Nursing is a challenging yet rewarding profession that can make a profound impact on patients’ lives. Mubarka Nasser Al Karbi, a young Emirati nurse working in the stroke unit at Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Shakhbout Medical City, has witnessed the transformative power of her role firsthand. Dealing with patients suffering from stroke can be intense, but knowing that she is making a difference in their lives makes it fulfilling for her. In her 16 months of service, she has seen remarkable progress in patients, such as a 20-year-old who recovered after extensive treatment and physiotherapy.
Al Karbi’s passion for nursing was not initially approved by her parents, who were hesitant about the challenges of the profession. However, they saw her dedication and passion, which eventually led them to support her career choice. She envisions herself completing her master’s and PhD in neurology or emergency nursing, becoming a stroke coordinator, and sharing her expertise with future generations of nurses. Al Karbi believes that more Emiratis will be joining the nursing profession in the future as awareness grows and perceptions change.
To accelerate the process of getting more Emiratis to join nursing, Al Karbi suggests five key measures. These include holding awareness campaigns to highlight the importance of nursing, showcasing success stories of Emirati nurses, and dispelling misconceptions about the profession. Education and training programs, engagement with local communities, offering financial incentives, and increasing visibility of Emirati nurses in leadership positions are also important strategies to attract more Emiratis to the nursing profession.
In conclusion, nursing is a noble profession that can have a significant impact on individuals and communities. Emirati nurses like Mubarka Nasser Al Karbi are making a difference in the lives of patients and inspiring future generations to pursue careers in nursing. By promoting awareness, providing educational opportunities, and offering support and incentives, more Emiratis can be encouraged to join the nursing profession and contribute to the healthcare sector in the UAE. As the demand for skilled healthcare professionals grows, the role of Emirati nurses will become increasingly vital in providing quality care to patients.
