The Clinical Placement Coordinator (CPC) will guide and support pre-registration nursing students and staff in assigned clinical areas to ensure that clinical placements meet the requirements of the education programme with regard to planned experiences and learning outcomes. 

The additional remit of CPC post includes the provision of support to students in all learning environments including those beyond the principal teaching site. 

Participate in practice development initiatives and encourage the application of theoretical knowledge to practice in the clinical areas. 

Report directly to and is accountable to the Director of Nursing & Assistant Director of Nursing (Practice Development).  

A panel may be formed as a result of this campaign for Cavan – Monaghan Hospital from which current and future, permanent and specified purpose vacancies of full or part-time duration may be filled.

This campaign will run in compliance with the Code of Practice prepared by the Commission for Public Service Appointments (CPSA).

The CPSA is responsible for establishing the principles that should be followed when making an appointment. These are set out in the CPSA Code of Practice. The Code outlines the standards that should be adhered to at each stage of the selection process and sets out the review and appeal mechanisms open to candidates should they be unhappy with a selection process.

The CPSA Code of Practice can be accessed via https://www.cpsa.ie/.

Salary Scale: CLINICAL PLACEMENT COORDINATOR

1/03/23  €56,353 €57,287 €58,076 €59,365 €60,789 €62,187 €63,585 €65,160 €66,622   

The RCSI Hospital Group includes the following hospitals; 

• Beaumont Hospital
• Cavan General Hospital
• Connolly Hospital
• Louth County Hospital
• Monaghan General Hospital
• Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital
• Rotunda Hospital  

The Academic Partner for the Group is the RCSI.

RCSI Hospital Group provides a national service and a regional service to Dublin and the North East and is committed to the provision of world-class care, exceptional clinical services with respect and compassion.

Cavan & Monaghan Hospital’s Catchment Population of over 120,000 covering Counties Cavan & Monaghan, and parts of Counties Longford, Leitrim, and Meath. Cavan Monaghan Hospital is part of the RCSI Hospitals Group which covers a population in excess of 800,000.

Cavan & Monaghan Hospital provides a range of acute medical, surgical, obstetric, and gynaecological, paediatric services, day care, outpatient, diagnostic and support services.  Emergency services are provided on a 365-day, 24 hour basis.  Multi-disciplinary teams representative of medical, nursing/midwifery, health and social care professionals, management administration and general support staff play a pivotal role in the development, delivery, monitoring and evaluation of these services.  Cavan General Hospital has a total in-patient bed complement of 255 and 102 day beds.  Monaghan Hospital has a total of 54 in-patient beds inclusive of step-down and rehabilitation and 17 day beds. The total staff HSE complement is approximately 1279 in Cavan General Hospital and 159 in Monaghan Hospital.  The hospital is affiliated to the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland (RCSI) for medical education, to Dundalk Institute of Technology for nursing education and to University College Dublin (UCD), Trinity College Dublin (TCD) and the Institute of Technology for health and social care professional education.  

The post-holder will; 

