Huge challenge for nurse Stacy
A nurse who has just qualified at the University of Sunderland is starting her career at the most incredible time in NHS history.
On Monday, Stacy Humphrey, 22, begins nursing in earnest in accident and emergency at South Tyneside District Hospital.
The global coronavirus pandemic means she faces challenges unknown to new nurses until now.
Despite this, Stacy, from Fulwell, believes she is ready and is determined to play her part.
The former Monkwearmouth School student said: “I know it will be a challenging time, but the ethos remains the same; caring and supporting those who most need our help.
“I’m lucky in that I have a huge support network around me; from my family to the lecturers at the university.
“When I start on Monday, I know things will be on a much bigger scale than I expected but, at the end of the day, we are there to care for those most in need.
“That’s the profession I’ve chosen.”
More than three years ago,
Stacy visited the university during an open day and was impressed by nursing programmes and facilities.
She added: “As soon as I started the course, I knew I’d made the right decision. My first-year placement was in neuro rehabilitation at Sunderland Royal, and it was so inspiring to be learning on the job.”
“I expect there will be added pressures, but I feel ready to start on Monday and I know it will be a great time of learning for me.”
Stacy is one of almost 40 student nurses from the university preparing to join hospitals across the North East, just days after finishing their programme. They will be working for hospital trusts including Sunderland and South Tyneside.
Sue Brent, the University of Sunderland’s head of the School of Nursing and Health Sciences, said: “We are so proud of all our nurses and their hard work and effort. I’m sure they will make a huge impact in their new roles during this difficult and challenging time for the NHS.
“Thanks must also go to our positive and proactive Undergraduatenursingteam, who are wholly committed to delivering high quality, jobready graduates who will make a real difference to patient care.”