A Southport Nursing student who volunteered to help patients during the coronavirus pandemic has been praised for his “inspirational” commitment to the profession.
Connor Threlfall, aged 23, had been studying on a Nursing course at the University of Chester., which he began in 2015.
He found that managing academic studies alongside his nursing practice, while also working part-time and trying to see his family, to be a challenge and decided to take some time out.
But when he was asked whether he would step in and help save lives during the Covid-19 pandemic, he had no hesitation in putting himself forward.
During his break from studying, Connor became a theatre support worker at the Countess of Chester Hospital, gaining valuable knowledge and skills which focussed his mind on his return to studies.
Connor is now so passionate about a career in nursing, he opted to undertake his clinical placements and was offered a position in the orthopaedic operating theatres.
He said: “During the pandemic all student nurses were given the choice to opt-in or out of clinical placements. I, amongst many other university nursing students, opted in.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed my time there and the experience has been second to none. I have had the privilege of working with many talented professionals that have been able to support me to achieve my potential as I transition into a newly qualified staff nurse role.”
Tina Roulston, deputy programme lead in pre-registration nursing praised Connor’s willingness to work during the pandemic and commended his professional behaviour.
She said: “On opting in to assist with the pandemic he was asked if he would help within the theatres themselves, assisting registered colleagues with setting up the scrub role and as a runner.
“While a lot of routine surgery didn’t go ahead during this time there was still emergency surgery and the requirement to use this area for insertion of invasive monitoring equipment for Covid-19 patients.
“His willingness to step up and opt into the challenging environment of the operating theatres in the Countess of Chester during the pandemic demonstrated the professionalism, commitment and team player attitude I have come to expect from Connor.
“During his time at the University of Chester Connor has overcome significant challenges requiring interruption and recommencement of studies. His persistence, resilience and commitment to the nursing profession have been inspirational.”
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