As an OPAT and Vascular Access Clinical Nurse Specialist, you will:
-
Deliver and develop the Outpatient Parenteral Antimicrobial Therapy (OPAT) and Vascular Access services, supporting high-quality, safe, and effective patient care across inpatient, outpatient, and community settings.
-
Assess, insert, and manage vascular access devices (including peripheral cannulas, midlines, and PICC lines) using ultrasound guidance and evidence-based infection prevention practices.
-
Assess patients for suitability for OPAT, coordinate care, provide patient and carer education, and act as a key point of contact for troubleshooting and ongoing support.
-
Work collaboratively with the Infection Prevention & Control Team, microbiologists, pharmacists, and community staff to ensure seamless, patient-centred care and effective antimicrobial stewardship.
-
Lead on audits, surveillance, and reporting related to vascular access , contributing to Trust-wide infection prevention strategies.
-
Educate and train staff across clinical areas in vascular access management, fostering best practice and competency.
-
Support service development and quality improvement initiatives, including policy updates and pathway development.
-
Participate in research, audit, and governance activities to advance clinical practice and improve patient outcomes.
-
Provide telephone advice and outreach support to community staff and patients to prevent unnecessary admissions and ensure continuity of care.