• Advise, encourage, support and facilitate student nurse learning through a broad range of means e.g. the identification of learning opportunities and outcomes in the clinical areas, imparting knowledge and creating an environment that is conducive to learning in order that nursing students can achieve maximum outcome from clinical
• Encourage and promote the students’ application of theoretical knowledge to nursing practice in the clinical areas. This can be achieved through the development of competencies, interpersonal skills, reflective practice; evidence informed practice; teaching and assessing, in a clinical environment conducive to
• Support registered nurses in their role as preceptor, supervisor and clinical
• Act as a link between the nursing students, the preceptor, associate preceptor, relevant nurse manager, academic link lecturers DKIT & the Department of Nursing, Cavan Monaghan Hospital.
• Educate and support both students and preceptors regarding the assessment process. Ensure the assessment process is carried out with due concern for fairness and accuracy.
• Facilitate the application of knowledge-based nursing practice and standards in clinical practice, including completion of clinical learning environment audits in designated clinical placement, participating and working with staff with service improvement and initiatives.
• Participate in nurse practice development initiatives, which foster the application of theory to practice and improved quality of patient
• Coordinate, guide and support the pre-registration student nurse during their clinical placement. This involves dedicated individual support to the student, the identification of learning opportunities in the clinical area, and the imparting of the CPC’s knowledge and expertise in the
• Ensure, in partnership with the CNMs, that each student is assigned a named preceptor, who is a registered nurse, for the duration of the clinical practice
• Act as a resource and guidance for student nurses and nursing staff on any issues relating to student clinical placements. Assist the relevant managers, preceptors, and staff nurses in ensuring that students are assigned to patient/client care as appropriate.
• Collaborate with all stakeholders to create a climate that is conducive to learning for student nurses and nursing staff are supported and encouraged to seek assistance, support and
• Assist in the development and delivery of orientation programmes for student
• Give encouragement and support to assigned students during the clinical placements and help build students’
• Be available to discuss the student’s overall performance during their clinical placements. Discuss strengths and weaknesses with the student, their preceptor and relevant manager.
• Advise relevant staff nurses and preceptors of the learning needs of individual students and assist, where necessary, in the implementation of an action plan/supportive learning plans to facilitate student
• Support relevant managers, staff nurses and preceptors in developing their teaching and preceptor role to ensure that the students learning outcomes and competencies are
• Facilitate workshops on the competency documentation as appropriate and be available to assist the preceptorship teaching/assessing courses.
• Ensure that each student is assessed by the designated preceptor in accordance with agreed procedures and Nursing & Midwifery Board Ireland (NMBI) Requirement & Standards for Nurse Registration Education
• Support the implementation of the Requirement & Standards for Nurse Registration Education Programmes of NMBI
• Assist in developing a supportive clinical environment that enhances and increases the student’s competence.
• Carry out clinical learning environment audits in partnership with CNMs and Cavan Monaghan Hospitals.
• Work as a member of the Practice Development Team in preparation for Nursing & Midwifery Board Ireland site
• Assist in formulating and implementing action plans for improving the clinical environment, in conjunction with the relevant nurse managers, nursing staff, Practice Development Coordinator and the Cavan Monaghan Department of Nursing and Midwifery.
• Develop the needs of the clinical site through in-service training and education that enhances the clinical learning environment for nursing students and staff in line with NMBI Clinical Learning Environment (2015) guideline.
• Encourage the application of nursing theory to nursing practice in the clinical areas. Assist in formulating measures, in line with best practice and in consultation with appropriate nursing and multidisciplinary personnel, Practice Development Coordinator and/or Assistant Director of Nursing, to improve practices, procedures or behaviour in the clinical setting that could create a poor learning environment for nursing
• Promote, encourage and participate in research, development and quality improvement initiatives. Participate in multidisciplinary committees within the Health Service, Third Level Institute, Centre of Nurse
• Works as a member of the Nurse Practice Development Team on quality initiatives such as standard setting, clinical audits, research, policy development and other initiatives to develop improved systems of work and incorporate evidence informed practice.
• Act as a facilitator between the student’s clinical placement areas and the college. Discuss where necessary, with the assigned lecturer/clinical skills tutor, the individual student’s performance and specific learning
• Work in collaboration with the Student Allocations Liaison Officer in the monitoring of student nurse attendance and all issues regarding both the supernumerary and internship clinical placement allocations of the
• Be jointly involved with the Nurse Practice Development Department in the preparation of external
• Report to the Nursing Practice Development Coordinator any practices, procedures or behaviour that could create a poor clinical learning environment for student nurses. Assist in formulating corrective measures for discussion with appropriate nursing personnel to achieve the highest standard and promote an environment conducive to best practice.
• Ensure that the students meet the requirements of clinical placement guidelines including the dress and professional behaviour code in the clinical areas.
• Maintain appropriate records and at all times be aware of the assigned student’s progress. The CPC will support and assist Nursing Students and Registered Nurses in the accurate completion of the student competence assessment
• Support and encourage reflective practice for nursing students. Support students in the completion of their reflective portfolio by assisting them to link practice to the ‘Domains of Competence’.
• Encourage students to access where appropriate student support services in relation to personal issues/concerns.
• Deal with student issues/challenges in an appropriate, timely manner adhering to set out local guidelines for same.
• Give support and counsel to preceptors and act in accordance with agreed service policy, if necessary.
• While the post is primarily concerned and designated to improving undergraduate nurse education, the post holder is expected to be aware of and work with other professionals involved in the whole continuum of nurse education (from undergraduate to continuing professional development).

