Learn more about our colleagues at the

West North West Surgical Hub

Take five minutes with Colette Hardiman, Assistant National Director of Nursing, to hear more about her role at the Surgical Hub, Merlin Park Hospital, Galway

Tell us a little bit about your background
I am originally from Galway but spent many years living in Dublin. I  completed my BSc Nursing in 2008, went on to do a Graduate Diploma in Perioperative nursing in 2015/16 followed by a Leadership and Management Course in 2018/19 all through University College Dublin.

In relation to my working life, I did my Nursing training in St Michael’s Hospital, Dun Laoghaire. From there I went to work in theatre in St Vincent’s University Hospital, where I was fortunate to be on the transplant team for Liver and SPK Transplants as both a theatre nurse and transplant  coordinator CNS.

Moving back to the West I worked as CNM 3 of the Perioperative Department in Portiuncula University hospital. I really appreciated being part of the organisation providing care to my local community.

I am now working as Assistant Director of Nursing for the Surgical Hub in Merlin Park Hospital. My typical day involves overseeing the delivery of safe, high quality surgical care, supporting nursing staff, collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and driving continuous improvement initiatives.

What impact will the new surgical hub have on patient care?
We are redefining elective healthcare delivery in the West. The new flagship surgical hub at Merlin Park is set to drastically reduce waiting lists, ensuring patients receive the appropriate care without the pressure of acute hospital delays. Our aim is to deliver better patient experiences, reduce waiting times and improved surgical outcomes.

What are the most rewarding aspects of your role and what motivates you?
The most rewarding  aspect would be seeing the work that is put in collectively by all disciplines having such positive outcomes for patients. My motivations include my commitment to improving patient outcomes and developing high-performing surgical teams

What advice would you give someone looking to join the West North West Surgical Hub team?
Embrace every learning opportunity, be willing to work as part of a team and always keep the patient at the centre of everything you do. Surgical nursing is demanding but incredibly rewarding. We are building a dynamic multidisciplinary team of experts dedicated to surgical excellence. Come join us in shaping a more efficient, patient centred future for Irish healthcare.