Job summary
The role of the chemotherapy staff nurse contributes to the overarching aim to provide the highest quality, holistic, patient centred care for all those in North Derbyshire affected by cancer, throughout all stages of their cancer journey.
Working at the state-of-the-art facility, the NGS Macmillan Unit, was built to the standard of the Macmillan Quality Environment Mark and beyond.
This is an exciting opportunity for a chemotherapy trained nurse to join our team to ensure people affected by cancer have access to high quality, safe, effective treatment delivered in a timely, efficient manner.
Although Chemotherapy training is desirable, we are looking for staff who are passionate to work with people affected by cancer and are motivated to complete chemotherapy training.
The post is open for full time contracted hours, however newly qualified or staff looking for part time hours are also welcome to apply.
Previous unsuccessful applicants need not apply.
Main duties of the job
We are looking for an individual with excellent communication skills and a passion for delivering a first-class service within chemotherapy. The post holder will have a wealth experience working with people affected by cancer and a good understanding of the use and impact of cancer treatments.
Although it is desirable for you to be fully competent in chemotherapy theory and administration with this evidenced in a SACT passport, you may still be considered for the post if you are willing to undertake such training.
You will also be proficient in venepuncture, cannulation and accessing central venous catheters such as PICC, Hickman lines and implanted ports. You will work in partnership with the existing chemotherapy team and liaise with our wider cancer workforce to ensure high quality services are provided to all patients.
About us
Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Foundation Trust is North Derbyshire's only acute district general hospital, with a new state of the art 24-hour Emergency Department service opening soon.
We're responsible for providing care and treatment to more than 400,000 people who live in our communities.
We are modern, well-resourced and in commuting distance of Sheffield, Derby, Nottingham and close to the Peak District. The Care Quality Commission rated the Trust as 'Good'.
Our Vision is to be a first-class provider of sustainable healthcare services, delivering the best possible care for our patients; and being a great place to work for our people, with staff health & wellbeing at the forefront of our ethos.
Job description
Job responsibilities
1. The post holder will need to be flexible and carry out nursing duties in accordance with the NMC Code of Professional Conduct and ensure all Professional Standards and Trust Policies are complied with within the chemotherapy service in the NGS Macmillan Unit specifically the chemotherapy treatment area.
2. The post holder will assist senior staff with the provision of individualised nursing care.
3. You will support the team in the achievement of chemotherapy services, in the safe handling, administration and disposal of anti-cancer therapy for haematology/oncology/palliative care patients undergoing treatment.
4. The post holder will use a holistic patient centred approach to achieve objectives and provide support to relatives/carers whilst supporting patients through their cancer journey.
5. It is imperative that the post hold have completed the UKONS SACT passport or have up to date, equivalent anti-cancer therapy training
6. Proficient in nurse led interventions such as venepuncture, cannulation and management of Central Venous Access devices (including implanted ports, Hickman lines and PICCs)
Please find attached job description and person specification for further details.
Person Specification
Qualifications and Training
Essential
7. RGN Qualified - Registered Nurse
8. NMC professional registration
9. Competancies in the management of Central Venous Access Devices ie, Hickman Line, PICC and implanted port and cannulation/venepuncture
Desirable
10. Systemic Anti-Cancer Therapy (SACT) Passport or equivalent training (Chemotherapy Trained)
11. Advanced Communication course or equivalent
12. Mentorship qualification
Skills and Knowledge
Essential
13. Proficient in nurse led interventions such as venepuncture, cannulation and management of Central Venous Access devices (including implanted ports, Hickman lines and PICCs)
14. Effective communication skills
15. Organised and prioritises workload
16. Awareness and passion for working with patients affected by cancer
Desirable
17. Knowledge of extravasation and anaphylaxis
18. Understanding of current issues in healthcare cancer care
19. Knowledge of Haematology, Oncology and/or patients with cancer
20. Knowledge of the side effects of anti cancer therapy
21. Knowledge of chemotherapy/anti cancer drugs
22. Knowledge and understanding of managing infusion related reactions and extravasation
Experience
Essential
23. Experience of working in cancer care setting or chemotherapy ward/department, or in acute hospital setting
24. Experience of understanding nursing processes, assessment, care planning, implementation and evaluation
Desirable
25. Experience of working in a nurse led environment
26. Able to deal with exposure to bereavement and challenging patients and relatives
Demonstrates our proud to CARE values
Essential
27. Compassion
28. Ambition
29. Respect
30. Encouragement - Proud to CARE
Personal Attributes
Essential
31. Flexible working across Chemotherapy services to support the service needs (eg Bank holidays, early and late shifts: there is an expectation for the successful applicant to stay behind if treatments run over time if necessary)
32. Professional appearance and approach to work
33. Good team member
34. Supports and coaches junior team members and support workers
35. Works without direct supervision and is resourceful
36. Uses initiative and makes decisions as required
37. Commitment to high clinical standards when working with patients
38. Uses initiative, tact and diplomacy
Desirable
39. Has an interest in improving their knowledge and skills
40. Has a passion for improving the Chemotherapy and cancer service