The hallmarks of a good private nurse

Private hospital matron Caroline Cassels (below, right) has witnessed some enormous changes in the fields of nursing and general medical care over the last 30 years. Training methods have evolved, technologies transformed and medicine has advanced light years. But, she says, many of the qualities that make a top-class nurse have not changed.

The best nurses are still the ones who are truly committed to their patients and to the discipline of nursing.

They are those who understand the importance of kindness and compassion in recovery.

The top ten qualities that I believe consultants should look for in a private hospital nurse are as follows: