JOB DESCRIPTION
Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) / Candidate Clinical Nurse Specialist (cCNS)
Liaison Psychiatry/Self Harm - Permanent Full time
Ref Number: 06.016 (2026)
PURPOSE OF THE ROLE
The CNS/cCNS will deliver care in line with the 5 core concepts of the role set out in the Framework for the Establishment of Clinical Nurse/Midwife Specialist Posts, 4th edition, National Council for the Professional Development of Nursing and Midwifery (NCNM) 2008.
The 5 core concepts are:-
Clinical Focus (Direct and Indirect Care)
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Service User/Client Advocacy
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Education and Training
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Audit and Research
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Consultancy (including Leadership in Clinical Practice)
The post-holder will work as a key member of multidisciplinary liaison psychiatry – psychological medicine team providing care in the Emergency Department and across the Hospital to patients who experience psychological health difficulties and psychiatric disorders. Responsibilities will include the evaluation of specific clinical problems in conjunction with the medical and surgical teams in the general hospital, providing initial assessments of patients, providing specialist intervention where appropriate, and helping to arrange their aftercare. The post-holder will liaise closely with medical staff; paramedical staff; staff from psychiatry and psychological services; staff from palliative care services; with General Practitioners; and with other staff involved in patient services, to ensure delivery of a patient-focused, co-ordinated and consistent service. The successful candidate will liaise closely with clinical management teams in Tallaght University Hospital and with the Community Mental Health Teams in Dublin south Mental Health Services including in the Approved Centres as well as working closely with voluntary and statutory agencies. The post holder will participate in regular staff meetings and daily huddles to ensure information is disseminated and issues discussed.
As part of the role the successful candidate will participate in the development and maintenance of psychiatric databases, research and clinical audit as well as playing an important educational role relating to patient and clinical staff. The post-holder will contribute to the development of various areas of service specialisation within the liaison psychiatry – psychological medicine service. As the service develops, there is scope for development of areas of special clinical expertise in the nursing team. These may include, for example, psycho-oncology; alcohol and/or substance misuse; pain and somatoform disorders; suicidality and self-harm; trauma/orthopaedic care; patients with neuro behavioural symptom; support to those with long term renal conditions, and others.
QUALIFICATIONS
Each candidate must on the latest date for receiving completed application forms for the office -:
Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS)-
Be registered in the General Division of the active register held by Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland or in exceptional circumstances which will be assessed on a case by case basis be registered in another division of the register of Nurses and Midwives.
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Have a minimum of 1 year post registration full time experience or an aggregate of 1 year full time experience in the division of the register in which the application is being made.
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Have a minimum of 1 year experience or aggregate of 1 year full time experience in the specialist area of care to which they are applying.
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Have a third level qualification at not less than level 9 or higher award that is relevant to the specialist area of care (equivalent to 60 ECTS or above), and in line with the requirements for specialist practice as set out by the National Council for Nursing and Midwifery.
Clinical Nurse Specialist Candidate (cCNS)-
Be registered in the General Division of the active register held by Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland or be entitled to be so registered.
OR-
Have a minimum of 1 year post registration full time experience or an aggregate of 1 year full time experience in the division of the register in which the application is being made.
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Have a minimum of 1 year experience or aggregate of 1 year full time experience in the specialist area of care to which they are applying.
OR-
If the applicant does not have the relevant specialist experience, they will be supported to attain one years’ clinical specialist experience.
- Have a third level qualification at not less than level 9 or higher award that is relevant to the specialist area of care (equivalent to 60 ECTS or above), and in line with the requirements for specialist practice as set out by the National Council for Nursing and Midwifery.
OR-
If the applicant does not have the relevant specialist experience, the applicant will be supported to undertake the required post graduate education as relevant to the specialist area.
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All of the above must be achieved within two years from start of employment for this pathway.
Applicable to both pathways-
Have the clinical, managerial and administrative capacity to properly discharge the functions of the role.
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Have excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
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Demonstrate evidence of continuing learning and professional development.
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Confirm annual registration with NMBI to the HSE by way of the annual Patient safety Assurance Certificate.
2. Age Restrictions In Relation To Applications
Age restriction shall only apply to a candidate where he/she is not classified as a new entrant (within the meaning of the Public Service Superannuation (Miscellaneous Provisions) Act, 2004). A candidate who is not classified as a new entrant must be under 65 years of age on the first day of the month in which the latest date for receiving completed applications for the office occurs.
