The Minor Illness Nurse plays a critical role in the management and treatment of patients presenting with minor illnesses and acute conditions within a general practice setting. This role involves the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of a wide range of minor illnesses, ensuring timely and effective care for patients. The Minor Illness Nurse works independently but is supported by GPs, nurse practitioners, and other healthcare professionals to provide high-quality, patient-centered care.
Main duties of the job
Key Responsibilities
1. Patient facing clinical medication reviews
2. To undertake medicines reconciliation in accordance with practice protocols and to update patients' medical records accordingly. Conducts medication use reviews independently within own competence including reauthorizing eRD. Refers to Senior/Lead pharmacy technician or Pharmacists when needed.
3. Management of medicines at discharge from hospital
4. Supports medicines reconciliation following patient discharge from hospitals, intermediate care and into care homes, including identifying and rectifying unexplained changes. Works with patients and community pharmacists to ensure patients receive the medicines they need post discharge. Liaises with pharmacists or Senior/Lead technician as required.
5. Medicines advice to practice staff and patients
6. Answers all medicine-related enquiries from GPs, other practice staff, other healthcare teams (e.g. community pharmacy) and patients within own competence, referring on to pharmacist/GP as required. Responds to daily anima eConsults, identifying any red flags and underlying serious pathology and takes appropriate action including referring to other members of the primary care team as needed.
7. Clinical documents
8. Works as part of the pharmacy services team ensuring that any clinical documents received within the practice are actioned appropriately, particularly those associated with medication changes and monitoring within own scope of practice.
About us
Living Well Partnership is made up of 8 GP surgeries working innovatively to change the way we deliver great patient care and fast, effective patient communication.
At Living Well Partnership, our nursing team is a blend of skilled professionals, including Practice Nurses, Specialist Nurses, Minor Illness Nurses, Nursing Associates, Nurse Practitioners and Advanced Clinical Practitioners. Together, we share a common goal: delivering exceptional, personalised patient care with a strong emphasis on continuity of care. We are currently expanding to meet the growing needs of our patients across two main areas: Practice Nursing and Minor Illness Care.
Job responsibilities
1. Clinical Assessment and Management
2. Conduct thorough clinical assessments of patients presenting with minor illnesses, such as respiratory infections, urinary tract infections, skin conditions, and minor injuries. Diagnose and manage acute conditions, formulating appropriate treatment plans, including prescribing medications within the scope of practice (if qualified as an independent prescriber). Provide advice on self-care, symptom management, and when to seek further medical attention.
3. Patient Care and Education
4. Offer patient education on minor illnesses, including prevention, management, and the appropriate use of medications. Provide guidance on over-the-counter medications and home remedies, promoting responsible use of healthcare resources. Educate patients on the signs and symptoms of conditions that are worsening or require further medical evaluation and when to seek additional care.
5. Clinical Procedures
6. Perform relevant clinical procedures, such as wound care, dressing changes, removal of sutures, and administration of injections as needed. Carry out diagnostic tests, including urinalysis, throat swabs, and peak flow measurements, interpreting results to guide treatment decisions. Manage patient follow-ups, ensuring continuity of care and monitoring the progress of treatment plans.
7. Other
8. Work collaboratively with GPs, nurse practitioners, and other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive care for patients. Refer patients to GPs or other specialists when a condition requires more complex management or further investigation. Maintain accurate and up-to-date patient records, documenting all clinical interactions, assessments, diagnoses, and treatment plans. Engage in continuous professional development to stay updated on best practice.
Person Specification
Experience
* A minimum of 3-5 years of nursing experience, with significant experience in primary care, urgent care, or minor illness management.
Skills
* Strong clinical assessment and diagnostic skills, with expertise in managing minor illnesses.
* Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to educate and support patients.
* Ability to work autonomously while also collaborating effectively with a multidisciplinary team.
* Proficiency in using electronic health records (EHR) systems and other healthcare-related software.
* Strong organisational and time-management abilities, with a focus on efficiency and patient care.
Qualifications
* Registered Nurse (RN) with a valid NMC Nursing and Midwifery Council registration.
* Additional qualifications in minor illness management, such as a Minor Illness and Injury diploma, are highly desirable.
Disclosure and Barring Service Check
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
Depending on experience between Grade 6-7, depending on experience.
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