Celebrating International Nurses Day

One of the most significant moments in Theresa’s career demonstrates just how impactful remote support can be. “A Health Advisor called for urgent assistance, an older man on the call could not wake his wife and she was not breathing,” she says. Thinking quickly, Theresa guided the situation while help was arranged. “I asked him to open the front door and shout for help, and by chance a passer-by who was a nurse stepped in to administer CPR. It later transpired that the man’s wife was resuscitated successfully.” A powerful reminder of how teamwork, quick thinking and effective communication can save lives, even from a distance.

Like many healthcare professionals, Theresa found the COVID-19 pandemic to be one of the most challenging periods of her career. “Covid was a particularly challenging time, we were overwhelmed with calls and rapidly changing guidance, however, at HUC, we work as a team and the support we had got us through it,” she says.

Over the years, Theresa has continued to grow professionally, taking on additional responsibilities as a Clinical Floorwalker and Clinical Auditor. In these roles, she supports colleagues, reviews clinical calls to ensure high standards are maintained, and provides guidance where needed. Her dedication to both patient care and staff development embodies the very spirit of nursing.

Her day-to-day role is both fast-paced and rewarding, she mentioned that “a typical day is dynamic, fast paced and definitely highly rewarding. Every interaction requires a balance of clinical knowledge, critical thinking, effective communication and empathy – no two days are ever the same.”

Her role as a Clinical Navigator adds another dimension to her work. In this capacity, Steluta helps coordinate patient care, prioritising cases and ensuring individuals are directed to the right services quickly and safely. It’s a role that requires strong organisational skills and the ability to make impactful decisions under pressure, all while supporting the wider healthcare system to run smoothly.

Reflecting on what she finds most fulfilling, Steluta emphasises “for me, nursing continues to be knowing that my work has a positive impact on patients. Making a meaningful difference in someone’s day is what makes this career rewarding.”

Her career hasn’t been without its challenges, particularly adapting to a new healthcare system. “Learning different clinical processes, communication styles, and navigating a new professional environment required determination, and a willingness to continuously learn,” Steluta says. She also highlights the complexity of remote clinical decision-making, assessing patients without face-to-face contact requires strong clinical judgement and the ability to remain calm under pressure.

Through it all, Steluta has remained committed to growth and development. “I have navigated these challenges by staying proactive in my learning and viewing every challenge as an opportunity for professional growth” – this has been one of the most rewarding aspects of Steluta’s career since moving to the UK. Her dedication to self-development is evident in her progression at HUC, where she has taken on new responsibilities and continues to expand her skillset. With further training, including floorwalking and coaching, and plans to complete a Minor Illnesses course and progress towards Advanced Nurse Practitioner qualifications, her journey is one of ambition and continuous development.

Like many healthcare professionals, Jasly regularly faces high-pressure situations, but approaches them with resilience and professionalism. She explains that such challenges “require resilience, sound clinical reasoning, and the ability to remain composed under pressure,” and that she navigates them by drawing on her training and experience, always maintaining a focus on patient safety and quality care.

With 17 years of experience across Accident and Emergency, Intensive Care and Primary Care, Jasly has developed a strong and adaptable clinical skillset. Each setting, she notes, “has contributed significantly to the development of my clinical expertise and adaptability.”

Her four years with HUC have been particularly significant, providing opportunities for both learning and leadership. She shares that this time “has been particularly instrumental in my professional growth,” from her role as a Clinical Advisor to supporting colleagues as a Clinical Floorwalker. She also highlights the organisation’s investment in her development, noting that HUC “has demonstrated a strong commitment to staff development by supporting me in undertaking a Master’s degree in Advanced Clinical Practice.” Jasly is especially grateful for the support she has received along the way, adding that she is “especially appreciative of the guidance and mentorship provided by my manager and colleagues,” which has been integral to her continued growth.

Jasly’s story is a great reflection of the skill, dedication and compassion that nurses bring to their roles every day.