Nottingham Trent University’s Institute of Health and Allied Professions has showcased a powerful collection of student-led research which directly tackles some of today’s most urgent frontline healthcare challenges.
From dementia care and maternal mortality to infection control and emergency response, each project displayed at its annual Student Summer Showcase demonstrated a strong commitment to improving health and social care services in Nottingham and beyond through evidence-based practice and innovation.
The event highlighted projects by students from courses such as nursing, paramedicine, public health, and frailty studies. Some of the students are already embedded in clinical roles across Nottinghamshire and their work reflects real-world insights and solutions that can be rapidly translated into improved patient care.
Students tackled issues such as the loss of physical and cognitive function in hospitalised older adults, the impact of frailty on infection outcomes, and the role of comprehensive geriatric assessments in hip fracture recovery. These projects underscored the importance of holistic, person-centred care in improving patient outcomes and reducing healthcare burdens.
Presenting a global perspective, a study on sickle cell disease in Nigeria, Brazil, and Jamaica highlighted the potential for policy-driven interventions to reduce mortality in low-resource settings. Another compelling project examined maternal mortality in Nigeria, debunking myths and advocating for culturally competent care to meet Sustainable Development Goals.
The showcase also delved into the psychological and ethical dimensions of healthcare. A study on paramedics’ preparedness to withhold paediatric resuscitation revealed gaps in training and emotional support, while another explored the value of cadaver-based learning in enhancing paramedic education.
Leadership and reflective practice were recurring themes, with students presenting personal journeys of growth and resilience in clinical settings. From coordinating care for frail patients to leading community-based palliative care initiatives, the projects demonstrated how NTU students are already making a tangible difference in the lives of patients and communities.
Dr Jennie Walker, Principal Lecturer in the Institute of Health and Allied Professions at NTU said: “What sets this research apart is its direct relevance to frontline practice. Whether it’s enhancing support for ambulance staff returning from long-term absence, reducing hospital-acquired deconditioning in older adults, or advocating for inclusive palliative care, these projects are not just academic exercises, they are blueprints for better, more responsive healthcare systems.”
“The presentations and posters really showcased the best of what NTU has to offer, with some very thought provoking and innovative work on display, particularly from the undergraduate students who clearly have some very exciting careers ahead of them,” said Adam Yates, BSc Emergency and Urgent Care (top-up) graduate, who presented his dissertation on front line ambulance staff perceptions of support received when returning to clinical roles from long-term absence.
“Although I was nervous about presenting, I was proud that I could share my hard work, and have it valued by other students and faculty. Knowing that people were genuinely interested in what I had done really cemented that the vast number of hours that I put in were worth it.
“I met and spoke with some genuinely brilliant students and wider NHS workforce who have given me the confidence and encouragement to continue my academic and research aspirations.”
Heather Cutts, Collaborative Clinical Lead for NTU’s Neonatal Care course, added: “The showcase was a day that allowed us to learn from others and network. It was inspiring to see the work that people are doing to improve current practice.”
Dr Anne Felton, Head of the Institute of Health and Allied Professions at NTU, said: “This showcase celebrates the achievements of all participants and reinforces NTU’s commitment to nurturing the next generation of healthcare leaders. It is also a testament to the passion, creativity, and critical thinking of our students. Their research not only contributes to academic knowledge but also has the potential to shape future healthcare policy and practice.”
For further information on the Institute of Health and Allied Professions at NTU, visit the website.
