Real life stories - Modern matron

Initially I wanted to become a nursery nurse but when I applied to do the training the course was oversubscribed. A pre-nursing course was advertised so I applied to do the foundation level and thoroughly enjoyed it. After this, I worked as an auxiliary nurse, and commenced my enrolled nurse training before applying for a permanent position working on a care of the elderly ward. Because I enjoyed working in operating theatres during my nurse training, I applied for a post as an enrolled nurse at the local hospital recovery unit and worked there for several years.

In 1993, I took a conversion course to become a registered nurse (RGN) and I took additional courses to gain insight into how older people live in the community, which really changed my perceptions about the elderly and the ageing process.

I returned to work at the recovery unit and used my experience to contribute to the management of the unit. I was a mentor to students and taught basic post-anaesthetic recovery of unconscious patients to students and new staff. I gained a wealth of experience and developed specialist skills in caring for the unconscious patient. I found working in recovery really stimulating and enjoyed many positive experiences caring for patients and providing one-to-one nursing care. I left the acute setting to work as a community staff nurse, working at various GP practices. I completed a district nursing degree course and then worked for six years as a district nursing sister.

In 2004 I moved to London to work as a modern matron in primary care. I facilitate the professional development of community nurses, ensuring they have the skills to deliver high-quality care. I also help develop nurse-led and patient-centred services and monitor standards of clinical practice and patient care. I’ve enjoyed working in numerous roles in the NHS, I feel that I have made a difference to many people’s lives and experienced many training opportunities, all of which have given me the chance to develop and innovate.