Nurse specialist is a “lifeline”

A patient suffering from Crohn’s disease has thanked nurse Stephanie Bourne for being “a lifeline”. Stephanie works as the Lead Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD) nurse specialist and helps patients to manage their condition, providing clinical and practical support when they need it. Claire Wood praised Stephanie for taking the time to listen and for making sure her voice was heard.

Claire said: “As soon as it was discovered my current treatment wasn’t working Stephanie got me on a new plan and when my latest flare-up resulted in a hospital admission she would speak to me regularly and took the time to listen to my worries and concerns. Stephanie also helped to chase up appointments and ensured my voice was heard with my consultant. Without the support and care have received from Stephanie I feel my mental health would have been severely affected. Knowing I have her support has been a massive help.”

IBD nurse specialists form part of a multidisciplinary team to ensure patients receive the best care. They also run a helpline for patients who may be struggling with their condition.

Claire has given Stephanie the UHNM Hero award in recognition of her dedicated care.

Stephanie was presented with the award by Lorraine Whitehead, Director of Estates, Facilities and PFI (pictured)

Stephanie said: “My role is a very rewarding one, we love to see patients get the help they need and sometimes get better. Patients appreciate what we do, so that’s really nice and a real benefit to the job. I’m very humbled and surprised to receive the award, but it’s lovely, especially with everything else going on at the moment, to be recognised.”