Celebrating International Nurses Day, International Day of the Midwife and National ODP Day
“As we proudly celebrate International Day of the Midwife, National ODP Day and International Nurses Day at BWC (a little bit later this year on 6 June as we all focused on the launch of our new Electronic Patient Record), I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey of our colleagues.
“This is my third year commemorating these special events and I am filled with immense pride as I look back on all we’ve achieved together. The past twelve months have truly showcased the compassion, determination and innovation of our teams.
“This year we’ve chosen the theme, 'Nursing through the ages', which invites us to reflect on how far we’ve come and what we have to look forward to.
“In 1860, Nightingale Training School opened in London, one of the first institutions to teach Nursing and Midwifery as a formal profession. Its founder was Florence Nightingale, whose birthday marks International Nurses Day on 12 May.
“It’s incredible to consider how much has changed since then and how much continues to change.
“Our Nurses and Midwives are not only delivering exceptional care but also driving innovation.
“At our Children’s Hospital, colleagues undertook research to create technology to reduce the risk of injuries caused by extravasation - a major advancement in patient safety. This year also saw the announcement of the development of a home-monitoring mobile app that will revolutionise care for babies with complex heart disease.
“Meanwhile, at our Women’s, Research Midwives championed the exciting Generation Study, which launched across the country.
Thousands of families will be offered the opportunity to have their baby tested for more than 200 rare genetic conditions.
“These are just some of the powerful examples of how our teams are using technology and compassion to shape the future.
“We’re continuing to transform care through technology, research and quality improvement.
“We now have our new Electronic Patient Record (EPR) system, Taurus. It’s one of the biggest transformations in our history and will fundamentally improve how we work and deliver care. With it also came the launch of MyChart BWC, a new app set to change the way we deliver care by empowering patients to take an active role in managing their health.
“Lots of exciting transformations have taken place over the past 12 months but it’s not been without its challenges.
“Last winter, we were faced with a potential ‘quad-demic’ of flu, COVID-19, RSV and norovirus. Our Emergency Department saw record numbers of flu cases and it was a very tough time for colleagues.
“The past year has shown the strength and determination of our Nurses and Midwives, who are the beating heart of our society, caring for our loved ones every minute of every day. I’m proud of how our colleagues have remained ambitious, brave and compassionate throughout difficult times.
“Recognising your outstanding work is more important than ever. That’s why I was very proud to launch the international DAISY Awards last summer. This global programme honours extraordinary skill and compassion. It’s truly the highlight of my month to surprise a colleague on their ward, read a heartfelt nomination (often through tears) and present them with this well-deserved recognition.
“To all of our DAISY Award winners and nominees — congratulations. You inspire your colleagues and our patients and I look forward to celebrating many more of you in the months ahead.
“It’s difficult to imagine just how much has changed since Florence Nightingale opened her school 165 years ago. But it’s equally exciting to think about where we’re heading next.
“At our Children’s Hospital, we’ll be opening a newly modernised and more spacious resuscitation area in our Emergency Department and construction continues on a £35million Loveday Street new clinical build, funded by the national COVID-19 recovery programme, which will be home to a new state-of-the-art intraoperative MRI (iMRI) machine thanks to our Charity and supporters.
“Finally, I want to say ‘thank you’ to every one of you. You make a vital difference in people’s lives every single day. Your passion, skill and compassion define who we are as a Trust. You are our heartbeat and you inspire me every day.”