Why I love being a nurse, by Nicola Ramsey

An insight into the career of an Acting Ward Manager.

I started my journey in nursing as a Nursing Assistant, which was prior to going into my training at 18-years-old. At the time it wasn’t my first choice. I had applied for a number of jobs including florist and scientific officer. There wasn’t anything drawing me to nursing particularly, but I did know that I wanted a career.

But being employed as a Nursing Assistant gave me an opportunity to see if this career was right for me and here I am 35 years later and still loving what I do! I definitely made the right move.

I’m now an Acting Ward Manager and part of my role involves overseeing staff by allocating shifts, managing sickness/annual leave, reviewing untoward incidents and complaints/compliments. I also oversee quality of care in terms of standards, performance and conduct. I provide leadership by acting as a role model in behaviour, attitude and evidence-based practice. I work hard to show my team they are valued and encourage them to get the best out of themselves by having a positive mind-set.

The best part of my job is the hands on care. You will still see me in the clinical room administering medicines, being involved in challenging incidents, either medical or psychiatric emergencies, or just taking someone for a walk. After all, this is what I trained for and I will not let that part of my job go, no matter what role I am in! The immediate positive feedback by helping someone who is in distress is the best feeling in the world and keeps me turning up day after day.

It is not the technical skills that staff acquire but the care, compassion and willingness to get involved that makes the difference to patients and creates the feeling of being valued, safe and cared for.

My advice to you is be open, get involved, be positive in your attitude and show that you care, not just talk about it.

Nicola Ramsey
Acting Ward Manager
Ward 3 – The Mount