Ward Manager, Planned Investigation and Treatment Unit (PITU), Wythenshawe Hospital
On a typical day
I support a team of 4 trained nurses and 4 care support workers to promote person centred care and implement individualised care pathways to ensure patient safety is maintained. All patients are admitted for day case or short stay procedures or treatments under various specialities including respiratory and medical specialities. The number of patients that we care for can vary from 30-40 patients a day.
My nursing journey and career
I started my nursing career as a temporary staff bank care support worker through NHS Professionals whilst working in a care home as a team leader. I applied to Manchester University in 2009 and successfully completed my Diploma in Adult Nursing in 2012. My first job was in the Planned Investigation Unit at Wythenshawe Hospital. As a newly qualified registered nurse, I was supported by my manager and team to develop and found a passion for leadership and improving quality.
After moving to the newly formed PITU, I was recognised as somebody who demonstrated the leadership values and behaviours of the Trust, becoming a Ward Sister in 2015 and a Deputy Ward Manager in 2016. I had the opportunity to complete an apprenticeship with ILM in leadership and management, which I used as a platform to develop services and pathways on PITU. It’s now a vast unit with many services and specialities and a multidisciplinary team that we use to develop our skills and knowledge. Taking up the new role of Ward Manager on PITU has identified new challenges as well as giving me the opportunity to look at improvement and development areas.
One way I’ve made a difference as a nurse or midwife
I recognise the importance of supporting others to be the best that they can be as an individual and as a team, in order to get the best outcomes for patients and to ensure that care meets gold standards.
What would you say to someone considering a career in nursing & midwifery?
If you want a career in professions that pride themselves on professional excellence, can be both challenging and rewarding and demonstrate strong leadership and team working, Nursing & Midwifery is the career for you!!
For more information about nursing and midwifery careers at MFT please visit https://mft.nhs.uk/careers/