Towards the end of my time at the RMH, I was occasionally rostered on with several junior staff members, meaning that I would have to step into a senior position and delegate tasks accordingly. My ability to perform as a team member or as a team leader, depending on the circumstances is one of my strongest assets.

Throughout my clinical placements I have demonstrated an awareness of overarching policies, such as the ANMC competency standards, clinical guidelines and hospital policies, as establishing a standard of excellence in nursing care. I ensure my practice provides duty of care to all patients, and am committed to providing quality nursing care to all patients, regardless of age, gender, marital status, race, political or religious conviction, disability or impairment, pregnancy, family responsibility or sexual orientation.

I function accountably in providing care, ensuring I only engage in duties I have been deemed competent in, and which fall within my scope of practice. I demonstrated this when, whilst on clinical placement, I was instructed by a Registered Nurse to receive a hand over from the Theatre Nurses and bring a patient to the ward on my own. Understanding that this request did not fall within my scope of practice as a student Nurse, I politely refused, and insisted she supervise me whilst I completed what she requested. In doing this I protected the safety of the patient and maintained adherence to the standards set by the ANMC competencies and other overarching policies.

I endeavour to apply objectivity in all decision making, and to evaluate my practice, ensuring I acknowledge what is being done well, and what could be improved. I proactively seek to resolve any issues through effective communication, ensuring senior staff are aware of situations, and being open to adjust my practice based on feedback, whilst maintaining adherence to relevant policies.

seeking the input of others 

As a nursing student I had to ensure I was aware of these requirements when I was asked to administer medication without supervision. Knowing that this was not in accordance with my scope of practice or the legal requirements for medication administration I explained to the nurse that I would not administer the medication unless under direct supervision. I was aware that this may impact my professional relationship with that nurse however chose to prioritise patient safety and practice within my scope.