Professional experience
Katie began her career in healthcare in 2008, initially working as a Healthcare Assistant. Her natural aptitude for patient care, coupled with a strong work ethic, quickly set her apart. Recognising her potential, Katie was soon seconded to train as an Operating Department Practitioner (ODP), a role that would define much of her career. After qualifying, she gained extensive experience across various NHS trusts and private hospitals in the region, building a reputation as a compassionate and highly skilled healthcare professional.
Throughout her career, Katie has worked across a wide range of specialties, including acute care, trauma, orthopaedics, and maternity services. She has also honed her expertise in all three core disciplines; anaesthetics, scrub, and recovery, developing a well-rounded skill set that enables her to deliver outstanding patient care in diverse and often high-pressure environments.
From 2018 to 2021, Katie served as Deputy Team Leader in the Post-Anaesthetic Care Unit (PACU) at York District Hospital. In this role, she was entrusted with overseeing the recovery of patients following major surgeries. Notably, Katie became the first ODP ever employed in the PACU at York District Hospital, breaking new ground within the department and paving the way for future ODPs in the role.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, Katie’s skills and expertise made her a key asset to various Intensive Care Units (ICUs) in the region, providing critical care to patients during one of the most challenging periods in healthcare history. Her ability to remain calm under pressure while also providing compassionate care earned her the respect of her colleagues, further solidifying her reputation as an invaluable team leader.
With a strong background in theatre operations, Katie played a pivotal role in developing and streamlining the surgical pre-assessment service at Coppergate Clinic. Recognising the importance of comprehensive patient care, she helped establish a thorough pre-surgery process that includes medical evaluations, ECG testing, Blood testing, and pre-operative education. Her leadership and attention to detail have ensured that patients are not only well-prepared but also confident and informed as they approach surgery, making a significant impact on both the clinic’s success and patient satisfaction.
Outside of her professional life, Katie leads an active lifestyle. She enjoys spending her time outdoors and has a passion for weightlifting. Her commitment to fitness reflects her discipline and determination. In 2019, Katie’s dedication to weightlifting paid off when she won a gold medal in her category, showcasing her drive and focus not only on her career but also personal pursuits.