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 as would indicate a reasonable prospect of ability to render regular and efficient service.
4. Be of good character.
5. Garda Vetting
Garda Vetting is sought for all employees and prospective employees of Tallaght University Hospital. Given the specialised nature of the services provided, your appointment will be subject to satisfactory Garda Vetting and re-vetting in circumstances where the Hospital deems it appropriate. The Hospital will then process the necessary documentation to endeavour to obtain satisfactory Garda clearance for you. You are obliged to disclose previous and any criminal convictions acquired during the course of your employment. Should the Hospital obtain information from the Garda Vetting Unit to indicate that your Garda clearance report is not satisfactory and / or if you have supplied the hospital with false or misleading information in relation to your Garda clearance status, the Hospital reserves the right to withdraw or terminate this contract in accordance with Tallaght University Hospital Garda Vetting policy.
6. Mandated and Designated Persons under Children First Act 2015Schedule 2 of the Children First Act 2015 specifies the classes of persons defined as Mandated Persons for the purposes of the Act. This includes a range of disciplines that are employed by the hospital including all medical practitioners, registered nurses, physiotherapists, psychologists, social workers and others. This includes staff working in adult services. All mandated persons have two main legal obligations under the Children First Act 2015. Mandated persons, under the legislation are required to report any knowledge, belief or reasonable suspicion that a child has been harmed, is being harmed, or is at risk of being harmed. The Act defines harm as assault, ill-treatment, neglect or sexual abuse, and covers single and multiple instances. Mandated persons are also required to assist Tusla, if requested, in assessing a concern which has been the subject of a mandated report. Designated Officer are required to receive reports of suspected child abuse or neglect from any person who is of the opinion that (a) a child has been or is being assaulted, ill-treated, neglected or sexually abused, or (b) a child’s health, development or welfare has been or is being avoidably impaired or neglected. Full detailed list of mandated and designated staff together with details of their roles and responsibilities can be found on https://www.tusla.ie/children-first. It is the responsibility of all staff employed by TUH to be aware of their roles and responsibilities under the legislation and to complete mandatory Children First Training.
PARTICULARS OF OFFICE
1. The appointment is fulltime, permanent and pensionable. Part time hours may be considered. A panel of suitable applicants may be formed, from which further vacancies may be filled.
2. Remuneration:
Remuneration is in accordance with the salary scale approved by the Department of Health & Children. Current remuneration with effect from 1st February 2026:
Clinical Nurse Specialist: €60,854 by 11 increments to €76,897 incl. 1 LSI
Candidate Clinical Nurse Specialist: €57,208 by 8 increments to €67,372
These particulars are subject to change in line with overall public pay policy. Point on scale allocated is based on relevant HSE Circulars.
3. Pension Arrangements and Retirement Age
There are three superannuation schemes currently in operation for staff in Tallaght University Hospital:
(a) Voluntary Hospital Superannuation Scheme (Non-New Entrant)
(b) Voluntary Hospital Superannuation Scheme (New Entrant)
(c) Single Public Service Pension Scheme
Please read carefully the summary of the criteria for the three superannuation schemes below. This will assist you in identifying which scheme membership is applicable to your employment circumstances.
(a) If you have been continually employed in the public service prior to the 1st April 2004 and you have not had a break in service of more than 26 weeks, you will be included in the Voluntary Hospital Superannuation Scheme (Non-New Entrant) with a Minimum Retirement Age of 60 and a Maximum Retirement Age of 65.
(b) If you have been continually employed in the public service post the 1st April 2004 and you have not had a break in service of more than 26 weeks, you will be included in the Voluntary Hospital Superannuation Scheme (New Entrant) with a Minimum Retirement Age of 65. There is no Maximum Retirement Age.
(c) If you have commenced employment in the public service as a new entrant or you are a former public servant, returning to the public service after a break of more than 26 weeks, you will be included in the Single Public Service Pension Scheme effective from the 1st January 2013 with a minimum retirement age of 66 (rising to 67 and 68 in line with state pension changes). The maximum retirement age under this scheme will be age 70.
4. Duties:
The CNS/cCns
will perform such duties as are outlined in this job description.
5. Hours of work:
Normal working hours are 37.5 worked over 7 days. Your contracted hours of work are liable to change to meet the requirements for extended day services in accordance with the terms of the Framework Agreement.
