Red4Research Day: Spotlight on Critical Care Outreach and the Power of Research

This Red4Research Day, Cwm Taf Morgannwg University Health Board is celebrating the vital role research plays in improving patient care and the staff who bring it to life every day. 

For Kirsty Middleton, Advanced Clinical Practitioner in Critical Care Outreach, research is not something separate from her role — it is embedded within it. 

Kirsty began her career over a decade ago as a newly qualified staff nurse in Intensive Therapy Unit (ITU). Over time, she developed a passion for caring for deteriorating patients, leading her to progress into the Critical Care Outreach Team and complete an MSc in Advanced Clinical Practice, alongside gaining her Independent Prescribing qualification. 

Today, her role is fast-paced and varied. 

“As part of the Critical Care Outreach Team, I respond to deteriorating patients across the hospital,” Kirsty explains. “This includes advanced assessment, initiating treatment plans, managing complex cases and making timely decisions about escalation to ITU.” 

Alongside her clinical responsibilities, Kirsty is also part of the Rapid Response and Cardiac Arrest teams and plays a key role in supporting patients transitioning out of intensive care. Education is another core element of her work, delivering training to staff on recognising and managing acute deterioration. 

However, what makes her role particularly unique is its strong connection to research. 

“Research is a fundamental aspect of nursing,” says Kirsty. “It has followed me throughout my career and remains an essential part of advanced practice.” 

For Kirsty, the integration of research and care brings clear benefits. 

“Research allows us to continuously improve how we care for patients. It ensures our practice is evidence-based and helps shape the future of healthcare.” 

As Red4Research Day highlights the importance of research across NHS Wales, Kirsty is keen to encourage others from all professions, to get involved. 

“Research can feel daunting at first, but it’s not limited to specialist roles. Anyone in clinical care can be part of research,” she says. “If you’re interested, reach out to your research leads and the R&D department, as there is support to help you take that first step.”