Pictured: Elaine Fallon

Across the year, to mark the 200th anniversary of Florence Nightingale’s birth, we have been shining a light on the valuable and important work of nurses and midwives.

We would like to thank all of you who sent in your stories and pictures to celebrate International Year of the Nurse and the Midwife.

In the final issue of our series, we speak to Elaine Fallon, Saolta Group Lead – Staff Engagement and Staff Wellbeing, Saolta University Health Care Group, HSE.

Our interview with Elaine

Why did you choose a career in nursing/midwifery?

I began my career in 1983, particularly because I enjoyed being with people. I was interested in looking after and caring for people, especially when they are at their most vulnerable, but I wanted that professional edge, hence my training to be a registered nurse. I then wanted to work with women and their families, and be part of that special journey of starting their families, having babies, so I trained as a registered midwife.

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?

Celebrating the International Year of the Nurse and the Midwife is about recognising and acknowledging the important contribution that nurses and midwives make to families all around the world. It’s a special connection that we have with people, based on our professionalism, our unique skills and our ability to be there with people at their most vulnerable and important points in their life journeys.

How have you made a difference as a nurse/midwife?

I feel very privileged and honoured to have looked after thousands of people from all walks of life throughout my career, but for me, it’s also about the many colleagues that I have met and worked with over the last 37 years.

I believe passionately in staff engagement and staff wellbeing. As part of my current role, I am working with staff and management to highlight the importance of acknowledging and recognising all staff, facilitating them in making a difference in their workplace through effective communication, collaboration and involvement in decision making.

Do you have a memory in your job that really stands out?

I have a number of really memorable moments:

Being with someone, caring for and looking after them in their final moments

Being present with every woman whose baby I have delivered, it’s such a special moment and I always used to think “I wonder what this one has come to do”.

Sharing the journey with individual staff members in making a difference in their work places and roles.

Has Covid-19 made a difference to nursing? Are there any positives that you will take with you?

I am always humbled by the way staff just knuckle down and get on with being the best they can be in really difficult circumstances. Often, putting themselves and their families last in order to continue in their working roles. It’s true that adversity really does make people stronger, but we all need to focus on how best to support our colleagues going forward.

If you could, what advice would you give to 19 year old you, starting out?

At 19, you sometimes think you have all the answers, but there is so much to learn about life, especially people, so carefully observe, really listen and be patient with those you come into contact with.