Overview
The Macmillan Unit (Ward G1) is a 12 bedded inpatient ward, a chemotherapy day unit, a mobile cancer care unit and a busy outpatient clinic department. We specialise in the care and treatment of patients with oncological and haematological conditions through all stages of their illness. We provide staff with many opportunities to gain new knowledge and skills supported by our senior nursing team and by working closely with the multidisciplinary team, including site specific Clinical Nurse Specialists and the Acute Oncology Service.
Responsibilities
* Assist patients with the maintenance of their personal and oral hygiene, including:
o Washing and bathing
o Mouth and dental care
o Hair washing
o Nail care
o Shaving
o Dressing and undressing
* Observe and report any changes to patient skin to identify pressure ulcer risk.
* Assist patients to use toilet facilities; record and monitor output; identify and report any abnormalities in body waste.
* Undertake established stoma care and long term catheter care.
* Assist patients with mobility using manual handling risk assessment and safe manual handling.
* Contribute to the movement and positioning of patients using safe moving and handling techniques to maximise physical comfort and prevent adverse effects of pressure.
* Be aware of how equipment works and report any faults.
* Assist patients to eat and drink as per identified care needs; identify, record and report abnormal dietary and fluid intake; record intake and output on fluid chart and record food eaten in food diaries; assist patients with the completion of menus.
* Measure and observe the physical characteristics/condition of patients: temperature, pulse, respiration, blood pressure, height and weight, NEWS 2, oxygen saturation; use assessment tools to document pain.
* Obtain specimens as requested and carry out relevant investigations, e.g. urinalysis; document the results and report them to registered practitioner as necessary.
* Adhere to the principles of infection control demonstrating effective hand hygiene and awareness of potential cross infection.
* Prepare and support patients undergoing clinical activities and recovering from clinical interventions; accompany patients to other wards/departments as required.
* Undertake end of life care, providing support to family and colleagues.
* Undertake cleaning and decontamination of communal equipment between patient use and/or storage.
Communication and Team Working
* Communicate effectively and sensitively with patients, relatives and colleagues, referring to senior staff as necessary.
* Answer the telephone and relay messages accurately, courteously and competently.
* Welcome patients and visitors in a professional, friendly and helpful manner.
* Work effectively as a member of the ward team, offering support to colleagues and requesting assistance as necessary.
* Record care given accurately, completely and concisely.
Privacy, Dignity, Equality
* Act to promote patients' equality, diversity and rights at all times; ensure provision of privacy and dignity in all activities.
* Ensure all care is person centred and delivered with the informed consent of the patient; act to promote active participation for patients under the care of the Trust.
* Maintain confidentiality of patient information at all times.
Administrative
* Ensure appropriate management and security of patients' property. Enter data into computerised systems as required.
* Undertake errands off the ward as required e.g. to pharmacy, blood bank.
* Report repairs/maintenance issues appropriately.
* Identify stock/linen shortages and take appropriate action.
Personal Development
* Demonstrate insight into own personal development needs and access development through an agreed Personal Development Plan.
* Attend mandatory training, and complete other in‑service training (including e‑learning) as necessary.
* Maintain and develop standards of practice through continuous personal development in line with healthcare changes, developments and service delivery requirements.
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