To celebrate International Nurses Day, Oyster Care Homes wanted to spotlight its COO, Em Dean, as 2024 marks her 30th year associated with the nursing profession – a pivotal influence in her personal and professional development. Em’s foundational experiences as a nurse continue to inform her leadership at Oyster Care Homes.
Lessons from the Frontlines of Nursing
Em reflects on the invaluable lessons from her early nursing days that now underpin her leadership ethos. “Empathy is paramount. Everyone has a story, and genuinely listening can significantly change outcomes,” she shared. Effective communication also proved essential, not just with patients but within teams, fostering trust and cooperation. Moreover, she learned the critical importance of self-care; maintaining personal wellbeing is vital for sustainable caregiving.
A Rich Tapestry of Experience
Prior to joining Oyster Care Homes, Em served in various operational roles within the healthcare sector, which broadened her expertise and prepared her for her current leadership position. These roles allowed her to navigate diverse administrative challenges and innovate care delivery methods, deepening her understanding of what it takes to manage complex healthcare operations efficiently.
From Nursing to Operational Excellence
Em’s journey from bedside nursing to operational leadership was fuelled by a desire to extend her impact within healthcare. As COO, she applies her clinical insights to strategic management, ensuring that Oyster Care Homes not only meet but exceed standards of care. “It’s about merging clinical acumen with strategic management—like managing a well-run hospital ward, but on a broader scale,” Em said.
Operational Challenges Met with Nursing Insight
When asked about a memorable challenge that Em faced at one point in her career, Em reflected on a staffing crisis that jeopardised resident care and staff morale. Drawing on her nursing background, she implemented a flexible scheduling system that better aligned staff availability with the needs of residents. This initiative significantly enhanced both resident outcomes and staff satisfaction, showcasing the practical application of nursing expertise in resolving operational issues.
Keeping Clinical Skills Sharp
Despite her executive role, Em has remained committed to keeping her clinical skills current. She has participated as a first responder and joined NHS initiatives during the Covid-19 pandemic. These front-line experiences enrich her perspective, influencing her decision-making and strategic planning at Oyster Care Homes.
Evolving with Nursing
Reflecting on the evolution of nursing over the past three decades, Em notes significant advances in technology, interdisciplinary collaboration, and patient-centred care. These shifts have reshaped her management and leadership approach, necessitating adaptability, innovation, and a holistic focus in healthcare delivery. She foresees challenges like staffing shortages and complex healthcare demands, especially with an ageing population. Oyster Care Homes is proactively preparing to address these through enhanced training, technology integration, and personalised care.
Advice for Nursing Professionals in the Care Sector
Em advises nurses to prioritise self-care and advocacy, maintain curiosity, and embrace continuous learning and teamwork. “Cherish the connections with your patients—they’re what make this profession extraordinarily special,” she adds.
A Career Inspired by Compassionate Care
Em’s decision to pursue nursing was profoundly influenced by the compassionate care her grandfather received during his terminal illness. This experience ignited her commitment to making a meaningful difference in others’ lives, a commitment that continues to guide her as she leads Oyster Care Homes into the future.
Em Dean’s journey from nurse to COO exemplifies how foundational nursing values can transcend clinical settings to enhance leadership and operational excellence across the healthcare spectrum. Her story is not only a tribute to the nursing profession but also a beacon for future healthcare leaders.