Case studies

"I love working as part of a large team of colleagues from a wide spectrum of disciplines and specialties."

I'm a senior sister in the RVI's busy, city centre Emergency Department.

When I first qualified as a nurse I worked on a general surgical ward, then I moved to a different surgical ward specialising in upper gastrointestinal conditions which was very busy.

My career further progressed and I took up a role in Accident and Emergency when it was at Newcastle General Hospital and was involved in the department's move to the RVI - home to the Northern Region's Great North Trauma and Emergency Centre.

I currently love my role in the Emergency Department and the team that work here.

What do you love about your job?

The variety of patients - no two days are ever the same - and working as part of a large team of colleagues from a wide spectrum of disciplines and specialties.

Any tips for finding a job that you love?

Think about the skills that are essential.

If you want to do something specific make sure you pick jobs that may help you to get them, for example I worked on a surgical ward when I first qualified and this gave me a number of skills that were transferable and more appointable to another post within the Trust. 

Tell us about any unusual aspects of the job

Variety is the spice of life!

What are your usual working hours?

I work 37.5 hours per week and over a variety of days and night shift. This makes the role so flexible.

What training is needed for your job?

I obtained a Bsc (Hons) in nursing studies prior to commencing my post with the Trust.

Since then I have completed a number of trauma courses, Hospital major incident courses and Leadership courses, all supported by the Trust.

Why should someone come and work in your department?

The variety in the department is amazing and you never know what is coming through the doors.

It’s a regional Major Trauma Centre and so has access to all the specialities needed to treat such patients.

We have a large supportive team that would make anyone very welcome.