Born to be a nurse
NOKUTHULA Jiyane’s passion for taking care of the ailing, is what led her into the nursing profession.
The 39-year-old is one of the many unsung heroes who wake up every day to provide health care services.
‘From a very young age I would always want to take care of people who were ill. I would help feed them, bath them and help nurse them back to health,’ Nokuthula said.
The mother of three says deciding to study nursing was an easy choice for her when she completed matric.
‘I always wanted to be a nurse, even when I was young. Wherever I went, if there was a person who was ill, I would always lend a hand.
‘I think what also motivated me was the fact that my older sister is also a nurse,’ she said.
Born and raised in Nongoma, Nokuthula began her training 17 years ago at Benedictine Hospital. ‘I worked as a student nurse and when I graduated in 2004, I began working as a professional nurse,’ she said.
Nokuthula now works at Mandlazini Clinic in Richards Bay.
‘I love my job. I deal with both children and adults, and while the job comes with its challenges, it is rewarding when you are part of a patient’s journey back to health.
‘I’m motivated when I see someone who came into the healthcare facility on a stretcher or wheelchair and I help nurse them back to their feet. Or when I can educate the community on how to take care of their health,’ she said.
As the world celebrated International Nurse’s
Day this past weekend, Nokuthula encouraged fellow nurses to remain dedicated to the profession and to always remember how important they are to society.
‘We see a lot of patients on a daily basis and it is our responsibility to ensure they return home having received the help that they need. It rests with us,’ Nokuthula said.