Dadiso Chiedza Leandra Yao

I am an experienced and highly motivated Registered Nurse with a strong foundation in oncology, haematology, and trauma care, currently working within the Bristol Haematology and Oncology Centre. With over seven years of nursing experience across inpatient oncology units, chemotherapy day units, and trauma and orthopaedics, I have developed comprehensive clinical, leadership, and compassionate care competencies that align seamlessly with the demands and expectations of the role.
I hold current NMC registration and possess a UKONS Systemic Anti-Cancer Therapy (SACT) Passport, which has enabled me to safely administer various systemic anti-cancer therapies including intravenous, oral, subcutaneous, and bolus forms. I also maintain up-to-date knowledge of the principles, side effects, and compatibility of chemotherapy agents, ensuring safe and effective treatment for patients. Additionally, I have completed relevant training in leadership and continue to pursue ongoing professional development through conferences, workshops, and internal teaching opportunities, particularly those aligned with oncology and haematology specialisms.

Since March 2021, I have worked on both the Oncology Ward (D603) and the Teenage and Young Adults Inpatient Unit (D601). In these roles, I have regularly assumed the position of Nurse in Charge, demonstrating excellent leadership and team coordination. I effectively manage staffing allocations to ensure an optimal skill mix and safe patient care environment. My experience includes overseeing shift responsibilities, supervising staff, making informed decisions under pressure, and maintaining high standards of clinical governance and patient safety. I am confident in delegating appropriately and empowering colleagues while ensuring patient-centred, evidence-based care.

My day-to-day responsibilities include providing direct patient care, administering systemic anti-cancer therapies, managing complex symptoms, and conducting thorough assessments of patients' physical and emotional conditions. I have developed individualised care plans and coordinated holistic interventions, particularly in end-of-life care scenarios. I am deeply committed to promoting dignity, comfort, and respect, especially for terminally ill patients and their families. I take pride in being able to offer empathetic and tailored support that addresses not only clinical but also psychological and spiritual dimensions of care.

Through my role in both the inpatient wards and as a bank nurse in the Chemotherapy Day Unit (D502), I have developed strong clinical acumen and technical proficiency, including in managing central venous access devices such as PICCs, ports, and cannulas. I am highly experienced with using electronic health records systems, including Chemocare, to document chemotherapy administration, record vital observations, and ensure continuity of care.

My clinical decisions are always underpinned by current guidelines, best practices, and ethical standards. I am well-versed in the NMC Code of Conduct and uphold the highest standards of professionalism, integrity, and confidentiality. I am vigilant in maintaining infection control standards, recognising clinical deterioration early, and taking prompt actions. These capabilities have been essential not only in oncology but also in my past role in trauma and orthopaedics, where I cared for patients with complex and comorbid health issues such as Parkinson’s, dementia, diabetes, and acute cardiac and respiratory conditions.

In trauma and orthopaedics, I took responsibility for medication administration, wound care, safe discharge planning, and patient education. I worked collaboratively with the wider multidisciplinary team to coordinate care, prepare patients for theatre, and ensure a seamless transition post-surgery or post-injury. I also played an active role in mentoring newly qualified nurses and junior doctors, highlighting my commitment to education, teamwork, and professional growth.

My commitment to personal and professional development is evident through my continued engagement with new training opportunities. I have completed training in chemotherapy delivery, venepuncture, cannulation, palliative care, and manual handling. I regularly attend workshops and study days in oncology to stay updated on new protocols, research findings, and clinical techniques. I am also pursuing teaching and mentorship roles within the trust, aiming to complete a formal teaching qualification in the near future.

I have demonstrated strong communication and interpersonal skills throughout my career, ensuring patients and their families feel heard, respected, and involved in their care plans. I consistently tailor my communication to suit diverse needs and cultural sensitivities. I am particularly aware of how to support vulnerable populations, including teenagers and young adults facing cancer diagnoses, who often require additional emotional and psycho-social support. I advocate for patients’ rights and act swiftly to address concerns, providing holistic and person-centred care at all times.

As someone who thrives in fast-paced, high-pressure environments, I have developed robust prioritisation and time management skills. I remain calm under pressure, ensuring patient care is not compromised even during peak workloads. I am confident managing deteriorating patients, liaising promptly with medical teams, and using clinical judgment to escalate care appropriately.

In addition to clinical skills, I understand the importance of resource management and cost-effective care. My experience as Nurse in Charge has familiarised me with the basic principles of budgetary and staffing considerations. I exercise sound judgment in using resources efficiently without compromising patient safety or care quality.

I am passionate about making a difference and being part of a service that delivers excellent oncology and haematology care. My values are deeply aligned with the Trust’s core principles: I believe in treating everyone as individuals, offering compassionate and non-judgemental care, and working collaboratively with colleagues. I take pride in my appearance, my role, and the unit I represent. I am proactive, always willing to take initiative, and committed to lifelong learning.

This opportunity represents a meaningful next step in my nursing career, where I can continue delivering high-quality care, support my peers, and contribute to service development. I am particularly excited about the chance to work in a multidisciplinary team where continuous improvement, audit, education, and patient advocacy are at the heart of practice.

I am confident that my clinical expertise, oncology-specific qualifications, leadership skills, and deep sense of compassion make me a strong candidate for this position. I bring not only hands-on experience and evidence-based knowledge but also a genuine passion for oncology nursing and a commitment to improving patient outcomes. I would welcome the opportunity to further develop within your team and contribute to the delivery of outstanding care for patients navigating some of the most challenging periods of their lives.