Nurses Day: “It’s humbling to play such a pivotal role in a patient’s recovery”
To mark International Nurses Day we speak to Zara Zaman, ITU nurse at Newham Hospital, about why she chose her profession.
Why did you decide to become a nurse?
I have always been passionate about caring for others, but didn’t really know exactly what career path I wanted to take when I was 18. I originally had hopes to either be a politician or a teacher, but something was missing. When I decided to become a nurse, it was based on a small memory I recalled when I was 15 years old and when my older sister was in the last stages of her terminal illness. Out of all the healthcare professionals involved in her care, there was one ITU nurse who I remember the most. No request was too big, she was always smiling and I will always remember how she made me feel by taking such amazing care of my sister. I decided I wanted to be like her and make a difference. I applied to study Adult Nursing at City, University of London and now I am a registered nurse. I originally was working as a surgery nurse but have recently been redeployed to work in ITU during the coronavirus pandemic. You can read about my redeployment experience here.
I decided to work at Newham because of the great opportunities on offer. I have always worked in Barts Health NHS Trust, from when I was a student, so it only felt right to pursue my registration there. I have always had a passion for surgical nursing and believe Newham Hospital offers great opportunities for development. I have already completed my Preceptorship and hope to also work towards furthering my skills.
What is your favourite thing about your job?
The amazing learning opportunities and being able to give back to my hospital’s community. I love the working environment between the doctors, nurses and all members of staff. Newham really is a special community. I also love how no day is ever the same when you are working as a nurse.
I love seeing patients recover after their treatment and safely discharged back home. It's humbling to play such a pivotal role in a patient's recovery.
What is the most challenging thing about being a nurse?
It is part of our nature as nurses to care and showcase empathy in our work. However, this can at times make us feel helpless when we see our patients in pain or receiving bad news. Seeing patients with acute conditions who are struggling and require support, can be incredibly difficult at times.
What advice would you give to anyone considering becoming a nurse?
Take everyday as a learning opportunity and work hard. Nursing is a tough, but rewarding profession. If you are someone who loves challenges and caring for others then nursing is a great career to consider. Of course, there are moments where you will struggle, whether that’s with the working hours or the nature of the shifts, but it will not ever change the gratitude you will feel when you help others when they are at their most vulnerable.
What do you do in your spare time?
My passion for my nursing extends outside the hospital. I manage my own online blog space where I connect with student and registered nurses. I am also a professional bhangra dancer. Dancing bhangra has always been a passion of mine and I have competed in several competitions nationwide. I am also the President for the newest Bhangra Competition launched in the UK called World Class Bhangra, an event attracting elite bhangra teams across the world.