What it means to be a nurse in the UAE: Some candid answers on International Nurses Day

Abu Dhabi: They are crucial to the wellbeing of any community, and on International Nurses Day today, the UAE has paid tribute to the thousands of nurses and midwives who help care for residents across the country.

In turn, nursing professionals highlighted their commitment to their roles, and thanked the UAE for its support.

“The UAE takes immense pride in the dedication and efforts of the country’s nursing staff. The Ministry of Health and Prevention (MoHAP) is therefore committed to enhancing the quality of this noble profession, which is the driving force behind leading the country’s march towards excellence and sustainability in healthcare services,” said Dr Mohammed Salim Al Olama, MoHAP undersecretary.

“We are committed to continuously elevating the already distinguished position of our nursing professionals in terms of organisation, performance, and expertise. Our focus will continue to be on ensuring safe professional practices and providing a decent quality of life for our nurses in line with international best practices,” the official added.

Emirati nursing professionals

“The pride and honour of caring for the sick is a blessing. Nursing is one of the most challenging jobs that is physically and mentally demanding. However, at the end of the day, the satisfaction and pride of the nursing profession make us feel inspired to work as nurses in the UAE,” Aysha Al Mahri, group chief nursing officer at Burjeel Holdings, told Gulf News.

Al Mahri is a dedicated Emirati nursing professional.

“Being a nurse means supporting patients and families and helping them realise they can get through anything. Nurses are able to help patients have dignity at some of the most vulnerable times in their lives. Being with patients and their families at the end of life is a privilege,” she added.

Expat nurses

The UAE also boasts a large expat nursing workforce, and a number of them used the occasion to share what inspires them in their roles.

“Each International Nurses Day reminds me of the privilege I have of working in a profession dedicated to caring for others. While it is a challenging job, the resilience of my patients and their families and the dedication of my fellow nurses inspire me each day,”  said Carolene Chithra, a registered nurse from India working at LLH Hospital, Musaffah.

“As a nurse in the UAE, I have the opportunity to care for people from all over the world while continuing to learn and grow by working in this multicultural environment. The support and appreciation from the wise leadership considering us as the frontliners make us feel valued and empowered to provide the best care to our patients.”

“As a nurse in the UAE, I have the opportunity to care for people from all over the world while continuing to learn and grow by working in this multicultural environment. The support and appreciation from the wise leadership considering us as the frontliners make us feel valued and empowered to provide the best care to our patients.”

Read More: Gulf News | Khaleej Times

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