NHS At 70 – Admiral Nurse, Hannah Gardner, Recognised For Making A Difference
With the NHS having celebrated its 70th birthday this year Admiral Nurse, Hannah Gardner, was recognised as playing an instrumental role within the service. The Care Quality Commission recognised the work of individuals – from volunteer to front-line staff to senior leaders – who have delivered great services across acute and mental health NHS Trusts, primary care and adult social care.
Hannah Gardner was appointed as an Admiral Nurse for Lister Hospital in Hertfordshire earlier in the year. Since her appointment she has made sure that families get the best possible access to dementia care and support following a change in care settings.
Through co-ordinated support in the community and in the hospital, Hannah has played a massive role in reducing the chance of family breakdown through carer stress.
“An absolute privilege”
Hannah Gardner said: “It’s amazing to get this kind of recognition and an absolute privilege to help families face dementia. A big part of the care pathway that I’ve introduced involves raising awareness of delirium amongst families and healthcare professionals. It’s often hard to tell the difference between the two but by giving clarity we can ensure that people are given access to the appropriate treatment and support.”
Paul Edwards, Director of Clinical Services at Dementia UK, commented: “Admiral Nurses are at the heart of dementia care and it is fantastic that Hannah Gardner has been recognised for her work within Lister Hospital.
“As the NHS has now celebrated its 70th anniversary, it’s important to remember the contribution and difference that Admiral Nurses have made to this institution. They’ve played a key role in bridging the gap between health and social care in what is often such a fragmented system for families.
“Through consultation with healthcare professionals and by opening up pathways to care, access to and provision of dementia care can be improved across settings”.
