International Nurses Day: a calling to care

May 12 was International Nurses Day.

The world’s nurses and their expertise, kindness, patience and humility have never been more important.

The amazing nurses and carers at Ryman Healthcare's villages are at the heart of our mission to keep residents and staff safe from COVID-19. They have worked extra hours, adapted to changing conditions and supported both our residents and their families during this challenging time.

On International Nurses Day we thanked our selfless nursing staff, and the hundreds of our residents who were nurses, for their work.

The theme of this year’s International Nurses Day is: ‘Nursing the World to Health’. We asked Ryman nurses and residents who were nurses, what drew them to the profession, what they think of the nursing response to COVID-19 and why they love to care.

Pat Lilleyman, 80, Level 2 Registered nurse What do you think of the way nurses around the world have responded to COVID-19? I think they are magnificent, the way they have put their lives on the line.

I like to think I would have done that.

Ivy Han, Clinical Manager at Nellie Melba Retirement Village What is the most rewarding part of being a nurse? When your residents/clients thank you for the good care, and your team members thank you for your support and helping them succeed. Tracy Vertigor, Endorsed Enrolled Nurse at Weary Dunlop Retirement Village What made you decide to become a nurse? Because my mum has been sick for many years with Parkinson's, and I became a PCA (Patient Care Assistant) to give her better care. After being a PCA I wanted to learn more, and be able to help more, not just my mum, but in aged care. I’ve always had a liking for aged care.

What has COVID-19 taught you about nursing? How important we are to the whole world!

How instrumental we are in people having good physical and mental health.

Pictured: Our village staff, including nurses, provide a selfless and loving environment.