Intensive Care Unit team recognised for outstanding care of colleague's family member
The Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Royal Derby Hospital were recently recognised for their exceptional care of a critically ill patient, who was the husband of a colleague within their own department.
The colleague wrote to UHDB to express her gratitude after her husband was admitted to the ICU for life-saving treatment of non-alcoholic liver cirrhosis and sepsis, saying that the team became a source of strength and support for the colleague during a very difficult time - highlighting their dedication, teamwork, and passion for delivering the best possible care to our patients.
For this, the team were recognised with a prestigious Patient Hero Award as part of our monthly Making a Difference Awards. The Patient Hero Award is part of our ongoing commitment to celebrate teams and individuals, nominated by patients and their families, who go above and beyond in delivering exceptional care and making a real difference in the lives of those in our communities.
The nomination reflects the depth of the team’s commitment, not just to the patient but also to the family, offering care that goes beyond clinical duties. The colleague shared in her nomination that the team were "amazing, and so good to me."
She continued: "They were my comfort blanket, my sounding board, and my support network. I can’t ever thank them enough for looking after me and my husband.”
The ICU at Royal Derby Hospital is made up of a dedicated team of doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals who specialise in caring for critically ill patients with life-threatening conditions. With advanced equipment and round-the-clock monitoring, the team ensures that each patient receives the highest standard of care, from stabilising conditions to providing essential treatments that save lives - and their role is pivotal in the hospital's overall capacity to serve our communities.
In recognition of their outstanding care, the team was surprised with the Patient Hero Award during a ceremony held in the ICU. The award was presented by UHDB Trust Chair, Prem Singh, who was joined by Senior Sister in ICU, Helen Herring, and General Manager for Anaesthetics and Theatres, Anne-Marie Davies.
Reflecting on receiving the award, Helen shared her feelings: “We’re deeply honoured to receive this award, especially as it came from one of our own team members.
"Caring for a colleague’s loved one was particularly poignant, and we all felt the weight of that responsibility. Knowing that we were able to provide comfort and care during such a difficult time makes everything we do feel incredibly meaningful. I’m so proud of every member of this team for their compassion, resilience, and dedication to our patients and their families.”
Anne-Marie Davies, General Manager for Anaesthetics and Theatres, expressed her pride in the team’s achievement - saying that the team consistently delivers care to the highest standard, often in incredibly challenging circumstances.
She added: "This award highlights not only their skill and expertise but also their unwavering commitment to providing holistic, patient-centred care. I couldn’t be more proud of this team and the difference they make every day to patients and their families.”
UHDB Trust Chair, Prem Singh, who presented the award, shared a personal reflection on the significance of the moment: “When I first joined UHDB as Chair, ICU was one of the first departments I visited alongside our Chief Executive, Stephen Posey, because of the crucial role they play in our care for the community. I was immediately struck by the dedication and expertise of the team back then, and it’s great to return now to present them with this Patient Hero Award."
He continued, "The ICU team represents the very best of what the NHS stands for - care, compassion, and professionalism. To be nominated by a colleague for the care they received is the highest compliment.
"This team didn’t just save a life - they provided comfort, hope, and strength to a family going through the most difficult of times. I am honoured to present this award and hope this moment provides just one opportunity for us all to recognise the exceptional work they do.”