Key Responsibilities CLINICAL Contribute towards a professional nursing culture, which is open to change, new ideas, concepts and innovation whilst reflecting service strategy and direction. This will be achieved by: To develop skills and knowledge within the specialist area to achieve the required Diabetes Nurse Competencies documented on the local framework. Perform comprehensive assessment of patient nursing needs, plan, implement and evaluate care delivery according to changing health needs involving carers, family and friends if desired by the patient. Participate in the development and delivery of a philosophy of care that supports and respects peoples diversity and rights Maintain clear, accurate, legible and timely written documentation in patients notes providing a record of care delivered. Participate in providing a telephone advice service, within agreed trust guidelines, for patients, carers, their families and healthcare professionals working in primary and secondary care settings. Work collaboratively with other professionals and agencies to ensure needs are met in relation to care input and support of ongoing needs. Recognise and respond appropriately to urgent and emergency situations. Work alongside the Diabetes Nurse specialist to co -ordinate and conduct patient review, education and training for staff, patients, carers and their families. Recognise vulnerable child/adult protection issues and following local policy and inform the appropriate professionals. Complying with the Data Protection Act 1998. Accept accountability and responsibility for own safe clinical practice. Practice control of infection procedures, such as hand washing and ensure that others do so. Act as patients advocate at all times. Give direction, support and advice to other colleagues of all levels frequently. Administer prescribed medication when required in the event of a major incident being declared follow the trusts policy and procedure and be available to provide support and care as delegated. Frequently required to exert moderate physical effort, this role involves the need to mobilise around the hospital setting on a daily basis, moving case notes, the movement of patients using mechanical aids such as hoists, trolleys and wheelchairs including dressing and undressing of patients over short period of time ensuring safe practices whilst providing privacy and dignity of patients. Challenging the practice of others to safeguard standards and ensure patient advocacy is achieved. Recognise areas of interpersonal conflict and develop proactive stance in resolving issues. COMMUNICATION Impart knowledge, plans or proposals, clearly and effectively. This will be achieved by: Effective communication with the patient, their families and carers and the multi disciplinary team, other hospitals, departments and primary care teams, this will be verbal, written, electronic or by telephone. Exchanges factual information with patients using persuasion, reassurance, tact and empathy. Overcomes barriers to understanding when English not first language or patient has complicated emotional, physical and psychological conditions, i.e. learning difficulties and mental health illness. Communicate highly sensitive, complex information with support from senior staff such as bad news, and verbal complaints. Recognise the needs of the patients family, carers and friends and provide information, education and support. Use the information technology system to input data, such as request investigations and refer to other members of the hospital team. Maintaining good relationships with all departments, wards, and agencies. Participate in meetings in a clear and purposeful way, disseminating information in an appropriate and meaningful manner. Assist in the provision of a safe environment, by helping to identify and eliminate risks and contribute to the implementation and development of service policies. You will support the Clinical Nurse Specialist to manage a caseload of patients with diabetes, in the hospital environment under the supervision of a senior nurse, prioritising work and managing time effectively. Assist in the ongoing management and support for patients with diabetes who are referred to the service Support the Clinical Nurse Specialist to provide education and development of colleagues and staff. Having an understanding and being proactive in the process of change. Understanding the need for effective systems regarding stock control as well as being aware of financial constraints that affect the team and of the need to reduce waste. Act as an effective role model and maintain professional standards when representing the service, being courteous and helpful at all times. Recognise the importance of and participate in research projects and service audits approved by the Trust. PERSONAL ATTRIBUTES Participates in clinical supervision. Maintains personal registration with the NMC. Adheres to statutory codes of practice/conduct. Adhere to Trust Policy and Procedures. Through Appraisal actively maintain a personal and professional development plan to develop skills and knowledge base. Demonstrates evidence of maintaining personal and professional updating by maintaining a professional portfolio and contribute to the development of others including mandatory training. Ensure own educational needs are met within NMC recommendations in order to enhance Health Education for patients/carers/family and staff.