This developmental role is designed to support the transition of Band 5 nurses into Band 6 Nurse Practitioners in ophthalmology. It enhances clinical expertise, leadership skills, and specialised knowledge to deliver advanced eye care. The role will involve structured training, mentorship, and independent practice to build the confidence and competence needed for autonomous decision-making in an ophthalmology setting.
As part of the development process, the Band 5 nurse will gain proficiency in advanced clinical assessments, diagnostic techniques, and treatment interventions specific to eye health, including ocular diseases and post-operative care. The role also emphasises developing skills in patient education, clinical governance, and multidisciplinary team collaboration.
On completion of the ophthalmology competencies, the post holder will progress from band 5 to band 6.
Main duties of the job
1. Develop strong communication skills to explain complex ophthalmic conditions, treatment plans, and surgical procedures to patients and their families in a clear and compassionate manner, ensuring understanding and informed consent.
2. Engage with ophthalmologists, optometrists, pharmacists, and allied healthcare professionals to ensure seamless communication across all levels of care, particularly during patient handovers and multidisciplinary meetings.
3. Encourage open and transparent communication within the nursing team, supporting colleagues with information, feedback, and guidance. Address any challenges promptly and professionally to maintain a positive working environment.
4. Effectively manage difficult conversations, such as delivering challenging news about diagnoses or discussing treatment options with patients who may be anxious or distressed.
5. Maintain accurate and up-to-date patient records, ensuring all clinical decisions, treatments, and care plans are clearly documented and shared appropriately with the broader healthcare team.
6. As part of your role development, contribute to identifying areas where the ophthalmology service can be improved, whether through streamlining clinic processes, introducing new technologies, or enhancing patient education materials.
Development Goals:
1. Attain clinical competence in advanced ophthalmic nursing practice.
2. Demonstrate leadership abilities within the clinical setting.
3. Achieve independent decision-making and management of patient caseloads.
4. Contribute to clinical innovation and evidence-based practice in eye care.
5. Develop skills in teaching, mentoring, and supporting the education of junior staff.
6. Take an active role in mentoring Band 5 nurses, student nurses, and healthcare assistants, providing guidance, support, and knowledge-sharing to help them build confidence and skills in ophthalmic nursing.
7. Assist in managing day-to-day team operations, such as delegating tasks, coordinating care, and ensuring staff members adhere to clinical protocols and high standards of patient care.
8. Encourage continuous professional development among your colleagues, promoting opportunities for further education and training within the ophthalmology team.
9. Assist in evaluating the performance of junior staff, providing constructive feedback, and helping them set personal development goals that align with their career aspirations.
10. Ensure that a positive, inclusive culture exists within the team, where open communication, mutual respect, and collaboration are the norm.
11. Take responsibility for providing advanced nursing care, ensuring patients receive individualised treatment plans tailored to their specific ophthalmic needs.
12. Perform detailed eye examinations and assessments, interpreting diagnostic results and supporting the development of treatment plans alongside ophthalmologists.
13. Provide expert care and advice for patients undergoing surgical interventions, ensuring safe preparation before surgery and comprehensive care afterwards.
14. Act as a patient advocate, ensuring that patients' concerns, questions, and preferences are respected and addressed while also prioritizing their safety and comfort throughout their treatment journey.
15. Consider patients' emotional, psychological, and social needs, offering support and referrals to appropriate services where needed, such as low vision aids or counselling.
16. Engage in a structured development programme to transition you from Band 5 to Band 6, building competence in advanced ophthalmic care through formal and informal training.
17. Participate in continuous professional development (CPD) opportunities, such as attending external ophthalmology conferences, seminars, and training workshops to stay updated with the latest advancements in eye care.
18. Regularly engage in reflective practice to critically evaluate your clinical performance, identify areas for improvement, and integrate learning into everyday practice.
19. Develop the ability to integrate research and evidence-based practices into patient care, staying informed about the latest treatments and innovations in ophthalmology.
20. Undergo regular competency assessments to ensure you meet the clinical standards required for a Band 6 Nurse Practitioner role, including proficiency in advanced diagnostic procedures and independent decision-making.
21. Take responsibility for your learning, actively seeking educational materials, resources, and mentorship to further your professional growth and career progression.
Person Specification
Qualifications
Essential
* Registered Nurse (RN) with a valid NMC (Nursing and Midwifery Council) registration.
* Relevant post-registration courses or a willingness to undertake further ophthalmology-specific education and training.
* Ophthalmology qualification or keen interest in pursuing ophthalmic nursing as a speciality (if not already qualified).
* Experience in a clinical nursing, preferably with some exposure to ophthalmology or a surgical environment.
Desirable
* Mentorship.
* Venepuncture Cannulation.
Equality and Diversity
Essential
* Evidence of having championed diversity in previous roles (as appropriate to role).
* Evidence of having undertaken own development to improve understanding of equalities issues.
Employer details
Employer name
University Hospitals Sussex NHS Foundation Trust (279)
Address
Sussex Eye Hospital
Eastern Road
Brighton
BN2 5BF
Any attachments will be accessible after you click to apply.
279-6704031-OCT24
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