CNS Cardiac Risk in the Young Person

JOB DESCRIPTION

CNS Cardiac Risk in the Young Person (CRYP)

Permanent Full-time

Reference No:

PURPOSE OF THE ROLE
The Clinical Nurse Specialist will be responsible for the safe and efficient delivery of patient centred care in the Cardiac Risk in Younger Persons unit (CRYP) for relatives of patients and patients with inherited cardiac condition. The CNS will manage and coordinate a smooth operation ensuring health and safety for all, and the delivery of the highest standard of quality care at all times. The successful candidate will act as a role model and lead the team to promote a holistic service for all patients attending the CRYp Department and in line with the mission and vison of Tallaght University Hospital.

QUALIFICATIONS

1. Each candidate must on the latest date for receiving completed application forms for the office -: Be registered in the General Division of the active register held by Nursing and  Midwifery Board of Ireland (NMBI) or be entitled to be registered. Have a minimum of one year post registration experience full time. Have a minimum of one years' experience in the specialist area of Cardiology care. Have completed a recognised third level qualification of not less than level 9 or higher award that is relevant to cardiology(equivalent to 60 ECTS or above), and in line with the requirements for specialist practice as set out by the National Council for Nursing and Midwifery. Have the clinical, managerial and administrative capacity to properly discharge the functions of the role Have excellent interpersonal and communication skills. Demonstrate evidence of continuing learning and professional development. 2. Age Restrictions In Relation To Applications
Age restriction shall only apply to a candidate where he/she is not classified as a new entrant (within the meaning of the Public Service Superannuation (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, A candidate who is not classified as a new entrant must be under 65 years of age on the first day of the month in which the latest date for receiving completed applications for the office occurs.

3. Health
A candidate for and any person holding the office must be fully competent and capable of undertaking the duties attached to the office and be in a state of health as would indicate a reasonable prospect of ability to render regular and efficient service.
4. Be of good character. 5. Garda Vetting
Garda Vetting is sought for all employees and prospective employees of Tallaght University Hospital. Given the specialised nature of the services provided, your appointment will be subject to satisfactory Garda Vetting and re-vetting in circumstances where the Hospital deems it appropriate. The Hospital will then process the necessary documentation to endeavour to obtain satisfactory Garda clearance for you. You are obliged to disclose previous and any criminal convictions acquired during the course of your employment. Should the Hospital obtain information from the Garda Vetting Unit to indicate that your Garda clearance report is not satisfactory and / or if you have supplied the hospital with false or misleading information in relation to your Garda clearance status, the Hospital reserves the right to withdraw or terminate this contract in accordance with Tallaght University Hospital Garda Vetting policy.
6. Mandated and Designated Persons under Children First Act 2015
Schedule 2 of the Children First Act 2015 specifies the classes of persons defined as Mandated Persons for the purposes of the Act. This includes a range of disciplines that are employed by the hospital including all medical practitioners, registered nurses, physiotherapists, psychologists, social workers and others. This includes staff working in adult services. All mandated persons have two main legal obligations under the Children First Act 2015. Mandated persons, under the legislation are required to report any knowledge, belief or reasonable suspicion that a child has been harmed, is being harmed, or is at risk of being harmed. The Act defines harm as assault, ill-treatment, neglect or sexual abuse, and covers single and multiple instances. Mandated persons are also required to assist Tusla, if requested, in assessing a concern which has been the subject of a mandated report. Designated Officer are required to receive reports of suspected child abuse or neglect from any person who is of the opinion that (a) a child has been or is being assaulted, ill-treated, neglected or sexually abused, or (b) a child's health, development or welfare has been or is being avoidably impaired or neglected. Full detailed list of mandated and designated staff together with details of their roles and responsibilities can be found on ; It is the responsibility of all staff employed by TUH to be aware of their roles and responsibilities under the legislation and to complete mandatory Children First Training.

