Why I value my time as a trustee
So many great things happen when you take a leap of faith. Every day I thank my lucky stars that I was brave enough to put myself forward for election as trustee in 2019.
I have learned so much about the workings of a professional organisation and about how to deliver talks, chair events and what it takes to help put together a world-leading yearly conference. I’ve learned so much more about all kinds of urology too as I have attended so many more education events while representing the association.
Above all else though it’s been fantastic fun to work with colleagues from all over the country as we strive to steer the association through life’s challenges and from strength to strength. All the other trustees are immensely supportive (which is just as well as I needed to learn everything about the role from scratch). Yes there’s a certain level of commitment which is required which can be hard to balance with full-time work and a family but it’s so worth it.
Why I have a passion for urology
Urology kind of found me when I came into nursing on qualifying but I have always felt at home in the specialty. I love helping people to understand why their body is functioning the way it is and give support and reassurance that they are not alone. I particularly enjoy putting people at their ease when they may be embarrassed or frightened about what’s happening. Pretty much everyone will have a brush with urology issues at some point in their lives so it’s very easy to relate to our patients. I meet the widest range of people in my work and everyone has a story. As my career has developed I’ve been able to do further study and qualifications as urology is an ever-expanding world. It’s great to feel part of a hospital department which has such an important impact on people’s lives. Our patients really trust us to help them regain their dignity and get some kind of handle on all the things that are happening to them so it’s a total privilege to be able to help.
Biography
Sarah has worked in urology for over 20 years. Her clinical activities comprise a range of urology diagnostic services including prostate biopsy, flexible cystoscopy and Botox intravesical injections. She has specialist interests in continence, bladder pain syndrome and recurrent UTI. Holding an MSc in Advanced Clinical Practice, Sarah is an RCN credentialed ANLP and independent prescriber.
Dedicated to service improvement for patients, Sarah was Nursing Clinical and Strategic Lead in creating an award-winning diagnostic urology unit, fully designed around the patient experience. She is a published academic writer, presenter and a guest lecturer at the University of York. Sarah is an enthusiastic advocate for advanced practice, professional development, networking, leadership and information sharing.
Contact: BAUNPresident@fitwise.co.uk