A reassuring junior sister whose cannulation skills are legendary and a healthcare assistant who is very skilled at engaging with patients are the winners of April’s You Made a Difference awards.
Premlata is an experienced neurology and neurosurgery nurse who has worked on ward R3 since it started more than 15 years ago. R3 is a neurosciences ward found on level 3 of the Lewin Stroke and Rehabilitation unit.
Prem is the infusion, neurosurgery pre-operative assessment and lumbar puncture sister, which primarily means she carries out infusions for multiple sclerosis (MS) patients. Our MS patients at CUH really value the continuity of care Prem provides.
Patients know and love Prem and are reassured when they see her. Her cannulation skills are legendary!
Prem is a dedicated, dependable and trustworthy colleague, who always takes the time to talk to and inform her patients of what is happening during their appointments. She listens and hears what they have to say, and passes on key information to the clinical teams when needed.
Extracts from Premlata’s nomination which was submitted by her colleagues said:
Prem has demonstrated exemplary practice, commitment, flexibility, adaptability, resilience and dedication.
“She has a wealth of knowledge of how ward R3 functions. She is highly skilled in surgical pre-assessment, lumbar puncture, and neurology infusions. Her skills and knowledge were the binding forces that kept the clinic functioning during a challenging time.
“Prem learned neurosurgery pre-assessment in a short period helping to ensure the service was maintained. At the same time she helped other staff on the ward, supervising multiple neurology infusions to ensure the safe delivery of care.
Prem is a role model and an exemplary nurse.
“Her commitment to the patients is highly evident and she continuously makes a valuable contribution to R3, the Division D Team and the Trust.”
Cheryl started on ward C4, which is a frail and acute medicine for the elderly ward, in August 2008 as a Band 2 healthcare support worker. She quickly progressed and successfully completed her Band 3 competencies and became a Band 3 healthcare support worker.
Cheryl is an elderly patient champion who helps manage acutely ill and deteriorating patients, and patients suffering with dementia and delirium. Cheryl is very skilled at engaging with these patients, gaining their trust and finding ways to distract them and manage any challenging behaviour.
She is a huge asset to the ward and her clinical skills, knowledge and excellent communication skills are often called upon to help manage the wide range of medical conditions experienced by our patients.
Over the years Cheryl has gone above and beyond in helping to improve the ward for both patients and staff. She is regularly involved in familiarising new staff with the ward, teaching and supporting them and the team on ward C4 are very proud of her!
Extracts from Cheryl’s nomination said:
Cheryl always goes the extra mile for our frail elderly patients, mostly in her own time.
“Cheryl has put out Facebook appeals to obtain donations of toiletries to assist with patient hygiene needs, and for unwanted clothing so as a ward we can help beat PJ Paralysis by getting our patients up and dressed as much as possible. She also organised the storage and washing of these clothes.
“Cheryl has collected various items over the years to make homely areas for patients, visitors and staff which is especially helpful for patients with dementia.
“Cheryl organised bags and hooks to keep oxygen and suction tidy above patient beds. She also contacted CUH voluntary services to obtain a guitar which another member of staff on the ward plays to help calm patients if he has time.
“Cheryl does all of this in her own time and at her own expense.”