PARTICULARS OF OFFICE
1. The appointment is fulltime, permanent and pensionable. 2. Remuneration: Remuneration is in accordance with the salary scale approved by the Department of Health & Children. Current remuneration with effect from 1st October 2023 is:

€57,198 by 9 increments to €67,621

3. Pension arrangements and retirement age
There are three superannuation schemes currently in operation for staff in Tallaght University Hospital: Voluntary Hospital Superannuation Scheme (Non-New Entrant) Voluntary Hospital Superannuation Scheme (New Entrant) Single Public Service Pension Scheme Please read carefully the summary of the criteria for the three superannuation schemes below. This will assist you in identifying which scheme membership is applicable to your employment circumstances. If you have been continually employed in the public service prior to the 1st April 2004 and you have not had a break in service of more than 26 weeks, you will be included in the Voluntary Hospital Superannuation Scheme (Non-New Entrant) with a Minimum Retirement Age of 60 and a Maximum Retirement Age of 65. If you have been continually employed in the public service post the 1st April 2004 and you have not had a break in service of more than 26 weeks, you will be included in the Voluntary Hospital Superannuation Scheme (New Entrant) with a Minimum Retirement Age of 65. There is no Maximum Retirement Age. If you have commenced employment in the public service as a new entrant or you are a former public servant, returning to the public service after a break of more than 26 weeks, you will be included in the Single Public Service Pension Scheme effective from the 1st January 2013 with a minimum retirement age of 66 (rising to 67 and 68 in line with state pension changes). The maximum retirement age under this scheme will be age 70. 4. Duties: The CNS will perform such duties as are outlined in this job description.
5. Hours of work: Normal working hours are 37.5 worked over 7 days. Your contracted hours of work are liable to change between the hours of 8 am to 8 pm over 7 days to meet the requirements for extended day services in accordance with the terms of the Framework Agreement.
6. Probation: The successful candidate will be appointed initially for a probationary period of 6 months. During the probationary period progress or otherwise will be monitored and at the end of the probationary period the service will (a) be certified as satisfactory and confirmed in writing or if not satisfactory, the probationary period may be extended by 3 months.
7. Annual Leave: Annual leave entitlement is working days (pro rata), depending on length of service, plus 10 Bank Holidays per annum as they occur. The annual leave year runs from 1st of April to 31st March each year.
8. Sick Leave: Payment of salary during illness will be in accordance with arrangements as approved from time to time by the Department of Health and Children.
9. Termination of Office: The employment may be terminated at any time by two months' notice on either side except where circumstances are dictated by the Minimum Notice and Terms of Employment Act 1973/91. The Management's right under this paragraph shall not be exercised save in circumstances where the Management is of the opinion that the holder of the office has failed to perform satisfactorily the duties of the post or has misconducted himself/herself in relation to the post or is otherwise unfit to hold the appointment.

