In addition, the Specialist Nurse Outpatient is responsible for triaging patient needs, managing referrals, and facilitating communication between patients, consultants, and other members of the healthcare team to ensure continuity and coordination of care. They play a key role in improving patient experience by maintaining an efficient, compassionate, and patient-centered environment, adhering to best practices, safety protocols, and quality standards. This role is crucial in enhancing the delivery of outpatient services and ensuring optimal patient outcomes through evidence-based care.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership:
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Act as a clinical leader within the outpatient department, providing mentorship and support to junior nurses and healthcare assistants.
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Promote a culture of excellence, ensuring best practices in outpatient care and patient experience.
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Lead by example in adhering to protocols and maintaining patient safety standards.
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Participate in the orientation, training, and continuous professional development of outpatient nursing staff.
Strategic Development
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Contribute to the development and implementation of outpatient care protocols and guidelines to enhance service quality and efficiency.
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Participate in projects aimed at improving patient flow, reducing waiting times, and optimizing outpatient services.
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Engage in quality improvement initiatives to monitor and enhance patient satisfaction and care outcomes.
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Support the introduction and integration of new technologies or methods that enhance outpatient care.
Governance
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Ensure compliance with hospital policies, procedures, and regulatory standards related to outpatient care, including patient safety, infection control, and medication management.
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Maintain accurate documentation of patient assessments, care plans, and follow-up actions in accordance with professional and legal standards.
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Participate in clinical audits, incident reporting, and risk management activities to enhance outpatient service quality.
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Implement changes in practice based on audit findings, updated guidelines, or feedback from patients and staff..
Other Clinical Responsibilities
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Conduct thorough assessments of patients attending outpatient clinics, coordinating care plans and referrals as needed.
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Provide patient education on conditions, treatments, medications, and lifestyle modifications to enhance health outcomes.
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Assist in minor procedures and diagnostic tests, ensuring patient comfort and safety. Conduct comprehensive assessments and evaluations of patients upon arrival at the clinic.
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Administer medications and treatments as prescribed by physicians or other licensed providers.
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Monitor patient vital signs and report any significant changes to the healthcare team.
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Educate patients and their families on health conditions, treatment plans, and preventative care strategies.
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Collaborate with physicians, nurse practitioners, and other healthcare professionals to develop and implement individualized patient care plans.
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Document patient interactions and care in electronic health records accurately and timely.
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Assist with minor procedures, including but not limited to injections, wound care, and diagnostic tests.
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Provide support and guidance to patients in managing chronic conditions and promote healthy lifestyle choices.
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Maintain a clean and organized clinic environment following infection control protocols.
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Participate in quality improvement initiatives and uphold clinic policies and procedures.
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Manage appointment schedules, follow-ups, and liaise with other departments to ensure seamless patient care.
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Ensuring clinical practice is based on validated research, and participating in quality assessment, research and clinical audits
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In collaboration Head of Nursing and the Chief Nursing Officer, upholds the code of conduct and professional scope of practice of the nursing profession
Equality and Diversity
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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
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Work with HR to undertake recruitment, retention, performance management and development of staff in the team.
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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.
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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
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Collaborate closely with consultants, specialists, and other healthcare professionals to coordinate patient care and streamline processes.
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Communicate effectively with patients and families, providing information and reassurance about their care and treatment plans.
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Work with administrative staff to manage patient appointments, referrals, and follow-ups efficiently.
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Participate in team meetings, case discussions, and quality improvement sessions to enhance outpatient service delivery.
Line Management
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Support the Outpatient Department Manager in managing staffing levels, scheduling shifts, and coordinating team activities.
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Supervise and provide guidance to junior nurses, healthcare assistants, and support staff in the outpatient department.
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Assist in conducting performance appraisals, identifying training needs, and providing development opportunities for outpatient staff.
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Participate in the recruitment and induction of new nursing staff within the outpatient department.
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Stay current with best practices and advancements in outpatient
Organizational Responsibilities
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Report to the Outpatient Department Manager or Head of Nursing, contributing to the strategic development of outpatient services.
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Represent the outpatient department in hospital-wide committees and working groups focused on patient safety, clinical governance, and quality improvement.
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Support the hospital’s accreditation and compliance processes by ensuring adherence to outpatient care standards.
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Engage in initiatives aimed at improving patient care outcomes and staff well-being within the outpatient setting.