Introduce yourself.
My name is Azalea and I’m currently a nurse at FeM Surgery. I choose to be a nurse because I want to be in a career that not only challenges me to do good but also adds value in the people I care for.
What have you learned on your caregiving journey?
I have learned to have an infinite amount of patience and a soft spot for the patients. I realised that nursing is essential especially in a fast-paced environment. It helps me to engage with others meaningfully. It’s common to face an angry patient or two, but all the more this makes me want to understand, empathise and assist them better. For instance, I had to stop an altercation between an elderly patient and her helper due to the language barrier. Everyone was stressed out. Things only got better after I communicated with her and found out that the patient was feeling very lonely in a new environment, without her family.
Caregiving can be very challenging. What keeps you going?
Caregiving is emotionally rewarding. At the end of the day, all that matters is seeing the patients under your care recovering and appreciating your hard work. It brings a smile to my face knowing that my efforts have been recognised. Sometimes, fear also keeps me on my toes. Before I was a nurse, I was constantly doubting myself – whether I’m fit to be one. However, all these challenges and obstacles allow me to grow and learn, seeing the bigger picture.
What would you like to say to someone who might be going through a difficult time?
Don’t quit, just do it. As much as nursing was my first choice, there was a period of time during which I took a gap year to really reflect on my options because of the constant doubts – whether I will ever be ‘good enough’ to be a nurse. I eventually decided to take the leap of faith and I’ve never regretted it since. Caregiving has given me many opportunities to grow and expand my expertise in communication and social skills.