Layla Bolton Saghdaoui - Nurse

RESEARCH: PATHWAYS OF CARE FOR PATIENTS WITH VENOUS ULCERATION.

What stage of your research career are you currently at, and what are your research interests?
I have just started my PhD and my research interests include venous leg ulceration, wound care, and vascular surgery. My long-term goal is to develop as a qualitative researcher, but my PhD project utilises a mixed methods approach to ensure I develop a broad understanding of research methodology.

How did you get into research?
A very nice research nurse offered to let me shadow her while I was on a clinical placement. As this was almost 10 years ago, this was extremely rare. She showed me the ins and outs of research delivery, and this gave me the confidence to apply for a research nurse post a year after I had become a qualified nurse.

What do you enjoy about research?
The freedom to think of innovative ideas and having the ability to explore them. Research allows you to find answers to your questions.

What challenges do you face as a researcher?
Loneliness and frustration. To every researcher, their area of interest is the most important, sometimes it can be hard to convince everyone that your research is a priority.

What difference has your research training and experience made to your career?
Whilst I have gained the skills and knowledge that I need to conduct research, I have also had the privilege to meet and collaborate with researchers, patients, and clinicians across the UK. It is amazing what you can learn from working with others.

What do you think is the greatest misconception about clinical academia?
That you sit in an office and never see patients.

How has research changed your clinical practice?
I can think critically about how research might be applicable to my patients and support others with their research ideas.

What has made a difference to progressing your research career?
Not being afraid to approach and meet other researchers. You would be surprised how many people are willing to help you if you just ask.

Where do you see your clinical academic career going over the next few years?
I would hope to have finished my PhD and be working in a split clinical and research role.

Layla Bolton Saghdaoui, NIHR Doctoral Research Fellow/ Vascular Clinical Nurse Specialist, Imperial College London, layla.boltonsaghdaoui@nhs.net

To download Layla's case study please click here: Layla Bolton Saghdaoui - Case Study (PDF)