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​Working in Care: Learning Disability Nurse

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​Working in Care: Learning Disability Nurse

As part of our Working in Care series we’ve been taking a closer look at the roles and responsibilities of different jobs in social care.

This time we’re exploring what a Learning Disability Nurse does and the qualities we look for when we’re recruiting people for these types of roles.

What is a Learning Disability Nurse?

Learning Disability Nurses are required in a variety of settings including people's homes, education, residential and community centres and hospitals. As a qualified medical professional they provide specialist healthcare and support to people with learning disabilities and their families.

At Paterson health and social care, our clients have a range of individual needs, and our Nurses provide tailored support for both their physical and mental health as well as practical support to empower them to live as independently as possible.

Many people with disabilities and complex needs face major challenges and inequalities in their daily lives but having a medical professional to advocate for them and help them break down stigmas can improve their outlook and quality of life.

The role of a Learning Disability Nurse is extremely varied and will depend on the type of care required by each individual however, typical responsibilities include:

-          Carrying out assessments to determine the right care based on a clients needs

-          Develop and implement tailored care plans

-          Helping clients to improve or maintain their physical and mental wellbeing

-          assisting with basic, practical living skills, such as getting dressed, preparing food and travelling

-          Working in partnership with other health and social care staff to ensure the best standards of care are delivered

-          Give clinical advice on treatments and medication in an easily understandable way

-          Create and maintain confidential records

-          Manage medicines, give injections and carry out clinical tasks

-          Organise social activities for clients

-          Keeping clients informed about their progress and ongoing care

-          Empowering clients to live a full life and to live as independently as possible.

The role of a Learning Disability Nurse is not only rewarding, but it also offers huge scope for progression. Some nurses choose to specialise in a particular field, and others choose to work in a specific setting such as education or community care for example.

What qualities does a Learning Disability Nurse need?

There are multiple routes to becoming a Learning Disability Nurse, the main one being completing a degree course at university, but other options include nurse degree apprenticeships and nursing associate apprenticeships.

Personal attributes that we look for in our nurses include:

-          Care, compassion and empathy

-          Strong communication skills (written and verbal)

-          Patience and resilience

-          Able to work with a team

-          A great relationship builder

All our nurses have access to regular training, including health and safety training, moving and handling and basic life support.

As a Learning Disability Nurse, you’ll have the opportunity to make a genuine difference to the lives of the people you engage with and can help them reach their full potential.

If you have a genuine passion for helping others and would like to work in a friendly, diverse environment then why not apply now and join our team. We offer:

•£250 joining Bonus given after 300 hours completed

• £150 referral bonus given after 200 hours completed

•Comprehensive training

•The support of an experienced team

Visit our website to find out more: www.paterson-healthcare.co.uk