Since qualifying in 2002 as an adult nurse Hazel Richardson has worked predominantly in critical care. Hazel has studied to degree level specializing within the area of intensive care nursing also completing a mentorship module and leading the group responsible for pre-registration nursing students.
Hazel gained her nurse practitioner post within the critical care setting at Salford Royal Hospital NHS trust leading teams of nurses shift by shift caring for level 3 patients and supporting and teaching junior staff. It is within this role Hazel led the group responsible for mentoring students from Salford University whilst on placement within the intensive care setting.
Following the birth of Hazel’s first son she moved onto the nurse bank (NHS Professionals) within Salford Royal NHS trust working on wards and the ICU to relieve temporary staffing issues, gaining experience and insight into other aspects of nursing and alternative areas.
Hazel also joined nursing agencies to work further afield within the critical care setting gaining more experience and insight in different trusts and different ways of working.
Following this, Hazel continued her work within critical care at Royal Preston Hospital and later at Southport Intensive Care Unit. During this time, she worked across general ICU, post-operative care and the spinal injuries intensive care unit, including throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
Since 2021, Hazel has worked as a Clinical Nurse Specialist within complex community nursing. In this role, she provides clinical oversight for clients with complex conditions requiring care and support within their own homes.
This experience has given Hazel a strong understanding of the challenges clients and their families face following discharge from hospital, particularly when adapting to life with complex clinical needs in a community setting. Her approach focuses on supporting safe, effective care while recognising the practical realities of day-to-day life at home.