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Akintola Williams Deloitte is the Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu Limited (DTTL) member firm in Nigeria and the oldest indigenous professional services firm in Nigeria. The firm was established in 1952 by Mr. Akintola Williams, FCA, CFR, CBE, the doyen of the accountancy profession in Nigeria. Our approach to corporate responsibility is shaped by the recognition...
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The Specialist Nurse in Radiation Oncology provides expert care to patients undergoing radiation therapy as part of cancer treatment. This role is essential for the comprehensive management of patients before, during, and after their radiation therapy sessions. The Specialist Nurse works closely with the multidisciplinary oncology team to ensure safe, effective, and compassionate care, while also supporting patients in managing the physical and emotional impacts of treatment.
The role involves patient education, symptom management, emotional support, and close monitoring of radiation therapy side effects. The Specialist Nurse Radiation Oncology also ensures the delivery of high-quality care, consistent with evidence-based practices, and participates in quality improvement initiatives within the department.
Key Responsibilities
Clinical Responsibilities
Pre-Treatment Assessment and Patient Preparation
- Conduct comprehensive pre-treatment assessments to evaluate the patient’s physical health, psychological readiness, and understanding of radiation therapy.
- Educate patients and their families about the radiation therapy process, including expected outcomes, potential side effects, and self-care strategies.
- Prepare patients for radiation therapy, ensuring they are informed, comfortable, and ready for the procedure.
Administration of Radiation Therapy
- Provide patient support during radiation therapy sessions, ensuring their comfort and safety.
- Monitor patients for immediate side effects during treatment (e.g., nausea, skin irritation, fatigue), providing interventions to manage symptoms.
- Collaborate with radiation therapists and oncologists to ensure accurate delivery of radiation therapy, assisting with patient positioning and technical preparations
Symptom and Side Effect Management
- Monitor and manage common radiation therapy side effects, such as fatigue, mucositis, skin changes, and pain.
- Administer appropriate pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions to alleviate side effects and discomfort.
- Provide advanced wound care and help manage complex symptoms arising from radiation therapy.
Patient Education and Support
- Educate patients about self-care techniques to manage side effects at home (e.g., skin care, hydration, nutrition).
- Offer psychological and emotional support to patients, addressing concerns related to treatment, anxiety, and the emotional challenges of a cancer diagnosis.
- Provide guidance on lifestyle changes and coping strategies to support overall well-being during and after treatment.
Collaboration with Multidisciplinary Teams
- Collaborate with radiation oncologists, medical physicists, radiotherapists, and other healthcare professionals to develop and adjust treatment plans for individual patients.
- Participate in multidisciplinary case reviews to discuss patient progress, modify care plans, and address any emerging issues.
- Coordinate with other healthcare professionals (e.g., nutritionists, pain management specialists, social workers) to address the comprehensive needs of patients.
Post-Treatment Care and Follow-Up
- Monitor patients after completing radiation therapy, assessing for delayed side effects such as skin reactions or organ damage.
- Provide follow-up care, educating patients on long-term management and signs of complications or recurrence.
- Ensure patients understand how to continue self-care and follow up with appropriate specialists when needed.
Documentation and Compliance
- Maintain accurate and up-to-date patient records, documenting assessments, treatments, and outcomes according to legal and institutional standards.
- Ensure compliance with safety protocols, radiation safety guidelines, and infection control policies.
- Participate in clinical audits and contribute to the review of treatment outcomes and best practices.
Quality Improvement and Clinical Protocols
- Participate in quality improvement initiatives aimed at optimizing patient care and outcomes in radiation oncology.
- Contribute to the development and review of clinical protocols and guidelines to ensure evidence-based practices.
- Collaborate with the team to implement best practices in radiation therapy and patient safety.
Additional Key Responsibilities
- Radiation Safety: Adhere to radiation safety protocols, ensuring minimal risk to patients and staff. Monitor exposure levels and ensure proper shielding.
- Patient Advocacy: Act as an advocate for patients, ensuring their preferences and needs are respected in the care plan.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Provide culturally competent care, understanding the diverse backgrounds of patients and adjusting communication and care accordingly.
Personal and Staff Development
- Professional Development: Engage in continuous professional development activities, keeping current with advances in radiation oncology and nursing.
