Winners Of The Nursing Times Top National Award, UK

Main Category: Nursing / Midwifery
Article Date: 24 Nov 2008 - 4:00 PST

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Lead cancer nurse Stephen Rowley and clinical nurse specialist Simon Clare have won a top national award for trailblazing measures to reduce the risk of infection across the NHS.

The Nursing Times announced the winners from a shortlist of contenders from around the UK. The ceremony - attended by the Prime Minister Gordon Brown - was held at The Park Lane Hotel last week.

Stephen, lead cancer nurse at UCLH, said: "There were five finalists in the infection control category and the competition was stiff. We didn't know we were going to win - until the spotlight was turned on us. It was a good evening! The Nursing Times is very popular and winning the award will help us to spread the message to nursing staff all over the country."

A panel of expert judges drew up the shortlist after hearing a presentation from all the nominees. Infection control was one of five categories.

Stephen originated the Aseptic Non Touch Technique (ANTT) - a series of clinical guidelines to improve standards and reduce risk of infection.

Those hospitals who robustly implement the guidelines report a significant reduction in hospital acquired infection. UCLH recently hosted two conferences aimed at updating health specialists about the project.

Louise Boden, chief nurse, said: "We are thrilled by this well deserved award which contributes to the enormous effort that our staff are making towards improving infection control in the trust."

The ANTT clinical guidelines help protect patients from contamination during common clinical procedures such as cannulation, IV therapy and minor surgery. The guidelines work in many different ways. For example, by ensuring hand cleaning is performed at the best times and staff learn to identify and protect the 'key-parts' of any procedure.

The Nursing Times Awards are open to qualified nurses,midwives and health visitors registered to practise in the UK and celebrate outstanding contributions made to the nursing profession by truly exceptional and dedicated people.

During the awards ceremony, the Prime Minister paid tribute to the NHS and praised nurses for 'making a difference'.

University College London Hospitals (UCLH)