Why did you want to be a nurse?
I began my career in the NHS in 2003 as a business administration apprentice at South Tees, completing my training in 18 months. Shortly after, I secured a position as a ward clerk on a busy cardiology ward, and it was here that my passion for the NHS truly began to take shape. I found myself deeply motivated by the opportunity to support and care for others, which inspired me to pursue a career in nursing.
Over the years, I have gained valuable experience working in critical care, cardiology and patient flow. It was during this time that I developed a strong passion for ensuring seamless patient flow, which has been a central focus of my nursing journey.
What are you day to day tasks?
In my role as a clinical matron, I oversee the smooth and efficient management of patient flow throughout the hospital, with a particular focus on the discharge process. Each day, I collaborate closely with multidisciplinary teams to ensure that patients are transferred to the appropriate areas of care and discharged in a timely, safe, and well-coordinated manner.
My responsibilities include monitoring bed capacity, facilitating patient movement through various departments and addressing any barriers to discharge. I also work with clinical teams to assess patients’ readiness for discharge, ensuring that the necessary plans, support, and community care are in place before they leave the hospital. In managing the discharge suite, I make certain that the environment is supportive, ensuring patients and their families receive clear communication and feel confident in their ongoing care after leaving the hospital.
Additionally, I provide leadership and guidance to the nursing teams, supporting their development and ensuring that high standards of care are consistently maintained. Ultimately, my role is about balancing patient care needs with the operational demands of the hospital to ensure optimal flow and the best outcomes for our patients.
Most fulfilling part of the job?
The most fulfilling aspect of my role is knowing that I am directly contributing to the well-being of our patients by ensuring their care journey is as seamless and supportive as possible. It is incredibly rewarding to facilitate the smooth transition of patients from one phase of care to the next, especially when I can see the positive impact on both their recovery and overall experience.
Helping patients return home or move to the appropriate care setting with the right support in place brings a great sense of accomplishment. I find it fulfilling to work closely with clinical teams and families to make sure that patients not only leave the hospital safely but also feel empowered and confident about their ongoing care.
In addition, supporting and mentoring the nursing staff is another highly rewarding aspect. Watching the team grow in confidence and competence, knowing they are providing high-quality, compassionate care, reinforces the value of what we do every day.
Ultimately, the most fulfilling part of my role is knowing that, through effective patient flow and discharge management, we are enhancing patient outcomes and making a real difference in their lives.
Contact us
- Careers at South Tees: [email protected]
- Work experience at South Tees: [email protected]