Job Description

To support the ward manager in providing effective clinical leadership that ensures patient safety at all times together with high quality patient care. This will include working in the level 1 area with a junior RN or as shift leader for the ward. To assist the ward Manager in the effective management of prevention and control of infection within the ward area. You will be able to communicate effectively both within the department and to external partners.



To manage a small team of nurses and be responsible for mentoring and assessing their skills and be responsible for their annual appraisals. To manage to work within allocated resources and assist in the management of the budget. To act as role model and expert practitioner. To undertake delegated responsibility in the absence of the ward manager.



To manage the day to day activity with the ward to allow flow through the ward in a timely manner to reduce the LOS and ensure that quality of care is maintained throughout the 24 hour period Participates in ensuring effective multidisciplinary communication links within the surgical ward and department and in areas within the trust. To communicate and discuss with senior members of staff @ awaydays and meetings. To adhere to NMC guidelines on documentation accountability and responsibility for record keeping. Responsible for effective shift handovers ensuring relevant detail is communicated and identifies and challenges any unprofessional or subjective comments made about patients.



Participates in ward rounds showing knowledge of the up to date situation and condition of the patients, with the ability to be able to present this concisely in an appropriate manner encouraging one stop ward rounds. Responsible for the discharge of patients from the ward and to manage complex patient case conferences which may involve end of life care. Support families and carers to understand complicated medical conditions. Recognise poor standards of care amongst the MDT and be able to highlight these to the appropriate personnel at an appropriate time.



To maintain correct standards of uniform and personal appearance, as indicated in the Dress Code & Uniform Policy. Report / action any accidents, incidents or undue occurrences reported or witnessed. Take an active role in the management of risks, in line with Trust and Directorate policy Ensure your role has a positive influence on key performance indicators. Seek consistently to improve nursing practice in line with evidence, recent best practice innovations and new developments.



Proactively manage ward level complaints and report to senior staff so that they can be dealt with according to Trust Policy. Maintain flexibility with staff rosters in order to provide cover with the optimum skill mix, making best use of available resources. Deal with patient/relative complaints proactively.