Don’t wait to be told how to do your job: Elaine Way

She was addressing local health care professionals at a major nursing conference in Londonderry.

Ms Way urged nurses to use the day to reflect and hold on to the best of the past while also setting their direction for the future.

She said: “Don’t wait to be told what your profession should be or how you should fulfil your professional responsibilities - take control. Speak up, raise concerns, whistleblow, demand organisational commitment to you becoming a better nurse.”

An audience of 200 nurses and midwives from across Northern Ireland heard presentations from a range of health leaders and professionals at the recent conference in the City Hotel.

Health Minister Edwin Poots, who also attended, said early intervention by the nursing profession could help break the cycle of disadvantage that results in poorer people here dying young.

“Unfortunately those who are disadvantaged in our society do not have an equal chance of experiencing good health and wellbeing and too many still die prematurely or live with conditions that they need not have,” said Mr Poots.

“By adopting a life course approach, with the very young identified as a strategic priority, we seek to work towards breaking the cycle of disadvantage, and a steady increase in better health - and social outcomes for the whole population over time.”

The Minister added: “I know nurses and midwives are passionate about the care they provide and continually seek ways to improve and demonstrate their value.

“Nursing care can make a big difference to the experience, safety and effectiveness of patient’s care and treatment.”

The conference was planned to coincide with local events surrounding the UK City of Culture 2013 celebrations.

Mr Alan Corry Finn, Executive Director for Nursing at the Western Trust, said: “I am very proud to be able to help celebrate the fantastic, innovative and dedicated work of nurses and midwives from the Western Trust, and from the other Trusts and organisations represented here today.

“We learned about a range of innovative practice solutions that are providing patients and clients with a high standard of care.

“It is clear that nurses and midwives place caring for patients with compassion and dignity as a priority within their professional role, while confidently working with the latest technology, clinical expertise and competence to help us to constantly improve our service making them ready for whatever the future brings I am also proud that the contribution that nurses and midwives make to the health and well-being of our local population has had a place in this historic year of celebrations for the City.”