Jacqui McKee started as our Research Nurse in Northern Ireland late last year. You can read more about her work here:
How would you describe your role to someone you’ve just met?
Very interesting. Rewarding. Patient contact, hands on care. Continually learning. Potentially I could be part of changing history if we found a treatment or even a cure. Working with people living MND getting their experiences and what they want.
What does your typical working day look like?
At the minute it has be continually learning, education and understanding the trials available. Attending clinics getting to know our patients.
What made you want to become a nurse?
I always loved to care for people. To make a difference. I always wanted to be part of the palliative end of conditions, being there for the patient and their family. I feel privileged to be involved at this stage. It’s nice for our patients to have someone else to talk to rather than the whole burden being left to their family
What attracted you to your current role?
Several people, including two neurology consultants and the patients I have cared for along the way with MND
Who has had the biggest impact on your career?
My first ward sister. 36 years ago I started as a junior staff nurse, petrified. This nurse had so much knowledge, she knew everything about her patients and I mean everything as well as running a very tight disciplined unit. The ward was female general medicine. Very busy ward. She gave me confidence and pushed me every day. Some would say she was a sergeant major but she was just awesome. She taught me to know about exactly every part of my care, why it was done, how it was done and the outcomes. If I was doing an ECG I knew to read. She was very much about evidenced based practice.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
Our patients and constant learning.
What’s been the stand-out moment in your career so far?
Achieving this role as an MND lead research nurse. I’ve always wanted to be involved with research and now it’s finally happened.
What are your ambitions for the future?
My ambition is to recruit as many patients into trials, continue to be there advocate and work with MND patients and their families
What advice would you give to someone who wanted a job like yours?
Love and enjoy your job. Get involved and don’t hold back Have passion and understanding. Never be afraid to ask questions. It's brilliant to be able to learn.