Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) for Ophthalmology

The Princess Alexandra Hospital NHS Trust; Harlow; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading healthcare organization in Harlow is seeking a dedicated Clinical Nurse Specialist in Ophthalmology. The role involves leading nurse-led clinics, offering advanced patient assessments, and enhancing patient care pathways. Ideal candidates will have strong ophthalmology experience, excellent communication, and a commitment to quality care. This position provides opportunities for professional development within a collaborative team focused on achieving exceptional patient outcomes.

Benefits

Professional development opportunities

Advanced skills training

Supportive team environment

Qualifications

• Strong experience in ophthalmology or commitment to develop specialist expertise.
• Ability to practice autonomously and handle a caseload.
• Commitment to continuous improvement and patient-centered care.

Responsibilities

• Lead nurse-led ophthalmology clinics and perform assessments.
• Manage and support patients with various eye conditions.
• Collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams to improve patient pathways.

Skills

Ophthalmology experience

Excellent communication skills

Clinical judgment

Team collaboration

Education

Registered nurse qualification

Job description

Job summary

• The Clinical Nurse Specialist will act as the clinical expert and professional resource to the multi-pro professional team, patients and carers within their Speciality Service.
• The post holder will have a responsibility to develop the specialist area of practice in partnership with other members of the speciality team will work collaboratively to develop services and improve the quality of care delivered.
• The post holder will carry responsibility for either a defined case load or offering highly specialist service advise” this will include setting standards of care, the assessment of care needs and the development, implementation and evaluation of programmes of care, management and education.
• The post holder will contribute to achieving the objectives of the clinical service group speciality corporate objectives and work within the clinical governance framework.

This will be achieved through the core dimensions of the role, clinical practice, leadership, acting as the patient advocate and through audit and education.

Duties And Responsibilities

Practice autonomously with a high level of accountability at a specialist level in the direct delivery of high-quality care, making critical clinical decisions based on advanced clinical skills assessment.

• With support for the Consultant, be responsible for a caseload of patients and managing nurse led review clinics.
• Assess, diagnosis and treat patients under the guidance from consultants and ANP, develop treatment plans within set guidelines, and record clinical findings using the department information systems, when necessary collaborate with the multi-professional and / or refer to the senior clinical colleagues as appropriate.
• Challenge practice so that the best and most appropriate treatment is given to the patient; maintaining and monitoring high standards of care, recognising and responding proactively to patients’ changing clinical needs.
• Maintain professional competence, authority and credibility by undertaking regular clinical sessions in line with your job plan and being highly visible to patients, carers and staff, actively seeking feedback about the quality of services. Collaborate in the establishment and monitoring of protocols / care pathways.
• Actively participate in case discussions and multi-disciplinary team meetings, liaise with inter hospital departments / personnel across organisations and professional boundaries.
• Undertake non-medical independent prescribing if required by service, in accordance with policies, current legislation and Patient Group Directions (PGD’s).
• Supervise and support junior members of staff in the delivery of patient care.
• Identify deteriorating patients and take the appropriate action to manage the situation, liaising with the multi-disciplinary team and external care providers as appropriate.
• Have accountability for the correct administration, usage and storage of medicines including host cost drugs according to the trust policy to include the safe administration of medicines, controlled, intravenous and cytotoxic drugs.

CNS (B7) Ophthalmology

We are seeking 3 dedicated and experienced Clinical Nurse Specialist in Ophthalmology to join our expanding team. This is an exciting opportunity for a motivated nurse who is passionate about delivering highquality, patientcentred care within a specialist environment. As a CNS in Ophthalmology, you will play a key role in safeguarding and improving patients’ sight through advanced clinical practice, specialist assessment, and expert guidance.

In this role, you will lead nurseled ophthalmology clinics, providing advanced assessment, management, and support for patients with a wide range of eye conditions. You will also act as an expert resource for colleagues, offering specialist education to patients, families, and multidisciplinary teams. Your contribution will be central to developing and improving patient pathways, driving innovation, and maintaining service excellence.

We are looking for a compassionate and confident registered nurse with strong ophthalmology experience or a genuine interest in developing specialist expertise. Excellent communication skills, sound clinical judgement, and a commitment to continuous improvement are essential. Above all, you will share our values of putting the patient at the heart of everything we do, striving for everyday excellence, and collaborating creatively with others.

In return, we offer a supportive environment with excellent opportunities for professional development and advanced skills training. You will be joining a team that works closely together, values each other’s contribution, and is committed to delivering outstanding ophthalmic care. This is your opportunity to take on a leadership role where your expertise will truly make a difference.

If you are ready to help shape the future of ophthalmology nursing and improve the lives of patients through specialist care, we would love to hear from you. Apply today and be part of creating a clearer future