A NURSE who was promoted from a student to deputy ward sister at Arrowe Park Hospital is hoping to inspire others.

Stephanie Thompson, 23, made her progression in just over a year and wants to support nursing graduates follow their dreams.

Now working on the Acute Medical Unit, which is one of the largest and busiest at the Trust, Stephanie helps care for more than 25,000 patients a year.

Starting her journey after studying for three years at Liverpool John Moores University she joined Wirral University Teaching Hospital in 2016.

Stephanie said: “I think it’s important to develop your skill set whenever you can.

"This can hopefully have a positive impact on our patients and the Trust, as it means that I am learning new and innovative skills to help with patient care.

“WUTH is a great place to work and learn.

"I hope student nurses will see me as an example of how you can progress in your career quickly with hard work.”

Last month, Stephanie received the news that she had been promoted to deputy ward sister.

She added: “The staff have been amazing and everyone supports you with however you want to progress as an individual and within your team. It’s important to me to work hard on a daily basis and to maintain a high standard of care for our patients.

“Every day provides a new challenge on AMU.

"I meet patients with new and interesting stories all the time and it’s fantastic to hear patients’ stories from all walks of life.

"In my new role as deputy ward sister, I will continue to strive to deliver excellent care, compassion and commitment for both staff and patients, whilst making sure vital aspects of my role such as infection control, are at the highest standards possible.

"I know that I can help the team to continue to progress forwards.

“As one of the biggest units at WUTH, it is important to keep morale high, as some days can be challenging.

"One of the reasons I have been able to progress to different levels in the Trust is due to the supportive nature of the people I’ve met.

"We work tirelessly to provide the best possible care for our patients and I’m really glad that it’s recognised by the Trust, it’s a privilege to be a part of this team each and every day.”

To look at nursing opportunities at Arrowe Park Hospital visit http://www.wuth.nhs.uk/patients-and-visitors/choose-us/for-work/join-our-team/