Job Location(Multiple): Meath, Balbrigan, Cork, Ashbourne, Kildare
Reporting Line:
Reports directly to the Unit Manager or Senior Nurse in Charge.
Position Purpose:
The primary aim of this role is to deliver supports within a health and social care framework that addresses the practical, physical, and emotional needs of individuals with intellectual disabilities. The staff nurse will assist service users in residential, day service, and training environments to reach their highest level of independence or improve skills that promote autonomy. Respecting, valuing, and enhancing the personal development, quality of life, and abilities of each service user is central to this role.
Additionally, the staff nurse is responsible for supervising assigned staff, providing leadership, and ensuring high-quality care during their shift.
Essential Qualifications and Experience:
Applicants must meet the following requirements by the closing date for applications:
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Be registered, or eligible for registration, in the Intellectual Disability or Mental Health Division of the live register maintained by An Bord Altranais (Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland - NMBI).
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Have relevant experience working with individuals with intellectual disabilities in residential or day service settings.
Key Skills and Competencies:
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Communication & Interpersonal Skills: Communicates clearly and effectively with individuals and groups, adapting style to suit the audience. Builds rapport quickly, maintains therapeutic relationships, and communicates in a professional, respectful manner.
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Adaptability & Reliability: Responds effectively to changing circumstances, is open to feedback, and demonstrates consistent dependability in all work activities.
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Problem-Solving & Initiative: Approaches problems logically, drawing on knowledge, experience, and available resources. Proactive and anticipates challenges before they arise.
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Quality & Person-Centred Care: Prioritises service users’ needs by providing consistent, empathetic care that promotes empowerment, independence, and choice, while striving to meet quality standards.
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Leadership & Accountability: Leads and motivates teams to achieve goals, fosters a positive environment, and holds self and others accountable for delivering high standards of care and performance.
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Scope of Practice: Performs all roles and responsibilities within the professional, ethical, and regulatory framework set by NMBI. Committed to continuous learning and maintaining professional competence.
Main Responsibilities:
Under the guidance of the Unit Manager or designated person, the staff nurse will:
Person-Centred Planning:
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Support service users to identify and achieve personal goals using a person-centred approach.
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Assist service users in attaining educational qualifications, such as FETAC, where appropriate.
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Collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams (MDT), families, and key individuals to implement care plans.
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Regularly assess service users using appropriate assessment tools.
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Act as key worker for assigned service users, developing and coordinating tailored support programmes.
Community Engagement:
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Support service users to participate actively in community life and access a wide range of community resources, including organising outings beyond normal working hours if needed.
Individual Support:
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Provide personalised assistance with personal care, promoting dignity and independence.
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Maintain confidentiality and respect service users’ privacy at all times.
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Assist with meal preparation and promote healthy eating habits suited to the individual’s needs.
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Encourage the development of personal care and community living skills (e.g., toileting, hygiene, self-care).
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Perform tasks necessary for the comfort, wellbeing, and hygiene of service users.
Communication:
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Communicate respectfully and effectively with families, visitors, professionals, and service users, considering individual abilities.
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Document and share relevant information with MDT colleagues, families, and service user care plans.
Promoting Health and Wellbeing:
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Monitor service users’ health, respond to medical concerns, liaise with healthcare providers, and accompany individuals to appointments when required.
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Manage and administer medications in line with NMBI regulations and policies.
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Support service users in managing their own medication where appropriate.
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Perform all clinical duties within the professional scope of nursing practice.
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Maintain up-to-date knowledge of all applicable policies and standards.
Staff Supervision:
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Supervise assigned staff, managing their workload and performance.
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Participate in staff appraisals and address development needs.
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Support disciplinary processes, handle grievances, and respond to incidents when required.
Household and Resource Management:
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Ensure efficient use of resources, supplies, and equipment.
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Manage and maintain adequate stocks within the unit.
Health & Safety:
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Monitor and report maintenance issues or safety risks within the building and surrounding area.
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Ensure proper storage, handling, and administration of medications according to policy.
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Perform assigned security duties, including fire safety, alarms, and access control.
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Complete mandatory Health and Safety training (e.g., Manual Handling, Fire Safety).
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Maintain hygienic food storage and preparation in line with Environmental Health guidelines.
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Collaborate with management to identify and mitigate risks to service users within the centre, residence, and community.
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Report and document incidents and accidents in accordance with policy.
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Uphold high standards of infection control as per guidelines.
Record Keeping and Financial Management:
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Maintain accurate records, including daily reports, financial logs, communication notes, and care plans.
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Support service users in managing personal finances and document all transactions.
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Ensure proper record-keeping for unit expenditures and staff matters (e.g., leave, rosters).
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Secure and maintain confidential files in an organised manner.
Training & Professional Development:
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Commit to continuous professional development in line with NMBI and requirements.
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Attend relevant training sessions, conferences, and workshops to support service user needs and meet national standards, including safeguarding training.
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Engage in regular staff meetings and performance appraisals.
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Maintain active NMBI registration.
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Demonstrate flexibility and openness to adapting work practices in line with service developments
To know more contact Sonal Tikariha
