Job Summary:
To work independently providing safe, effective care under the guidance of registered healthcare professionals, in the delivery of palliative care to patients and their families utilising protocols and procedures.
Key Responsibilities
Under supervision of the RN, to carry out overall nursing care of the patient, including:
Assisting with personal hygiene, feeding, manual handling and toileting
Carrying out established bowel and catheter care
Obtaining specimens
Carrying out last offices
Managing the care of colostomies and ileostomies
Carrying out simple wound management
Monitoring and recording vital signs
Monitoring and recording blood glucose levels
Assisting in uncomplicated admissions
Performing other duties within his/her capabilities as delegated by the RN
To collect information that informs the management of the patient and report immediately any changes in the patient’s condition
To involve patients and families in shared decision-making, working within the principles of informed consent
To ensure that the dignity and well-being of patients are respected at all times and to treat everyone with respect
To recognise the extent of own role and refer on to other professionals as appropriate
To treat confidential information with respect, according to legislation and organisational policies and procedures
To communicate effectively with all members of the multidisciplinary team, taking an active approach in the development of effective and constructive nursing and multidisciplinary teamwork
To contribute constructively at nursing and multidisciplinary meetings
To access information from, and input data into, the computerised palliative care database, EMIS
Under supervision of RN, to give general information to patients and families and practical advice to families following a patient’s death
Under supervision of RN, to record care delivered and significant interactions with patients and families in the patient’s notes, according to St Raphael’s policy and procedures
To assist in the ordering, storing and stocking up of nursing stores and supplies