A spotlight on our overseas nursing programme We are shining the spotlight on some of our fantastic PAHT people as part of the International Year of the Nurse and Midwife campaign; and we caught up with Janet Pandit, sister on Locke Ward.
Janet joined us in 2017 through our overseas nursing recruitment programme. Janet is now reflecting on what inspired her to become a nurse, her route into nursing and why she loves her profession. What inspired you to become a nurse? I was inspired by my experience in India, where I completed my diploma in nursing. While there, I saw a nun and sister practising compassionate care for sick people.
my interest straight away. Firstly, I had to complete an International English Language Test (IELTS) to test my English ability which included reading, writing, listening and speaking tests before passing to the next They inspired me to want to make stage of the programme. a difference for patients and their Next, I undertook all of the families whilst in hospital. computerised-based training Can you tell us more about your (CBT) exams which gave me an in depth understanding of route into nursing? the hospital’s policies, National Having worked as a nurse for Institute for Health and Care 11 years in Oman and now for Excellence (NICE) guidelines three years in the UK, I can see and the care we provide to our the clear difference between the cultures and how we care for our patients. patients. In the next stage, I had an interview in India with colleagues I joined the hospital through the from the overseas nursing overseas nursing programme recruitment team – I was delighted which was advertised on the hospital’s Facebook page; I leapt to hear that I was successful following my interview and would at the opportunity and registered
be starting a new nursing role in a new country very soon. The support I have received both personally and professionally has been exceptional; from applying for my VISA to work in the UK, settling into the hospital and my new surroundings, home life support and progressing into my next pay band and role – I cannot thank those involved enough. What would you say to someone who is considering a career in nursing? Nursing is one of the most rewarding careers you can have. It can be a hard and challenging role at times, however you are playing an important role within the community and have made a huge difference to your patients’ journey and care. I can guarantee that you will feel immensely proud at the end of each day. 17
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