Management:

The post-holder will; 

• Provide an efficient, effective and high quality service, respecting the needs of each patient / client.
• Effectively manage time and caseload in in order to meet the needs of a changing and developing service.
• Continually monitor the service to ensure it reflects current needs.
• Implement and manage identified changes.
• Ensure that confidentiality in relation to patient/client records is maintained.
• Maintain accurate and up to date statistics of the service provided, including audit of patient / client contacts.
• Represent the specialist service at local, national and international meetings as required.
• Maintain accurate and contemporaneous records/ data on all matters pertaining to the planning, management, delivery and evaluation of this service in line with HSE requirements.
• Be able to take charge as required and assist with administrative duties. 

KPIs

The post-holder will; 

• The identification & development of Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) which are congruent with the Hospital’s service plan targets.
• The development of Action Plans to address KPI targets.
• Driving and promoting a Performance Management culture.
• In conjunction with line manager, assist in the development of a Performance Management system for your profession.
• The management and delivery of KPIs as a routine and core business objective. 

Professional Development

The post-holder will; 

• Maintain and develop competence in professional nursing matters and relevant specialist knowledge including reflective practice, research and leadership skills, assessment and supervision of
• Keep up to date with the Requirement & Standards for Nurse Registration Education Programmes of Nursing & Midwifery Board Ireland and all other relevant publications that impact on the Nurse Undergraduate
• Keep up to date with curriculum developments and undertaking clinical learning environment
• Participate in activities that enhance personal professional development
• Refer to the Scope of Nursing and Midwifery Practice Framework 2015, and Code of Professional Conduct and Ethics for Registered Nurses and Registered Midwives 2014 in their professional practice.
• Carry out additional duties appropriate to the office as may be assigned to him/her by the Nurse Practice Development Coordinator and/or Area Director of Nursing
• Have a working Knowledge of the National Standards for the Prevention and Control of Healthcare Associated Infections, and comply with associated HSE protocols for implementing and maintaining these standards.
• As a mandated person under the Children First Act 2015 you will have a legal obligation to report child protection concerns at or above a defined threshold to Tusla & to assist Tusla, if requested, in assessing a concern which has been the subject of a mandated report
• Have a working knowledge of HIQA Standards as they apply to the role for example, Standards for Better Safer Healthcare, National Standards for the Prevention and Control of Healthcare Associated Infections, Hygiene Standards, Nutrition and Hydration etc., and comply with HSE protocols for implementing and maintaining these standards as appropriate to the role. 

Health & Safety 

The post-holder will; 

• Ensure that effective safety procedures are developed and managed to comply with statutory obligations, in conjunction with relevant staff.
• Be responsible for ensuring that they become familiar with the requirements stated within the Risk Management Strategy and that they comply with the Group’s Risk Management Incident/Near Miss reporting policies and procedures.
• Foster and support a quality improvement culture throughout your area of responsibility in relation to hygiene services.
• Be aware of and familiar with Health & Safety regulations.
• Ensure mandatory training is up to date.
• Take reasonable care for his or her own actions and the effect that these may have upon the safety of others. 

Hospital Uniform:

Ensure you comply with hospital policy.

Personal Development:

Keep up to date with nursing literature, recent nursing research findings and new developments in nursing management, education and practice and advise staff on necessary changes.  It is the responsibility of each professional to update his/her own human development.

