Community matrons: what’s in a name?

What is a community matron? The matron was historically a feared and respected, formidable figure, who reigned supreme in hospitals, until the post was removed under previous modernization plans. Modern matrons have been reintroduced into hospitals as part of the NHS Plan (DH, 2000). When the government asked how the NHS could be improved there was an overwhelming call to ‘bring back Matron’. Matrons provide professional leadership to nurses and ensure that the patient’s hospital experience is comfortable and safe. Both major parties support the role. The Conservative party announced recently that if elected in the forthcoming general election they would give matrons power above all others to close unhygienic wards in the fight against MRSA. So a hospital modern matron role could be summarized as improving quality by being a manager, leader and patients’ interest promoter.