Key Responsibilities
Leadership and Management
- Oversee the nursing department, including management of nursing staff, scheduling, and coordination of care.
- Provide leadership and guidance to ensure delivery of high-quality care.
Assessing and Planning
- Collaborate with nursing staff to assess patient care requirements and develop comprehensive care plans.
- Ensure plans are implemented effectively and adjusted as necessary.
Organising Workloads
- Manage and organise workloads across the nursing team to maintain an efficient and effective care environment.
- Address staffing issues or concerns promptly.
Home Care Coordination
- Facilitate and supervise home care visits for patients requiring care outside the hospital.
- Ensure these visits are effectively planned and executed.
Building Relationships
- Foster a supportive and communicative environment within the nursing team and with patients.
- Promote an open-door policy to address concerns and encourage professional development.
Combating Stigma
- Lead initiatives to reduce mental health stigma within the hospital and the wider community.
- Support staff in providing empathetic and stigma-free care to patients and their families.
Medication Management
- Oversee the administration of medication, ensuring adherence to protocols and safe practice.
- Conduct regular audits to monitor compliance and address any issues.
Care Plan Oversight
- Review and approve care plans developed by nursing staff.
- Monitor patient progress and ensure care plans are reviewed and updated regularly.
Providing Guidance
- Offer expert advice and support to nursing staff, patients, and their families.
- Arrange additional support services and resources as required.
Interdisciplinary Liaison
- Act as a key liaison with doctors, social workers, and other professionals to ensure coordinated care.
- Attend case conferences and meetings to contribute to patient treatment discussions.
Assessment and Reporting
- Evaluate the effectiveness of care and treatment through regular assessments and reporting.
- Provide input on policy development and departmental improvements.
Record Keeping
- Ensure accurate and timely documentation of patient records and departmental reports.
- Maintain compliance with legal and professional standards.
Encouraging Therapeutic Activities
- Support and promote the integration of therapeutic activities into patient care.
- Ensure patients have access to activities that support their mental and emotional well-being.
Shift Management and On-Call Duties
- Oversee shift management and be available for on-call duties as required to ensure continuity of care.
Qualifications and Skills
Nursing Degree:
Bachelor's or Master's degree in Nursing with a specialization in mental health or psychiatric nursing.Registered Nurse:
Valid nursing registration with the Indian Nursing Council or relevant state nursing council.Experience:
10+ years of experience, with extensive experience in mental health nursing and a proven track record in leadership and management roles. Previous experience as a senior nurse or matron is highly desirable.Skills:
Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills. Proven ability to manage and motivate a team, handle complex situations, and make informed decisions.Professionalism and Resilience:
Strong commitment to maintaining high standards of care and professionalism. Demonstrated resilience and the ability to manage stress effectively.Multi-tasking:
Ability to handle multiple tasks effectively and prioritize duties.Bedside Manner:
Demonstrated ability to provide compassionate and respectful care.Infection Control:
Knowledge of infection control practices to ensure a safe environment for patients and staff.Health Promotion and Maintenance:
Understanding of basic health promotion principles and practices.Safety:
Ability to create a safe and effective environment for patients.Communication:
Effective communication skills for informing others and working within a team.Judgement:
Good judgement in handling patient care and emergencies.Teamwork:
Ability to work collaboratively with medical and nursing staff.Physical Endurance:
Capable of performing physical tasks required in patient care and movement.
This role is ever-evolving and will include duties as informed by the reporting head from time to time.