Attend staff meetings/study-days/seminars as considered appropriate and feedback appropriate information.

Confidentiality

In the course of your employment you may have access to, or hear information concerning, the medical or personal affairs of patients and/or staff, or other health service business.  Such records and information are strictly confidential and, unless acting on the instructions of an authorised officer, on no account must information concerning staff, patients or other health service business be divulged or discussed except in the performance of normal duty.  In addition, records must never be left in such a manner that unauthorised persons can obtain access to them and must be left in safe custody when no longer required.

The above Job Description is not intended to be a comprehensive list of all duties involved and consequently, the post holder may be required to perform other duties as appropriate to the post, which may be assigned to him/her from time to time, and to contribute to the development of the post while in office.  

Note

The role of the Clinical Placement Co-Ordinator is not that of a Clinical teacher. The primary focus for all teaching in the clinical area must be the clinical practitioners i.e. Ward and Departmental CNM s and Staff Nurses

This job description outlines the main duties and responsibilities of the post and is subject to review and amendment to reflect the changing needs of the hospital service.  The extent and speed of change in the delivery of health care is such that adaptability is essential.  The incumbent will be required to establish, maintain, enhance and develop their professional knowledge, skills and aptitudes in order to respond to a developing service situation.

1.  Professional Qualifications & Experience

Each candidate must, at the latest date for receipt of completed applications for the post;

Be registered in the Relevant Division of the Register of Nurses kept by An Bord Altranais or be entitled to be so registered

And

Possess a 3rd Level Qualification at Level 7 (ordinary degree) or higher

And

Have at least 5 years post registration experience of which 2 must be in a student learning environment

And

Have completed a Teaching and Assessing course

And

Have the clinical, managerial and administrative capacity to properly discharge the functions of the role

2. Annual registration

Practitioners must maintain live annual registration on the relevant division of the Register of Nurses and Midwives maintained by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland (Bord Altranais agus Cnáimhseachais na hÉireann).

And

Confirm annual registration with NMBI to the HSE by way of the annual Patient Safety Assurance Certificate (PSAC).

3.  Health

A candidate for and any person holding the office must be fully competent and capable of undertaking the duties attached to the office and be in a state of health such as would indicate a reasonable prospect of ability to render regular and efficient service

4.  Character

Each candidate for and any person holding the office must be of good character.

Post Specific Requirements

Demonstrate depth and breadth of nursing experience in a Student learning environment as relevant to the role.

Technical & Professional Knowledge

Has a command over the technical/ professional skills and knowledge required within the job holder’s role and continues to upskill to maintain high professional standards and continuous professional development requirements.

Leadership and Management

Manages performance to deliver team goals; demonstrates accountability for leading, directing, monitoring, and evaluating RCSI Hospital Group services. Creates a climate in which people want to do their best. Promotes confidence and positive attitude; influences others to follow a common goal.

Building & Maintaining Relationships

Builds and maintains relationships with a network of people. Recognises the two way nature of relationships and works to develop mutually beneficial partnerships. Interacts with others in a manner that builds respect and fosters trust. 

Commitment to Quality & Risk Management

The ability to focus on understanding stakeholder’s needs and expectations and to respond effectively and efficiently to them. Has a good knowledge of and is committed to offer a quality service through the achievement of goals, accreditation standards, other organisation/department standards and risk management frameworks and guidelines.

Problem Solving & Decision Making

Identifies and solves problems by understanding the situation, seeking additional information, developing, and weighing alternatives, and choosing the most appropriate course of action given the circumstances.

Communication & Interpersonal Skills

Speaks and writes clearly, fluently, and effectively to both individuals and groups; communicates in a manner that will persuade, convince, and influence others, to motivate, inspire or encourage them to follow a particular course of action.

This Job Description is intended as a basic guide to the scope and responsibilities of the position and is subject to regular review and amendment. The role holder will be required to be flexible in this position and is expected to facilitate working additional hours on occasion, when requested.

The RCSI Hospital Group is an Equal Opportunities Employer.