“International Nurses Day is important because we should recognise the hard work, support and compassion that all nurses provide to deliver exceptional patient care.”

To mark International Nurses Day on 12 May, Derbyshire Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust is celebrating the dedication, compassion and impact of its nursing workforce. The annual awareness day recognises the vital role nurses play in supporting patients, families and communities, as well as the skill and resilience they demonstrate every day. 

As part of this, we are shining a spotlight on Sara Johnson, Ward Manager on Wren Ward at the Carsington Unit in Derby, who has worked in mental health nursing since qualifying in 2007. Sara shares her journey into nursing, what motivates her, and the difference she and her team make to patients in their care.

What inspired you to become a nurse?

Since a young age I always wanted to be in a career that was professional that would enable me to be caring and compassionate. I lost my mamma at a young age due to heart failure which impacted me significantly, I loved and cared for at and wanted to continue this into my adult life.

How long have you worked in nursing, and where did your career begin?

I qualified in 2007 and my first role was a Newly qualified registered nurse at Arnold Lodge in Leicester hospital.

What has been the most rewarding part of your nursing journey so far?

I have found every part rewarding, however most recently I have been involved in opening a new ward and been able to be a part of the recruitment for the new hospital. This as also allowed me to create a positive culture on the ward as we are brand new and therefore able to shape the ward and create a caring and compassionate environment for both the team and patients.

Is there a moment in your career that you are particularly proud of?

I was awarded platinum status for three years running at our yearly quality visits as well as being nominated for Team of Year at the Trust’s annual staff awards whilst managing Audrey House which provides specialised, high intensity therapeutic support with complex mental health for men. It is now open to women only following recent changes.

Can you describe your current role and what a typical day looks like?

My current role is ward manager on Wren ward at the Carsington Unit. A typical day for me is never the same as I will support safer staffing if required and step into numbers on the ward.

Attending essential meetings and ensuring information is shared to the team through the correct channels. I ensure the ward is in a safe and effective manner, considering skill mix and ability. I complete staff supervision, appraisals and monitor and review absences on the ward. I am also a bleep holder this entails coordinating the unit staffing, supporting bed management, the 136 suite and responding to incidents across the unit. A big part of my role is managing team conflict and supporting the team in creature a caring and compassionate culture.

What difference do you feel your role makes to patients or colleagues?

I feel that I lead by example and always ensure I work in a fair and supportive way to ensure the team feel able to come to me, I also ensure that I am visible on the ward and will always make myself available to patients should they need support.

What advice would you give to someone starting a career in nursing?

To be kind, caring and compassionate to your colleagues, patients and carers. To also utilise the team and work together, its ok to not know everything, nursing is about continuous learning and reflection.

What helps you stay motivated during busy or difficult periods?

My current team help me to stay motivated during difficult and busy times. They continuously thank me for the support I give them too which is always kind.

How do colleagues and teams support each other where you work?

We support one another through effective communication, regular access to supervision, team meetings and team away days. We also welcome colleagues from other areas to the ward and ensure they feel welcomed and valued. A simple thank you at the end of a shift goes a long way. Offering debriefs to the team following difficult incidents.

What does International Nurses Day mean to you?

International Nurses Day is important because we should recognise the hard work, support and compassion that all nurses provide to deliver exceptional patient care. A simple thank you to nurses for all that they do in ensuring we provide a safe high-quality service is important.

What would you like people to better understand about the nursing profession?

Nursing is about teamwork and being kind and compassionate.

How does it feel to have nursing recognised and celebrated?

It’s amazing that we celebrate our workforce and that we continue to value and thank our nurses for everything that they do.

What makes you proud to be a nurse at this Trust?

The support we get from senior management to work flexibly, positive recognition to teams when achievements are made, encouragement and confidence from others to make essential changes that improve the environment for the patients.

What excites you about the future of nursing?

The continuous opportunity to develop our workforce including health care support workers. Working on Wren ward has been amazing and I am truly proud to be the manager on Wren working alongside my wonderful and hardworking team, it was one of the best decisions choosing to work in acute care.

What would success look like for you over the next few years?

Being able to support my team to work flexibly and for them to feel safe to be able to raise any difficulties or concerns to me feels like a big success. To maintain high standards of care and ensure all staff have access to supervision and a yearly appraisal. I also try to create a kind, welcoming and caring environment that is inclusive to all.