Susan John

My UK experience as a healthcare assistant strengthened my understanding of NHS processes, documentation standards, multidisciplinary communication, clinical governance, and safe working practices. I gained insight into manual handling requirements, infection prevention and control procedures, safeguarding, fluid balance monitoring, nutritional assessments, pressure area care, and the importance of accurate documentation to support continuity of care. I worked closely with registered nurses, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, and dementia specialists, which strengthened my teamwork abilities and prepared me well for integrated NHS working. This aligns with the essential criteria of working collaboratively, respecting professional boundaries, and contributing to safe discharge planning and patient flow.

My background in home-care work provided strong foundations in person-centred care, risk assessment, medication support, and community-based intervention. I cared for individuals with chronic and progressive health conditions, including those with dementia. This experience taught me the importance of patience, empathy, therapeutic communication, and adapting care to each person's cognitive ability, which strongly aligns with the NHS values of compassion and patient-centred practice. Supporting individuals in their own homes reinforced my sense of responsibility, accountability, and trustworthiness—qualities that form the core of both the NMC Code and the NHS Constitution.

My experience across various clinical specialties has enabled me to meet all essential criteria for the Adult Nurse role. I have worked extensively in critical care settings, including an intensive cardiac care environment, where I cared for acutely unwell patients requiring continuous monitoring and advanced support. This included managing ventilated patients, interpreting arterial blood gas results, caring for those with invasive lines, and supporting patients with central venous pressure and arterial blood pressure monitoring. I also gained experience preparing patients for cardiac procedures such as angiography, angioplasty, temporary pacing, and post-operative cardiac recovery. These roles strengthened my ability to recognise early signs of deterioration, escalate concerns promptly using structured communication methods such as SBAR, and respond calmly in high-pressure environments. These skills directly align with the essential requirement for safe patient assessment, timely decision-making, and appropriate escalation in an NHS setting

I have strong experience in labour and emergency care environments, where rapid decision-making, teamwork, and effective communication were crucial. Working in these fast-paced units developed my confidence in handling emergencies, supporting patients and families during distressing situations, and maintaining dignity at all times. I delivered care that reflected the 6Cs, particularly compassion, communication, and courage, and supported women through labour, emergency interventions, and immediate post-natal care. These experiences enhanced my ability to provide holistic care, maintain confidentiality, and respond sensitively to diverse emotional needs. They also strengthened my understanding of safeguarding, equality, diversity, and inclusion, which are essential criteria across all NHS clinical roles.

• Adhered strictly to safety guidelines minimising workplace incidents.
• Managed wound dressings, promoting healing and preventing infection.
• Maintained high standards of cleanliness and hygiene within the ward.
• Increased patient understanding with clear explanation of medical procedures.
• Provided compassionate emotional support to patients, easing their anxiety.
• Liaised effectively with relatives, keeping them informed about patient progress.
• Assisted doctors during examinations for efficient healthcare delivery.
• Updated patient records meticulously to ensure accurate documentation.
• Handled emergency situations calmly leading to successful crisis resolution.

• Identified early warning signs of deteriorating health through vigilant monitoring.
• Improved patient comfort by providing expert bedside care.
• Managed wound dressings, promoting healing and preventing infection.
• Maintained high standards of cleanliness and hygiene within the ward.
• Led health education sessions to promote healthy lifestyle choices in patients.
• Administered medication for pain management and symptom control.
• Increased patient understanding with clear explanation of medical procedures.
• Worked closely with fellow nurses, doctors and clinicians for consistent communication and continued best care practices.