PRIMARY DUTIES & AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY 1. Perform comprehensive assessment of patients nursing needs. Plan, implement and evaluate care delivery according to patients health care needs. To demonstrate high standards of clinical practice. 2. Have a good working knowledge of child protection issues / processes and take responsibility for the ongoing care of children in need. 3. Using critical care skills and knowledge, act as a resource to the wards regarding the care of critically ill children, providing advice and support. 4. Maintain a safe working environment, ensuring high standards and safe practice are maintained by: a. Teaching staff to understand and accept their responsibilities e.g. environmental cleanliness, maintenance and use of all equipment within clinical setting. b. Assist ward manager in the monitoring of incidents, accidents and complaints and participating in corrective action and the monitoring of outcomes. c. Adhering to the guidelines of the Health & Safety at Work Act. d. Utilisation of Trust Risk Assessment documentation, to ensure that Health & Safety and Clinical risk are reduced in the ward area. 5. Management of the area in the absence of a ward manager, including the deployment and supervision of staff. 6. To ensure that Trust, Divisional and Directorate Policies and Procedures are carried out correctly by: a. Compiling off-duty rotas to make effective use of staff. b. Being responsible for efficient and effective usage of the available resources in the absence of the ward manager. c. Compiling and maintaining staff attendance records, managing and monitoring sickness and absenteeism in accordance with Trust Policy. d. Carrying out agreed procedures for the appraisal and counselling of staff. e. Being actively involved with recruitment, selection and retention. 7. Establish and maintain effective communication channels within and outside the department by: a. Promoting teamwork and inter-personnel relationships and encouraging others in the decision making process. b. Attending regular Sisters Meetings, organising Ward Meetings and participating in Divisional and Directorate forums as required. c. Playing an active role in the integration of Patient and Public Involvement. d. Effecting change in order to meet changing patient need. e. To participate in the Major Incident Policy. 8. To be responsible for the continuing assessment of performance and the identification of development needs of team members by: a. Conducting staff annual appraisals that include a personal development plan relevant to their particular needs. b. Facilitating staff members to meet PREP requirements.