6. Probation:
The successful candidate will be appointed initially for a probationary period of 6 months. During the probationary period progress or otherwise will be monitored and at the end of the probationary period the service will (a) be certified as satisfactory and confirmed in writing or if not satisfactory, the probationary period may be extended by 3 months.
7. Annual Leave:
Annual leave entitlement is 25 to 28 working days (pro rata), depending on length of service, plus 10 Bank Holidays per annum as they occur. The annual leave year runs from 1st of April to 31st March each year.
8. Sick Leave:
Payment of salary during illness will be in accordance with arrangements as approved from time to time by the Department of Health and Children.
9. Termination of Office:
The employment may be terminated at any time by 2 months’ notice on either side except where circumstances are dictated by the Minimum Notice and Terms of Employment Act 1973/91. The Management’s right under this paragraph shall not be exercised save in circumstances where the Management is of the opinion that the holder of the office has failed to perform satisfactorily the duties of the post or has misconducted himself/herself in relation to the post or is otherwise unfit to hold the appointment.
GENERAL ACCOUNTABILITY-
Maintain throughout the Hospital awareness of the primacy of the patient in relation to all Hospital activities.
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Encourage recognition of the patient as an individual, ensuring patients’ needs and comfort are given priority.
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Work within the Scope of Practice
- Comply with all existing Hospital policies
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Demonstrate knowledge of the Hospital/Departmental emergency plans
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Ensure the provision of a high standard of care to the patient and families is consistent with the mission, vision, values and strategic plan of the Hospital.
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Commitment to continuous professional development including completion of relevant internal training programmes available through our Centre for Learning and Development prospectus.
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Demonstrate behaviour consistent with the Values of the Hospital.
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Reporting relationship will be to the Assistant Director of Nursing.
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Be professionally accountable to the Director of Nursing.
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Have access to appropriate specialist support from the Director of Mental Health Nursing, Health Service Executive – South West Area; but he/she will also be professionally accountable to the Director of Nursing, Tallaght University Hospital.
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The Director of Nursing, Tallaght University Hospital, and the Director of Mental Health Nursing, HSE-South West Area, Dublin West/South West Mental Health Service, will work in partnership to ensure the smooth operation of the post, in the interest of providing optimal patient care.
SPECIFIC ACCOUNTABILITY
Managing the Service - Quality & Safety of Service / Delivery of Results (CNS /cCNS - level 3)
Clinical Focus – Direct / Indirect Care-
Be trained to an agreed level of competence by the Consultant in Liaison Psychiatry in the assessment of psychological difficulties in patients attending the general hospital; including risk assessment of patients with self-harm and suicidal behaviour.
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Provide a psychiatric nurse liaison service between all areas of the general hospital including Emergency Department / Acute Floor, and in-patient psychiatric services and appropriate community services in line with professional & evidence based practice guidelines, using a holistic triage framework, to include assessment, planning specific interventions, and evaluation strategies
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Develop specialist expertise in the assessment and management of the full spectrum of psychological health difficulties in patients in the general hospital.
- Have responsibility in referring patients to other services after their assessment and initial management has been completed in the liaison psychiatry service.
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Participate in and promote close links with community teams and other agencies to develop effective plans for care
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Provide such follow up as may be necessary to ensure the provision of optimal patient care, when required to do so by the Consultant in charge, Liaison Psychiatry service.
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In conjunction with the Consultants in Liaison Psychiatry and others as appropriate, perform risk assessment on patients experiencing ideas of self-harm or exhibiting suicidal behaviours in the General Hospital.
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In conjunction with the Consultants in Liaison psychiatry, and others as appropriate, liaise with other professionals in the management of the agitated or disturbed patient.
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Have specialist knowledge of the legal framework for the assessment of mental capacity and in relation to ability to give informed consent; and in relation to admission and treatment of patients in approved mental health facilities and in accordance with legislation.
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Ensure patients have access to relevant information, enabling understanding of their condition and available treatment options.
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Demonstrate vision, innovation and flexibility in nursing practice.
- Promote a safe clinical environment for patients, visitors and staff.
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Work with the multidisciplinary team to meet the needs of carers and families.
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Participate in regular staff meetings and daily huddles to ensure information is disseminated and issues discussed.
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Work in compliance with the extended day services in accordance with the terms of the Framework Agreement.
- Develop a strong service user focus whereby the specialty defines itself as nursing and subscribes to the overall purpose, functions and ethical standards of nursing.
