Primary Purpose
The Enrolled Nurse (EN) is responsible for delivering high-quality, person-centered clinical care that enhances the health and wellbeing of residents, including those in aged care and those with disabilities. Working under the supervision of a Registered Nurse (RN), the EN performs assessments, planning, implementation, and evaluation of nursing care in accordance with Booroongen Djugun Limited (BDL) policies and procedures, the Aged Care Quality Standards, AHPRA Professional Conduct guidelines, and their scope of practice. The EN also plays a key role in fostering leadership within the care team and contributing to continuous professional and clinical development.
Key Responsibilities and Duties
Clinical Care Delivery
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Conduct comprehensive and accurate nursing assessments of residents.
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Develop individualized care plans focusing on optimizing residents' quality of life.
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Deliver direct nursing care, including wound care, medication administration, and chronic disease management, in line with residents' care plans.
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Implement and monitor interventions that promote residents' physical, emotional, and social wellbeing.
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Collaborate with the care team and allied health professionals to identify and address the changing needs of residents.
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Maintain legally appropriate and accurate documentation of nursing and care activities.
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Monitor and report changes in residents' health conditions to the supervising RN promptly.
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Have a thorough understanding of the Serious Incident Response Scheme (SIRS) and reportable incidents (RIs), ensuring mandatory reporting obligations are met.
Leadership and Team Development
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Act as a positive role model, fostering a supportive and collaborative environment for team members.
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Provide direct supervision, guidance, and feedback to Nursing Assistants and Trainees.
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Assist with the orientation, induction, and ongoing development of new staff members, including agency and volunteer staff.
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Facilitate on-the-job training sessions to improve team competencies and clinical skills.
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Supervise and mentor students on placement, providing constructive feedback and fostering learning opportunities.
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Contribute to staff performance appraisals by providing input on team members' skills and areas for improvement.
Continuous Improvement and Quality Standards
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Identify opportunities for clinical and operational improvements in care delivery.
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Actively participate in quality assurance programs, including audits and reviews.
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Implement strategies to promote compliance with the Aged Care Quality Standards.
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Provide recommendations for adopting evidence-based practices to enhance resident care.
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Contribute to organizational meetings, consultations, and decision-making processes.
Professional Communication and Advocacy
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Foster respectful, empathetic, and effective communication with residents, families, and the care team.
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Keep the Clinical Care Lead and management informed of relevant issues, incidents, and reportable events within required timeframes.
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Advocate for residents' rights, preferences, and needs in care planning and delivery.
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Respond promptly and effectively to emergencies and unforeseen incidents in the absence of the Clinical Care Manager.
Scope of Practice
The Enrolled Nurse operates within their scope of practice as defined by:
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Education and Competence: Delivering nursing care consistent with their formal education, clinical training, and assessed competence.
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Regulatory Standards: Adhering to guidelines and standards set by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).
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Delegated Authority: Working under the supervision and delegation of a Registered Nurse (RN) while recognizing and respecting the professional boundaries of their role.
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Legislative Compliance: Ensuring all activities comply with relevant health, aged care, and disability care legislation.
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Ethical Practice: Upholding the highest standards of professional ethics, confidentiality, and resident-centered care.
The Expertise You Bring
Qualifications and Registrations
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Current registration as an Enrolled Nurse with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).
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Current First Aid and CPR certification (desirable).
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Demonstrated compliance with professional codes of conduct and scope of practice guidelines.
Experience and Knowledge
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Minimum of two years of practical nursing experience, preferably in aged care or disability services.
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In-depth understanding of the ageing process and its impact on health and wellbeing.
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Extensive knowledge of Aged Care Quality Standards, SIRS, and reportable incident obligations.
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Advanced skills in medication administration, wound care, and managing complex care needs.
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Expertise in infection prevention and control practices and workplace health and safety regulations.
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Familiarity with BDL's policies and procedures to ensure alignment with organizational goals and resident care expectations.
Skills and Attributes
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Strong clinical assessment, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
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Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills to engage with a diverse range of stakeholders, including residents, families, and staff.
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Commitment to confidentiality, professionalism, and ethical standards.
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Ability to work autonomously within scope and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
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Dedication to continuous learning, professional development, and leadership growth.
Additional Attributes
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High proficiency in using clinical and administrative software for documentation and communication.
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Demonstrated ability to provide emotional support to residents and families in challenging circumstances.
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Proven capability to implement and follow care protocols, including emergency response procedures.
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Commitment to cultural sensitivity and an understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander health considerations.
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Strong time management skills and ability to prioritize workload efficiently.
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Flexibility and adaptability to accommodate changing care needs and environments.
Accountability and Extent of Authority
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Accountable for the safe and competent delivery of care within their scope of practice.
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Report and escalate complex care issues or incidents to the supervising RN.
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Ensure compliance with organizational policies, procedures, and legal requirements.
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Actively monitor and address risks in the care environment to protect residents and staff.
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Contribute to maintaining a safe and respectful workplace culture.
Professional and Leadership Development
Clinical Expertise Development
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Participate in mandatory training sessions and continuing professional education programs.
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Stay updated with emerging trends and best practices in aged care and disability services.
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Seek opportunities to expand clinical competencies and leadership capabilities.
Leadership Growth
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Engage in leadership training programs to enhance team management and mentorship skills.
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Collaborate with RNs and senior leaders to develop strategies for team cohesion and efficiency.
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Take on delegated leadership roles during shifts to build confidence and experience.
HR, OHS, Risk Management, and Equal Opportunity
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Adhere to BDL's Human Resources, Health and Safety, Equal Opportunity, and Risk Management policies.
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Promote a safe, inclusive, and respectful work environment.
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Comply with all workplace health and safety procedures, including reporting hazards and incidents
