Practice Educator

at  Somerset NHS Foundation Trust

Supervise and structure practice-based learning, bringing together academic theory, workplace practice and help trainees to develop skills and competencies towards learning outcomes, assessment and qualification. Signpost staff to educational and development opportunities and act as advocate to ensure access to these opportunities Responsible for allocated trainee sonographers, radiologists and student radiographers, - assist with their education and clinical appraisal (assess training needs and set objectives, review of written work, act as appraiser and carry out assessment giving constructive performance feedback and review of achievements using the agreed passport of learning). Liaise with ultrasound leads and designated appraisers to report progress of trainee/ preceptee. Work collaboratively with trainees and educational providers to ensure students can access help and support, including raising concerns related to the trainees’ wellbeing and/or mental health, in a pastoral care element to the role.
Work with the local leads to create a simulation program to enhance and develop skills of trainees within the Taunton hub, using current simulation equipment. Explore new ways of Technology Enhanced Learning and simulation and feedback to the Local Practice educator lead and SFT Sonography Leadership teams around new and innovate ways of teaching and learning. Review and develop the currently in place preceptorship programme and provide guidance on what is expected of sonographers as they develop in their career Support them as newly qualified sonographers during their preceptorship period Involvement in the Induction for new substantive staff within the Academy hub. Take part in training colleagues in new or supplementary techniques Work collaboratively to identify, plan and deliver programmes to meet personal and professional development needs of self and others, including acting as an Appraiser for the department.
Teach and deliver specialist training in ultrasound, undertake lectures and presentations to groups of ultrasound trainees and practitioners within the specialist modality Develop and improve quality of training to meet any issues identified by incident reporting. To promote the department by receiving visitors by arranging programmes, Open Days and presentations as appropriate. To perform a comprehensive range of examinations including, but not limited to General Medical, Gynaecology, DVT and Testicular ultrasound. To provide a high-quality service and standards of care, demonstrate expertise in the use of medical ultrasound techniques and to show a thorough understanding of their application for the range of ultrasound examinations, on all sites as allocated.
To communicate and interpret complex information using skills and developed specialist knowledge of anatomy and pathology underpinned by theory and practice. Assess the clinical condition of the patient against contra-indications of procedures. To issue reports providing a diagnosis and further management advice on all examinations within the sub-specialty field, adhering to the local trust guidelines and governance. To be fully accountable for ultrasound examinations and exercise a high degree of professional autonomy in the decision-making process that will improve overall patient outcomes.
To formulate an appropriate diagnosis and provide a timely, accurate comprehensive and diagnostic report of examinations, and in relevant cases treatment, according to departmental protocols Use judgement skills as to when to discuss unusual or questionable appearances with Consultant Radiologist Communicate complex information regarding patient management based on best available evidence and practice, by ensuring requests are appropriate, investigation is guided by clinical presentation and subsequent findings, results are transmitted in a timely manner and appropriate onward referral is undertaken. Vet request forms, interpret clinicians’ requirements and determine/modify technique when appropriate Assess clinical history, interpret images and refer patient for further imaging if required to support ultrasound findings, in accordance with departmental protocols Communicate complex information and liaise with patients, clinicians, other healthcare professionals and representatives as part of a multidisciplinary team, in an effective manner to ensure high standards of patient care and an efficient service Adhere to principles of informed consent Some attendance at appropriate MDT meetings Work closely with the SFT based Lead practice educator, SFT Lead and Medical staff to ensure a good throughput of patient examinations is achieved across all sites (daily and weekly) and help make adjustments for unpredictable situations. Collaborate with the SWITA Radiography Education Local lead. Work closely with the SFT based Lead practice educator & SFT Lead to develop the strategic direction of the Taunton Academy hub Work with the SWITA Radiography Education Lead and SFT Sonography Leads to uphold responsibility for ultrasound service delivery and clinical governance Assist in clinical evaluation of equipment purchased for the Taunton Academy hub.
To ensure images are correctly identified, data entry is correct and reports and other documents are stored, transported and handled securely, in accordance with the Trust’s confidentiality policy Be competent in the range of ultrasound imaging equipment and Picture Archive Communication Solution (PACS) enabling quality image acquisition, efficient review and transmission of images and scanning documents Participate in maintaining an ultrasound QA programme to ensure consistency of operator and equipment, report potential malfunctions and liaise with equipment suppliers for maintenance of equipment The post holder will be actively involved in any processes required to gain and maintain QSI CQC standards. Be familiar with and adhere to Trust / Departmental policies and procedures including Infection control, Manual Handling and Fire regulations, Risk Management strategy including Repetitive Strain Injury, Supporting Attendance, Performance Management etc and take action necessary to reduce risk. Work with the SWITA Radiography Education Lead and SFT Sonography Leads with HR processes when required eg investigating complaints and grievances Participate in interview process for recruitment and selection within the Taunton Academy hub as necessary. Actively search for evidence of new developments and technological advances, critically appraise evidence and identify opportunities to apply new knowledge to own and others’ practice.
Engage in research and development to contribute to the evidence base and share best practice, publish and disseminate findings Participate in audit of own practice and wider professional audit/clinical research as required by SWITA, evaluate clinical practice and implement change. Promote a culture of continuous improvement

Please refer the Job description for details