Nursing student Review

My placement at Clatterbridge Cancer Centre in Liverpool was a really lovely and valuable experience. I felt very welcomed by the team, and everyone was friendly, supportive and willing to help me learn. I was also given flexible shifts, which was really helpful and allowed me to make the most of my placement.
I learned so much about cancer care during my time there. I developed a better understanding of different types of cancer, their treatments and how patients are cared for throughout their cancer journey. I was able to see patients who had experienced cancer more than once, as well as patients who were recovering and getting back to their normal lives. Seeing this gave me a much better understanding of the emotional and physical impact of cancer and the importance of providing compassionate, person-centred care.
I also learned a lot about infection prevention and control. I saw how carefully infection control procedures were followed, particularly when caring for patients receiving chemotherapy and other treatments. Hand hygiene and the correct use of PPE, including gloves, gowns and masks, were an important part of everyday practice. I also had the opportunity to observe how medicines and chemotherapy treatments were given safely.
I also had a placement in the Maxillofacial and Orthodontic Department at Arrowe Park Hospital. I was able to observe different facial surgeries, including procedures where cancerous areas of skin were removed and reconstruction was carried out using skin grafts. I also attended clinics and learned more about the care patients receive before and after their procedures. The nurses and staff were very kind, friendly and approachable, which made it a really nice environment to learn in.
Overall, these placements gave me a wonderful opportunity to develop my knowledge, confidence and understanding of hospital nursing. My experience at Clatterbridge Cancer Centre was especially memorable because I learned so much about cancer, its treatment and the importance of supporting patients through their recovery. I am very grateful for the experience and would definitely recommend it to other students.

During my placement at Clatterbridge Cancer Centre, my main responsibility was to learn and support the nursing team while providing person-centred care to patients. I followed infection prevention and control procedures, including hand hygiene and the correct use of PPE. I also observed how chemotherapy, medicines and other treatments were provided safely and learned about the different types of cancer and their treatments.
I enjoyed communicating with patients the most and learning about their individual experiences. It was really meaningful to see patients at different stages of their cancer journey, including patients who were recovering and returning to their normal lives. I also enjoyed learning from the nurses and seeing how they provided compassionate and respectful care to patients.

I felt that my placement gave me a good opportunity to contribute and be part of the team. Even though I was a student, the nurses were very supportive and included me in the daily activities of the ward. They listened to me, answered my questions and encouraged me to learn and develop my skills.
I felt valued because the team was friendly and approachable, and I was comfortable asking questions when I did not understand something. Being able to support patients, communicate with them and learn from the nursing team made me feel that my time on placement was meaningful. I really appreciated how welcoming and supportive everyone was.

I feel the placement prepared me very well for my future career in nursing. I gained a better understanding of cancer care, different types of cancer and their treatments, as well as infection prevention and safe patient care. I also developed my communication and confidence when interacting with patients and learned a lot by observing and working alongside experienced nurses. The experience helped me understand what it is like to work in a hospital environment and has motivated me further in my nursing career.

I received very good support throughout my placement. The nurses and staff were friendly, approachable and always willing to answer my questions. I felt comfortable asking for help or clarification when I needed it, and I was encouraged to learn and take part in appropriate activities. The team made me feel welcomed and supported during my placement.

I was happy with my work-life balance during the placement. The flexible shifts were very helpful and allowed me to manage my placement alongside my university commitments and personal time. I felt that the flexibility made the experience more manageable and helped me get the most from my placement.

The atmosphere was very welcoming, friendly and supportive. I felt comfortable within the team and found the staff approachable and respectful. There was a strong focus on patient-centred care, teamwork and maintaining high standards of safety and infection prevention. I really enjoyed being part of such a positive learning environment.

As a student at the University of Chester, I feel that equality, diversity and inclusion are important parts of the university environment. I have found the university to be welcoming and supportive of students from different backgrounds. I also appreciate having support available when students need guidance with their studies or placement experience.

Yes

Yes, I would recommend the University of Chester to a friend. I have had a positive experience as a nursing student and have had opportunities to learn both in university and through clinical placements. My placements have helped me develop my knowledge, confidence and practical understanding of nursing. I have also met supportive staff and had opportunities to experience different areas of healthcare, which has been very useful for my future career.

The placement matched my expectations very well. I wanted to gain more practical experience in a hospital environment and develop my understanding of patient care. I was able to learn about cancer, different treatments, infection prevention and control, and how patients are supported throughout their treatment and recovery. I also had the opportunity to observe different procedures and learn from experienced nurses.