GENERAL ACCOUNTABILITY Manage and develop the nursing service within the area Manage and co-ordinate the smooth running of the CRY department Plan and develop the department in order to constantly improve the service offered to patients and families. Maintain the primacy of the patient in relation to all hospital activities. Adhere to and uphold the professional code of conduct for nurses Demonstrate behaviours consistent with the mission, vision, values and strategic plan of the hospital. Will report to Assistant Director of Nursing. Be professionally accountable to the Director of Nursing. SPECIFIC ACCOUNTABILITY Assessment, planning, delivery and evaluation of care The Clinical Nurse Specialist for Cardiac Risk in the Young provides a specialist nursing service for those undergoing cardiac investigations or requiring support and management of their diagnosis. A high standard of nursing care is required to encompass the holistic needs of these patients. Ensure the focus of care is on optimisation of evidence based therapy, prevention of complications, early detection of worsening symptoms and prompt management to treat same. Promote self-care for the patient in the management of their condition Take a pro-active role in the formulation of evidence based policies, protocols and guidelines for practice Liaise with specialist services to provide comprehensive care for patients and their families. Assess and evaluate the patient as requested, in conjunction with the cardiology team. Educate patients and their families on the impact of their diagnosis and management same. Co-ordinate multidisciplinary reviews as appropriate. Identify patients' physical, social and psychological needs that may require referral to other agencies. Explore nursing interventions that assist patients with issues of compliance. Actively promote the co-ordination of care for patients between the Cardiac services and the primary setting. Provide patients and family with information on how to contact the service for queries or to report clinical deterioration. Communicate with patients, families and friends, assess needs and provides relevant support information, education and advice. Act as the patients advocate when necessary, especially in an informed discussion to promote the patient's participation in decision making, thereby enabling informed choice of treatment options. Demonstrate an awareness of ethical awareness and social issues on an individual patient basis. Promote an awareness of the primacy of the patient in relation to all hospital activities. Ensuring the provision of a high standard of care to the patient and families is consistent with the mission, vision, values and strategic plan of the hospital. Inform and educate families regarding issues related to their condition, including interventions that may be required. Give skilled emotional support prior, during and after investigations and treatment. Demonstrate expertise in communication skills, negotiation skills, using problem solving techniques and this process will involve ensuring that relevant staff are requested to partake in the decision making process. Facilitate effective communications between the multidisciplinary team, the patients and their family. Refer patients /relatives to other members of the multidisciplinary team when appropriate. Actively promote the awareness of inherited cardiac conditions within the hospital and within the community using various forums, clinics, committees and patient information documentation Educational role The Clinical Nurse Specialist provides educational and consultative sessions that promote the optimum management for patients. The post also involves being a consultant in education and clinical practice to nursing staff at pre-registration, graduate and post graduate levels as well as to the wider multidisciplinary cardiology team. Consultative Role Facilitate and promote effective communications between the medical staff, nursing staff, allied Health Professionals, other hospital staff, the patients and their families. Actively participate in change management and developments within the area. Identify and plan with support from the Nurse Practice Development Department, in consultation with the Nurse Manager and Director of Nursing requirements for the service at a strategic level. Develop a flexible and innovative approach, forming links with other specialists. Participate in relevant committees. Provide advice and information on inherited cardiac conditions and patient management where required to nursing, medical and allied health care staff within the hospital. Communicate with Consultants and Clinical Nurse Specialists within other hospitals. Co-operate with development in information technology to ensure a safer and more efficient Service. Audit Role Audit current nursing practice and evaluate improvements in the quality of patient care within the service. Produce figures on service activity and an annual report on the service. Conduct nursing research relevant to the Cardiology nursing services. Maintain as required an asset register of appropriate equipment. Ensure that expenditure within the department is controllable within agreed budgets/cash limits and in compliance with Hospital financial plan. Management Provide team leadership and management in the maintenance and development of a high quality medical nursing service in the department. Initiate and encourage appropriate participation from nursing staff to the development of the medical nursing service in the department and the smooth management of the department. Liaise closely with Cardiology Consultants and the medical team, other members of the multidisciplinary team, administrative staff, and other hospital staff and outside agencies as required. Liaise closely with the Clerical Support Manager and Clerical Support Staff to ensure the smooth running of the department. Ensure that the system for the provision of clinical support services is satisfactory. This will involve establishing and maintaining relationships with the following departments: pathology, laboratory, clinical engineering and pharmacy etc. It will also involve periodic reviews of policies for the ordering of these services, in consultation with medical staff. To ensure that the provision of non-clinical support services are satisfactory. This will require establishing and maintaining relationships with the Materials Management, Portering, Cleaning and Technical Services departments. To participate in meetings with the Cardiology CRY team when required. Clinical Responsibilities Display qualities of leadership and effective communication with nursing colleagues, all users of service and other service providers. Act as a professional role model for nursing colleagues. Ensure that the requirements of An Bord Altranais for the practice of professional nursing are upheld. Lead the team in the establishment and maintenance of a high standard of nursing practice within the department. Provide advice, support and education, the various forms of treatment and any side effects of these treatments. Provide effective communication for the Nursing Staff within the Department to disseminate information. Ensure the maintenance of a suitable environment for patients and staff with a particular emphasis on health and safely factors. Ensure that nursing care is delivered within the parameters of hospital policies. Play a leading role in