As we continue to shine a light on the important and committed work of nurses and midwives in Ireland, this month we talk to Orla Coleman, Director of Nursing at St Lukes Charity and Home, Castle Road, Mahon, Blackrock,Cork.
If you have a story that you would like to share to celebrate the International Year of the Nurse and Midwife please send it along with pictures to communications@nmbi.ie.
Our interview with Orla
Why did you choose a career in nursing/midwifery?
I came into nursing late, having pursued a career in teaching previously. I always liked the aspect of caring for people in a holistic manner, embracing the physical, emotional, psychological and spiritual wellbeing and walking the journey with the individual and their loved ones.
Why do you think it’s important to celebrate the International Year of the Nurse and the Midwife? What message would you like to send in this context to your team or your profession in general?
Nursing is a wonderful profession. We have a wide variety of professional skills and attributes to bring to the fore in making the patient or resident’s journey more meaningful, engaging and supportive.
How have you made a difference as a nurse/midwife?
My focus would always be what is right for my patient or resident and their loved ones.
Do you have a memory in your job that really stands out?
We launched our first innovative digital APP here at St Lukes Residential Home in partnership with Zendra Health in the midst of COVID-19 to support staff with educational and mindfulness tools in these challenging times.
Other memorable moments include:
- Being present at end of life with patients and their loved ones.
- Been priviledged to be part of some beautiful and difficult conversations at end of life.
- I worked on exploring and improving the role of the healthcare assistant in nursing care and presented a poster at an international conference.
- Receiving my MSc in Nursing.
Has COVID -19 made a difference to nursing? Are there any positives that you will take with you?
It has been a rollercoaster ride! I started a new position as Director of Nursing in a new speciality, care of the older person and dementia care, in the midst of it all. It has taught me so much - the importance of kindness, quality time with residents and loved ones, resilience and human strength. Also, the importance of supporting staff and each other in these challenging times, and as I mentioned previously, our innovative support tool to support nursing homes in the fight against COVID-19.
If you could, what advice would you give to 19-year-old you, starting out?
Always follow your dreams, I would have started nursing much earlier otherwise!