- Training and Mentorship: Provide guidance and mentorship to junior nursing staff, supporting their development in radiation oncology care.
- Collaboration: Foster a collaborative environment within the oncology team to enhance patient care and service delivery.
Equality and Diversity
- Act as lead for Equality & Diversity in the Estates and Facilities department to ensure the development and effective implementation of a strategy, set of policies, procedures and monitoring and control systems are in place.
Personal and Staff Development
- Work with HR to undertake recruitment, retention, performance management and development of staff in the team.
- Work with the Recruitment Manager to establish connections with appropriate local, international and online communities to nurture a pipeline of talent to support the growth of the company.
- Responsible for development of high potential employees, providing a structured approach to mentoring and developing critical talent at all levels of management.
Communications And Working Relationships
- Collaborate closely with radiation oncologists, radiologists, physicists, and other healthcare professionals to provide holistic care.
- Communicate effectively with patients and families, providing clear explanations of treatments, procedures, and expected outcomes.
- Work with administrative and support staff to manage patient schedules, follow-ups, and referrals.
- Participate in team meetings, case discussions, and educational sessions to improve radiation oncology services.
Line Management
- Support the Radiation Oncology Nurse Manager in managing staffing, scheduling, and resource allocation within the department.
- Supervise and provide guidance to junior nurses, healthcare assistants, and radiotherapy technicians.
- Assist in conducting performance appraisals, identifying training needs, and providing development opportunities for radiation nursing staff.
- Participate in the recruitment and induction of new nursing staff within the radiation department.
Organizational Responsibilities
- Report to the Radiation Oncology Nurse Manager or Head of Oncology Services, contributing to the strategic planning and development of radiation therapy services.
- Represent the radiation oncology unit in hospital-wide committees related to patient safety, clinical governance, and quality improvement.
- Support the hospital’s accreditation and compliance processes by ensuring adherence to radiation therapy standards and protocols.
- Engage in initiatives aimed at enhancing patient care, safety, and efficiency within the radiation department.
Infection Control Statement
The post holder has an important responsibility for and contribution to make to infection control and must be familiar with the infection control and hygiene requirements of this role. These requirements are set out in the AMCE Code of Practice on Infection Control and in local policies and procedures, which will be made clear during your induction and subsequent refresher training. These standards must be strictly complied with at all times.
Qualifications
- Registered Nurse (RN) with a valid nursing license.
- Advanced degree (e.g., Master’s in Nursing) or relevant certification in oncology nursing (e.g., Certified Oncology Nurse).
- Specialized training or certification in radiation oncology or related fields is highly desirable.
- Registered Nurse (RN) with a valid nursing license.
- Advanced degree (e.g., Master’s in Nursing) or relevant specialty certification (e.g., Certified Oncology Nurse).
- Specialized training or certification relevant to the role (e.g., chemotherapy administration, ICU, or PACU).
- Masters in related subject
- Professional qualification in a relevant subject
Experience
- Minimum of 3-5 years of clinical experience in radiation oncology nursing or a related specialty.
- Experience in administering radiation therapy and managing radiation-induced side effects.
- Demonstrated ability to handle complex cases and utilize specialized equipment and technologies related to radiation therapy.
- Significant clinical experience in the relevant specialty (typically 3-5 years).
- Experience with advanced procedures and patient care in the specific area of expertise.
- Demonstrated ability to handle complex cases and manage specialized equipment.
Management and Leadership
- Inspirational and visible leader, with first class communication skills, capable of engaging audiences at all levels
- Ability to think and act strategically, developing practical, innovative and creative solutions to the management of issues and complex problems related to the department
- Ability to identify opportunities to improve business outcomes through partnership at all levels
- Well-developed management skills, with the ability to build and lead large teams
- Highly effective influencing and negotiating skills, with the ability to develop partnerships and alliances across a diverse range of stakeholders
- Politically astute and resilient, with the ability to manage conflict and ambiguity
- Outcome focused, with the capability and tenacity to drive the agenda forward
- Financially literate and commercially astute, with a sophisticated understanding of commercially orientated performance and financial management including contract management
- Shares the AMCE’s vision and values
- Commitment to clinical governance / improving quality of patient care
Personal attributes
- Professional attitude towards work
- Shares the AMCE’s vision
- Proactive and organised
- Commitment to clinical governance / improving quality of patient care
- Has personal and professional credibility and commands the respect of colleagues peers
- Is supportive and approachable and capable of inspiring confidence in staff members
- Commitment to caring for others
- Ability to adapt to living in a new country and new culture accordingly
- High levels of honesty and integrity
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Job Summary
The SPECT Radiographer plays a pivotal role in the healthcare system, particularly within the Diagnostic Services department. This position involves utilizing specialized imaging technology to perform Single Photon Emission Computed Tomography (SPECT) scans, which are essential for diagnosing various medical conditions, including cardiac and neurological disorders. The SPECT Radiographer is responsible for ensuring high-quality imaging services that meet clinical standards and contribute to effective patient care.
