Rheumatology Specialist Nurse

We are seeking confident, motivated Registered Nurses (RNs) to join our Rheumatology Service and play an active role in the ongoing integration and transformation of a wider, joined-up Somerset service. The service operates across Somerset, and successful applicants will be required to travel to clinics held at various hospital sites. Therefore, a full driving licence and access to a vehicle are essential.

Working alongside the Lead Rheumatology Specialist Nurse and multidisciplinary team members, the post holder will provide specialist nursing care and support for patients with inflammatory arthritis and connective tissue diseases across Somerset Foundation Trust

The role involves working independently and collaboratively in both hospital and community settings to deliver high-quality, patient-centred care.

Both full-time and part-time opportunities are available. These positions have been created to strengthen and expand an established and supportive team. Comprehensive training and guidance will be provided by the Rheumatology Specialist Nursing Team and the wider multidisciplinary team, enabling successful candidates to develop specialist knowledge and skills. Opportunities for external study and professional development will also be available where appropriate.

Key responsibilities include assessing and supporting patients from diagnosis through treatment, providing education and advice to patients, families and healthcare professionals, discussing treatment options to support informed decision‑making, coordinating care across services, acting as a patient advocate, and ensuring timely delivery of care in line with NICE guidelines.

• Support the assessment, planning, implementation and evaluation of care for patients with rheumatological conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, spondyloarthritis and connective tissue diseases.
• Provide patient education and advice on disease management, medications, lifestyle changes and self‑management strategies.
• Monitor patients receiving disease-modifying anti‑rheumatic drugs (DMARDs) and biologic therapies, ensuring appropriate safety checks and follow‑up.
• Assist with specialist nurse‑led clinics, patient reviews and telephone advice services under supervision.
• Recognise and elevate changes in patient condition, concerns regarding treatment effectiveness, or potential medication side effects.
• Coordinate care with multidisciplinary team members, including consultants, pharmacists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists and primary care services.
• Maintain accurate clinical documentation and contribute to service audits, quality improvement initiatives and data collection.
• Promote high standards of patient‑centred care while developing specialist rheumatology knowledge and skills.

At Somerset NHS Foundation Trust
, we're committed to supporting our employees with a range of benefits designed to enhance your professional and personal life. We offer:

• Flexible working options to help you balance work and life
• NHS pension scheme for long-term financial security
• Generous annual leave allowance to recharge and relax
• A strong focus on career development to help you grow and achieve your potential

Additionally, you'll gain access to our Blue Light Card
, unlocking exclusive discounts on shopping, dining, and leisure activities, as well as NHS‑specific perks to support you both inside and outside of work.

We are proud to foster a diverse, skilled, and inclusive workforce
, and we encourage applications from all backgrounds.

Why Somerset? Somerset offers the perfect blend of idyllic countryside, outstanding areas of natural beauty
, and breathtaking coastlines
, with vibrant cities like Bristol
, Bath
, and Exeter just a short drive away - and only two hours to London
.…