Local hospitals strengthen workforce with newly qualified nurses

SEVENTY newly qualified nurses have started work at United Lincolnshire Hospitals NHS Trust (ULHT).

The nurses have recently graduated from Lincoln, Nottingham, De Montfort, Sheffield Hallam, Hull and Leeds universities. They have been employed as part of the Trust’s regular recruitment and annual intake of newly qualified nurses.

The nurses have taken part in a two day induction programme to understand about working for the Trust and the values they are expected to uphold, such as treating patients with compassion, dignity and respect.

They have also taken part in a more comprehensive three day preceptorship induction programme which has included clinical skills workshops, portfolio development and medicines management.

Preceptorship is designed to support the transition from student nurse to registered practitioner, and to provide a structured programme of learning that includes classroom teaching, e-learning and supported work based learning.

Deputy Chief Nurse at ULHT Liz Ball said: “It’s really crucial for us that we provide all the help and guidance that our newly qualified nurses need before they start work on the wards. It’s a great way to ensure our new starters feel supported but also understand what is expected of them as a member of this Trust.”

Acting Chief Nurse for United Lincolnshire Hospitals NHS Trust, Pauleen Pratt said: “I have been delighted to meet the newly qualified nurses as they start their careers with us here at ULHT. We are committed to supporting and developing these new nurses as they are a key part of our journey out of special measures.

“I have already seen examples of excellent compassion in care by the new nurses and we will continue to support all our nursing staff to ensure we deliver care of the highest quality to our patients.

“These new nurses will help us to build on the excellent improvements in care we have already made at a time when patients are being admitted with multiple conditions and complex needs.

“We believe that by supporting our clinical staff through robust induction and ongoing training we will continue to drive improvements. This will enable us to ensure we always deliver compassionate, high quality care and meet the individual needs of our patients.”