Job Description

Clinical:

Under supervision, be required to make clear decisions, based on an analysis of complex presenting problems and judgement about available options. This will include those related to the admission and discharge of patients. Utilise a wide variety of clinical skills appropriate to the needs of individual patients and the clinical setting in which they are required to be seen. Under supervision, carry out robust assessments ensuring discharge from hospital is clinically sound and timely.



Have an ability to engage challenging and /or acutely distressed patients in potentially hostile and/or antagonistic situations. Provide a broad range of specialist interventions for individual patients and a specialist consultation-liaison service to referring clinicians and clinical teams, assisting them in decision making in difficult and complex cases. Demonstrate a high standard of record keeping and documentation with adherence to trust policy and an understanding of professional guidelines and application of confidentiality. Work with colleagues to develop and promote the services philosophy, framework of care delivery and strategic objectives.



Work with colleagues to develop clinical expertise and high standards of nursing practice, as defined by the Nursing and Midwifery code of professional conduct (2008). Deliver care that is evidence based, reflecting current best practice and research. Participate in structured clinical supervision in accordance with Trust policies and procedures. Demonstrate clinical excellence and high standards of nursing practice to other staff.



Demonstrate sound understanding of the legal and ethical issues in caring for the mentally ill. Particularly a sound understanding of the Mental Health Act (1983) / Mental Capacity Act and its use in a non mental health setting. Communication: Demonstrate the ability to receive and give complex clinical details clearly, with patients, carers and colleagues. To communicate with people in a manner consistent with their culture, background and preferred ways of communicating.



Demonstrate the ability to communicate clearly and sensitively in situations that are contentious and/or hostile. Demonstrate a high level of interpersonal skills, self awareness and empathy in all communications. Demonstrate the ability to develop and maintain good working relationships and communication with users and carers, team members, hospital and community staff and other agencies. Management: Represent the Mental Health Trust in the general hospital setting and will play a vital role in communicating and maintaining a good working relationship between each Trust.



Ensure the promotion of the health and safety, well-being and interests of the patients, staff and all visitors who meet the team and its service environment. At all times follow the Code of Professional Conduct NMC (2008) and ensure that all staff within their sphere of responsibility also follows the code as laid down. Act as change agent to promote innovation and high standards of practice. Contribute to the development and implementation of Trust policy as and when required.

Research:

Demonstrate a commitment to developing research skills in themselves and any junior staff. Undertake audit/research into client/service related areas and contribute to the application and evaluation of current research findings. Develop methods at service level to monitor standards of care in liaison with the clinical audit department (quality assurance/research). Education: Under the guidance of Liaison Mental Health Nurse Specialist / Team Manager identify own professional development needs and demonstrate achievements against personal development plans.



Act as a mentor/preceptor where appropriate. Facilitate a learning environment conducive to the acquisition of further knowledge and skills. Liaise with the College of Nursing in all matters concerning nurse training. To provide teaching and support to hospital staff on mental health issues both formally and informally.

Clinical Governance:

Participate in the design and implementation of the audit of clinical work. Take an active role in seeking carer and user feedback. Demonstrate respect, empathy and understanding of all users and colleagues within the service. Training and Development To undertake mandatory and statutory training as required by Trust policy.



To contribute and commit to undertaking an annual Performance Appraisal and Development Review (PADR). To undertake personal development as identified in the Personal Development Plan (PDP).