Dementia Nurse

at  Portsmouth Hospitals University NHS Trust

Clinical and Professional To act as a clinical role model to others by working collaboratively with the ward teams in promoting best practice of evidence-based standards in dementia care. To assist and advise ward teams with all aspects of care with patients who have a dementia and are presenting with complex care needs or distressing behaviours. Provide specialist nursing assessment for carers/families affected by dementia during their hospital admission. Liaise with patient families or carers to ascertain a full collaborative history of the level of patient physical, psychological and emotional care requirements.
Support people with dementia, carers/families and staff to understand and respond to changes in behaviour and relationships because of dementia. Demonstrate in practice high level communication skills when providing or receiving complex sensitive information which requires empathy and reassurance for the patient and family. Communicate in a tactful and sensitive way when handling challenging and complex situations where the information is contentious and there are barriers to understanding due to dementia. Review and advise multi disciplinary teams on any aspects of appropriate therapeutic intervention including non-pharmaceutical methods.
Assess, develop, implement and review specialist individualised care plans for patients with a dementia whilst they are in hospital, liaising with ward multi-disciplinary teams. Document accurately within the patient notes any activity or intervention undertaken, with patient level of engagement and effectiveness in this. Communicate effectively with the ward team to report any changes in patient condition or level of activity during time spent with the patient. Liaise with teams to provide specialist advice on current and future planning for patients with a dementia to avoid future unnecessary hospital admissions.
Liaise with Carers Support teams and the community Admiral Nursing Service for those carers needing signposting or assistance with accessing external agencies including social services, charitable organisations and care centres who specialise in care of patients with a dementia. Ensure the safeguarding of vulnerable adults and that all legal requirements relating to Mental Capacity Act 2005, Mental Health Act 1983 (amended 2007), and Deprivation of Liberty Safeguards (2009)2 are considered and adhered to in relation to patient care. Act as an advocate for people with dementia and their carers/families to promote their rights and best interests. Participate in case conferences and best interest meetings to support patients and their carers / families where required.
Assist the Dementia Associate Practitioners with completion and monitoring of This Is Me Audits, liaising with ward teams as required. Ensure all nursing practice is carried out in accordance with the agreed policies and procedures of the Isle of Wight NHS Trust and the NMC Code of Professional Practice. Maintain professional registration in line with NMC guidance, including re-validation. Maintain up-to-date knowledge of evidence-based recommendations on supporting people with dementia and their carers/families.

Please refer the Job description for details