Nurses play a crucial role in providing patient care in the UAE, with the majority of them being expatriates from diverse backgrounds. Every year, International Nurses Day celebrates Florence Nightingale’s birthday and honors the contributions of nurses worldwide. In the UAE, nurses like Annie Joy, an ambulatory care nurse at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, share their experiences of making a positive impact on the health and well-being of the population.
Annie Joy reflects on the privilege of being a nurse, emphasizing the profession’s role in promoting wellness and resilience in individuals and communities. She encourages nurses to embrace the journey of lifelong learning and fulfillment, highlighting the power of compassion and dedication in touching lives. Craig Halpin, director of clinical operations at Capital Health Screening Centre, echoes the sentiment, recognizing nursing as a boundless journey of opportunity and compassion that shapes lives.
Dr. Michelle Ann Gunn, the group chief nursing officer for Burjeel Holdings, discusses her commitment to contributing to the UAE’s healthcare excellence. With over 25 years of nursing experience, including serving as the chief nursing officer at Al Dhafra Hospitals, Dr. Gunn emphasizes the importance of nursing in achieving the country’s vision of redefining healthcare standards. She is proud to be part of elevating the quality of care and developing the nursing workforce to support the healthcare ecosystem.
Elena Bordei, an assistant nurse manager at Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi, emphasizes the need for nurses to maintain a work-life balance while prioritizing mental resilience and self-care. She acknowledges the significance of continuous development in achieving professional and personal fulfillment. Juvy Almazan, outpatient department team lead at Healthpoint, describes nursing as a calling of dedication and sacrifice, highlighting the profession’s challenges, triumphs, and moments of connection.
Despite the emotional demands and long hours, being a nurse offers incomparable rewards such as a sense of purpose, fulfillment, and the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in patients’ lives. Each nurse brings a unique perspective and set of experiences to the healthcare landscape, contributing to the overall well-being of the community. As nursing continues to evolve and adapt to changing healthcare needs, the dedication and compassion of nurses remain at the heart of providing exceptional patient care in the UAE. By celebrating and honoring nurses’ contributions, society acknowledges the vital role they play in promoting health and wellness for all individuals.
