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"Starting in the heart centre in 1972, I have seen it grow from strength to strength, and hope that in that time I have added to that growth. I nursed the first bypass patient, and have seen how angioplasty has changed the face of the cardiac world.
My first notable contribution came after my 3rd child, when in 1988 I established the cardio thoracic liaison team which has since grown to the further benefit to patients. Once I became the Lead nurse in the Heart centre, I have held a number of issues close to my heart and hope that you will all remember me for my enthusiasm and determination to make things happen for the benefit of the patients.
Essence of care has always been important and really does get everyone to think about how we treat people and respect their dignity almost as if it was our own. Cleanliness and infection control seem to have become the personal property of matrons throughout the trust and none more so than I have embraced these issues, although my “shoe shine” service for the consultants will cease! I do feel however that one issue under this banner will never go away is that of “white coats”. In attempting to find a compromise between wearing scrubs everywhere and not spreading infection, I introduced white coats back into the Heart Centre. Unfortunately I did not anticipate the reception these would get or the challenges I would face. Needless to say, to those of you reading this whilst sat in scrubs in Everett’s, pray I don’t catch up with you, to those of you in a white coat, and shoe covers, I salute you….!
The ‘Clean your Hands’ campaign was an NHS programme that simply could not fail as this is second nature to all staff in clinical areas when treating patients. However, the monthly audits currently underway would suggest that maybe a certain amount of naivety has been shown……we could all do better – “says Matron”. My aim has always been to provide high standards of care, 365 days a year, although we haven’t quite got there just yet, but with the continued efforts of all the staff I’m sure we will.
Finally, I would like to thank all the staff with whom I’ve had the pleasure to work with over the years, and also share with you how much I will miss everyone’s commitment to improving care for patients as you can tell. I wish you all the best for the future and will think of you from my Portuguese hideaway"
Everyone at the Paris Heart Centre wishes Anne a long and happy retirement.
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