Samantha Gibson

Contributing to positively impacting on peoples lives has been a long held passion of mine and one of the reasons nursing has become my chosen career. Nursing allows me to combine my compassion for others with my desire to help them through some of their most challenging moments. I am drawn to the unique combination of knowledge, empathy, and patient care that nursing offers. The opportunity to build meaningful connections, provide comfort, and advocate for patients is deeply fulfilling. Nursing is a career that not only challenges me intellectually but also aligns with my dedication to support, kindness, and ongoing growth.

• Christchurch Hospital - Orthopedic Operating Theatre
• 15/07/2024 - 15/09/2024 (9 weeks)
• During my 3B placement in the orthopedic operating theatre, I have developed and refined a diverse set of essential perioperative nursing skills crucial for high-quality patient care. I have learned the importance of sterility, aseptic techniques to prevent infection and have become proficient in handling surgical instruments. Assisting with procedures, including patient positioning, wound care, and pressure area care, has enhanced my understanding of surgical workflows. Additionally, I have gained experience in monitoring vital signs, responding to emergencies, and ensuring patient safety. Effective communication with the surgical team has been vital for coordinating care and maintaining accurate documentation.
• 24 Hr Surgery - Acute Demand Team
• 03/04/2024 - 08/05/2024 (5 weeks)
• During my 3A placement at Acute Demand, I developed essential skills in patient interaction, both in clinical and home environments. I gained significant expertise in managing and treating conditions such as heart failure, cellulitis, and respiratory diseases. I developed the ability to identify critical signs and symptoms, enhancing patient health while working alongside experienced nurses in patients' homes. Observing these nurses, who often worked as the sole healthcare providers, provided me with deep insights into patient assessment and decision-making. They guided me in recognizing when a patient was deteriorating, required medication adjustments, or needed emergency services. This experience significantly improved my skills in rapid symptom identification, condition management, wound care, and patient interactions.
• Christchurch Hospital - Parkside Ground Medical (PGM)
• 11/09/2023 - 27/10/2023 (6 weeks)
• At Parkside Ground Medical, I predominantly learned the fundamentals of clinical nursing skills and management. My basic nursing skills improved significantly as I built therapeutic relationships with patients, familiarized myself with ward operations, and understood hospital documentation processes. I gained experience in safely administering and checking medications, the importance of thorough documentation, and maintaining a patient-centered approach in all aspects of care.
• Hillmorton Hospital - AIG East
• 20/03/2023 - 28/04/2023 (5 weeks)
• As a student nurse at Hillmorton East Inpatients, I gained valuable insights into the complexities of mental health care. I learned to effectively communicate with patients experiencing various mental health challenges, employing empathy and active listening to build trust and rapport. I learned and developed skills in conducting mental health assessments and was introduced to developing and implementing individualized care plans. This experience taught me the significance of safety protocols and crisis intervention strategies, as well as the need for multidisciplinary collaboration in managing patient care.
• Summerset at Avonhead
• 25/10/2022 - 10/11/2022
• During my placement at Summerset Resthome I gained a comprehensive understanding of older persons health and the unique needs of elderly patients. I learned to perform thorough assessments and develop personalized care plans to address various physical and cognitive conditions, such as chronic illnesses and dementia. I developed skills in managing daily activities and providing compassionate support while ensuring the safety and well-being of residents. Additionally, I became adept at monitoring vital signs, and assessing and managing pressure injury risks.

• 2017 : Excellence Certificate - Health and Physical Education