Job responsibilities Clinical Provision & Expert Practice Uses highly developed clinical knowledge to independently assess, diagnose, plan, implement and evaluate treatments and interventions for patients presenting to the specialty with complex undifferentiated or undefined presentations. Undertakes physical examination as indicated by the patients condition; autonomously analysing complex clinical signs and investigation results to consider differential diagnoses and diagnose conditions, initiating treatment as required. Performs clinical procedures appropriate to the history and physical examination of the patient, including further invasive testing and treatments requiring highly developed skills and precision, including (but not limited to) catheterisation, cannulation, peripheral arterial blood gas sampling. Requests investigations such as blood, urine and other laboratory tests, electrocardiographs (ECGs), ultrasound scans, X-Rays and computed tomography (CT) scans in accordance with IR(ME)R regulations and as local policy allows. Analyses multiple sources of data including patient history, physical examination and investigation findings when making diagnoses, clinical judgements and evaluating care provided; presenting this information, to speciality /senior medical staff for advice when scope of practice is exceeded. Autonomously formulates appropriate management plans for patients, formulates clinical decisions and often complex treatment plans to manage acute illness and acute episodes of chronic illness including referral, admission or discharge. Continuously revaluates findings and clinical response to treatment and establishes an appropriate ongoing management plan accordingly. Prioritises health problems and intervenes appropriately in complex, urgent and emergency situations, including initiation and leadership of resuscitation. Manages clinical events involving patients, often requiring unpredictable and high levels of mental and/or physical effort according to the patients dependency and clinical need. Provides clinical cover to the specialty wards according to patient and staffing needs. Prescribes and reviews medication (as an independent prescriber) for therapeutic effectiveness appropriate to patient need and in accordance with best/evidence-based practice and national and local protocols and within the roles scope of practice and legal framework. Integrates both pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatment in patient care/management plans Assesses patients with mental health needs using local policy and guidelines and refers to the appropriate services Communicates effectively with patients, carers, colleagues and others using appropriate communication styles. Anticipates barriers to communication and ensures patients and significant others are kept fully informed and consent to treatment. Acts as a resource for staff, advising on local, national and Trust policy, procedures and guidelines ensuring patient safety and clinical governance. Clinical Leadership Works in partnership with the existing senior medical, nursing and AHP teams in driving departmental development and change. Manages conflicting views and liaises between groups where there may be conflict. Highlights and addresses areas of witnessed poor practice and manages the situation appropriately. Manages staff performance, training and supervision of trainee ACPs including annual appraisals. Supports staff development to maximise their potential, encouraging everyone to learn from each other and from external good practice. Supports patients, carers and staff during difficult situations arising in the clinical area e.g. breaking bad news or following an unexpected event Produces accurate and complete documentation and patient records consistent with legislation, policies and procedures. Possesses excellent time management and personal organisation skills. Acts as a knowledge resource in how to initiate and manage the impact of change. Develops and contributes to local guidelines, interpreting and adapting national protocols and standards to enhance patient care and safety. Maintains awareness of budgetary constraints within the department, manages resources appropriately and encourages others to do likewise. Ensures appropriate representation and participation in departmental meetings as appropriate for role. Actively contributes and provides leadership with service development plans within the directorate. Ensures optimization of preoperative investigations, ensure all appropriate imaging has been requested and updated in a timely manner. Ensures optimal care is delivered for patients while in hospital and co-ordinates efficient discharge and postoperative care. Reviews patients in clinic postoperatively and acts upon or escalates, concerning findings. Education & Research Takes responsibility for their own learning and performance including the participation in clinical supervision and maintaining an awareness of relevant research evidence. Develops health promotion and education in conjunction with other health care professionals ensuring that all patient care within the multi-disciplinary team is based on research and best practice. Acts as a constant source of clinical and theoretical knowledge for all grades and disciplines of staff as well as patients and their significant others, providing support and clinical advice in specialist areas, based on evidenced based research. Possesses proficient typing, IT and computer skills. Uses audio/visual equipment to record and impart information and research. Prepares and delivers presentations and participates in workshops on a local, regional and national level, to ensure the communication of good practice. Works with the MDT to further develop appropriate clinical pathways and care approaches. Disseminates their own learning and good practice to other team members. Designs, coordinates and undertakes collaborative audit, research and development into the specialty and related practices. Plans, delivers and implements programmes of education and training for trainee ACPs, nurses, medical and other disciplines and continues to be involved in their ongoing support. Supports the Trusts research and development plans with special focus in Enhanced Recovery After Surgery Ensures PROMS data have been submitted in a timely manner and drives changes accordingly PLEASE SEE JD/PS FOR FULL DUTIES OF THE POST