In addition to technical expertise, the SPECT Radiographer must demonstrate exceptional interpersonal skills, as they frequently interact with patients, explaining procedures and addressing concerns. This role requires a strong commitment to patient safety and comfort, as well as adherence to radiation safety protocols.
The SPECT Radiographer will work closely with other healthcare professionals, including physicians, nurses, and radiologists, to provide comprehensive diagnostic services. They will be involved in the entire imaging process, from patient preparation to image acquisition and post-procedural care. Furthermore, the role includes participation in quality assurance programs and continuous professional development to stay updated with advancements in imaging technology.
The successful candidate will possess a Bachelor’s degree in Radiography or a related field, along with relevant certifications and licenses. Experience in SPECT imaging is highly desirable. The position demands a detail-oriented individual who can work effectively under pressure while maintaining a compassionate approach toward patient care.
Key Responsibilities
SPECT Imaging and Patient Care
- Perform SPECT Imaging: Conduct high-quality SPECT scans in line with established protocols, ensuring optimal image quality and diagnostic accuracy.
- Patient Interaction and Education: Clearly explain SPECT procedures to patients, ensuring they are comfortable, informed, and confident throughout the process.
- Patient Preparation: Prepare patients for imaging by obtaining medical histories, assessing contraindications, and providing pre-procedural instructions to ensure safety and comfort.
- Image Quality Assurance: Evaluate the quality of images before submitting them for clinical interpretation, ensuring they meet diagnostic standards.
Radiation Safety and Equipment Operation
- Radiation Safety Compliance: Adhere to strict radiation safety protocols to minimize exposure to patients, staff, and self, ensuring compliance with international and local safety standards.
- Equipment Operation: Safely operate and maintain advanced SPECT imaging equipment, performing routine checks and ensuring it is in optimal working condition.
Collaboration and Multidisciplinary Teamwork
- Collaborate with Healthcare Teams: Work closely with nuclear medicine specialists, radiologists, and other healthcare professionals to discuss imaging results and contribute to patient diagnosis and treatment planning.
- Post-Procedure Care: Provide patients with post-procedural instructions and follow-up care as needed, ensuring they are fully informed about next steps and any required aftercare.
Quality Assurance and Continuous Improvement
- Quality Control and Maintenance: Participate in regular quality assurance programs, conducting audits on imaging practices and maintaining equipment logs to ensure compliance with best practices.
- Research and Development: Engage in research initiatives that aim to improve diagnostic imaging techniques and enhance patient care.
- Professional Development: Stay updated with the latest advancements in imaging technology and techniques through continuous professional education, workshops, and seminars.
Mentorship and Leadership
- Mentorship: Provide guidance to junior radiographers and students, fostering a learning environment that supports skill development and professional growth.
- Team Collaboration: Work cohesively with other radiographers and staff to ensure efficient department operations and high-quality patient care
Equality and Diversity
- Act as lead for Equality & Diversity in the department to ensure the development and effective implementation of a strategy, set of policies, procedures and monitoring and control systems are in place.
Personal and Staff Development
- Work with HR to undertake recruitment, retention, performance management and development of staff in the team.
- Work with the Recruitment Manager to establish connections with appropriate local, international and online communities to nurture a pipeline of talent to support the growth of the company.
- Responsible for development of high potential employees, providing a structured approach to mentoring and developing critical talent at all levels of management.
Communications And Working Relationships
- Collaborate with physicians and specialists regarding patient diagnoses based on imaging results.
- Communicate effectively with patients regarding procedures, ensuring they understand what will happen during their visit.
