‘I always care for a patient as I would like to be cared for’
A hospital visit can be a daunting prospect for many patients. But there are health professionals who pride themselves on making their stay as comfortable as possible, including Yoanna Peacock at Spire Cardiff Hospital
Yoanna Peacock is a qualified operating department practitioner and a surgical first assistant at Spire Cardiff Hospital.
She has a special interest in orthopaedic surgery and has been caring for the patients at the hospital since May 2015. general, ophthalmics, gynae and plastic surgery on both adult and paediatric patients.
However, the core of a day is always the same, putting patients at the heart of everything I do, providing skilled, safe and effective perioperative care.
A role includes preparing the operating theatre and equipment, making sure specialist equipment is available for specific procedures, providing the surgical team with the items they need during an operation, monitoring instruments and keeping accurate records.
I am also trained to work as a surgical first assistant, where I provide surgical support and assistance during surgical procedures.
The day would normally start with a team brief, identifying any patients with variance in care, ensuring all equipment needed for the day is present and correct.
I work within a close team of practitioners with a fantastic skill mix, with many years of perioperative experience.
The working day is usually busy, dynamic and often challenging, but we work closely together and seem to make complex things easier in a professional and considerate manner, taking pride in a job well done.
The operating list usually ends with a team debrief, where we celebrate success and identify any points for possible improvement. Every day is different and my role involves constant learning opportunities, which make me grow as an excellent perioperative practitioner.
I also work within a great team where I feel motivated and able to achieve my full potential.
I take great pride when patients are pleased with their care and even a simple thank you and a warm smile means a lot to me. Keep things simple and making complex things easier. I love spending time outdoors and often plan finding hidden beaches and exploring the beautiful Welsh countryside. I enjoy yoga practice and I am a keen runner. I would say that the rewards are endless, working within motivated, highperformance teams.
Private healthcare organisations seem to invest in the capability of their staff and their roles and build a culture of continuous learning and development to retain skilled staff.
The contribution made by individuals is often rewarded and recognised to aid in the excellence of the organisation.
If you enjoy a dynamic, varied and at times challenging but rewarding working environment, then give it a go.