- Noeleen McGlinchey
- Nursing Assistant, Palliative Care, Omagh Hospital, Primary Care Complex, Western HSC Trust
What attracted you to become a Nursing Assistant?
I always wanted to be involved in a nursing role. I began my career as a ‘young help’ in a nursing home in 1991. I worked there for 11 years. I secured a nursing assistant post in Omagh Hospital in the Palliative Care Ward where I continue to work today. I always had a passion to work with people of all ages. I am a caring person, hardworking and have good social skills. I feel it is a very rewarding job where I can develop good relationships with patients and their families.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
I find my role as a Nursing Assistant rewarding and a privilege to do. I also get great job satisfaction from it. I have gained confidence and competence and am an advocate for the patient and relatives. I’m a good listener, empathic and sympathetic when needed. I honestly love what I do and if I can make a small difference to someone’s life then it’s what I most enjoy about my role as a Nursing Assistant.
Tell us about your most memorable moment in your role.
I have many memorable moments in my role as a Nursing Assistant. One that stands out for me is Christmas 2017. We had a young male patient who was approaching ‘end of life’. I decided to make this a special time for him and his family. I organised a vacant room within the ward with a Christmas tree and decorations. I set up a table for him and his family to have dinner on Christmas day. It was such a special moment seeing them all together one last Christmas enjoy the occasion and making lasting memories for the family.
How do you see your career developing as a Nursing Assistant?
I have developed personally and professionally and attend seminars, training days and relevant internal mandatory training. I also learn from my peers and colleagues. I update my knowledge by accessing resources on the internet and participate in ward handovers. I can work well on my own initiative.
What advice would you give to someone considering a career as a Nursing Assistant?
As a Nursing Assistant I find the role rewarding, a privilege to do and it gives me great job satisfaction. In my current role I can give patients social and emotional support and provide vital information on patient’s conditions to the nursing staff. I am flexible, transparent, open and honest. Working as a Nursing Assistant can also lead to valuable opportunities to consider a future career in nursing as it give you an insight into the nursing role.