- Liaise with nursing staff for pre-procedure assessments and post-procedure care instructions.
- Work closely with other radiographers during shifts to ensure efficient workflow within the department.
- Engage with administrative staff for scheduling appointments and managing patient records accurately.
- Participate actively in departmental meetings discussing operational improvements or changes in protocols.
- Maintain open lines of communication with equipment technicians regarding maintenance needs or malfunctions of imaging devices.
Line Management
- Report directly to the Chief Radiographer or designated supervisor within the Diagnostic Services department.
- Supervision of Junior Staff: Supervise junior radiographers during their practice sessions or clinical placements, ensuring adherence to departmental guidelines.
- Training and Development: Assist in training new hires on departmental policies, procedures, and equipment usage protocols. Address any conflicts or issues among team members promptly and professionally.
- Support Staff Morale: Actively contribute to improving staff morale and fostering a positive, collaborative work environment
Organizational Responsibilities
- Ensure compliance with all health regulations pertaining to diagnostic imaging services within the facility.
- Participate in developing departmental goals aligned with overall organizational objectives related to patient care quality improvement initiatives.
- Contribute insights into budget planning processes based on resource needs identified during daily operations as well as projected growth areas for service expansion opportunities within diagnostics sector offerings provided by the organization itself.
- Assist management teams by providing data analytics reports about operational efficiency metrics derived from daily activities performed across various modalities utilized throughout department operations.
- Facilitate training sessions aimed at enhancing knowledge sharing among colleagues about best practices observed while performing routine tasks associated with role responsibilities undertaken daily.
- Engage actively within committees focused on enhancing workplace culture through employee engagement strategies designed specifically around fostering collaboration amongst diverse groups representing different backgrounds/skill sets present among workforce population employed here.
- Support efforts directed towards maintaining accreditation standards set forth by regulatory bodies governing practice areas relevant specifically towards diagnostic services provided locally.
Infection Control Statement
The post holder has an important responsibility for and contribution to make to infection control and must be familiar with the infection control and hygiene requirements of this role. These requirements are set out in the AMCE Code of Practice on Infection Control and in local policies and procedures, which will be made clear during your induction and subsequent refresher training. These standards must be strictly complied with at all times.
Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Radiography or a related field, with a focus on diagnostic radiography.
- Advanced certifications or additional training radiography is preferred.
- Registered Radiographer with a professional certification (e.g., Radiographers Registration Board of Nigeria).
- Evidence of commitment to continuing professional development
- Certification in SPECT imaging techniques
- Evidence of commitment to continuing professional Development
- Master’s degree in Radiography or related field
- Additional certification in advanced imaging techniques (e.g., CT or MRI)
- Professional qualification in a relevant subject
Experience
- Minimum 5 years’ experience working as a radiographer in a clinical setting
- Experience with research projects related to diagnostic imaging
- Proficient in using radiological information systems (RIS) and picture archiving communication systems (PACS)
- Familiarity with quality assurance processes specific to radiology departments
- Knowledge of radiation protection principles
- Understanding of health care laws and regulations relevant to radiography practice
Management and Leadership
- Ensure compliance with all health regulations pertaining to diagnostic imaging services within the facility
- Participate in developing departmental goals aligned with overall organizational objectives related to patient care quality improvement initiatives
- Report directly to the Chief Radiographer or designated supervisor within the Diagnostic Services department
- Supervise junior radiographers during their practice sessions or clinical placements as required by departmental guidelines
- Collaborate with physicians and specialists regarding patient diagnoses based on imaging results
- Communicate effectively with patients regarding procedures, ensuring they understand what will happen during their visit
- Liaise with nursing staff for pre-procedure assessments and post-procedure care instructions
- Shares the AMCE’s vision and values
- Commitment to clinical governance / improving quality of patient care
Personal attributes
- Professional attitude towards work
- Shares the AMCE’s vision
- Proactive and organised
- Commitment to clinical governance / improving quality of patient care
- Has personal and professional credibility and commands the respect of colleagues peers
- Is supportive and approachable and capable of inspiring confidence in staff members
- Commitment to caring for others
- Ability to adapt to living in a new country and new culture accordingly
- High levels of honesty and integrity
Languages
- All applicants to have demonstrable skills in written and spoken English that are adequate to enable effective communication about medical topics with patients and colleagues
- Skills in languages other than English
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The Specialist Nurse – Acute Oncology provides expert, patient-centered care for individuals with cancer requiring acute medical intervention and support.This role involves managing patients with complex and urgent oncological needs, including the assessment, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer-related complications such as infection, pain, or side effects from chemotherapy or radiotherapy.
