Staff Nurse - Medical / Surgical Step-Down Unit

Job Description

RecruitNet International Ltd specializes in relocating qualified professionals throughout Ireland and overseas. We provide complete guidance and support with professional registration, job placement, visa, and employment permit processing.

Our dedicated RecruitNet team is always available to assist you in finding the perfect job, supported by a group of highly experienced and professional nursing recruitment consultants.

We are urgently seeking a Staff Nurse – Medical / Surgical (Step-Down Unit) for a hospital in Westmeath, Ireland .

Responsibilities

• Undertake comprehensive nursing assessments for all patients admitted to the Step-Down Unit, accurately documenting clinical findings and developing individualised care plans based on patient needs and priorities.
• Liaise with referring areas such as wards, HDU, and theatre to ensure safe transfer and continuity of care, using structured communication tools such as SBAR.
• Deliver safe, evidence-based nursing care to patients requiring ongoing medical or surgical management, performing regular clinical observations using recognised tools (e.g., IMEWS) and escalating any deterioration promptly.
• Administer prescribed medications, IV therapies, and blood products in accordance with hospital policies and NMBI guidelines, while maintaining strict adherence to infection prevention and aseptic techniques.
• Manage wounds, drains, catheters, and enteral feeding devices competently, supporting effective pain management through both pharmacological and non-pharmacological methods appropriate to the patient’s condition.
• Encourage early mobilisation and support rehabilitation goals to optimise patient recovery and independence, while providing education to patients and families on treatment plans, medication management, and lifestyle adjustments.
• Collaborate with the multidisciplinary team to plan and coordinate safe, timely discharges, ensuring clear communication with community and primary care services for continuity of care and providing comprehensive discharge education.
• Adhere to quality, safety, and risk management standards by maintaining a clean and safe clinical environment, participating in audits, incident reporting, and continuous improvement initiatives in line with HIQA and CHKS frameworks.
• Maintain accurate, confidential, and contemporaneous documentation in line with hospital and professional standards, demonstrating accountability, ethical practice, and leadership as a role model and mentor for junior staff.
• Communicate effectively and respectfully with patients, families, and colleagues, actively participating in handovers, safety huddles, and multidisciplinary meetings to promote collaboration, teamwork, and efficient patient flow

Requirements

Benefits

Competitive salary package

Full-time, permanent employment contract

Access to continuous professional development and training opportunities

Supportive and collaborative working environment

Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)

Opportunities for career advancement and progression

Free on-site parking

Requirements

Registered in the relevant division of the NMBI register (General Division). Proven competence, professionalism, and dedication to ongoing professional development. Strong awareness of current and emerging nursing practices, clinical standards, and national healthcare policies related to acute care. Comprehensive understanding of quality assurance, health and safety regulations, and infection prevention and control standards. Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively and effectively within a multidisciplinary healthcare team. Excellent communication, organisational, and clinical decision-making abilities.