Skin Cancer Support Nurse

Role Overview

The Post holder will provide a high standard of care to patients, acting as a role model for the Skin Cancer Clinical Nurse Specialist Team. It is expected that the individual will work closely alongside the Skin Cancer CNSs to support and deputise in their absence and to provide psychological assessment, information and advice to patients with a skin cancer diagnosis.

• Provide information and support to patients, families and carers throughout the skin cancer pathway.
• Clinical support of senior nursing and medical staff in decisions regarding care and treatment plans.
• Attend and contribute to multidisciplinary meeting discussions and act as an advocate for patients receiving care within the skin cancer service.
• Support patients through the psychological impact of treatments and altered body image.
• Work as a team player and liaise and communicate effectively with members of the nursing, medical and multidisciplinary team.
• In conjunction with the skin cancer team initiate and support innovative change in line with evidence-based practice, national standards and relevant reports relating to Skin Cancer patients.
• Perform holistic needs assessments with patients at varying stages of their skin cancer journey.
• Initiate appropriate and timely consultation and/or referrals, recognising one's own scope of practice.
• Assess, implement and elevate programmes of physical, social and emotional care for individuals throughout the skin cancer service.
• Take care of patients and their families within the framework of the NMC code of conduct and the department's philosophy of care.
• Make a thorough assessment of the patient's needs according to an agreed model of nursing care pre and post appointments within the skin cancer service.
• Formulate evidence-based programmes of care based on an assessment and evaluation of patient needs.
• Implement or supervise the implementation of all nursing actions as planned; measure the effect of nursing actions, taking into account the patient's perception and amend the plan of care as required, working within the department's protocols and guidelines.
• Liaise with all members of the multidisciplinary team on matters affecting patient care and ensure sound communication with a Consultant in Charge and CNS keyworker.
• Assist the team in all clinical areas to maintain and develop team morale by demonstrating support for colleagues and showing high levels of enthusiasm and commitment.