- The clinical practice role may be divided into direct and indirect care:
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Direct care comprises the assessment, planning, delivery and evaluation of care to the service user, family and/or carer.
- Indirect care relates to activities that influence and support the provision of direct care.
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Encourage recognition of the patient as an individual; ensuring patient’s needs and comfort are given priority.
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Plan and assess patient care, together with the Nursing Team.
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Play an active role in patient education and be actively involved in Health Education and promotion
Research and Audit-
In conjunction with the Consultants in Liaison Psychiatry, and others as appropriate, initiate and participate in multidisciplinary research studies, as appropriate.
- Maintain awareness within the speciality of current developments in mental health nursing.
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In conjunction with the Consultant in Liaison Psychiatry, and others as appropriate, use research findings to influence care within the speciality.
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Assist in monitoring and auditing the level of service on a hospital wide basis.
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In conjunction with the Consultants in Liaison Psychiatry, and others as appropriate, continually monitor the service to ensure it reflects current needs, and implement agreed change where required.
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In conjunction with the Consultant in charge, Liaison Psychiatry, and others as appropriate, develop a system for recording clinical activity.
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Demonstrate commitment to evidence-based practice.
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Ensure that accurate documentation and record keeping is maintained.
Professional Development-
Undertake appropriate continuous professional development to enable best contemporary practice within the specialised filed of care.
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Develop the required skills and knowledge to support the service needs within the scope of professional practice.
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Undertake to acquire the appropriate skills in Information and Communication Technology to fulfil the requirements of the post.
- Take personal responsibility for own professional development and updating.
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Provide an efficient, effective and high quality service, respecting the needs of each patient.
Managing Change - Problem Solving & Decision Making / Communications & Influencing (CNS- level 3/cCNS – level 2)-
Addresses problems through balanced decisions making while identifying learnings.
- Assists with the development of and implementation of strategic and operational priorities through the provision of feedback and key learnings.
- Have a can do attitude and implement unpopular decision through effective engagement.
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Adopt a range of communication techniques to explain complex information.
- Tailors their communication style dependent on the audience and situation.
- Manages the adherence to company policy on confidentiality and data protection.
Managing Yourself - Team player / Planning & Organising (CNS - level 3/cCNS – level 2)-
Demonstrate flexibility if and when asked to work in other areas of the Medical Service as needed.
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Delegates effectively to the team and ensure timelines are met and efficient use of resources.
- Assists in the development and implementation of operations plans to ensure smooth and consistent execution of tasks.
- Research and promote quality initiatives that are evidence based.
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Takes into account others when making an important decision, addresses team conflict, sets clear goals, embraces diversity, and promotes collaboration and team strengths to achieve goals. Offers recognition.
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Builds and uses networks of influences for planning and organising workload.
- Develops and implements operational plans, essential systems and processes.
- Monitors performance, evaluates impacts and risks.
Managing People – People Management / Leadership (CNS - level 3/cCNS – level 2)-
In conjunction with the Consultants in Liaison Psychiatry, and others as appropriate, develop and facilitate educational and support programmes, for staff in the hospital. These would include training in initial assessment of psychological distress and mental health problems for staff in medical, surgical and other services in the general hospital, for staff in the general psychiatric service and others.
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In addition the post-holder will assist with teaching duties for undergraduate students (medical, nursing and others) and for graduate students (medical, nursing and other).
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Provide knowledge and expertise to other disciplines in the area of mental health legislation issues such as capacity and consent to treatment.
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Responsible for ensuring confidentiality and safe keeping of records.
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Play a central role in maintaining a safe environment for patients, staff and visitors.
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Create and promote open communications and healthy working relationships.
- Assist in the production of the departmental annual report.
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Ensure that all procedures are in accordance with established Hospital procedures.
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Handle complaints by patient, members of the public and staff in accordance with the Hospital complaints procedures.
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Completion of relevant training and availing of supports in the Leadership Academy including coaching, mentoring and leadership development as applicable.
Consultancy (including leadership in clinical practice)-
Evaluate clinical problems in conjunction with the medical team, co-ordinate investigation, therapy and patient follow up. The post-holder will have responsibility in ensuring co-ordination of care between all professionals involved with the patients.
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Provide specialist knowledge and expertise for the surgical and medical teams working in the acute hospital, for example advice in management of psychological distress, disturbed behaviour, confusional states, substance misuse.
