Maria Bernadette McQuade

With over a decade of experience as a nurse, I have acquired a diverse skill set that covers both acute hospital setting and community nursing. My clinical decision-making, autonomy, and ability to work under pressure have been improved through working in Accident & Emergency, stroke, endocrinology, care of the elderly, and, more recently, as a District Nurse. These varied experiences have equipped me with a broad understanding of medical conditions and the ability to deliver patient-centered care, making me an ideal candidate for the role at NHS24.

Throughout my career, I have consistently demonstrated strong clinical decision-making skills. In A&E, I was often faced with high-pressure situations that required accurate triage decisions to prioritise patients based on the priority of care required. As a bed manager, I coordinated managing resources to ensure that patients received the most appropriate care in the correct speciality as quickly as possible. In my current role as a District Nurse, I work autonomously, making critical decisions daily, often in unfamiliar or complex circumstances, ensuring patients receive the best care in their own homes.

One of the key strengths I bring is my ability to work independently and manage challenging situations. In district nursing, I often serve as the sole healthcare provider for patients, making decisions without the immediate support of a multidisciplinary team. I take pride in my ability to remain calm under pressure, particularly when faced with complex care requirements or unfamiliar clinical conditions. This experience has been invaluable in developing my confidence and ensuring that I provide high-quality care, regardless of the setting.

My broad clinical background, which includes experience in stroke care, elderly care, and endocrinology, has given me a deep understanding of various conditions and patient needs. This has improvied my adaptability, allowing me to apply my knowledge across different clinical environments and provide comprehensive care to diverse patient populations.

Effective communication is critical to the role of a nurse, and I have consistently demonstrated my ability to communicate clearly and compassionately with patients, their families, and colleagues. Whether explaining complex medical conditions or reassuring patients in high-pressure situations, I ensure that my communication is tailored to the individual needs of each patient. My proficiency with electronic health records and other medical IT systems, supported by my diploma in IT, allows me to efficiently document patient information and navigate the digital aspects of healthcare delivery.

I am committed to continuing my professional development and actively seek opportunities to enhance my knowledge and skills. Through regular training and CPD, I have stayed up to date with the latest nursing practices, particularly in autonomous care and clinical decision-making, ensuring that I provide the best possible care to my patients.

I am excited about the opportunity to bring my experience, clinical expertise, and IT skills to NHS24. I am confident that my background in both acute and community settings, combined with my proactive approach to professional growth, would make me an asset to any team.