Job overview
We welcome applications from those who currently hold a UK NMC registration. If you currently hold an overseas nursing qualification and require sponsorship we are not currently direct hiring Internationally Qualified Nurses.
This is the opportunity for you to join the Practice Development Team in The Acute Respiratory Unit (ARU) and Respiratory Same day Emergency Care Unit (RSDEC) at Royal Sussex County Hospital (RSCH). ARU is a 28 bedded ward with 8 high acuity bay beds used to treat patients needing Non-invasive ventilation and patients with chest drains. The RSDEC service is an expanding unit used to help with admission avoidance and assisted discharge.
The post-holder will continue to promote a progressive learning environment for all members of the nursing team, including in-house competency and STAM training.
The Practice Development Nurse (PDN) role is there to help support and educate health care staff. The PDNs are tasked to provide extensive clinical advice and support to enhance the knowledge base and practical skills of newly qualified nurses, healthcare assistants, nursing associates and other learners in the wards. They will also need to help with the students allocated to the ward, to help orientate them.
Main duties of the job
To work in partnership with the senior nursing team to promote delivery of the highest standards of professional nursing care to acutely ill patients and those presenting to the same day emergency care unit.
To contribute in the planning, implementation, co-ordination and evaluation of educational activities within ARU/RSDEC to promote nursing excellence.
This role is eligible for visa sponsorship under the UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI) Skilled Worker route. Sponsorship can only be provided where applicants meet the specific requirements set by UKVI, including the relevant skill and salary thresholds, and any role-specific criteria. For example, applicants for the Senior HCA role must be able to evidence a minimum of 2 years’ experience in the same role to qualify for sponsorship.
If you are applying using a Graduate visa as your right to work, you must have a minimum of 18 months remaining on your visa at time of application.
Working for our organisation
At UHSussex, diversity is our strength, and we want you to feel included to help us always deliver Excellent Care Everywhere, as shown in our Outstanding for Caring CQC rating. Your uniqueness and experiences will be part of our creative and innovative community where everyone is encouraged to succeed. We have a range of staff networks to help break down barriers, and can offer a buddy to help new members settle in. We’re proud to be a Disability Confident Employer (Level 3) and a Veteran Aware Trust.
Detailed job description and main responsibilities
Please see attached job description for a detailed overview.
Facilitate the continuous professional development and education of all members of staff in a positive learning environment.
1. Lead on the induction and orientation of new members of the nursing team
2. In liaison with the Practice Development Nurse's, provide a rolling education programme, inclusive of in house statutory and mandatory training.
3. Promote evidence-based practice within the department, ensuring that staff are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to perform their roles competently.
4. Be visible within the clinical setting, ensuring best practice is promoted at all times.
5. Under the direction of the Ward Managers and support members of staff that have been identified as requiring additional support.
6. Support members of staff under the capability policy, working alongside them to identify learning needs.
7. Facilitate competency achievement for clinical skills.
8. In collaboration with the Practice Development Nurse's and trust education teams, the post-holder will assist in the maintenance of national initiatives related to education and continuing professional development such as the care certificate and NMC revalidation
Person specification
Professional Registration
Essential criteria
9. NMC registration with current PIN
Experience/Qualifications
Essential criteria
10. Mentorship course/Practice Assessor
11. Substantial experience at Band 5 (or above) within an acute care setting
12. Extensive knowledge on the management of acutely ill patients
13. Evidence of interaction with practice development
14. Evidence of post-registration personal development
Desirable criteria
15. ILS/ALS Provider
16. Understanding of the National Nursing Agenda
17. Proficient in computer skills
Skills
Essential criteria
18. Management of non-invasive ventilation
19. Management of all types of venous access devices
20. Competence in intravenous drug administration, venepuncture and cannulation
21. Excellent conflict management and interpersonal skills
22. Ability to facilitate change
23. Able to work autonomously
24. chest drain competent
Desirable criteria
25. Care of Acutely Unwell Patient Module
26. Respiratory Module
People management and Development
Essential criteria
27. Ability to liaise and network effectively with people in a range of organisations
Desirable criteria
28. An understanding of student curriculums
Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion
Essential criteria
29. Evidence of having championed diversity in previous roles (as appropriate to role).
30. Evidence of having undertaken own development to improve understanding of equalities issues
Important information for applicants:
A Note on AI Use in Applications
We value the individuality and authenticity that each candidate brings to the application process. While AI tools are increasingly accessible, we strongly discourage their use in completing your application. Your responses should reflect your own voice, experiences, and motivations—elements that are essential to a fair and accurate evaluation.
Applications that rely heavily on AI-generated content may misrepresent your abilities and could result in your application being rejected. We encourage you to take the time to present your genuine self, as this helps us better understand your potential and ensures a transparent selection process.
Closing Adverts Early: In the event of exceptional interest, we may close adverts earlier than specified.
Some of our adverts are capped for a limited number of applications; therefore, the advert will close once the cap has been reached. We therefore encourage you to submit your application as soon as possible if you are interested in the position to prevent you from missing out on applying for the opportunity.
Flexible Working: If you would like to explore potential options regarding flexible working please speak with the appropriate recruiting/line manager.
DBS Checks: As part of our commitment to a safe working environment, we undertake a Disclosure and Barring Service check on all new employees where the role is eligible for a criminal record check. We make offers in line with the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1975.
Skilled Worker Visa: Applications for Skilled Worker sponsorship are welcome for the roles that meet the Visa and Immigrations eligibility criteria. For further information please visit the gov.uk website searching for Skilled Worker. It is your responsibility as the applicant to ensure that you meet this criteria.
UHSussex reserves the right to close the role early if we receive a high volume of applications