A Keele University apprentice has been shortlisted for a national award celebrating NHS staff.
Karen Cotici, a registered nurse apprentice at Leighton Hospital, in Cheshire, who has been studying at Keele for the past three years, is among the finalists in the category of NHS Rising Star at the NHS Parliamentary Awards.
The award looks to celebrate those who have worked to deliver better services for themselves and others in their area.
As Daily Focus reported in February, Karen devised a new bed management system to help efficiency at the hospital built on learning about innovation and business plans as part of her studies on the adult nursing pathway.
She is now preparing for a ceremony in London on Wednesday, 5 July when she will find out if she is a winner.
Karen, who has also worked as a healthcare assistant, said: “This is something I could not have achieved without the Mid Cheshire Hospital Foundation Trust; they gave me the opportunity of the nursing degree apprenticeship.
“Also, the bed management team who worked collaboratively with me throughout the trials and have such a positive attitude towards change.
“This is alongside Keele University who have underpinned my learning around innovation in health care, so although I have been nominated it really was a team effort.”
Marie Doherty, Director of Apprenticeships in the School of Nursing and Midwifery at Keele University, said: “We are extremely proud of Karen and her achievements
“Karen has been motivated to seize every opportunity provided to her in obtaining personal and professional development.
“Karen’s progression via the apprenticeship route has helped her to realise her potential as a Registered Nurse Degree Apprentice – in leading innovative practice which seeks to have a positive impact on patient care and improve outcomes.”
The NHS Parliamentary Awards were launched in 2018 to celebrate the NHS’ 70th birthday and recognise people working in the health and care sector.
Nominations are put forward by MPs, with Karen’s being made by Crewe and Nantwich MP Dr Kieran Mullan.
