District Nurse

Job Purpose

The post holder will work as part of the district nursing team to deliver high-quality, evidence-based nursing care to patients in their own homes or community settings. The role involves providing holistic assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation of patient-centred care, promoting independence and self-care wherever possible.

The Band 5 District Nurse will contribute to the prevention of hospital admissions, facilitation of early discharge, and the ongoing management of chronic and complex conditions within the community.

Key Responsibilities

Clinical Duties

• Provide skilled, evidence-based nursing care to patients in their homes and community settings.

• Undertake comprehensive nursing assessments to identify patient needs and develop individualised care plans.

• Administer medications, dressings, injections, and other nursing treatments safely in accordance with NMC standards and local policies.

• Manage and monitor long-term conditions such as diabetes, heart failure, respiratory disease, and palliative care needs.

• Provide wound care management, including leg ulcer assessment and compression therapy.

• Support and educate patients, families, and carers on health promotion, disease prevention, and self-care strategies.

• Recognise and respond to changes in patient conditions, escalating concerns to senior staff or other professionals as appropriate.

• Contribute to end-of-life care planning and delivery, ensuring comfort, dignity, and support for patients and families.

Professional and Team Responsibilities

• Work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams, including GPs, social services, and allied health professionals.

• Participate in team meetings, case discussions, and supervision sessions.

• Maintain accurate, up-to-date patient records in line with legal and organisational standards.

• Adhere to the NMC Code of Conduct and uphold professional boundaries and confidentiality at all times.

• Support the training and supervision of student nurses, health care assistants, and new staff.

• Participate in audit, service evaluation, and quality improvement initiatives to enhance patient care.

Administrative and Organisational Duties

• Prioritise and manage own caseload effectively under the supervision of the District Nurse Team Leader.

• Contribute to service planning and development within the community nursing team.

• Ensure the safe and effective use of resources, including equipment and stock management.

• Report incidents, accidents, and safeguarding concerns promptly in line with policy.

Education and Professional Development

• Maintain own professional registration and revalidation with the NMC.

• Engage in continuing professional development (CPD) and mandatory training.

• Reflect on practice and participate in annual appraisal and personal development planning.

Person Specification

Essential:

• Registered General Nurse (RGN) with current NMC registration.

• Full UK driving licence and access to a vehicle for work purposes.

• Excellent communication, assessment, and organisational skills.

• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.

• Commitment to patient-centred, holistic care in the community.

Desirable:

• Previous experience in community nursing or district nursing.

• Knowledge of chronic disease management and palliative care.

• Mentorship or preceptorship qualification.