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A Junior Sister is responsible for the daily operation of a ward and may have specific responsibilities. They take daily responsibility and professional leadership for the team, demonstrating effective communication and appropriate use of resources, maintaining standards of care, adherent always to both National and local policies and procedures

They also act as a role model for the junior team in the delivery of a consistent high standard of nursing practice. In addition they will support the leadership and management of the department or ward with particular emphasis on quality and clinical standards. In the absence of the Senior Sister, the Junior Sister will have clinical responsibility for managing their ward/department which includes understanding the finances, the deployment, delegation and supervision of all grades of staff and be visible and approachable for patient’s staff and visitors. Junior Sisters can identify and develop clinical changes to working practice, and different ways to enhance the service provision.

What qualifications and experience do I need?

Registered Nurse, Registered with NMC, Completion of recognised management programme or demonstrable experience.

Ideally a minimum of 2 years’ experience at Band 5, proven managerial, leadership and facilitation skills, appraisal skills, evidence of recent Continuing Professional Development, awareness of human resource issues and research and evidence based practice, teaching and mentoring skills.

Pay and benefits

Please refer to the latest Agenda for Change pay scales for salary details

Registration

This is a registered practitioner position

 

My story: Zena Horrell

Hi I am Zena Horrell.  I am a B6 Junior Sister and have been working at UHP for 12 years, 4 of which have been in a nursing role.

At 19, I started my career in healthcare with a Business and Administration diploma in the Gynaecology and IVF service line, this lead me to become a Medical Administrator for five years in the Centre of Reproductive Medicine, an area I found truly fascinating and interesting. Feeling very inspired by the team and wanting to be more patient focused, I undertook a Bsc. (Hons) in nursing whilst also working as a HCA throughout UHP. Upon qualifying I commenced full time employment as a staff nurse in Medicine and later transferred to Gynaecology. At this point I felt passionate about providing excellent care for patients, as well as, enriching my own experiences. Often picking up additional shifts in all areas of nursing with a view of further developing my knowledge and skill set. Knowing that my skills lay with both patient care, and supporting my colleagues with their performance at work, I applied for a promotion and successfully joined the Medical Assessment Unit (MAU) as a junior sister.

My role at UHP

My typical day as a Junior Sister consists of being the Nurse in charge (NIC) / co-ordinating the unit, role modelling and ensuring a high standard of care is maintained. This involves taking & triaging referrals from the G.P & the Emergency Department, assessing what is happening to the patient, how stable they are and whether the patient is appropriate for admission to the MAU. My role also includes working clinically, providing clinical support to other members of staff, attending Multi-Disciplinary Team meetings, conducting audits & leading and managing staff members. In addition, the role consists of a high degree of communication liaising with bed managers, site managers and ensuring patient flow throughout the hospital.

The best bits and the challenges

The best bit of the role is the constant learning, the team work and the variety that’s involved. I am very often inspired by my colleagues, the shared dedication and passion helps to inspire others to ensure that patients receive the best care we possibly can.

The most challenging part of the role is meeting the operational pressures, ensuring a steady patient flow, whilst maintaining patient safety and ensuring high quality care and job satisfaction for all.

Life outside of work

I always think it’s important to unwind after a stressful shift, I am a HUGE makeup and skincare lover and do enjoy a pamper from time to time. I also love exploring & travelling to new destinations, spending time with friends and family and I attend the gym when I can.

My top tips to being successful

There are lots of career, educational and developmental opportunities in nursing.  My top tip is to gain as much experience as you possibly can, as this is never wasted and always transferrable wherever you go. I have been very fortunate to further my education with supplementary courses and modules which I will continue to do over the next few years. In the future, I would love to become a specialist nurse, nurse practitioner or a role that involves service improvement or improving education.