When the COVID-19 pandemic hit the UK, I felt that if there was some way I could help clinically that is what I wanted to do. From a personal viewpoint I feel going back into clinical practice shows our students that we can lead by example and that our academic knowledge is current for clinical practice. I approached a local hospice and they offered me an honorary contract as a Clinical Nurse Specialist within the community department. It is a privilege to work within such an inspirational team.
Supporting palliative and end of life patients during COVID- 19 is both challenging and rewarding as these patients have multiple co-morbidities to live with as well as the threat of the virus. I have been assessing patients and providing symptom control support and advance care planning, so they are cared for in a place of their choice. The resilience of patients and their loved ones to cope in these extraordinary times is overwhelming and humbling.
Returning to practice was dauting as I had been out of practice for a few years but the hospice community team were so supportive, welcoming and grateful for my help that I immediately felt part of the team. The team helped me to update my knowledge about policies and procedures.
I received support and advice about returning to practice from the university and encouragement from my academic colleagues which I greatly appreciated. During my clinical practice return I have had the chance to have contact with past student nurses and student paramedics of the University of Greenwich who are now registered healthcare professionals working on the frontline in incredibly difficult times and I am so proud of their achievements .
Working back in clinical practice has been a privilege and I hope I have been a good representative for the University of Greenwich. I am very proud to be a nurse and part of the NHS more now than ever!
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