General Adult Nurse (Registered Nurse – RGN)

A General Adult Nurse (Registered Nurse – RGN) is a healthcare professional responsible for providing high-quality care to adult patients, either in a hospital, clinic, or community setting. Their role involves assessing, planning, implementing, and evaluating the care of patients who are dealing with a wide range of physical health issues, from chronic conditions to acute illnesses and injuries.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Patient Assessment and Care Planning:
   • Conduct thorough assessments of patients’ physical and mental health needs.
   • Develop and implement individualised care plans based on patient assessments.
   • Monitor patient progress and adjust care plans accordingly.
   • Provide holistic care, considering physical, emotional, psychological, and social needs.
2. Delivering Direct Patient Care:
   • Administer prescribed medications and treatments, ensuring accuracy and safety.
   • Provide personal care to patients, including assistance with daily living tasks such as bathing, dressing, and feeding.
   • Assist in mobility, positioning, and rehabilitation.
   • Carry out clinical procedures, including wound dressing, catheter care, and intravenous (IV) therapy.
   • Monitor vital signs (e.g., blood pressure, pulse, temperature) and report any abnormalities to senior staff.
3. Clinical Procedures and Interventions:
   • Take blood samples and perform other diagnostic procedures as required.
   • Assist with diagnostic tests, preparing patients and interpreting results.
   • Administer injections and infusions as part of the prescribed treatment plans.
   • Provide pre- and post-operative care for patients undergoing surgery.
4. Patient Education and Support:
   • Educate patients and their families about health conditions, treatment options, and lifestyle changes.
   • Provide advice on managing chronic conditions, including diabetes, hypertension, and respiratory issues.
   • Offer emotional and psychological support, helping patients cope with illness, injury, or recovery.
5. Documentation and Record-Keeping:
   • Maintain accurate and up-to-date patient records, including care plans, treatment notes, and medication administration logs.
   • Communicate patient progress and concerns with other healthcare team members.
   • Ensure compliance with data protection and confidentiality standards.
6. Team Collaboration:
   • Work closely with other healthcare professionals, such as doctors, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and dietitians, to deliver comprehensive care.
   • Participate in multidisciplinary team meetings to discuss patient care and progress.
   • Supervise and mentor junior staff, including healthcare assistants and student nurses.
7. Infection Control and Health & Safety:
   • Ensure adherence to infection control protocols, including hand hygiene and the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).
   • Maintain a safe working environment by following health and safety guidelines and reporting hazards.
   • Respond to emergencies, providing immediate care as required and ensuring appropriate escalation of care.
8. Professional Development:
   • Participate in ongoing professional development, including attending training courses and gaining additional certifications.
   • Stay informed about the latest nursing practices, healthcare policies, and evidence-based research.
   • Reflect on and evaluate own practice, seeking feedback and developing areas for improvement.

Skills and Qualifications:

1. Registered Nurse:
   • A valid Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) registration as a Registered General Nurse (RGN) is essential.
   • Completion of a Nursing Degree (either a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing or a nursing diploma) from an accredited university or educational institution.
2. Clinical Skills:
   • Competence in a range of clinical procedures, such as wound care, IV therapy, and administering medications.
   • Strong understanding of health and safety, infection control, and safeguarding procedures.
3. Communication Skills:
   • Excellent verbal and written communication skills for effective patient care and liaising with colleagues and families.
   • Ability to provide clear instructions and empathetic support to patients and their families.
4. Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving:
   • Strong decision-making skills, especially in emergency or high-pressure situations.
   • Ability to assess patient conditions, recognize potential risks, and act quickly and effectively.
5. Time Management:
   • Ability to prioritize tasks and manage a varied caseload efficiently.
   • Work well under pressure while ensuring all patients receive the care they need.
6. Empathy and Compassion:
   • A caring, patient-centred approach to nursing that considers the emotional and psychological well-being of patients.
   • Ability to maintain a calm, empathetic presence in difficult situations.
7. Teamwork and Leadership:
   • Ability to work well within a multidisciplinary team and collaborate with colleagues to deliver patient-focused care.
   • Leadership skills for supervising and supporting junior nursing staff and healthcare assistants.
8. Attention to Detail:
   • Strong organisational skills to manage patient care documentation and ensure accurate record-keeping.
   • High level of attention to detail in clinical tasks to avoid errors.

ALL APPLICANTS MUST BE RESIDENTS OF THE UNITED KINGDOM OR HAVE A RIGHT TO WORK/VALID VISA TO WORK IN THE UNITED KINGDOM