Kimberley Aboriginal Medical Services Council Inc
JOB DESCRIPTION FORM
Effective date of
document
POSITION IDENTIFICATION
Award
Sept 10
Nurses Award 2010
Award Type:
Title:
Renal educated Registered Nurse - Dialysis
Responsible to: KSDC Unit Manager
Key Responsibilities
1
Manages a client case load and delivers culturally safe nursing care in accordance with unit
protocols and best practice guidelines.
2
Coordinates the clinical management of the KSDC patients
3
Supervises care given by Aboriginal Health workers and new staff and assists in their
education
4
Provides a holistic approach to client care, contributing to the multidisciplinary team and
making referrals as needed.
5
Takes a Shift Co-ordinator role
6
Contributes to the development and implementation of continuous quality improvement at
KSDC
Job Description Form – HR01
October 2009
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Duty Statement
1
Manages a client case load and delivers nursing care in accordance with unit protocols and
best practice guidelines.

Delivers nursing care utilizing a high level of skill in assessment, planning and
implementation of dialysis care, prioritising care and initiating emergency procedures as
necessary.

Practices in accordance with Infection Control, and Occupational Safety & Health
procedures and policies.

Maintains a cultural focus in the delivery of care, utilizing Aboriginal Health Workers and
Aboriginal Social worker to assist where needed.

Evaluates and adjusts treatment parameters in relation to clients’ response to treatment
and monthly blood tests, in accordance with unit policies and consultation with medical
staff where necessary.

Promotes clients’ health and independence by empowering clients and their families,
through education and positive feedback.

Is proactive in detecting potential dialysis access related problems by utilizing
assessment tools and equipment available, and makes appropriate referrals.

Takes responsibility for own learning needs and seeks learning opportunities.

Ensures safe practice and compliance with unit protocols, and standing orders in relation
to the storage and administration of medication at KSDC.

Adheres to machine maintenance regimes and monitoring processes to promote the
safe functioning of the dialysis machine seeking technical assistance when necessary.
2 Coordinates the clinical management of the KSDC patients

Ensure a high quality palliative approach to care is provided, that promotes maximum
independence and optimises quality of life for the dialysis patient.

Assess patient monthly bloods, monitor patient progress and assist primary nurses in
maintaining optimal health outcomes measured against the unit’s policies and procedures
and key performance indicators.
3
Supervises care given by Aboriginal Health workers and new staff and assists in their
education

Promotes the role of the Aboriginal Health Worker

Supervises the care given to clients by the Aboriginal health worker, acting as a clinical
skills resource.

Initiates informal learning opportunities for Aboriginal Health Workers and registered and
Enrolled Nurses.
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October 2009
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
4
5
6
Supervises medication preparation and administration by the Aboriginal health Worker in
accordance with unit protocols and medication certification level of the Aboriginal health
worker.
Provides an holistic approach to client care, contributing to the multidisciplinary team and
making referrals as needed.

Demonstrates a commitment to providing culturally safe care seeking assistance with
interpretation from Aboriginal Health Workers.

Makes referrals to other members of the multidisciplinary team.

Takes a role in the multidisciplinary team meeting promoting a holistic approach to
solving clients’ problems
Takes a Shift Co-ordinator role

Co-ordinates the staff and clients as shift co-ordinator to ensure safe care and
manageable workloads.

Liaises with the driver, medical staff, and outside agencies to ensure clients attend
dialysis and appointments in a timely manner.

Responsible for ensuring the security of the KSDC promises when leaving in the evening.
Contributes to the development and implementation of continuous quality improvement at
KSDC

Is proactive in evaluating clinical practice and unit protocols and procedures to ensure
best practice guidelines are met.

Conducts clinical audits and initiates, plans and implements quality improvement
projects.

