Charter Medical Private Hospital (CMPH) is a 77-bed surgical hospital located on the outskirts of Mullingar with four operating theatres and an endoscopy unit. We provide a wide range of surgical care across multiple specialties and offer 24/7 Stepdown, Minor Injuries, and Rapid Access services in collaboration with the HSE.
Role Summary
The Staff Nurse in the Step-Down Unit (SDU) is responsible for providing high-quality, patient-centred nursing care to adults requiring ongoing medical or surgical management, monitoring, and rehabilitation. This includes caring for patients transitioning from higher acuity areas such as HDU or theatre, or those admitted directly for sub-acute medical treatment. The role involves comprehensive clinical assessment, evidence-based care, patient education, and effective collaboration with the multidisciplinary team to support recovery and safe discharge while maintaining the highest standards of professional nursing practice.
Key Responsibilities
Admission & Initial Assessment
* Undertake comprehensive nursing assessments for all patients admitted to the Step-Down Unit, documenting clinical findings accurately.
* Liaise with referring areas (wards, HDU, theatre) to ensure safe transfer and continuity of care using structured communication tools such as SBAR.
* Develop and implement individualised care plans based on clinical needs and priorities.
Ongoing Clinical Management
* Deliver safe, evidence-based care to patients requiring ongoing medical or surgical management.
* Perform systematic clinical observations using recognised tools (e.g.,IMEWS) and escalate any deterioration promptly.
* Administer prescribed medications, IV therapies, and blood products in line with hospital policy and NMBI guidelines.
* Manage wounds, drains, catheters, and enteral feeding devices competently, maintaining aseptic and infection control standards.
* Support effective pain management using pharmacological and non-pharmacological interventions appropriate to the patient's condition.
Rehabilitation & Patient Education
* Encourage early mobilisation and support rehabilitation goals to optimise patient recovery and independence.
* Educate patients and families about treatment plans, medication management, and lifestyle adjustments required post-discharge.
* Promote patient empowerment through shared decision-making and goal setting.
Discharge Planning & Coordination
* Collaborate with the multidisciplinary team to plan safe and timely discharge for all patients.
* Coordinate communication with community and primary care services to ensure continuity of care following discharge.
* Provide detailed discharge education and documentation to patients and carers, ensuring understanding of aftercare requirements and red-flag symptoms.
Quality, Safety & Risk Management
* Adhere to infection prevention and control standards, maintaining a clean and safe clinical environment.
* Participate in clinical audit, incident reporting, and quality improvement initiatives to enhance service delivery.
* Contribute to maintaining compliance with CHKS, HIQA, and other regulatory frameworks.
* Promote a culture of safety, continuous learning, and positive reporting of near misses and incidents.
Professional Practice & Leadership
* Maintain accurate, contemporaneous, and confidential documentation in line with professional and hospital standards.
* Comply with the NMBI Code of Professional Conduct and Ethics and demonstrate accountability for personal and team practice.
* Act as a role model and mentor to students and junior nursing staff, promoting a positive learning environment.
* Demonstrate flexibility in meeting service requirements and contribute to the ongoing development of nursing practice and policy.
Teamwork & Communication
* Communicate clearly and respectfully with patients, families, and colleagues to ensure effective coordination of care.
* Participate in handovers, safety huddles, and multidisciplinary meetings to promote collaboration and shared decision-making.
* Build positive professional relationships within and across departments to support safe and efficient patient flow.
Essential Criteria - Knowledge/ Experience
* Registered in the relevant division of the NMBI register (General Division).
* Minimum of 3 years post-registration experience, with at least 1 year in an acute medical or surgical environment.
* Demonstrated competence, professionalism, and commitment to continuous professional development.
* Awareness of current and emerging nursing strategies, clinical standards, and national health policies relevant to acute care.
* Understanding of quality assurance, health and safety, and infection control standards.
* Ability to work effectively as part of a multidisciplinary team.
* Excellent communication, organisational, and clinical decision-making skills.
Skills/ Competencies **
Acute Clinical Expertise
Demonstrates proficiency in assessing, planning, implementing, and evaluating nursing care for acutely ill medical and surgical patients. Demonstrates strong clinical judgment and the ability to recognise and respond to patient deterioration promptly.
Medication & Infusion Management
Competent in the safe administration of medications, IV therapies, and blood transfusions, recognising contraindications and responding appropriately to adverse events.
Patient-Centred Care
Provides compassionate, holistic care focused on dignity, respect, and empowerment. Involves patients and families in care decisions and rehabilitation planning.
Multidisciplinary Collaboration
Works collaboratively with medical, nursing, and allied health professionals to deliver coordinated and effective care. Communicates proactively across all care settings.
Rehabilitation & Discharge Planning
Encourages patient independence and mobility, coordinates discharge plans, and ensures education and continuity of care beyond discharge.
Quality & Risk Management
Participates in clinical audits, safety reviews, and quality improvement programmes. Promotes a culture of safety, learning, and accountability.
Professional & Ethical Practice
Adheres to the NMBI Code of Conduct, maintaining professionalism, confidentiality, and integrity at all times. Demonstrates accountability for clinical and ethical standards.
Leadership & Team Support
Acts as a role model and mentor, supporting the development of peers and students. Contributes to service improvement and positive team culture.
What We Offer
* Competitive salary
* Full-time, permanent employment contract
* Continuous professional development and training opportunities
* Supportive, collaborative working environment
* Employee Assistance Programme
* Opportunities for career progression
* Free on-site parking
At Charter Medical Private Hospital, diversity and inclusion are at the heart of our values. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and ensure equal opportunity in hiring and advancement. Apply for the above role by sending your CV to including the job title in the subject.
Job Types: Full-time, Permanent
Benefits:
* Employee assistance program
* On-site parking
* Sick pay
Education:
* Bachelor's (preferred)
Licence/Certification:
* NMBI membership (required)
Work Location: In person