Practice Nurse

Job Summary: To provide and maintain a high standard of nursing care for patients working in collaboration with other members of the primary healthcare team. The duties will include all tasks normally undertaken by an experienced RGN and in addition any roles agreed between the nurse and the practice as appropriate, having regard to current training. To work towards achievement of practice aims, QOF targets, clinical standards and regulatory compliance and objectives. Job Responsibilities: Professional: To lead the respiratory services within the practice including Asthma/COPD annual reviews, FeNO testing, peak flow interpretation, spirometry performance and interpretation, initiation and follow up of treatment. Experience in the management of Asthma and COPD is essential. To manage the care of patients with long term conditions by assessing, planning, implementing, and evaluating treatment plans for patients with long term conditions (or at risk of developing one) that meet identified needs and promote health and well-being. Provide the full range of nursing services as required to meet the needs if the practice, including venepuncture, ECG measurement, blood pressure measurement, urinalysis, immunisations (children and adults including travel), injections, cervical smears, swabs, travel services, assessment of risk factors, lifestyle advice, weight management, ear care, suture removal, wound care, doppler assessments, family planning, etc. Support effective treatment and prescribing by working with patients to support adherence to prescribed treatments, creating care plans, reviewing medication for therapeutic effectiveness, and providing information and advice (including over-the-counter medication) on medication regimens, side-effects, and interactions. Educate and support patients as needed, including adopting healthy lifestyles, appropriate self-care Provide a sexual health service where appropriate. To assess the needs of patients, providing appropriate care/treatment in conjunction with other health care professionals, or independently, as appropriate. Refer to colleagues or other agencies as appropriate. Prioritise health problems and intervene appropriately to assist the patient in complex, urgent or emergency situations, including initiation of effective emergency care. Support initiatives, including contacting patients, to improve uptake of screening, vaccinations or other services and support the achievement of targets (e.g. under the Quality and Outcomes Framework). To maintain accurate and contemporaneous records to relevant professional standards/guidelines. To ensure awareness of statutory and local child and adult protection procedures, including systems of referral. Ability to recognise signs and symptoms of child abuse.