As we continue to shine a light on the important and committed work of nurses and midwives in Ireland, this month we talk to Tom Cummins, Director of Cherry Grove Nursing Home.

If you would like to get involved, please send your story along with pictures to communications@nmbi.ie.

Our interview with Tom

Why did you choose a career in nursing/midwifery?

I assisted my brother when aged 15 to full recovery after a serious farm accident by attending to his dressings and rehabilitation.

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?

It’s important for the public to fully understand that nursing is much more than care of a patient or resident - we become their eyes and ears, their advocate, their best friend in a time of need, for the young a parent, for the elderly an adopted son or daughter, providing care attention and support.

My advice for colleagues is always to do your best for patients, it is not their wish to be in the position they are in. Always empathise and show understanding and always use a problem solving approach.

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

By always remaining human and trying to understand patients’ needs and requirements - giving my 100% to them even when physically or emotionally drained. I’ve also made a difference as manager of my own nursing home by providing top quality care to residents, relatives and staff.

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

I gain new memories every day - some good, some bad but every single day is different with different experiences. As Robbie Williams sang - “life is a rollercoaster”.

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

The difference is huge. Nursing will not return to where it was for a long time. We have been advised to reduce our interaction with residents, this is the opposite of what nurses are trained to do.

There are a number of positives in relation to COVID and the future. Nurses in nursing homes will need to upskill and look at the possibility of giving IV fluids or antibiotics to the residents in their care and enhanced care provision to reduce admissions or long stays in hospitals and become more proactive in the care of their residents.

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

I have three student nurses in my house - three daughters.

My advice is to always ask questions and do not do something that you are unsure of.

Use a common-sense approach when problem solving with patients.

Remember that the patient also has a brother, sister or parent and it is generally not their choice to be in the place that they are currently.