Nurse Practitioner

at  The Rycote Practice

Job Summary: To deliver a high standard of patient care as an Advanced Nurse Practitioner in general practice, using advanced autonomous clinical skills, and a broad and in-depth evidence-based approach. To work as a clinical autonomous independent practitioner to assess, diagnose and treat patients with a range of acute, non acute and chronic medical conditions within the scope of training and accreditation. Provide a range of face to face, telephone and online consultations as appropriate to the patient and their condition. Work with GPs, nurses and the wider multi-disciplinary team to deliver the highest possible care to patients within the resources available.
Clinical Care Provide a first point of contact for patients presenting with undifferentiated, undiagnosed problems, making use of skills in history taking, physical examination, problem-solving and clinical decision-making, to establish a diagnosis and management plan. To work autonomously in daily clinical practice, collaborating with the wider multidisciplinary team and liaising with a supervising GP where presentations exceed the boundaries of clinical knowledge. Clinically examine and assess the patient requesting necessary diagnostic tests or investigations (on ICE and by referral) and interpret findings/reports and plan clinical care accordingly. To initiate appropriate and timely referrals for a specialist when a presenting condition exceeds the Nurse Practitioners scope of clinical practice and / or expertise.
Prioritise health problems and intervene appropriately to assist the patient in complex, urgent or emergency situations, including initiation of effective emergency care. Proactively identify, diagnose and manage treatment plans for patients at risk of developing a long-term condition (as appropriate) To deliver chronic disease management reviews (Diabetes, Asthma, COPD, Hypertension, CHD) as qualifications allow and in accordance with the practice long-term condition recall programme. To prescribe safe, evidence based, cost effective and appropriate medication in accordance with current legislative framework and within the post holders training and registration, to include advice on prescribed or over-the-counter medication on medication regimens, side-effects and interactions. Review medication for therapeutic effectiveness, appropriate to patient needs and in accordance with evidence-based practice and national and practice protocols and formularies.
Work with patients and their carers in order to support compliance with and adherence to prescribed treatments. Support patients to adopt health promotion strategies that promote healthy lifestyles, and apply principles of self-care, including signposting to smoking cessation, alcohol support and weight loss programmes. To clearly communicate the health status of the patient using appropriate terminology, technology and format. To provide contraceptive advice and services including pill checks, coil checks, depo-provera injections, intra uterine therapy and contraceptive implant services To undertake/ audit cervical smear tests as qualifications allow as part of the wider practice cervical screening programme.
Participate in vaccination and immunisation programmes for both adults and children. Ensure patients are treated compassionately at all times and that their care is appropriate, holistic and evidence-based in accordance with best practice. Ensure clinical practice is safe and effective and remains within the boundaries of competence, training and guidance, acknowledging ones limitations at all times. To be involved in influencing procedures and protocols for the management of acute and chronic conditions in accordance with latest best practice To maintain accurate and contemporaneous records, utilising computer systems where appropriate.
Support the Nurse Team Leader in the delivery of the Infection Prevention and Control agenda, leading on some delegated workstreams. Provide leadership to the nursing team in other projects as delegated by the nurse team lead. Undertake other duties within the nursing team as may be reasonably requested by the nurse team lead or partners. Education and Training To develop their scope of professional practice in order to meet the evolving requirements of the role in accordance with professional guidelines.
To support the nurse team leader through audits, practice development and staff development To provide support and mentorship to other members of the nursing team Participate in formal and informal teaching sessions to promote clinical excellence within the team. Support student nurse and post graduate student colleagues to develop professionally, guiding learners throughout their educational programme. Acknowledge own limitations and maintain continuing professional development and clinical competencies with the nurse team leader and GP mentor. Contribute to the further development and ongoing evaluation of clinical and operational policies within the Practice.
Management To support the Nursing Team Leader in the management of the nursing team To provide clinical expertise and advice to other members of the nursing team as required where standard protocols and guidelines do not exist. To participate in continually reviewing patient dependency, staff skill mix and shift patterns in line with patient needs and staff development. To ensure resources are utilized cost effectively. Contribute to identifying alternative, more cost-effective resources

Please refer the Job description for details