Trainee Advanced Clinical Practitioner Review

Trainee Advanced Clinical Practitioner (ACP) in a Level 3 Rehabilitation Hospital, supporting patient care for spinal cord injuries, neurological and medical patients. Responsibilities include comprehensive assessments, clinical decision-making, and managing acute and chronic conditions. The role involves prescribing (when qualified), coordinating MDT care, and optimising rehabilitation outcomes. I assist with nursing education, competency development, and quality improvement projects. I play a key role in deteriorating patient management, complex case reviews, and supporting staff in advanced skills while working under supervision to develop autonomy in diagnostics, treatment planning, and leadership within the rehabilitation setting.

I’ve developed skills in autonomic dysreflexia training, venipuncture competency support, intermittent catheterisation training, and MDT collaboration for staff education. You’re refining clinical assessment, advanced decision-making, and patient management in spinal, neurological, and medical rehabilitation. You’re also gaining experience in training program development and integrating research into practice.

I thoroughly enjoy the apprenticeship, especially developing advanced skills, supporting staff, and enhancing patient care in a dynamic rehabilitation setting.

The apprenticeship program is well-structured, providing diverse opportunities in spinal, neurological, and medical rehabilitation, alongside training, research, and leadership development, ensuring a comprehensive and supportive learning experience.

My employer is very supportive, providing me with weekly opportunities in supportive supervision, clinical skills practice sessions and being flexible with my learning and clinical outcome needs to suit my learning and experience.

I am given flexibility to take additional time when needed, to support my neurodivergence and learning challenge’s

The Master’s in Advanced Clinical Practice (ACP) enhances my role by developing critical thinking, diagnostic reasoning, and clinical decision-making skills. It strengthens my autonomy in patient assessment, treatment planning, and leadership within the multidisciplinary team. The program also improves evidence-based practice, prescribing competence, and advanced procedural skills, ensuring high-quality, holistic patient care.

We have regular social activities for those who wish to attend (ward staff meals)

Yes

The trust is supportive and a friendly place to work. They have supported me through various steps of progression within my career

When applying to Hampshire and Isle of Wight NHS Foundation Trust, research its values, services, and priorities, particularly in rehabilitation and integrated care. Tailor your application to highlight clinical expertise, leadership, and multidisciplinary collaboration. Be prepared for scenario-based interview questions on patient management and teamwork. Demonstrate a commitment to continuous learning, quality improvement, and innovation while showcasing your understanding of local healthcare challenges. Express enthusiasm for service development and research, as the Trust values evidence-based practice and forward-thinking professionals. Most of all, be you, be yourself and be authentic. People don’t need to see an engineered version of you.