Staff Nurse

Job Description

About the Organisation

Oakhaven Hospice provides specialist palliative and end-of-life care to people across the New Forest area. The hospice supports individuals living with life-limiting illnesses through inpatient care, day hospice services and community support, while also helping families and carers navigate difficult times.

The organisation is committed to compassion, dignity and equality, encouraging an inclusive workplace where staff can contribute openly and develop professionally.

Role Overview

This role is ideal for a registered nurse who values meaningful patient interaction and wants to contribute to high-quality hospice care. As a Staff Nurse within the inpatient unit, you will play an important part in delivering holistic care for patients with complex palliative needs.

You will collaborate with a multi-disciplinary team including doctors, therapists, support staff and volunteers to ensure that patients receive compassionate, coordinated care focused on comfort, dignity and quality of life.

Key Responsibilities

Patient Care and Clinical Practice

• Assess each patient’s physical, emotional and psychological care needs.
• Develop and implement individualised care plans that reflect patient preferences and clinical priorities.
• Monitor patient progress and evaluate the effectiveness of care interventions.
• Deliver clinical procedures and treatments, including medication administration in line with Nursing and Midwifery Council standards.

Family Support and Communication

• Maintain supportive communication with patients and their families during challenging end-of-life situations.
• Provide clear explanations of care plans and treatment options.
• Offer emotional support and guidance to relatives and carers.

Multidisciplinary Collaboration

• Work closely with colleagues across the hospice and community services.
• Participate in shift handovers and clinical discussions to ensure continuity of care.
• Liaise with healthcare professionals at different levels within the wider care network.

Documentation and Governance

• Ensure nursing documentation and electronic records are accurate and updated at each shift.
• Follow hospice policies, clinical governance standards and safeguarding requirements.
• Escalate concerns or operational issues to the Nurse in Charge or Senior Sister.

Medicines Management

• Safely administer and manage medications in accordance with NMC guidelines and hospice protocols.
• Support ordering, storage and safe handling of medicines.

Essential Requirements

Professional Experience

• Minimum two years’ post-qualification experience as a nurse in the UK
• Experience caring for patients with palliative, oncology or complex medical needs
• Previous involvement in multidisciplinary team working

Qualifications

• Registered Nurse qualification (RGN) with active registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council
• Degree in nursing or equivalent professional experience
• Evidence of continuing professional development
• Post-registration training in palliative care or cancer care (or currently working toward this)

Skills and Attributes

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Confidence discussing sensitive end-of-life issues
• Compassionate and professional approach to patient care
• Competent IT skills including electronic records, email and Microsoft Office
• Ability to adapt to a flexible shift pattern

Desirable Skills

• Teaching or mentoring qualification
• Training in communication for end-of-life care
• Experience contributing to clinical standards, quality improvement or care guidelines

Pre-Employment Requirements

This position requires a Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check in line with the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 exceptions for healthcare roles.

Applicants must also maintain professional registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Council.

Helpful UK Government Information

For further guidance about working as a nurse in the UK:

• Nursing and Midwifery Council registration requirements 
• Working in the UK healthcare sector 
• Disclosure and Barring Service checks 
• Professional standards for nurses 
• Guidance on palliative and end-of-life care