Clinical Nurse Specialist, Drugs And Alcohol Service
Location of Post:
Sligo University Hospital, West North West Region
There is currently one whole-time, permanent vacancy for a Clinical Nurse Specialist, drugs and alcohol service to work in the acute hospital setting of Sligo University Hospital (SUH). The aim of this role is to provide biological and psychological support for patients who present to SUH with drug and alcohol misuse issues including those requiring medical detoxification regimens.
Sligo University Hospital has a notably high rate of alcohol-related admissions compared to other regions in Ireland. According to the most recent 2024-2025 data from the Health Research Board and related reports:
- In 2024, Sligo had one of the highest rates nationally of all admissions for alcohol related disorders nationwide with specific data showing a rate of 34.2 per 100000 population (HRB 2024). This indicates a significant burden of alcohol related health problems presenting to the acute hospital
- Alcohol related disorders constitute a high proportion of the hospital admissions in the region, often presenting through the emergency and acute medical services
- Drug related admission data is not as explicitly recorded but the general regional trend shows comparable hospitalisation rates for drug related disorders in the area.
This data highlights the significant demand for a CNS in drugs and alcohol service within the acute setting of Sligo University Hospital. The aim is to enhance patient care, improve patient outcomes and provide enhanced supports to patients and staff alike.
It is envisaged that this CNS role will provide specialised nursing support to patients undergoing withdrawal from drugs and alcohol. This will involve assessment of clinical presentation, guidance/administration of medications (under the supervision of the consultant physician and consultant psychiatrist), monitoring patient safety and supporting recovery through compassionate care. The role will also provide expert clinical intervention for patients whose health is affected by drugs and alcohol misuse. The role will also involve leadership, education and support for the ward based clinicians around presentations related to harmful substance misuse.
The post holder will promote evidence-based assessment treatment and aftercare planning across inpatient and outpatient settings and support improved outcome through early identification, brief intervention and multidisciplinary care co-ordination.
A panel may be formed as a result of this campaign for Sligo University Hospital from which current and future permanent and specified purpose vacancies of full or part-time duration may be filled.
Informal Enquiries:
We welcome enquiries about the role.
Name: Jennifer Flannery
Job Title: Assistant Director of Nursing
Tel: 0873425261
Email:jennifer.flannery@hse.ie
HR Department, Sligo University Hospital
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