Celebrating our nurses
Today is Nurses’ Day 2022. To celebrate the #BestOfNursing, we want to shine a light on the incredible work and dedication shown by Apex nurses in our schemes – especially during the pandemic.
We have been chatting to two Apex nurses to find out why they chose a career in nursing, how they have coped with the challenges of the pandemic and what advice they would give someone starting out in nursing.
“The pandemic was the hardest part of my career”
Martina Crozier has been a staff nurse in Parkview House in Castlederg for almost 24 years – providing nursing care to older people.
Why did you choose a career in nursing?
I became a nurse because I wanted to help people and make a difference to someone’s life. I also like palliative care as I feel it is so important to ensure a peaceful, dignified death.
What has been the most difficult to deal with during the pandemic?
Working through the pandemic was the hardest part of my career. It was an extremely stressful, sad time within the home. Working night duty with very ill residents and seeing to so many who needed oxygen. We lost residents and weren’t able to grieve for them properly as some passed away within a short time of each other.
How do you practice self-care?
I have a busy home life too, but I like spending time on my own to read or walk. I enjoy going out with my family to eat and having time away with them on holidays.
What advice would you give someone starting out in nursing?
I definitely think that you need to be dedicated to being a nurse. So many changes have taken place over the years, and you work long hours; including night duty, but it is a good place to start and then maybe find a certain area to specialise in.
“Don’t give up on nursing if it’s something you really want”
Gabrielle Daly graduated from her nursing degree in 2019 and has been working in Belmont Cottages in Derry~Londonderry for three years – providing nursing care to its residents with learning disabilities and complex needs.
Why did you choose a career in nursing?
I always knew I wanted to work with people and also had an interest in psychology and the complexity of the mind. At the time I was filling in my UCAS profile, a lecturer at North West Regional College told me to explore mental health nursing. I liked how diverse nursing was and how many opportunities it provided. Plus, the fact I would never be out of work and could take it anywhere in the world.
What has been most difficult to deal with during the pandemic?
Working in Belmont Cottages, a residential home for adults with complex needs and learning disabilities, the pandemic proved extremely difficult. In particular, due to the change in our residents’ routine which was upsetting for them. They couldn’t enjoy their usual day to day activities such as attending day-care due to the lockdown.
How do you practice self-care?
It is so important to take time out, as nursing can be a stressful career and you can burn out quickly. I take time outside of work to spend time with family and friends and take my dog out for walks which is like therapy for me! I have started booking myself in for reflexology and a massage every month, which I feel has benefitted me both mentally and physically.
What advice would you give someone starting out in nursing?
My advice would be don’t give up if it’s something you really want. The three years of the course does fly in and you will be qualified before you know it. The course is extremely challenging; having to balance work placements and assignments but honestly it is doable. Nursing opens up a lot of doors and there are so many fields you can go into depending on your interests. If you don’t enjoy a particular placement, don’t become disheartened as this will only be temporary, and you may love your next one.
A nursing career with Apex
At Apex Housing Association we offer nursing roles in schemes located in Derry~Londonderry, Coleraine and Castlederg.
If you’re interested in finding out more about our nursing opportunities, please contact the Personnel and Training Department on 028 7130 4800 or email recruitment@apex.org.uk.
