Published on: 30 August 2022
A nurse has said she is “humbled but proud” after she was presented with an award for the care she showed a patient.
Community Nurse Practitioner Debra James was nominated by Danielle Secret, a home oxygen nurse, after she saw first-hand the “exceptional care” she gave to a patient and their family.
Now Debra has been presented with a Cavell Star Award, which is part of a national scheme which recognises nurses, midwives, nursing associates and healthcare assistants who go above and beyond to help their colleagues, their patients and their patients’ families.
Debra, who is based at Grindon Primary Care Centre in Sunderland and works for South Tyneside and Sunderland NHS Foundation Trust, said:
“When I realised I’d been nominated and then received the award, I felt very humble but proud.
“I felt very emotional when I was presented with it, as I felt I’d done just as I should have done in caring for that patient and that is all I have endeavoured to do during my 35-year nursing career so far and I’ve always remained patient and family focused.
“The fact that another highly-skilled professional would take the time out to nominate me was a wonderful gesture, given how busy all health and social care services continue to be.”
Debra is a member of the West Integrated Team which works with patients with complex long-term health conditions.
It also offers assessments for patients aged over 65, who have moderate of severe frailty, to offer them support and to co-ordinate their care needs and offer education to help them live better with their condition and self-care when appropriate.
The team also helps patients seek assistance from other agencies in the voluntary health and social care sector.
Melanie Johnson, the Trust’s Director of Nursing, Midwifery and Allied Health Professionals, said: “We are delighted Debra has been presented with this award.
“It is a testament to her devotion to her role and the high standard of care she offers her patients.
“It is also a reflection of the work her team delivers to care for those in our community who need that extra level of support.
“She should quite rightly be proud of the recognition she has received.”
