Glasgow emergency nurse practitioner wins top RCN award

Kirstie Law, who works on the ear, nose, and throat (ENT) ward at Queen Elizabeth University Hospital in Glasgow, won the Royal College of Nursing (RCN) Scotland Adult Nursing Award at the RCN Scotland Nurse of the Year Awards.
The awards, sponsored by the Scottish Government, are designed to highlight and celebrate the outstanding professional care of nursing staff across Scotland.
Kirstie was nominated thanks to her 'exception' work providing patient-centred emergency care to around 4500 patients a year.
Her work enables many patients to be treated and discharged without hospital admission, improving patient flow and resource efficiency.
She is also a key figure in training and supporting junior doctors and nurses and contributes to the development of ENT nurse practitioner roles, working with Glasgow Caledonian University to enhance training modules.
Read more: Hospital reaches 'important milestone' with University of Glasgow
Colin Poolman, executive director of RCN Scotland, said: "I'm pleased to congratulate Kirstie on her award.
"Kirstie's work in reducing hospital admission is vital and her commitment to using her knowledge and skill to support and train other health professionals is commendable.
"A truly deserving winner."
Further accolades were given to various other nursing professionals at a ceremony at the National Museum of Scotland in Edinburgh on June 12.
Twelve awards were given out to nurses and institutions from all across Scotland including the Renfrewshire Learning Disability Service at NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde which took home the Learning Disability Nursing Award.
The overall title of Nurse of the Year 2025 was given to Kirsty Cartin, care home manager at Rashielee Care Home in Erskine, who scooped the Clinical Leadership Award.
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Colin said: "A good nursing leader inspires and motivates, advocating for both patients and staff, and is prepared to speak up on behalf of the nursing profession.
"It was evident from her nomination that Kirsty demonstrates all these values, and her team value her leadership.
"Truly an inspirational nurse leader and deserving of the title of Nurse of the Year."
For more information about this year's nursing award, including a full list of winners and finalist, visit the RCN website.

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