It’s been a time of celebration in the trust since my last column with May featuring International Nurses’ Day.
The day, which coincides with Florence Nightingales’ birthday on May 12, is an opportunity for us to take a look at the excellent work our nurses do every day for patients, wherever they may be cared for in our local community.
At Lincolnshire Community Health Services, we were asked to nominate those who really stood apart from the rest to both their patients and their colleagues.
The first was Janine Gargett, who some of you may recognise as one of our case managers with the Holbeach community nursing team.
Queen’s Nurse Janine is extremely hardworking and dedicated to her role.
She is always positive and demonstrates a kind and caring attitude.
Janine is always willing to help whenever asked and has volunteered willingly to help in other areas, which has always been appreciated.
She acts as an excellent role model for new staff and student nurses and is highly respected by all of the team.
The second nominee and overall winner for our area was Becky Portess, a case manager working with Parkside Surgery community nursing team in Boston.
Becky transferred to Parkside Surgery in February 2012 and has demonstrated excellent leadership skills.
She has helped to transform the team through encouragement and acting as an outstanding role model.
Becky has a real passion for district nursing, the organisation, local population and brings that enthusiasm into everything she does.
Becky is always keen to learn more and will always offer her help and assistance willingly wherever possible.
We are very proud of all of our nurses and held a small ceremony to show our thanks and appreciation for International Nurses’ Day.
This hopefully won’t be the end of our celebrations.
Our patients, their carers and families are now being asked to shout about who has made a difference in their lives through the national NHS Heroes scheme.
This doesn’t have to be a nurse – it can be anyone providing your healthcare who has gone above and beyond their daily duties to make you feel at home.
This can include your doctor, healthcare support workers, therapy staff, receptionists, porters or other administration staff...the list is endless!
Nominating is easy; simply go to www.nhsheroes.com and fill in the short online form about your nominee deserves to be recognised.
This is a great opportunity to show your unsung hero how much you care and appreciate their help.