Head and Neck Sister

The post holder is responsible for providing specialist support to adult neck breathing patients. To assist in providing specialist clinical leadership within this area of care to oversee the delivery of safe and effective care by appropriately trained and supported staff. To identify patients with a tracheostomy in the Trust; overseeing the care delivery to ensure complex needs of patients are met. To assist in developing training and support programs for clinical areas where neck breathing patients are cared for and ensure staff have the appropriate competencies to manage a patient with a tracheostomy/laryngectomy. To act as a liaison/facilitator between Critical Care and ward teams to ensure the safe transfer of patients to ward areas. To provide support to patients, families, Multidisciplinary Team and ward teams to ensure a collaborative approach to a safe and effective ward care and on discharge. Providing advice and support to patients, families and the Multi-Disciplinary Team.
To ensure that staff have a clear understanding of their duties and responsibilities with regards to the care of a patient with tracheostomy/laryngectomy and that standards and quality of care is delivered throughout the 24 hour period. To act as a facilitator and coordinator for patient transfers between departments. To assist in proactively developing, implementing and reviewing clinical practices/protocols in relation to tracheostomy/laryngectomy care ensuring that care is based on national guidance/best practice. Assist in the formulation, and review of clinical policies and procedures.