To be a clinical expert. To ensure the provision of excellent, evidence based care for the patients and carers. Ensure that each person is assessed, and that their care is planned, implemented and evaluated in negotiation with the patient, and that this is accurately documented. To act as an advocate for the patient ensuring the provision of appropriate information and support services. Develop and maintain the clinical skills and knowledge necessary to provide clinically effective, holistic, evidence based nursing care, as reflected within the Scope of Professional Practice. Communicate effectively, promoting open and trusting relationships. To be aware of the uses, safety precautions and handling of equipment in the department. Assist in the development and review of policies and standards for the safe use of equipment and any new equipment introduced to the department Ensure the provision of appropriate supervision and support to members of the team. Support the provision of effective communication between all members of the multidisciplinary team, other hospital departments, relatives and visitors. Manage allocated resources effectively and efficiently. This includes maintaining the correct skill mix of staff for patient dependency, bed/list management, utilisation of time and equipment. Assist in ensuring the safety of the department, and the risk management process by actively participating in clinical audit, clinical risk and quality issues, including the managing and reporting of incidents. To ensure that all staff know where to access trust policies and clinical procedure guidelines and that staff adhere to these at all times To lead on an agreed area of department management e.g. infection control, teaching, research etc. Act as a team leader for a group of nurses, acting as a mentor/preceptor, and facilitating their development through challenge and support. To lead and co-ordinate team projects and team building activities. Participate in the process of recruitment and retention of staff. Promote and support the improving working lives philosophy, and initiatives To contribute to the appraisal process, and if required disciplinary activities. Deputise for the department sister/ charge nurse in their absence or when requested. For full details, please see attached job description