Introducing Helen Lynch, Clinical Nurse Leader Specialist Palliative Care Unit (SPCU)

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Helen Lynch, Clinical Nurse Leader SPCU

What is your role at Nelson Tasman Hospice?
Hi, I’m the new Clinical Nurse Lead in the Specialised Palliative Care Unit (SPCU). I am a registered nurse with 28 years of experience working for Te Whatu Ora. I am passionate about working with all members of the interdisciplinary team to support and provide holistic quality care for patients and their family/whānau as they navigate their palliative care journey.

What does a working day look like for you?
My day starts at 8am with checking in with the SPCU team and reviewing needs of patients. Then I head to the 9am meeting where we discuss discharge planning, potential admissions, and staffing needs. The rest of day can be varied with a combination of meetings, project groups, quality improvement initiatives, meeting with patients and family/whānau, supporting the team, and liaising with community services.

What was something you learned about Nelson Tasman Hospice that you didn’t know before you started working here?
How fabulous and diverse the volunteer service is. I’m so appreciative of the time volunteers give to the Hospice in a variety of settings from assisting with delivering equipment to patient homes, volunteering in Hospice shops, the Hospice Mānuka café, and assisting the team in the SPCU to name a few roles. Thank you.

What movie would you watch repeatedly? And why?
To be honest the only movie I have watched multiple times is the Barbie movie!
I loved the history of Barbie, the themes, the great dance moves and the soundtrack.