The Specialist Nurse will work closely with a multidisciplinary team of oncologists, surgeons, emergency and acute care specialists, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals to ensure that patients receive timely and appropriate care. In addition to direct patient care, the nurse will provide specialist advice and support to both patients and their families, educating them on cancer-related issues, treatment options, and symptom management strategies.
The Specialist Nurse will demonstrate advanced clinical expertise, excellent communication skills, and a compassionate approach to patient care. They should have significant experience in oncology nursing and be committed to delivering high standards of care in a fast-paced, dynamic clinical environment. This role offers opportunities for ongoing professional development and the chance to make a meaningful impact on the lives of patients undergoing cancer treatment
Key Responsibilities
Clinical Responsibilities:
Patient Assessment and Care
- Specialist Focus: A specialist nurse is expected to have a high level of expertise in assessing the specific needs of oncology patients, especially in acute care settings where symptoms can be severe or rapidly changing.
- Advanced Skills: The role goes beyond routine nursing assessments, requiring the ability to identify complex issues like cancer-related infections or treatment-related side effects that require immediate attention and intervention.
Chemotherapy and Treatment Administration
- Specialization in Oncology: Administering chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and other oncological treatments is a core function of a Specialist Oncology Nurse. This involves knowledge of chemotherapy regimens, safe handling of cytotoxic drugs, and monitoring for adverse reactions—all of which require specialized training and expertise.
- Safety and Protocol Adherence: A specialist nurse must be proficient in chemotherapy protocols, understanding the risks associated with specific treatments, and knowing when and how to intervene in case of side effects or complications.
Symptom Management and Palliative Care
- Palliative and End-of-Life Care: One of the key roles of a specialist nurse in acute oncology is symptom management, particularly for patients experiencing advanced cancer. This includes not only managing acute symptoms but also providing palliative care when necessary, which is a highly specialized aspect of oncology nursing.
- Holistic Care: Specialist nurses are expected to provide comprehensive care, including addressing emotional and psychosocial aspects of the disease, which is essential for improving the quality of life for cancer patients.
Multidisciplinary Collaboration
- Advanced Collaborative Skills: Specialist nurses in oncology are expected to work closely with a multidisciplinary team, including oncologists, surgeons, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals. This requires not only clinical expertise but also the ability to communicate and collaborate effectively within a team to ensure comprehensive patient care.
- Decision-Making: Given their expertise, specialist nurses often contribute to clinical decision-making in patient care, helping to shape treatment plans and interventions, particularly in acute settings where quick decisions are required.
Patient and Family Education
- Complex Education Needs: Patients and families in oncology often face complex treatment regimens and challenging decisions. The specialist nurse plays a crucial role in educating both patients and families, ensuring they understand the disease process, treatment options, side effects, and coping strategies. This requires specialized knowledge and communication skills.
- Supportive Role: In acute oncology, the nurse provides more than just basic education—they offer emotional support and act as a guide through the complexities of cancer treatment, which is a specialized skill.
- Clinical Documentation and Record Keeping
- Comprehensive and Accurate Documentation: Specialist nurses are expected to maintain high standards in clinical documentation. This is crucial not only for legal and professional standards but also for continuity of care, especially when managing complex or changing treatment regimens. Accurate records ensure that all members of the multidisciplinary team are informed of the patient's condition and treatment progress.
- Advanced Critical Thinking: Specialist nurses document not only routine care but also their clinical observations, assessment of treatment effects, and the response to interventions, all of which require advanced critical thinking and clinical judgment.
Quality Improvement and Clinical Audits
- Leadership in Quality Improvement: Specialist nurses are often involved in driving quality improvements in patient care. In acute oncology, where patient conditions can change rapidly, the nurse’s role in identifying areas for improvement (e.g., care pathways, treatment protocols) is crucial for optimizing patient outcomes.
