Registered General Nurse


Company:	NHS Jobs
Salary:	Negotiable
Hours:	Full-time
Location:	GATESHEAD, NE11 0HF
Job type:	Permanent
Posting date:	27 Oct 2026
Closing date:	8 Nov 2026

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Summary

Job Purpose The Registered General Nurse will be responsible for providing safe, effective and compassionate nursing care to patients undergoing surgical procedures within the day case setting. The post holder will have particular responsibility for the assessment, monitoring and care of patients during the post-operative recovery period, ensuring patients are clinically stable, comfortable and appropriately prepared for safe discharge. The role requires excellent clinical judgement, communication and organisational skills, together with the ability to recognise and respond promptly to deterioration or post-operative complications. The post holder will work closely with consultants, anaesthetists, theatre staff and other members of the multidisciplinary team to ensure a high standard of patient care throughout the surgical pathway. Clinical Care Provide high-quality, individualised nursing care to patients undergoing day case surgical procedures. Receive patients following surgery and undertake appropriate post-operative assessment and monitoring. Monitor and accurately record vital signs, level of consciousness, pain scores and overall clinical condition. Assess and manage post-operative pain in accordance with prescriptions, protocols and local policies. Monitor for post-operative nausea and vomiting and administer prescribed treatment where appropriate. Assess surgical wounds, dressings, drains and other relevant post-operative requirements. Recognise signs of post-operative complications or clinical deterioration and escalate concerns promptly to the appropriate clinician. Respond appropriately to emergency situations and participate in emergency procedures when required. Administer medicines safely in accordance with prescriptions, Tyneside Surgical Services policies and the NMC Code. Undertake appropriate clinical procedures within the post holder's level of competence. Maintain accurate, contemporaneous and comprehensive patient records. Ensure patients' privacy, dignity, confidentiality and individual needs are respected at all times. Post-Operative Recovery and Discharge Assess patients throughout their post-operative recovery and ensure appropriate discharge criteria are achieved prior to leaving the facility. Ensure patients are clinically stable and fit for discharge in accordance with agreed protocols and instructions from the responsible clinician. Provide clear verbal and written post-operative advice to patients and, where appropriate, their relatives or carers. Ensure patients understand wound care requirements, medication instructions, activity restrictions, signs and symptoms of potential complications and who to contact if they have concerns following discharge. Confirm appropriate arrangements are in place for patients to return home safely following their procedure. Escalate concerns regarding suitability for discharge to the appropriate consultant, anaesthetist or senior member of the clinical team. Ensure discharge documentation is completed accurately and in a timely manner. Patient Safety and Clinical Governance Work in accordance with Tyneside Surgical Services policies, procedures and clinical governance arrangements. Maintain high standards of infection prevention and control and adhere to hand hygiene and aseptic practice requirements. Participate in clinical audits, quality improvement initiatives and patient safety activities. Identify, report and appropriately escalate incidents, near misses and patient safety concerns in accordance with organisational policy. Participate in investigations and learning following incidents where required. Contribute to maintaining a safe, clean and appropriate clinical environment. Ensure medical equipment is used safely and report any defects or concerns promptly. Participate in emergency drills, including resuscitation and fire evacuation exercises. Maintain awareness of safeguarding responsibilities and escalate concerns appropriately. Support the organisation in maintaining compliance with relevant regulatory and professional standards, including requirements of the Care Quality Commission (CQC). Medicines Management Administer medicines safely and in accordance with prescriptions, local policies and professional standards. Ensure appropriate checking, recording, storage and security of medicines. Maintain accurate medication administration records. Report medication incidents, discrepancies or concerns promptly. Maintain competence in medicines management and undertake required training and assessments. Communication and Team Working Communicate effectively and professionally with patients, relatives, carers and members of the multidisciplinary team. Provide reassurance and support to patients who may be anxious before or following their surgical procedure. Work collaboratively with consultants, anaesthetists, theatre staff, nursing colleagues and administrative staff to support a safe and efficient patient pathway. Provide clear and accurate clinical handovers and escalate clinical concerns promptly and appropriately. Maintain professional and respectful working relationships with colleagues and contribute positively to team meetings and service development. Professional Responsibilities Maintain current registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) and practise in accordance with the NMC Code. Work within individual scope of professional practice and competence. Maintain professional knowledge and skills through continuing professional development and meet NMC revalidation requirements. Complete all mandatory training within required timescales. Maintain resuscitation training appropriate to the role, with Immediate Life Support (ILS) desirable. Take responsibility for identifying personal learning and development needs and participate in appraisal, supervision and competency assessment. Maintain patient confidentiality and comply with information governance and data protection requirements. Health, Safety and Infection Prevention Comply with all health and safety policies and procedures and maintain high standards of infection prevention and control. Use personal protective equipment appropriately and follow safe systems of work. Report hazards or unsafe practices and participate in fire, emergency and evacuation training. Maintain awareness of COSHH and other relevant health and safety requirements. Ensure clinical equipment is appropriately cleaned, maintained and stored and contribute to a safe environment for patients, visitors and staff.

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