Working in the community can be very rewarding and provide excellent learning opportunities. Find out how Guild Nurse Emma transferred her ICU and hospital experience into the community and why you should too!
I joined the Scottish Nursing Guild in 2018 with the intention of solely working within a hospital setting, particularly ICU which is my main skill set. I ended up only doing this for a short time.
I was approached to work in the community with a client who had complex needs and my skills were exactly what they needed. Having never worked outside of a hospital setting before, I was understandably nervous. The structure of community care is different to the hospital where you can call out for a colleague for assistance or advice. I addressed these concerns with the community case manager. She answered every question I had and went through some hypothetical situations I could find myself in while on duty.
The Guild ensured I had lots of information about the client, their needs, provided additional training (where required), explained what was expected of me while on duty and what support systems I had if I needed to reach out. I discovered I had lots of transferable skills. It surprised me how much I have enjoyed community work. It has provided new learning opportunities. I find it personally very rewarding, becoming part of client’s lives. Being able to give them 100% of your attention, without the distractions of a busy ward.
Over the past 3 years I have worked with clients who require assistance to live independently at home. I have supported clients requiring short term care following an illness or hospital stay as well as those requiring end of life care within their own home, surrounded by their loved ones.
Community work won’t suit everyone, but I would encourage my Guild colleagues to try it. Like me, they may find it’s the right move for them.
If you’re already registered with us, please call your local branch for more information on community shifts.
If you’re thinking about joining the Guild why not check out our amazing benefits package here. From the best pay rates around, to paid NMC and NMBI fees, you don’t want to miss out!
