development opportunities to support your career aspirations. Located on the south coast with an international airport and direct rail links to London, Southampton offers an ideal setting to live and work, with the New Forest, South Downs and Jurassic Coast.
At UHS we’re committed to providing a flexible working environment where possible. Whether you are balancing family, study, or your wellbeing with your career, we want to support you so you can help our patients. At UHS, we proudly champion individuality, recognising that outstanding care is only possible with a diverse, inclusive team. We’re committed to creating an anti‑racist, anti‑discriminatory environment where everyone feels valued, safe, and empowered to make a meaningful impact in our communities. We welcome applicants of all backgrounds, identities, and experiences to join us in building a healthcare community where everyone can belong, thrive, and contribute.
What You’ll Do
* You will practice independently as a core member of the Rapid Investigation Service Team; you will have responsibility for the medical management of a defined patient group under guidance of the Consultant responsible for the care episode.
* You will work clinically to triage referrals and re‑direct if a more suitable pathway is indicated. Clerk patients virtually, taking a full systems history and request a CT scan where appropriate.
* Discuss with the MDT in cases of uncertainty. Present patients at a virtual MDT and contact them with the outcome, making onward referrals as required.
* You will demonstrate a high level of competence in health assessment and clinical decision‑making.
* You will provide specialist advice, education and support to patients, their carers and other health care professionals.
* You will practice clinically within agreed care protocols – extended scope of practice for requesting radiology imaging.
* You will work across professional, departmental and Trust boundaries as required, to develop and support patient‑centred seamless care as part of delivery of this regional service.
What We Are Looking For
* We are looking for someone who is capable of working in a fast‑paced environment with good clinical skills, outstanding communication skills and excellent IT skills.
* We are seeking someone who is caring, motivated and enthusiastic, with demonstrable skills in MDT working.
* You will need to be comfortable / confident in discussing cancer with patients in a virtual setting.
We are a forward thinking service made up of a multidisciplinary team including nurses, GP’s, hospital consultants and administrative staff. We encourage the development of our staff, and expect them to keep up to date with current practices, making every contact count.
An informal discussion / visit is expected from those wishing to apply, and we look forward to receiving your application.
Contact
Please contact Christine Talboys (Lead Nurse) or Kathryn Herbert-Clark (senior CNS) to find out more about the role.
Christine.Talboys@uhs.nhs.uk Kathryn.Herbert-Clark@uhs.nhs.uk
Core Hours
Our core hours are Monday to Friday 08:00 – 17:00. Flexible / blended working arrangements may be considered.
Person Specification
Trust Values
* Patient First
* Always Improving
* Working Together
Qualifications, Knowledge And Experience
Essential criteria
* Registered nurse on relevant part of the NMC register
* Degree qualification or equivalent 120 credits at L6
* Post registration qualification within area of speciality or equivalent experience
* Completion of all Band 5 (preceptorship) competencies
* Provide evidence of supporting/ managing a range of learners in practice
* Provide evidence of supporting colleagues to promote effective learning in practice
* Extensive post registration experience within specialist area
* Knowledge of current issues within the acute health service
* Understanding of personal accountability
* Confident of own knowledge base, aware of learning needs and seeks guidance when appropriate
* Able to critically review and communicate clinical information
Desirable criteria
* Registered on MSc Pathway – completion of HTPA Competencies
* Act in the role of Practice Assessor or supporting the progression of learners / supporting challenges as needed
* Counselling qualification
* Palliative care course
* IT training
* Change Management, clinical practice development
* Multidisciplinary team working
* Interest in nurse‑led care
* Organisational/strategic awareness
* Clear about professional accountability and autonomous practice components of role
Seniority level
Mid-Senior level
Employment type
Full-time
Job function
Health Care Provider
Industries
Hospitals and Health Care
#J-18808-Ljbffr