Celebrating International Men's Day 2025

Celebrating International Men’s Day 2025

Today, we’re shining a light on one of our incredible team members, Paul Reed, a dedicated nurse who’s been making a difference in people’s lives for over 20 years. From following in his family’s footsteps to leading a compassionate team on our Inpatient Unit, Paul’s journey is one of care, commitment, and genuine passion for helping others. We caught up with Paul to hear about what inspired him to become a nurse, what a typical day looks like at the Hospice, and what makes his work so meaningful...

What inspired you to become a nurse or HCA?
"I followed in my parents and brother's footsteps really. They were all Nurses, and I started out as a HCA first before I did my nurse training."

What does a typical day look like for you at Hospice?
"A typical day on the IPU is never quite the same, but generally involves leading a fantastic team for a 14-hour shift and planning daily care for our patients. We start with a 7am handover, then check on our patients. As the nurse in charge, I allocate staff to patients and ensure their care needs and meals are met throughout the shift. I give a doctor’s handover covering overnight changes or issues, followed by a mid-morning huddle to update the team on any treatment adjustments. We review dressings, update care plans, and check syringe drivers as needed. I also keep on top of the IPU diary, bloods, appointments, and outstanding tasks, and ensure all care notes are accurately documented. Medication rounds occur three times a day, and the workload varies depending on our patients. At the end of the shift, I hand over to the night staff to ensure continuity of care."

How does working at Hospice make you feel proud of what you do?
"Working at Hospice makes me feel proud. We care for patients at end of life, making them as comfortable as possible in the last few days/weeks of life and support their families. It is a privilege to be there caring for a patient and their loved ones at such a difficult time. We all give 110% and I work alongside a fantastic group of people. Hospice is thought of highly in the community too. The support we get is fantastic and helps us provide the care we do!"

What’s the most rewarding part of your working at Hospice?
"The most rewarding part of working here at Hospice has got to be going home after a long day knowing that you have made a difference! Job satisfaction is a big part of it too. After 20 plus years of being a qualified nurse, I can honestly say, this is the most rewarding and best job I have ever had!"