- Contribution to Research and Protocol Development: Specialist nurses are expected to engage in clinical research, contribute to evidence-based practice, and sometimes take leadership roles in developing or refining clinical guidelines for the oncology department.
8. Infection Control and Safety
- Expertise in Infection Control: Oncology patients are often immunocompromised, making infection control a critical aspect of care. A specialist oncology nurse has the expertise to monitor for infections, initiate timely interventions, and apply infection control protocols to minimize risks for patients undergoing aggressive cancer treatments.
- Advanced Infection Management: In the event of an infection, specialist nurses are expected to assess the severity, administer appropriate treatments (such as antibiotics or antifungals), and escalate care when necessary.
Leadership:
- Provide leadership in the acute oncology unit, mentoring junior nurses and supporting the development of clinical staff.Lead by example, promoting a culture of compassion, patient-centered care, and clinical excellence.
- Participate in the orientation and training of new staff, fostering an environment of continuous learning and development.
- Facilitates multidisciplinary care process to discuss patient care plans, outcomes, and improvements.
Strategic Development
- Contribute to the development and implementation of care pathways and guidelines specific to acute oncology patients.
- Support initiatives to improve patient outcomes, including reducing hospital admissions and length of stay, and managing oncological emergencies effectively.
- Engage in quality improvement projects and clinical research to advance oncology nursing practices.
- Collaborate with oncology teams to identify and integrate new treatment modalities, technologies, and approaches to patient care.
Governance
- Ensure compliance with hospital policies, regulatory standards, and national guidelines for oncology care, including medication safety, infection control, and patient monitoring.Maintain accurate and comprehensive documentation of patient care, treatment plans, and interventions in accordance with professional and legal standards.
- Participate in clinical audits, incident reporting, and risk management activities to enhance patient safety and care quality.
- Implement changes in practice based on audit findings, updated oncology guidelines, or safety alerts.
Other Responsibilities
- Administer chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and other oncology treatments in line with established protocols, ensuring effective monitoring for adverse effects and complications.Provide holistic care, including pain management, symptom control, and emotional support to patients and their families.
- Educate patients and their families about their condition, treatment options, and self-care strategies.
- Coordinate with the multidisciplinary team to plan and deliver comprehensive care, including end-of-life care where appropriate.
Equality and Diversity
- Act as lead for Equality & Diversity in the Estates and Facilities department to ensure the development and effective implementation of a strategy, set of policies, procedures and monitoring and control systems are in place.
Personal and Staff Development
- Work with HR to undertake recruitment, retention, performance management and development of staff in the team.
- Work with the Recruitment Manager to establish connections with appropriate local, international and online communities to nurture a pipeline of talent to support the growth of the company.
- Responsible for development of high potential employees, providing a structured approach to mentoring and developing critical talent at all levels of management.
Communications And Working Relationships
- Collaborate closely with oncologists, radiologists, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals to ensure coordinated patient care.
- Communicate effectively with patients and their families, providing clear information, support, and guidance on treatment and care plans.
- Work with community health teams and external agencies to facilitate continuity of care and support for patients after discharge.
- Participate in multidisciplinary meetings, case discussions, and family conferences to optimize patient outcomes and experience.
Line Management
- Support the Oncology Ward Manager in managing staffing, scheduling, and resource allocation within the ward.
- Supervise and provide guidance to junior nurses, healthcare assistants, and other staff, promoting best practices and high standards of care.
- Assist in conducting performance appraisals, identifying professional development needs, and providing training opportunities for ward staff.
- Participate in the recruitment and induction of new nursing staff within the oncology ward.
Organizational Responsibilities
- Report to the head of nurse oncology & heamatology, contributing to the strategic planning and development of acute oncology care.
- Represent the acute oncology ward in hospital committees related to patient safety, clinical governance, and quality improvement.
- Support the hospital’s accreditation processes by ensuring compliance with oncology care standards and protocols.
- Engage in initiatives aimed at improving patient care, safety, and staff well-being within the oncology ward.
Key Responsibilities
Clinical Responsibilities:
Patient Assessment and Care
- Specialist Focus: A specialist nurse is expected to have a high level of expertise in assessing the specific needs of oncology patients, especially in acute care settings where symptoms can be severe or rapidly changing.
