Job Description
Job Purpose
The Specialist Nurse-Outpatient Clinic is responsible for delivering high-quality nursing care to patients attending the AMCE clinic for consultations, treatments, and follow-up care. This role involves comprehensive patient assessments, care coordination, treatment administration, and patient education. The nurse will collaborate with physicians and other healthcare professionals to ensure effective patient management and a positive healthcare experience. The position requires strong clinical expertise, organizational skills, and a commitment to upholding healthcare standards and patient safety.
Core Responsibilities
Patient Assessment and Care
- Perform initial and follow-up patient assessments, recording vital signs, medical history, and current health concerns.
- Assist in the development and implementation of personalized care plans.
- Administer medications, wound care, and other treatments as prescribed by physicians.
- Monitor patient progress and communicate any significant changes to the medical team.
Care Coordination
- Coordinate patient flow within the AMCE clinic to ensure timely and efficient care.
- Schedule follow-up appointments and referrals to other specialists or diagnostic services as needed.
- Collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive patient care and continuity.
Patient Education and Counseling
- Provide education to patients and their families about diagnoses, treatment plans, medications, and self-care practices.
- Counsel patients on preventive care, lifestyle modifications, and the importance of adherence to treatment protocols.
- Address patient questions and concerns to enhance their understanding of their health conditions and treatment.
Clinical Support
- Prepare and assist physicians during examinations, procedures, and treatments.
- Maintain sterile techniques and infection control practices during clinical procedures.
- Ensure that all medical equipment used in the AMCE clinic is properly maintained and in good working order.
Documentation and Reporting
- Maintain accurate and detailed patient records, including assessments, treatments, and progress notes.
- Complete necessary clinic documentation and reports in a timely manner.
- Report adverse reactions and unexpected changes in patient condition to the appropriate healthcare provider.
Quality Improvement
- Participate in quality improvement initiatives aimed at enhancing AMCE clinic operations and patient care standards.
- Engage in training and professional development programs to stay updated on best practices in outpatient care.
Qualifications
Educational Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in nursing or equivalent from a recognized institution OR;
- Diploma in Nursing with post-basic training in Oncology or haematology nursing.
Professional Requirements
- Valid practising license
- Membership in relevant medical associations, such as the Oncology Nursing Society of Nigeria or its equivalent.
Experience Requirements
- Minimum of 3 years of current clinical nursing experience, with at least 2 years specializing in oncology or chemotherapy administration.
- Experience in patient education, care coordination, and managing treatment procedures.
Competency Requirements
Knowledge Requirements
- Understanding of outpatient clinic operations and care protocols.
- Knowledge of medical conditions commonly treated in an outpatient setting and their management.
- Familiarity with infection control practices and patient safety regulations.
- Awareness of patient education methods and resources.
Skill Requirements
- Strong clinical and patient assessment skills.
- Effective communication and interpersonal skills.
- Excellent organizational and time management capabilities.
- Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team.
- Proficiency in maintaining accurate and detailed documentation.
- Compassion and empathy for delivering patient-centred care.
- Strong problem-solving and critical-thinking skills.
Personal Abilities
- Professional attitude towards work
- Shares the AMCE’s vision.
- Proactive and organized.
- Commitment to clinical governance / improving quality of patient care.
- Has personal and professional credibility and commands the respect of colleagues and peers.
- Supportive and approachable and capable of inspiring confidence in staff members.
- Ability to work collaboratively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
- High levels of honesty and integrity
- Empathy and the ability to provide compassionate care.