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Maintain a visible, professional presence where patients, carers and staff can turn for assistance, advice and support.
- Participate as a member of clinical and other committees as required.
Information Technology-
Ensure that the team makes the most effective and efficient use of developments in information technology for both patient care and administrative support in a manner, which integrates well with systems throughout the organisation.
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Ensure that all staff are trained in the use of computer systems, which are used in the management of patient episodes in the Hospital, e.g.: EPR, Pims, Order comms, Symphony, sap, core.
Health & Safety
- Ensure the compliance of all your staff with the Safety, Health and Welfare at Work Act, 2005.
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Comply and enact Health and Safety responsibilities as outlined in Hospital policies, protocols and procedures relevant to your area.
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Prepare risk assessments and departmental safety statements as required.
Hygiene/Infection Control-
Ensure you are aware of your responsibility for Hygiene awareness. Hygiene is defined as “The practice that serves to keep people and environments clean and prevent infection.”
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Act as a role model and actively promote infection control and prevention and ensure that staff in your area familiarise themselves with the hospital infection control policies and guidelines as outlined in the Infection Control Manual.
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Ensure that staff in your area are aware that they work in an area where there is potential for transmission of infection.
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Ensure that all your staff are advised that they have a responsibility to prevent the transmission of infection particularly in relation to hand hygiene.
Quality, Safety and Risk Management-
Support the delivery of the Quality, Safety and Risk Management Programme, including the appropriate identification, reporting and management of risks and incidents throughout the hospital.
Confidentiality-
You will be aware of the confidential nature of Hospital work and in particular, the right of patients to confidentiality. To this end, you will not discuss workings of the Hospital or its patients or disclose any information of a confidential nature except as required to do so in the course of your work. No records, documents or property of the Hospital may be removed from the premises of the Hospital without prior authorisation. You must return to the Hospital upon request and, in any event, upon the termination of your employment, all documents or other property of the Hospital which are in your possession or under your control.
Data Management-
Ensure compliance with the obligations required by the Data Protection Act 2018.
Development of Hospital Groups-
The Hospital Structure is currently under review and therefore, reporting relationships may change. The development of Hospital Groups may require the post-holder to adopt a different reporting relationship and additional accountabilities. Full consultation will take place in advance of any such change.
NOTE: The extent and speed of change in the delivery of health care is such that adaptability is essential at this level of appointment. The appointee will be required to maintain, enhance and develop their knowledge, skills and aptitudes necessary to respond to this changing environment. They will also be required to participate in and support the Hospital’s Digital transformation strategy which may impact work processes and role profiles in the future. The Job Description must therefore be regarded as an outline of the major areas of accountability at the present time, which will be reviewed and assessed on an on-going basis as advancements and developments evolve.
TUH Core Competencies:
Core Area
Competency
CNS Level
cCNS Level
Managing the service
Quality & Safety of Service
3
3
Managing the service
Delivery of Results
3
3
Managing Change
Problem Solving & Decision Making
3
2
Managing Change
Communications & Influencing
3
2
Managing Yourself
Team player
3
2
Managing Yourself
Planning and Organising
3
2
Managing People
People Management
3
2
Managing People
Leadership
3
2
Applications can be submitted ‘on-line’ at
www.tuh.ie/careers by completing the application form and attaching your CV.
Candidates should be aware that, when applying for a post through the 'On-Line' Application System (Candidate Manager) they will receive an automated replying acknowledging receipt of their application. Should you for any reason, not receive this automated acknowledgement, you should notify the Human Resources Department, before the closing date, otherwise your application will not be considered.
TUH is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to promoting an environment free from discrimination in accordance with the Employment Equality Acts 1998 and 2004. The Hospital values diversity and recognises the benefits of having a workforce that reflects the community we serve. We are committed to equality of access to positions within the Hospital. All recruitment activity and documentation will encourage applications from all potential candidates without discrimination.
Closing Date: Before close of business on 1st July 2026
Informal enquiries to: Ms. Orla Aldridge - Assistant Director of Nursing - telephone 01 414 3195, or email [email protected]
Potential applicants are encouraged to visit the service and to discuss the post with Dr. Paula McKay, Consultant in Psychological medicine - telephone 01 4143582 or email [email protected]
A panel of suitable applicants may be formed, from which further vacancies may be filled.
All candidates should note that, in order to maintain a timely process, the closing date and time for receipt of applications will be strictly adhered to.
