By Gibbes Hance
Nurses are often seen as the unsung heroes of the healthcare system. They are the ones who provide continuous care, answering patients’ questions and offering emotional support to patients and their families. Whereas doctors do care for the patient’s medical needs, there are aspects of nursing that they might not fully understand. Let’s delve into seven key points that nurses wish doctors were more aware of.
- Nurses as Patient Advocates
Nurses are advocates for patients. They do not just follow orders; they consider the holistic well-being of the individuals they are treating. Nurses often act as the first line of defence, noticing subtle changes in a patient’s condition and advocating for necessary interventions. They often act as a bridge between patients and doctors, ensuring that patient voices are heard and respected.
- Nurses Provide Emotional Support
Nursing involves a significant amount of emotional labour. Nurses don’t just treat physical ailments; they provide emotional support to patients and their families. This involves managing distress, providing guidance and comfort, and sometimes dealing with grief. Recognising the emotional burden carried by nurses can foster empathy and a more supportive work environment.
- Integral Part of Healthcare Team
Successful healthcare delivery relies heavily on effective communication, and nurses are often at the centre of it. They liaise with various departments, update families and convey critical information to doctors. Respecting and valuing this communication can lead to better patient outcomes and a more cohesive team dynamic.
- The Silent Struggle of Nurses
Nurses often experience high levels of stress and are at risk for compassion fatigue due to the demanding nature of their work. Long shifts, emotional strain and physical exhaustion can affect their well-being. Nurses are there interacting with patients and providing critical care. Taking care of emotionally draining tasks, such as managing upset family members or talking to a patient about his diagnosis, are all in the line of duty. By acknowledging these challenges, doctors can contribute to creating a more supportive and sustainable work environment that would allow the best morale for overall healthcare teams and their retention.
- Doctor-Nurse Relationships Impact Patient Care
The relationship between doctors and nurses is one of the most influential factors impacting patient care. Effective collaboration and mutual respect between these professionals enforce better communication, result in fewer mistakes and improved patient outcomes. Recognising the importance of this relationship can foster a culture of teamwork and shared responsibility, ultimately benefiting both staff and patients.
- Recognising the Value of Nurses
It’s essential to recognise that nurses deserve respect for their dedication, hard work, and expertise. As highly trained professionals, they are at the core of the care that patients need. Respecting their work fosters a good working environment and a cooperative spirit that benefits staff and patients alike.
- Commitment to Continuous Education
The nursing profession is dynamic, with constant advancements in medical knowledge and technology. For that reason, nurses are committed to lifelong learning, always seeking knowledge about best practices in nursing. This dedication to professional development ensures that they can provide the highest quality of care to their patients.
Elevating Your Nursing Career
For those looking to upskill and advance their nursing careers, the Bachelor of Science in Nursing with Honours (Top-Up) programme offered by the prestigious King’s College London at Ngee Ann Academy provides an excellent opportunity. This programme is designed to empower nurses to take on greater responsibilities and make a significant impact on patient care.
This part-time, two-year programme builds upon your existing nursing diploma, allowing you to gain advanced clinical expertise through a blend of classroom-based sessions at Ngee Ann Academy with online learning sessions for healthcare professionals. The degree is validated by King’s College London, ranked No.1 in the UK and No. 2 globally for Nursing according to the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2024.
You can choose from a range of elective modules to specialise in areas like geriatric care, palliative and end-of-life care, leadership and governance， or team-based healthcare practice. These modules are designed to align with your career goals and provide you with the specific skills and knowledge you need to succeed. You will also get to learn from internationally recognised researchers and practitioners in nursing, ensuring you get a top-quality educational experience.
“I have gained in-depth knowledge on assessing patients. Now I am able to quickly detect any abnormalities presented by my patient and promptly communicate these findings to the doctors and carry out treatment without delay. One of the most memorable experiences I had was with my lecturer, Sarah Curr. It occurred during my dissertation, a time when I felt lost. I regularly messaged Ms. Sarah to seek clarification and guidance. She promptly steered me back in the right direction whenever I diverted. I am grateful to Ms Sarah for her unwavering support and guidance.”
- Rahumath Nisha Bte Mohamed Farouk, Senior Staff Nurse at Tan Tock Seng Hospital
By understanding the multifaceted role of nurses, doctors can foster stronger collaborations and improve patient outcomes. Together, nurses and doctors can create a healthcare system that prioritises the well-being of both patients and healthcare teams. Contact Ngee Ann Academy Admissions Team today to learn more about the Bachelor of Science in Nursing with Honours (Top-Up) programmes and thrive in healthcare.
