They are the first to comfort patients, the last to leave their bedsides and the heartbeat of every hospital ward. Despite long hours and demanding conditions, nurses continue to show up every day with compassion and care.
Today marks International Nurses’ Day, which is celebrated on the anniversary of modern nursing founder Florence Nightingale’s birthday.
At Groote Schuur Hospital management honoured the dedication and valuable contributions of nursing staff during a special event held at the facility today.
Aghmat Mohamed, director of nursing at Groote Schuur Hospital, said nurses should not only be celebrated once a year, but daily.
“We should acknowledge, appreciate and create spaces where we identify the good work that nurses are doing. Nurses are the biggest part of the healthcare workforce. They are there 24/7, and their role is important.”
Mohamed said that staff wellness remains a key priority at the hospital.
“We have a fully equipped staff wellness where staff can go to. We do a lot for staff wellness. We have events like lunchtime comedy, karaoke nights on a Friday and do fun activities to get staff away from their daily duties.”
According to Mohamed, staff shortages remain a challenge, but the hospital prides itself on the calibre and experience of its nurses.
“We encourage nurses to further their studies, and try and make the work environment as lucrative, pleasant and fun as possible. And each year we have excellence awards where we acknowledge nurses going beyond the call of duty.”
He urged the public and patients to show appreciation for nursing staff.
“We appreciate the feedback from the public, sometimes they can be harsh…but we ask them to put themselves in the shoes of nurses.”
Natasha Booth, a nurse in the dialysis department at Groote Schuur Hospital, has been in the nursing profession for the past 29 years.
Booth said her motivation for becoming a nurse stemmed from her love and care for people.
“Nursing is a humble career, and the greatest reward is just a ‘thank you’ from patients and staff. It makes your day much lighter knowing that you made a difference.”
She acknowledged that nursing comes with many challenges, including long hours, stress and burnout, but said the rewards of helping patients recover make it worthwhile.
“Seeing a patient come in very ill and when they are being discharged, they are a different person. It motivates me knowing that I am making a difference.”
Booth encouraged aspiring nurses to remain passionate about the profession and continue growing their knowledge and skills.
“You must have a passion for nursing. Nursing not just a single field; there are various departments. Continue your nursing career. When you are well educated in your nursing career and know what you are doing, you will feel confident. The patient will also feel more safe with you.”
The Western Cape has about 12 837 nurses who the Western Cape Department of Health and Wellness describes as caregivers, leaders, educators and essential partners in strengthening healthcare.
Mireille Wenger, the provincial health minister, said nurses often work under immense pressure but continue to care for patients with dignity and compassion.
“With the current severe weather conditions, nurses across the province are once again stepping up to support and care for communities when they need it most.
“I encourage every resident to thank a nurse and recognise the extraordinary difference they make in our communities every single day.”
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