Kira Mitchell

SENIOR STAFF NURSE

Health and Social Services

What does a typical working day involve for you?

Shifts start at 07:30 for handover and finish at 20:30 in the evening. A long shift that goes quickly I promise! Corbiere Ward focuses on patients with neurological symptoms and diagnoses which allow for interesting medication rounds, doctor’s rounds, observations and escalation of deteriorating patients which take up much of the shift.

Liaising with the wider team as the patient advocate is a large part of the job. Standing up for patients while acting in their best interests allow for patient centred approach to all care delivered, enhanced by doctors, occupational therapists, and physiotherapists and the much wider multi-disciplinary team.

How did you get your job?

Working as a health care assistant from the age of 17 I was able to gain the basic skills and experience before I applied to the local nursing programme which led me to where I am now. Having the experience of already working in the health care environment solidified why I wanted to become a nurse.

What motivates you in this role?

Watching patients come in on a stretcher after a life changing stroke, caring and providing treatment. Then watching as the patient walks off the ward back home or to continue with rehab. You can never replace the feeling of being part of something worthwhile.

Are there any future skills you will need to learn for your role?

My role is continually evolving, from learning new clinical skills to management development; every nurse will say the same thing… no shift is the same, providing the base for daily and continuous professional development.

What are the three most important skills required for your role?

Interpersonal skills – Always be there for people, that being your patients or your colleagues.

Initiative – Taking responsibility for your patient care means being able to think on your feet and apply your clinical knowledge whatever the situation.

Clinical assessment

– Building your nursing ‘gut feeling’ can lead to saving someone’s life.

What advice would you give someone interested in a career in your profession?

Have your support. You can get through anything life throws at you with a good chat and a cup of tea.

Tell us a fun fact

On average, nurses walk four miles a day! (UK study - MEDSURG, 2006)