Clinical Nurse Specialist Palliative Care

Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) – Palliative Care

Location

Leading Private Hospital, Co Dublin

Reports To

Director of Nursing / Palliative Care Consultant

Job Purpose

The Clinical Nurse Specialist (CNS) in Palliative Care will provide expert clinical care, leadership, education, and support to patients with life-limiting illnesses and their families. The role focuses on improving quality of life through symptom management, holistic care, and coordination across multidisciplinary teams within the hospital and community services.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver specialist palliative care to patients with complex needs.
• Assess, plan, implement, and evaluate individualized care plans.
• Provide expert symptom management (pain, nausea, breathlessness, etc.).
• Support end-of-life care planning, including advance care directives.
• Act as a patient advocate, ensuring dignity and respect at all times.

• Act as a clinical resource for nursing and medical staff.
• Lead and coordinate palliative care services within the hospital.
• Participate in multidisciplinary team (MDT) meetings.
• Facilitate seamless discharge planning and community liaison.

• Provide education and training to staff on palliative care principles.
• Support professional development of nursing colleagues.
• Promote best practices and evidence-based care.

• Participate in clinical audit, research, and service development.
• Ensure compliance with HIQA standards and hospital policies.
• Contribute to continuous quality improvement initiatives.

• Provide emotional and psychological support to patients and families.
• Communicate sensitively regarding prognosis and care plans.
• Support bereavement processes where appropriate.

Essential

• Registered General Nurse with active registration with Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland.
• Minimum 3 years post-registration experience, in oncology or general nursing.
• Hold a Diploma in Palliative Care or equivalent qualification.
• Experience in acute hospital settings.

Salary & Benefits

• Competitive salary
• Onsite parking
• Pension
• Annual bonus*
• Discounted café
• Sports and Social club
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Discounted onsite pharmacy