Critical Care Band 5 Nurse
About the role
We have an exciting opportunity to join the critical care team in Brighton. The intensive care unit is based in the new part of the hospital and has excellent facilities for staff and patients. We are a very busy unit and you will gain experience in trauma, neuro surgery, cardiac and general intensive care. We currently have 31 beds open within a 55 bedded unit, so there is room for expansion. You will be part of the critical care team and will be looking after critically unwell patients. The unit is a tertiary trauma centre and patients from around the region are moved to Brighton for specialist treatment.
Your role will involve becoming proficient in critical care nursing and you will be expected to study outside of work in order to achieve your competencies within the national framework. We will support this professional development with a number of in-house study days, a neuro and trauma course, the university-based critical care course and a number of 1:1 coaching shifts with a practice educator. You will be expected to adhere to our local guidelines and policies and join in with the unit safety and governance.
We are looking for someone who has more than a year of acute experience to join our friendly and diverse team. We are proud to have an Outstanding for Caring CQC rating.
Responsibilities- Participate in ensuring effective multidisciplinary communication links both upwards and downwards within Critical Care and the rest of the Trust. This involves all staff members, relatives and patients.
- Adhere to NMC guidelines on documentation; accountability and responsibility for accurate, professional record keeping either on paper and/or the electronic system.
- Display competent use of Trust e-mail, CIS message centre (where applicable), visitors intercom system, and telephone.
- Responsible for effective shift handovers ensuring relevant detail is communicated and identifies and challenges any unprofessional or subjective comments made about patients.
- Participate in medical ward rounds showing a thorough knowledge of the patients' medical history, current condition and recent clinical events. Ability to present this concisely, at the appropriate time, and in the appropriate manner.
- Involvement in complex patient case conferences when discussing future treatments for patients which could involve withdrawal of treatment in situations of poor prognosis.
- Participate in mortality and morbidity meetings (where appropriate).
- Support families on a 1:1 basis using knowledge, experience and skill to explain complicated medical conditions. Provide adequate and appropriate information and education, whilst ensuring this information is understood.
- Provide and receive highly complex information on clinical conditions, which could be sensitive and occasionally contentious. Information given to patients and relatives could involve breaking bad news and may result in conflict with relatives' understanding of the critically ill patient.
- Ability to guide relatives through withdrawal of treatment, tissue/organ donation in conjunction with relevant personnel e.g. Trust Donation Nurse Specialist, Transplant Co-ordinator, Trust personnel available for distressed/bereaved relatives.
- Recognition of poor standards of care among MDT. Ability to highlight these to appropriate personnel, at an appropriate time, and in an appropriate manner.
- Essential: NMC Registration (already in place). Acute experience.
- Desirable: Acute Care Course Mentorship.
- Evidence of having championed diversity in previous roles (as appropriate to role).
- Evidence of having undertaken own development to improve understanding of equalities issues.
We are a Disability Confident Employer (Level 3) and a Veteran Aware Trust.
This post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (Exceptions Order) 1975 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service (formerly known as CRB) to check for any previous criminal convictions.
This role is eligible for visa sponsorship under the UK Visas & Immigration (UKVI) Skilled Worker route. Sponsorship can only be provided where applicants meet the specific requirements set by UKVI, including the relevant skill and salary thresholds, and any role-specific criteria. If you are applying using a Graduate visa as your right to work, you must have a minimum of 18 months remaining on your visa at time of application.
Your tasks
Join our critical care team and provide exceptional care to critically unwell patients.
Your profile
NMC Registration and over a year of acute experience required.
What's also included
In-house training, professional development courses, and supportive team environment.
Tech stack & ways of working
Critical Care Band 5 Nurse employer: Cardiff and Vale University Health Board
Cardiff and Vale University Health Board is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive environment for aspiring nephrologists. With a focus on professional development, extensive training, and opportunities for research and teaching, employees can thrive in their careers while contributing to meaningful patient care in a vibrant community. The work culture promotes collaboration and innovation, making it an ideal place for those looking to make a significant impact in healthcare.
View Cardiff and Vale University Health Board profile
Your perspectives
Make a real difference in patients' lives while gaining invaluable experience in critical care.
StudySmarter Expert Advice
Tap into Local Healthcare Networks
Getting involved with local healthcare communities is a game-changer for nursing roles. Join nursing associations or attend local events and workshops where you can meet fellow professionals and potential employers. It’s all about building those connections – your next full-time gig could be just a chat away!
Showcase Your Skills in Real-Life Settings
Consider volunteering at clinics or hospitals if you can squeeze in some time. Not only does this help you gain practical experience, but it also shows your commitment to patient care. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to network and potentially land a full-time role at a facility you enjoy!
Use LinkedIn like a Pro
Make your LinkedIn profile pop by highlighting your nursing skills prominently. Share articles, insights, or case studies that demonstrate your knowledge in patient care. Engaging with content in nursing forums can also put you on the radar of recruiters looking for full-time talent like you!
Direct Applications are Key!
When you spot a role that excites you, don't hold back – apply directly through our website! Tailor your application to show off how your specific experiences align with the needs at Cardiff and Vale University Health Board for the Critical Care Band 5 Nurse role. Companies appreciate candidates who take initiative and show genuine interest!
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Qualifications
When applying for a full-time nursing role with Cardiff and Vale University Health Board, it's crucial to highlight your nursing qualifications. Make sure to include any relevant certifications, such as your NMC registration and any specialisations. List them front and centre on your CV so we can see your expertise at a glance!
Craft a Compassionate Cover Letter
Your cover letter is the perfect place to express your passion for patient care. Talk about your experiences, how you handle challenging situations, and your approach to teamwork. This gives us insight not just into your skills but also into your caring nature, which is essential in nursing.
Emphasise Soft Skills
In nursing, technical skills are important, but we're also keen on soft skills. Make sure to highlight your communication abilities, empathy, and problem-solving skills. These attributes are often just as critical in delivering exceptional patient care and will help differentiate you from other candidates.
Tailor Your Experience to Patient Care
When detailing your experience, be specific about your direct patient care roles. Focus on the impact you’ve made on your patients’ lives—mention specific tasks, challenges you've overcame, or improvements you’ve contributed to. This helps us visualise you in action at Cardiff and Vale University Health Board, and how you can make a difference!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cardiff and Vale University Health Board
Brush Up on Clinical Scenarios
In nursing, you might face questions around patient scenarios, so sharpen your clinical judgment skills. Think through common cases—like managing a patient with specific needs or handling emergencies—and be ready to articulate your approach confidently.
Showcase Your Soft Skills
Beyond technical skills, nursing is all about communication and empathy. Prepare to share examples from your experiences that highlight your ability to connect with patients and work effectively in a team, as this is crucial for a full-time role at Cardiff and Vale University Health Board.
Familiarise Yourself with Healthcare Regulations
Make sure you're up to speed with the latest healthcare regulations and policies relevant to your role. This knowledge not only shows your commitment to patient safety but also signals that you're proactive and engaged—qualities that full-time employers like Cardiff and Vale University Health Board appreciate.
Ask AboutCareer Development Opportunities
Since this is a full-time position, show your ambition by asking how Cardiff and Vale University Health Board supports growth and development. Inquire about ongoing training, mentorship programmes, or opportunities to specialise in particular areas, as this illustrates your long-term interest in nursing.