Ruiping Li

Tell us about your time at the University

I chose Edinburgh university for its strong reputation in Nursing education and following the recommendations from previous students. I learned to understand many different approaches to the development of the nursing role and gained insights that have continued to inspire me. This has had a significant impact on my day-to-day job performance. Additionally, I formed friendships with fellow students that have continued well beyond the end of the course and still provide colleague support.

I formed friendships with fellow students that have continued well beyond the end of the course and still provide support

Tell us about your Experiences since leaving the University

The knowledge and confidence I gained through the course encouraged me to apply for a post as Advanced Nurse Practitioner in Medicine of the Elderly within a few months of graduating. I was successful and took up my new role in January 2014 having been appointed at Band 7 on the basis of having already obtained a Master’s level qualification. This was seen as an unusual advantage since most appointees have to undertake Masters level training after appointment.

My training has continued, however, with additional modules in Advanced History Taking and Clinical Examination, Ward Based Learning and Non-Medical Prescribing at Edinburgh Napier University.

I now work closely with Consultants and medical team. This has once more increased my insight into the many dimensions of health care. The ANP role is sometimes described as a lynchpin, providing an interface between the medical team, the nursing team, patients and their relatives. This helps to smooth the patient journey and I both enjoy and value this role.

I have also taken the opportunity to remain involved with ward-based evaluation and audit and presented a poster at the 2015 NHS Scotland Event in Glasgow.

Alumni wisdom

Take full advantage of all the opportunities to attend the many events, seminars, and activities on offer through the University. While some see this as additional work, they are actually chances to network and extend your knowledge and experience in ways that will serve you very well for the future.