Practice Nurse

Job Title: Locum Practice Nurse

Location:
Brighton, Sussex

Hours:
Two days a week, Flexible times.

Job Summary:
We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Locum Practice Nurse to join our medical team. The successful candidate will be responsible for providing high-quality nursing care in a primary care setting. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a flexible work environment, is adaptable, and can work independently while maintaining the standards of care expected in a medical practice.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Clinical Care:
   • Conducting routine health checks, including monitoring blood pressure, heart rate, and other vital signs.
   • Assisting in chronic disease management (e.g., diabetes, asthma, hypertension).
   • Administering immunizations and vaccinations (flu, childhood immunizations, travel vaccines, etc.).
   • Taking blood samples and performing routine laboratory tests (e.g., urine, blood sugar, cholesterol tests).
   • Carrying out wound care, dressing changes, and suture removal.
   • Assisting with minor surgical procedures.
   • Providing health advice to patients on lifestyle changes, preventative care, and managing long-term conditions.
2. Patient Education:
   • Providing health education and advice to patients regarding medication, nutrition, smoking cessation, and exercise.
   • Offering support for mental health issues and directing patients to appropriate resources as needed.
3. Administrative Duties:
   • Documenting patient care accurately and maintaining medical records.
   • Assisting with the organization of clinics and patient appointments.
   • Administering stock of medical supplies and equipment.
4. Collaboration and Communication:
   • Working collaboratively with the practice team (doctors, other nurses, and administrative staff).
   • Communicating effectively with patients, ensuring that their concerns and needs are understood and addressed.
   • Providing reports and feedback to the practice manager or senior staff.
5. Emergency Care:
   • Providing first aid and responding to medical emergencies when required.

Skills & Qualifications:

• Registered Nurse (RN) with a valid nursing license.
• Experience in a primary care or general practice setting is highly desirable, although not essential.
• Up-to-date clinical skills and knowledge of current nursing practices and protocols.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to interact effectively with patients and team members.
• Ability to work independently and manage time efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
• Current immunization certifications and knowledge of vaccination schedules.
• Ability to use Electronic Health Records (EHR) systems efficiently.
• Flexibility to work across a variety of shifts and adapt to different clinical settings.

Desirable:

• Experience with chronic disease management (e.g., diabetes, asthma, COPD).
• Knowledge and training in Cervical Smear Tests, Contraceptive Advice, or other specialist areas.
• Advanced Life Support (ALS) certification or similar.

Working Conditions:

• Temporary, locum-based role.
• Flexible hours (weekdays and weekends may be required).
• Competitive locum rates.
• On-site parking or public transport access available.