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The outcome of treatment for children and the lives they live are improved by dedicated support.
Sarah is our specialist paediatric nurse, with more than fifteen years experience of caring for children, the last ten in dermatology. She is here to support and facilitate a family centred approach to care.
Normally present during the appointment with your child’s consultant, Sarah is available to explain any specific treatment instructions in detail. She is the link between you and your consultant.
Her excellent communication skills help to support your child during their care journey within our clinic. The continuity of care Sarah ensures is added to by her understanding of treating young patients.
Intuitive Support
Carefully carrying out practical duties is part of Sarah’s role. They can range from using specialist testing equipment, to recording vital signs, taking samples, administering medication, or applying dressings.
These are in a sense the same procedures which would be carried out for an adult but a child’s perception is quite different. Experience of treating children and a passion for supporting them is important.
There will be times when Sarah can calm down a young patient, or cheer them up, although there are more subtle needs. Appreciating a child’s privacy concerns can matter, or offering an explanation in a way that is understood.
Paediatric dermatology takes in children of all ages and being able to adjust your approach is a vital skill.
A Family Approach
Sarah may help to explain treatment and procedures to parents, or guardians so they can consent to treatment, yet goes beyond this. She sees her role as supporting, advising and if helful, educating the whole family.
When assessing the nursing needs of a child, social, or cultural aspects can matter alongside medical needs. Keeping everyone involved up to date and alleviating concern is also a valuable way to make treatment successful.
There are important hygiene and safety factors a paediatric nurse should consider, or procedures when preparing a patient for surgery. They matter but so does how everyone feels about their care and the future.
Sarah’s dedication helps our paediatric dermatology team and her patients look forward, rather than focus on concerns. There is something inspiring about a child’s resilience and view of life, which Sarah reflects in the spirit she shares.