Nicola is an excellent, empathetic nurse who dedicates her time to helping patients on D10. I am a student nurse currently on my management placement, and I am in awe of how well she manages difficult and sensitive conversations and issues.

During one particular event, Nicola helped a patient who felt trapped in a very toxic, controlling, and abusive relationship. The patient had been receiving death threats, threats to her family and children, and was forced by her partner to be constantly “on call.” He also threatened male members of staff caring for her, including porters, kitchen staff, and doctors. Nicola recognised how this was affecting the patient emotionally and physically, and hindering her recovery.

She took the time to listen to the patient, thoroughly discuss all her options, and explain the safeguarding process at NUH. Nicola completed all the required paperwork in great detail, using her emotional intelligence and skills to gather evidence for documentation. Even when she was not assigned to the bay where the patient was, she would always go out of her way to check on her.
Since Nicola’s support, the patient’s mood has significantly improved, and she has gained confidence, feeling much safer not only for herself but also for her children. The patient’s ability to open up to Nicola demonstrates the outstanding, patient-centred care she provides.

Following Nicola’s safeguarding referrals and documentation, there is now enough evidence to prosecute the patient’s partner. This was incredible news for both the patient and Nicola. Her empathy is exceptional—so much so that she even cried upon hearing the news. Nicola’s care extends beyond her patients to support families and children, demonstrating a truly holistic practice.
She is an excellent role model, using her own life experiences to fuel her empathetic care, as evidenced by the trust patients place in her. I cannot think of anyone in my three years as a student nurse, more.