Lead Nurse - Rheumatology

• To work autonomously, managing a caseload of patients within the specialty whilst working as part of the multidisciplinary team, delivering individualised and personalised direct patient care.
• To take responsibility for the advanced nursing assessment and treatment of patients who may have complex acute and/or chronic presentation to determine the clinical diagnosis of the presenting complaint, extended treatment options and MDT intervention required which involves crossing professional boundaries whilst maintaining records as an autonomous practitioner.
• To undertake full medical assessment of patients within the rheumatology speciality, who may have complex acute and/or chronic presentations, in order to meet their physical, psychological and social needs throughout their illness within the hospital and community.
• To plan, co-ordinate, deliver and evaluate a management plan for such patients, where necessary in consultation with their Consultant Rheumatologist.
• Be responsible for assessing and recognising emergencies in the specialty.
• To interpret information and take appropriate action and to lead other to do the same.
• Act as an advocate for patients within the department, to ensure a patient orientated approach to delivery of care and to meet standards within the NHS plan, NHFD and Best Practice.

• Rated Outstanding by CQC Inspection August 2018
• Top 100 places to work in the NHS (NHS Employers & Health Service Journal)
• National Preceptorship Accreditation (2023) for Nursing & AHP Preceptorship Programme

Essential

• Registered Nurse
• Teaching qualification
• Evidence of relevant CPD activity and relevant post graduate courses
• Evidence of study at Masters level
• Non medical prescribing qualification
• Member of specialist interest group

Essential

• Substantial years post Qualification experience
• Substantial years' experience as Nurse Specialist in Rheumatology
• Evidence of leadership/ management experience
• Evidence of Training/Teaching and supervising others within clinical area - including medical, therapy, nursing colleagues and students. MDT members, patients and carers.
• Evidence of continuous professional development and high level specialist training

Essential

• Evidence of an advanced standard of performance in specialist clinical area.
• Evidence of playing a key role in the planning, development and improvement of rheumatology services
• Evidence of presentation at local, National and International conferences
• Change management expertise
• Leadership skills
• Ability to effectively co-ordinate and prioritise
• Problem solving skills
• Ability to work undue pressure
• Good communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to interact with an MDT
• Planning and organisational skills
• Time management
• IT Literate

Essential

• Diplomatic
• Tactful
• Flexible approach to work
• Commitment to quality
• Willingness to undergo further training according to needs of the post
• Able to travel cross site