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An Abertay University graduate has been recognised for his outstanding work with the NHS at a glittering awards ceremony.
Andrew McKean, a Staff Nurse in Short Stay Medicine at Ninewells Hospital, won a silver award in the Outstanding Individual (Clinical) category.
The winners of NHS Tayside Staff Appreciation and Recognition (STAR) Awards were announced on Thursday at a celebration event held at the Invercarse Hotel in Dundee.
The awards offered staff and the public a chance to nominate an individual, service or team in one of six categories for delivering outstanding patient care or going the extra mile in their job. The finalists in each category were invited to the ceremony where the gold, silver and bronze awards were presented. They won glass awards, certificates and educational vouchers.
Ian Simpson, Director of Operations at Abertay, was one of those who nominated Andrew, who graduated with a degree in Nursing from the University in 2015.
Ian said: “My sister and I nominated Andrew when my Dad was under his care having been admitted to Ninewells. Dad was very ill and although he has largely recovered now, for a time his prospects looked very bleak indeed. It’s very difficult to convey your gratitude to someone who has such a profound effect on your life but when we saw the information for the Star Awards it seemed like a great way to recognise Andrew’s work and convey how grateful we felt to Andrew and his colleagues, many of whom are also Abertay graduates.
“For both the patient and family members these situations are very stressful and emotional. Andrew’s approach to my Dad’s care and the way he went out of his way to keep us informed was fantastic. It was such a reassurance to know that Dad was being so well looked after. He really went above and beyond what we could have expected.
“Although my Dad’s ill health has been a challenging time, it has been really positive to come into contact with Andrew, and other Abertay Alumni, who have gone on to be fantastic practitioners in their chosen field. Of course so much of that is down to each individual’s capability and dedication but it’s also been a real reminder of the value of what my colleagues do at the University.”
The ceremony was hosted by Professor Jason Leitch, National Clinical Director, Healthcare Quality and Strategy Directorate with the Scottish Government.
He said: “One of the great privileges of this job is to see the great work around the country done by health and care staff. Tayside is no exception. Great work from great people.”
In Andrew’s category, the winners were: