#InternationalNursesDay: Nurse calls empathy leading quality of a nurse

Ahead of International Nurses Day on May 12, we speak to Madhavi Chikhale, Chief of Nursing at a Mohali hospital on what it takes to be in this profession of caregivers.

What inspired you to pursue a career in nursing?
Empathy towards the community has been a driving force. I like interacting with my patients as they give me the strength to pursue my work with perseverance. This also helps me face challenges at work and keeps me motivated. The theme of this year’s International Nurses Day is ‘Our Nurses, Our Future.’ It is time that we invest in the holistic growth and well-being of the nursing community.
What are the most important qualities for a successful nurse?
Empathy, compassion, kindness and being able to practice this daily has changed my life for the better. Looking after patients, meeting new people and dealing with challenges has transformed me as an individual.

What are the biggest challenges facing nurses today?
Brain drain due to better opportunities abroad. But as they say ‘The grass is greener on the other side,’ life overseas presents its own set of challenges. I always had it in me to serve my own country.

What is the most rewarding aspect of nursing?
To practice kindness and gratitude. To put a smile on a patient’s face in the midst of physical ailment makes my day.

How do you motivate subordinates in the workplace?
I always motivate my staff to consider themselves blessed. Our lives are predestined and I feel we were chosen to serve others through this career path. The good wishes and love showered upon us by our patients is irreplaceable.

What is your greatest strength professionally?
Being a people’s person and a team player has been my greatest strength professionally.
How do you ensure that nurses are providing the highest quality of care?
Involving the nursing staff motivates them to raise the benchmark for delivering the highest quality of healthcare.

Your message on the occasion of International Nursing Day?
It’s that time of the year when the entire healthcare sector across the globe takes time out to acknowledge the contribution of nurses. I applaud the selfless service of the nursing community. They play a vital role in our hospitals, community and in the healing journey of patients.

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