Year of the Nurse - The story of a Solent community sister with compassionate care at her core
2020 is the Year of the Nurse and to celebrate we are sharing stories from the inspirational nurses within our Trust to showcase the incredible work they do. Our people are at the heart of our organisation, working together to keep as many people safe and well at, or as close to home, as possible.
Today we hear from Ruby Nandra, a community sister working as part of our complex case management service. Case management services help patients with long term and complex health conditions. Ruby tells us how her nursing journey started and why community care is a great path for those who wish to learn and develop their skills.
“I helped look after my grandparents when I was younger, so I always knew I had the capacity to care for people. Whilst I was studying for my English degree I decided to take up some work in a care home for some extra money. During my time at the home, the owner told me that I was a natural and should consider a career in healthcare. I didn’t really think anything of it at first but when I returned to work, she had kindly left me some leaflets on nursing courses in the local area. After reading them, I was sold. I finished my English degree and went straight into nursing. I’ve never looked back.
“I chose to work in the community because I felt like I could really expand my skills. For example, in my role I can prescribe if I need to, you’re a lot more autonomous and the GP’s often come to us for advice which is nice. You’re also more independent and sort of your own boss a lot of the time.
“I just love the whole aspect of community nursing. We see the patient in a more holistic sense. We go into their homes, meet their families and see them as they are. We also help keep them comfortable and as close to home as possible.
“I have had a lot of wonderful experiences in my role, but there is one in particular that always makes me smile.
“We recently treated an elderly woman who suffered with COPD. COPD is a lung disease which makes it extremely hard to breathe. She also had anxiety which made the condition worse and as a result, she hadn’t left her house in quite some time. She had no confidence and really needed a helping hand.
“One of my colleagues organised for a mental health assessment to take place in her own home by the older person’s mental health service, who indicated she had depression and needed medication. We also organised for her to receive regular oxygen to help ease the effects of her COPD. After a few months her health had improved and her anxiety had eased - so much so that she decided to buy herself a mobility scooter. She’s out and about now more than ever! Giving someone their independence back is such a great feeling.
“Community nursing is great for those who want to branch out and progress their skills and I would recommend the role to anyone who is looking for a challenge.”