Job Description

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a permanent band 5 role in the Children's High Dependency Unit at Derriford Hospital.



This would suit a current band 5 with proven post registration experience and ideally with some Paediatric HDU or PICU experience.



The Children's High Dependency Unit accepts acute and planned admissions. The unit consists of four beds and undertakes major orthopaedic, ENT and complex surgery as well as emergency medicine. The unit provides a high level of high dependency care including non-invasive ventilation and invasive stabilisation ventilation.



The post holders will need to have a positive and innovative approach to caring for children especially in relation to high dependency/intensive care of children. The post holder should be able to work both autonomously and as part of a multi-disciplinary team. They will need a clear vision and direction for children's services taking opportunities to be a representative of Children's needs.



Preference will be given to internal Trust staff, as well as 'Priority' and 'At Risk' status including NHS At Risk staff throughout Devon who are able to display recent relevant experience as dictated by the Person Specification.



The role includes working with Children and Young People who are acutely unwell receiving level 2 and when required, level 3 care (as per the PCCS standards). Working closely with the the wider MDT and supporting families and children through stressful situations and events. You will be required to be responsible and accountable for delivering high quality, effective and compassionate nursing care. Working alongside colleagues, including Paediatric medical staff and Anaesthetists to stabilise and treat patients requiring advanced emergency treatment following the current APLS pathways.



UHP have a large, Paediatric service ran by a friendly, dynamic, talented team of professionals; we deliver high quality, compassionate care to the local community and beyond. We strive to provide a positive patient experience in a safe environment and we actively promote a family centred approach in the delivery of care.



We are a people business - where every member of staff matters and can make a difference. Patients are at the heart of everything we do. Joining University Hospitals Plymouth NHS Trust means becoming part of a team of dedicated staff, who are committed to leading the way through innovation, clinical excellence and great customer care. The Trust has great opportunities for career development in a highly progressive working environment. We offer all of this in a vibrant, modern city with a historic reputation for adventure.



PLEASE NOTE THAT ALL COMMUNICATION WILL BE ELECTRONIC, PLEASE CHECK YOUR EMAIL ACCOUNT REGULARLY.

If you have any issues with applying online and need additional support including reasonable adjustments with the application process please contact the recruitment team on 01752 432100.



Providing and delivering a high standard of nursing care by initiating and co-coordinating the assessment, planning, and evaluating of individual patients needs based on evidence. Reporting and documenting any relevant nursing/patient needs, communicating changes with other health care professionals in the multi-disciplinary team with ongoing responsibility for patient care as they occur. Promoting and delivering health education within the clinical area and advice patient, family, and others in health promotion issues. Engage; interact with carers/family encouraging them to be actively involved in patient's care, planning as outlined in the unit philosophy. Demonstrating and undertaking evidence-based practice playing an active part in the introduction of this evidence to improve patient centred care Supervising, assessing, mentoring and supporting junior Registered Nurses and Health Care Professionals including bank and agency staff in the clinical setting. Increasing the level of knowledge and skills within the Ward/Directorate through sharing best practice and supporting others to develop their professional abilities. Implementing and sharing good infection control practice. Undertaking manual handling assessments and ensuring identified actions are met. Have a working knowledge of safeguarding and take responsibility for the ongoing care of children in need.

For further details please see the attached JD & PS