Participates in other projects as required.
Selection Criteria
Essential:
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Eligible for registration as a General Nurse with the Nurses Board of WA.
Demonstrated advanced level of skill in general nursing practice.
Demonstrated advanced clinical competency in Renal Nursing, at least 12 months experience.
Ability to function effectively in emergency and stressful situations.
Demonstrated team leadership, interpersonal and problem solving skills.
Well developed interpersonal communication and organisational skills.
Ability and commitment to working as a member of the multi-disciplinary team.
Knowledge of Infection Control, Continuous Quality Improvement and Occupational Safety & Health
requirements.
Demonstrated commitment to the professional development of self and others.
Commitment to the philosophy and practice of Aboriginal Community Control and the advancement
of Aboriginal Health Worker roles in the delivery of renal care.
Understanding of aspects of Aboriginal Culture and willingness to create a culturally safe
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October 2009
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
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environment.
Ability to adapt to a changing clinical environment.
High level of integrity in maintaining confidentiality.
Sound computer skills.
Current A class driver’s license.
Current Federal Police clearance
Desirable:
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Post graduate qualification in Renal Nursing or working towards.
Experience in working with indigenous population.
Experience in working in an Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Service.
CERTIFICATION
The details contained in this document are an accurate statement of the duties, responsibilities and other
requirements of the position.
Name:
Christopher Larkin
Position: Chief Executive Officer
Signed:
____________________________________________
Date: _____/_____/_____
As occupant of the position I have noted the statement of duties, responsibilities and other requirements as
detailed in this document.
NAME
DATE APPOINTED
TO POSITION
SIGNATURE
DATE
OTHER INFORMATION
KAMSC (Kimberley Aboriginal Medical Services Council) is a regional Aboriginal Community Controlled
Health Service (ACCHS) which provides a collective voice for a network of member ACCHS from towns
and remote communities across the spectacular Kimberley region of Western Australia.
Our major role is in advocacy and support for our ACCHS members. In addition, KAMSC provides direct
clinical services in the remote communities of Balgo, Billiluna, Mulan, Beagle Bay and Bidyadanga. Our
four independently incorporated member ACCHS include: the Ord Valley Aboriginal Health Service
(OVAHS) in Kununurra; Derby Aboriginal Health Service (DAHS) in Derby; Yura Yungi Medical Service
(YYMS) in Halls Creek; Broome Regional Aboriginal Medical Service (BRAMS) in Broome. KAMSC is also
responsible for the development and management of Renal Services for the Kimberley, including 3
dialysis units and support and coordination of care for those in early to advanced stages of kidney
disease.
The KAMSC regional collective of ACCHS is a major employer in the Kimberley, with Aboriginal people
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representing more than 70% of its 300+ strong workforce. KAMSC's regional support includes:
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Population Health
Social and Emotional Well Being
Health Promotion
Information Technology
Pharmacy Support and Training
Corporate and Financial Services
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Accredited Aboriginal Primary Health Care
Training and Education
Research
Regional Renal Services
Undergraduate and Postgraduate Medical
Training
Kimberley Renal Services
All specialised renal services in the Kimberley operate under the umbrella of the Kimberley Aboriginal
Medical Services Council, and are currently undergoing rapid expansion with funding from both
Commonwealth and state governments for new dialysis units in Derby and Kununurra to supplement the 40person Kimberley Satellite Dialysis Centre (KSDC) hub already well-established in Broome.
Further, funding to KAMSC from the WA state government has allowed implementation of a comprehensive
Kimberley Renal Support Service (KRSS) to enhance regional efforts in prevention, early detection and better
management of chronic kidney disease; provide timely pre-dialysis education and preparation; enhance
training and support for patients on home dialysis options; and create a skilled, robust and culturally safe
regional renal workforce to ensure that Kimberley people with kidney disease have access to the best of
care, as close to home as possible.
These comprehensive renal services are provided in partnership with the visiting nephrologist from RPH;
Fresenius Medical Care (FMC) who provide state-wide home therapies services; WA Country Health
Services (WACHS); and local health service providers.
The model developed in the Kimberley is an innovative one which brings together primary, secondary and
tertiary services in a culturally safe framework which aims to provide patients, families and communities
with the best possible services, whilst building regional workforce capacity and providing diverse career
paths for local Aboriginal people.
Website: www.kamsc.org.au
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October 2009
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