the review and formulation of specific departmental guidelines in collaboration with the Cardiology team Liaise with the Nurse Practice Development Department with regard to seeking advice when renewing and formulating new practices Communicate with the Assistant Director of Nursing in all matters relating to the Department. Direct nursing and non-nursing staff in the event of an emergency situation within the hospital and in any disaster that involves the hospital. Foster good nurses/patients relationships by being sensitive and supportive. Report accidents, incidents/complaints to the ADON/Nurse Manager or her Deputy. Ensure that accident/incident forms are completed and returned to ADON Office. Financial Co-ordinate and maintain equipment and monitor the use of resources to ensure that unnecessary expenditure by misuse does not occur. Participate in cost awareness and cost control policies in Department systems for audit. Ensure effective and efficient use of nursing and financial resources. Manage the budget for the department ensuring the most effective use of available resources. Ensure that expenditure is controlled within agreed budgets/cash limits and in compliance with the Hospital's financial plan. Help with support from the Director of Finance, budget estimates including a planned programme for the replacement of capital equipment. Assist with the preparation of statistical and management information that is provided to Management as required. Education Evidence of Continued Professional Development within the Unit. Develop and facilitate educational and support programme for further knowledge and skills for members of the multi-disciplinary team. Develop educational material to ensure information standards are maintained. Assist in training members of the multi-disciplinary team and change in practice of the delivery of care. Use relevant educational opportunities to maintain the higher standards of care to patients with medical diseases. Research Maintain awareness within the speciality of current developments in Cardiology Nursing Care. To monitor, access utilise and disseminate current relevant research findings in order to advise and ensure the provision of informed evidence based practice in safe discharge and on-going care of patients. Initiate and promote research-based practice. Use such research findings to influence care within the speciality. Self-Development Maintain a personal record of professional development. Act as a role model. Keep an up to date record with trends by on-going education. Ensure that developments are research based. Develop/foster research. Ensure adherence to hospital policies and An Bord Altranais guidelines. Assist the Assistant Director of Nursing in maintaining a level of excellence in patient care by maintaining standards and supporting the overall management of the Department. Information Technology Ensure that the team makes the most effective and efficient use of developments in information technology for both patient care and administrative support in a manner which integrates well with systems throughout the organisation. Collect, interpret and present data and information on the Department's activities, staffing and expenditure, as required. Ensure that all staff are trained in the use of computer systems, which are used in the management of patient episodes in the Hospital, e.g.: PIMs ect. Up to date knowledge on system used for ordering product for department - SAP Human Resource Management Maintain a high level of staff morale, promoting good communications, team spirit and job satisfaction among the multidisciplinary team within the department. Assist in the selection of nursing staff for the department. To monitor sick leave and absenteeism and to identify problems and discuss with relevant staff. Record sick leave, annual leave and study leave according to hospital policy. Investigates complaints, incidents and accidents involving patients and staff in accordance with hospital policy. Ensures that all Staff are aware of hospital policies and of their responsibility to read same. Ensures that welfare and safety policies are adhered to in the department. Manpower Planning Develop a staffing plan based on activity, complexities and required competencies. Agree a total complement of Dermatology Nurses and health care assistants to meet the needs of the department. Examine and modify the duty roster to ensure proper skill mix and to ensure that staff are deployed effectively and efficiently in the department. Ensure the off duty rosters are prepared taking into consideration annual leave, family leave and study leave requirements and this is entered onto CORE. Self-Development Maintain a personal record of professional development. To read current literature and recent nursing research, attend seminars and be aware of any new development. Attend and participate in staff development programmes. Act always in accordance with An Bord Altranais Code of Professional Conduct. Health & Safety All employees must comply with the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act, 2005. Comply with relevant Health and Safety responsibilities as outlined in Hospital Polices, Protocols and Procedures relevant to your area. Take reasonable care to protect your own safety, health and welfare and that of any other person who may be affected by your acts or omissions at work. Hygiene / Infection prevention and control All employees have responsibility for Hygiene awareness. Hygiene is defined as "The practice that serves to keep people and environments clean and prevent infection." All employees also have a responsibility under their terms of employment to prevent transmission of infection and to follow the hospital infection control policies and guidelines as outlined in the Infection Control Manual. All employees must be aware that they work in an area where there is potential for transmission of infection. All employees have a responsibility to follow hand hygiene guidelines as this is the single most important intervention to prevent the transmission of infection Quality, safety and risk management Support the delivery of the Quality, Safety and Risk Management Programme including the appropriate identification and management of risks and incidents throughout the hospital. Confidentiality You will be aware of the confidential nature of Hospital work and in particular, the right of patients to confidentiality. To this end, you will not discuss workings of the Hospital or its patients or disclose any information of a confidential nature except as required to do so in the course of your work. No records, documents or property of the Hospital may be removed from the premises of the Hospital without prior authorisation. You must return to the Hospital upon request and, in any event, upon the termination of your employment, all documents or other property of the Hospital which are in your possession or under your control. Data Management Ensure compliance with the obligations required by the Data Protection Act 2018. Development of Hospital Groups The Hospital Structure is currently under review and therefore, reporting relationships may change. The development of Hospital Groups may require the post-holder to adopt a different reporting relationship and additional accountabilities. Full consultation will take place in advance of any such change.

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