- Advanced Skills: The role goes beyond routine nursing assessments, requiring the ability to identify complex issues like cancer-related infections or treatment-related side effects that require immediate attention and intervention.
Chemotherapy and Treatment Administration
- Specialization in Oncology: Administering chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and other oncological treatments is a core function of a Specialist Oncology Nurse. This involves knowledge of chemotherapy regimens, safe handling of cytotoxic drugs, and monitoring for adverse reactions—all of which require specialized training and expertise.
- Safety and Protocol Adherence: A specialist nurse must be proficient in chemotherapy protocols, understanding the risks associated with specific treatments, and knowing when and how to intervene in case of side effects or complications.
Symptom Management and Palliative Care
- Palliative and End-of-Life Care: One of the key roles of a specialist nurse in acute oncology is symptom management, particularly for patients experiencing advanced cancer. This includes not only managing acute symptoms but also providing palliative care when necessary, which is a highly specialized aspect of oncology nursing.
- Holistic Care: Specialist nurses are expected to provide comprehensive care, including addressing emotional and psychosocial aspects of the disease, which is essential for improving the quality of life for cancer patients.
Multidisciplinary Collaboration
- Advanced Collaborative Skills: Specialist nurses in oncology are expected to work closely with a multidisciplinary team, including oncologists, surgeons, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals. This requires not only clinical expertise but also the ability to communicate and collaborate effectively within a team to ensure comprehensive patient care.
- Decision-Making: Given their expertise, specialist nurses often contribute to clinical decision-making in patient care, helping to shape treatment plans and interventions, particularly in acute settings where quick decisions are required.
Patient and Family Education
- Complex Education Needs: Patients and families in oncology often face complex treatment regimens and challenging decisions. The specialist nurse plays a crucial role in educating both patients and families, ensuring they understand the disease process, treatment options, side effects, and coping strategies. This requires specialized knowledge and communication skills.
- Supportive Role: In acute oncology, the nurse provides more than just basic education—they offer emotional support and act as a guide through the complexities of cancer treatment, which is a specialized skill.
Clinical Documentation and Record Keeping
- Comprehensive and Accurate Documentation: Specialist nurses are expected to maintain high standards in clinical documentation. This is crucial not only for legal and professional standards but also for continuity of care, especially when managing complex or changing treatment regimens. Accurate records ensure that all members of the multidisciplinary team are informed of the patient's condition and treatment progress.
- Advanced Critical Thinking: Specialist nurses document not only routine care but also their clinical observations, assessment of treatment effects, and the response to interventions, all of which require advanced critical thinking and clinical judgment.
Quality Improvement and Clinical Audits
- Leadership in Quality Improvement: Specialist nurses are often involved in driving quality improvements in patient care. In acute oncology, where patient conditions can change rapidly, the nurse’s role in identifying areas for improvement (e.g., care pathways, treatment protocols) is crucial for optimizing patient outcomes.
- Contribution to Research and Protocol Development: Specialist nurses are expected to engage in clinical research, contribute to evidence-based practice, and sometimes take leadership roles in developing or refining clinical guidelines for the oncology department.
Infection Control and Safety
- Expertise in Infection Control: Oncology patients are often immunocompromised, making infection control a critical aspect of care. A specialist oncology nurse has the expertise to monitor for infections, initiate timely interventions, and apply infection control protocols to minimize risks for patients undergoing aggressive cancer treatments.
- Advanced Infection Management: In the event of an infection, specialist nurses are expected to assess the severity, administer appropriate treatments (such as antibiotics or antifungals), and escalate care when necessary
Leadership
- Provide leadership in the acute oncology unit, mentoring junior nurses and supporting the development of clinical staff.Lead by example, promoting a culture of compassion, patient-centered care, and clinical excellence.
- Participate in the orientation and training of new staff, fostering an environment of continuous learning and development.
- Facilitates multidisciplinary care process to discuss patient care plans, outcomes, and improvements.
Strategic Development
- Contribute to the development and implementation of care pathways and guidelines specific to acute oncology patients.
- Support initiatives to improve patient outcomes, including reducing hospital admissions and length of stay, and managing oncological emergencies effectively.
- Engage in quality improvement projects and clinical research to advance oncology nursing practices.
- Collaborate with oncology teams to identify and integrate new treatment modalities, technologies, and approaches to patient care.
