A day in the hospice can be very varied. Primarily we are there to care for our patients. Whether that be administering medications, helping with symptom control or assisting with personal care. We provide holistic individualised care to all our patients and ensure that all their needs are met. Whether that be emotional, social, physical or psychological support. Patients can be admitted for a variety of reasons. Typically for assessment, symptom management, respite or end of life care. The care I provide is specialised and involves working with other members of the multi-disciplinary team.
What do you think are the three most important skills to succeed in your career area?
I think there are many more than three key skills required to succeed, however three very important ones are care, compassion and communication.
Was this something you planned to do or did you change direction at any point in the past? If so, what was that and was it easy to do?
I have always wanted to be a nurse since I was a young girl. My passion has always been caring for people and making people happy, however I didn’t begin my nurse training until I was 21 years old. I didn’t realise when I began my post at the hospice two and a half years ago, just how much I was meant to be a hospice nurse. I had no idea how rewarding and privileged I would find caring for patients with a life limiting illness. I feel very lucky to have found my niche and truly believe this is where I am meant to be and can’t imagine working anywhere else.
What do you love most about working in your career area?
The thing I love most about working in my career area is my patients. They are at the heart and soul of my working day and everything I do is for them. In my new role as Acting Ward Manager I now enjoy nurturing and supporting the IPU team so they are at their optimum to care for our patients.
Are there any negative aspects of working in your career area that people considering it should be aware of?
I don’t feel there are any negative aspects in my working career. I would say things can be challenging but I don’t see that as a negative. It is what makes my day varied and rewarding. I am aware I work in an emotional environment and I am aware of the importance of a good work life balance.
What training / qualifications did you undertake for your current role or are you currently undertaking?
I have ten GCSE’s Grade A-C, including Maths, English and
Science which were required in order for me to carry out my diploma in Adult Nursing. I obtained my diploma at Manchester Metropolitan University in September 2010. I am currently in the process of completing a Bachelor of Science with Honours degree in Professional Practice with the University of Chester, which is due to finish in the summer of 2018.
Is there any other information that would be of interest to someone thinking of this career?
I do feel that it takes a certain kind of person to work in a
hospice and to be a nurse. Someone who is caring and compassionate and reliable and honest. Being a nurse to me is more than just a job, it is a vocation. You need to be committed, as you now need to complete a degree in nursing to be qualified.
