“To me being a ‘NURSE’ is being: Noble, Understanding, Respectful, Sincere, and Empathetic”
Blessy Kurien, Ward Manager on the Acute Care Unit (ACU) at Newham Hospital, chats to us about what drove her to become a nurse and what advice she’d give to others considering the role.
Why did you decide to become a nurse?
Growing up in India there was plenty of opportunities and need for nurses. I chose the career initially because it could help my parents with their missionary work, and because I wanted to help those in need. The start of my training was difficult but slowly the profession taught me patience and gave me a strong will power to care for those who are vulnerable. I finished my studies and worked in Indraprastha Apollo Hospital in New Delhi, India for two and a half years, and was awarded the Best Nurse Award during my time there. I then started searching for nursing opportunities aboard, including jobs in the UK. I had three interviews lined up in UK hospitals and one of them was Newham University Hospital, which was successful, in 2004. Getting the interview and starting my first nursing job in the UK was a turning point and I remember being very grateful for the opportunity. I’ve enjoyed it so much that I am still here 15 years later!
What is your favourite thing about your job?
My favourite thing about my job is caring for my patients and seeing them progress towards recovery. This job has helped me develop an inner confidence and values like being patient, caring and helpful. The nursing profession requires determination and this has equipped me to work anywhere and in any situation. These values have been particularly helpful in delivering care during the coronavirus pandemic. There is always a risk and we often do not have a clue what challenge we’ll be facing from one minute to the next, but one thing I am sure of is that I will do my best to bring a smile to the face of the person I meet.
My unit has a good team work and I am proud of it. I love to be with my colleagues and thank them for all the support they have given me over the last 15 years. I initially started as an ACU adaptation nurse and now I am the ward manager!
I'd like to thank God and my family for all the opportunities and support I have recieved throughout the years.
What’s the most challenging thing about being a nurse?
As a nurse we manage different challenges on a daily basis. It can range from managing very unwell patients, reassuring worried relatives, to ensuring as a team we continue to work in a multidisciplinary way. The most challenging thing is working under pressure, managing stress and as a ward manager, ensuring all staff are coping with these challenges and maintaining good wellbeing. Currently the biggest challenge is of course managing the evolving changes in the unit as we navigate through the coronavirus pandemic.
What advice would you give to anyone considering becoming nurse?
Nursing is a wonderful profession and it will teach you many skills. It enables you to develop good values, and the importance of maintaining an interpersonal relationship with your patients and colleagues. As a nurse you can learn to cope with any situation or challenge, building your confidence and making you a strong decision maker.
Most importantly for me, the word NURSE stands for: Noble, Understanding, Respectful, Sincere, and Empathetic. If these words ring true to you than nursing is for you.
What do you do in your spare time?
I love to spend time with my family. We cook, eat and have quality time with our close friends and go on holidays. My family love adventure and we travel to places to enjoy the beauty of nature and take our kids to meet their grandparents and relatives. Our weekend usually involves church activities and every Sunday we attend worship. I also enjoy working on computers and learning new things about technology.