Governance
- Ensure compliance with hospital policies, regulatory standards, and national guidelines for oncology care, including medication safety, infection control, and patient monitoring.Maintain accurate and comprehensive documentation of patient care, treatment plans, and interventions in accordance with professional and legal standards.
- Participate in clinical audits, incident reporting, and risk management activities to enhance patient safety and care quality.
- Implement changes in practice based on audit findings, updated oncology guidelines, or safety alerts.
Other Responsibilities
- Administer chemotherapy, immunotherapy, and other oncology treatments in line with established protocols, ensuring effective monitoring for adverse effects and complications.Provide holistic care, including pain management, symptom control, and emotional support to patients and their families.
- Educate patients and their families about their condition, treatment options, and self-care strategies.
- Coordinate with the multidisciplinary team to plan and deliver comprehensive care, including end-of-life care where appropriate.
Equality and Diversity
- Act as lead for Equality & Diversity in the Estates and Facilities department to ensure the development and effective implementation of a strategy, set of policies, procedures and monitoring and control systems are in place.
Personal and Staff Development
- Work with HR to undertake recruitment, retention, performance management and development of staff in the team.
- Work with the Recruitment Manager to establish connections with appropriate local, international and online communities to nurture a pipeline of talent to support the growth of the company.
- Responsible for development of high potential employees, providing a structured approach to mentoring and developing critical talent at all levels of management.
Communications And Working Relationships
- Collaborate closely with oncologists, radiologists, pharmacists, and other healthcare professionals to ensure coordinated patient care.
- Communicate effectively with patients and their families, providing clear information, support, and guidance on treatment and care plans.
- Work with community health teams and external agencies to facilitate continuity of care and support for patients after discharge.
- Participate in multidisciplinary meetings, case discussions, and family conferences to optimize patient outcomes and experience.
Line Management
- Support the Oncology Ward Manager in managing staffing, scheduling, and resource allocation within the ward.
- Supervise and provide guidance to junior nurses, healthcare assistants, and other staff, promoting best practices and high standards of care.
- Assist in conducting performance appraisals, identifying professional development needs, and providing training opportunities for ward staff.
- Participate in the recruitment and induction of new nursing staff within the oncology ward.
Organizational Responsibilities
- Report to the head of nurse oncology & heamatology, contributing to the strategic planning and development of acute oncology care.
- Represent the acute oncology ward in hospital committees related to patient safety, clinical governance, and quality improvement.
- Support the hospital’s accreditation processes by ensuring compliance with oncology care standards and protocols.
- Engage in initiatives aimed at improving patient care, safety, and staff well-being within the oncology ward.
Infection Control Statement
The post holder has an important responsibility for and contribution to make to infection control and must be familiar with the infection control and hygiene requirements of this role. These requirements are set out in the AMCE Code of Practice on Infection Control and in local policies and procedures, which will be made clear during your induction and subsequent refresher training. These standards must be strictly complied with at all times.
Experience Requirements
- Registered Nurse (RN) with a current, valid nursing license.
- Advanced degree (e.g., Master’s in Nursing) or relevant specialty certification (e.g.,
- Certified Oncology Nurse).
- Specialized training or certification relevant to the role (e.g., chemotherapy administration, ICU, or PACU).
- At least 3-5 years of clinical experience in acute oncology or a related specialty.
- Experience with advanced procedures and patient care in the specific area of expertise.
- Demonstrated ability to handle complex cases and manage specialized equipment.
- Demonstrated leadership capabilities, with excellent communication skills and the ability to engage and motivate teams at all levels.
Personal Attributes
- Ability to think and act strategically, developing practical, innovative and creative solutions to the management of issues and complex problems related to the department
- Ability to identify opportunities to improve business outcomes through partnership at all levels
- Well-developed management skills, with the ability to build and lead large teams
- Highly effective influencing and negotiating skills, with the ability to develop partnerships and alliances across a diverse range of stakeholders
- Politically astute and resilient, with the ability to manage conflict and ambiguity
- Outcome focused, with the capability and tenacity to drive the agenda forward
- Financially literate and commercially astute, with a sophisticated understanding of commercially orientated performance and financial management including contract management
- Shares the AMCE’s vision and values
- Commitment to clinical governance / improving quality of patient care
Method of Application
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