Nursing Times June

Nursing Times
VOL. 3, NO. 2 JUN 2022 RafflesMedGrp RafflesHospital
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TABLE OF CONTENT
BEHIND-THE-SCENES’ STORIES
Making a difference in Small People 04 COVID-19 Special: Covid-19 Treatment Facility (CTF) 07
NURSES’ INSIGHT
Nursing Education 12 COMPLIMENTS FOR OUR NURSES 13 ON THE RADAR 18 NURSES’ BANK
The Resilience Episode 19
Get Involved!
If you would like to submit an article, or share a nursing story, contact [email protected]
FOR NURSES BY NURSES
Join the Singapore Nurses Association (SNA)
All SNA Members receive:
• Special rates for SNA and Chapter talks and seminars
• Discounted registration fees for SNA hosted and partner conferences
• 3 issues of Singapore Nursing Journal (E-copy); 3 issues of newsletter; SNA Connect (E-copy)
• Lifestyle benefits (Please find out more at http://www.sna.org.sg/lifestylebenefits)
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Lilian Yew
Karyn Choo Li Ping
Siti Adhawiyah
Go Sey Mi
Esther Ng Hui Xian
Dira d/o Haridas
Cabales Richard Keith Armero Paul Tang Lian Kwang
Chua Jenielou Grace Deloso
EDITORIAL TEAM
Chief Editor:
Lilian Yew, Chief Nurse
MEMBERS
Karyn Choo Li Ping, Nurse Educator II
Pan Li Jing, Nurse Clinician II
Wong Siew Fong, Assistant Nurse Clinician Choo Jie Ling, Staff Nurse I
Rathigka Subramaniam, Senior Staff Nurse II Chua Jenielou Grace Deloso, Senior Staff Nurse II
PRODUCED BY
RMG Corporate Communications
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Chief
Editor’s
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Note
“I am not yet worthy; and I will live to deserve to be called a Trained Nurse.”
~ Florence Nightingale
Welcome to Raffles Nursing Times, Raffles Hospital’s quarterly e-newsletter written by our nursing team.
It serves as a unique platform for our nurses to share experiences and keep abreast on clinical practices, technologies and the latest developments in the nursing world.
Through Raffles Nursing Times, we also hope to connect and engage with other nursing friends in the industry, inspire young nursing students and trainees and keep in touch with nursing veterans.
In this edition, we go behind-the-scenes to profile the daily lives of our nursing heroes and heroines at the Paediatric Ward and COVID-19 Treatment Facility (CTF).
The next issue of Raffles Nursing Times will be published in Sept 2022. If you have stories to share, please submit them before 1st Aug 2022. Mark your calendars and anticipate our next issue!
Sincerely,
Lilian Yew (Ms) Chief Editor


‘BEHIND-THE-SCENES’ STORIES
Making a difference in Small People
Not Just an Average Nurse
Making a difference in Small People
From left to right: W8B Paediatrics Nurses Team – SSN I Subashini D/O Sethambaram, SSN I Helen Ituralde Oso, SSN I Modiyil Skariah Gracy Kutty, SSN II Chua Jenielou Grace Deloso, SN II Lariosa Aiko
“I love to be a Paediatrics Nurse, for all the little reasons.”
Paediatric nursing is a specialisation of the nursing profession that focuses on paediatrics and the medical care of children, from infancy
to the teenage years. This is an important field because the health of children is distinct from that of adults due to the growth and development that occurs throughout childhood. We hear from SSN II Chua Jenielou, who’s specialised in Paediatrics and Neonatal Care for the last seven years, and how Paediatrics have moulded her to become the nurse she is today.
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‘BEHIND-THE-SCENES’ STORIES
Making a difference in Small People
Q Please share with us your roles and responsibilities as a Paediatric Nurse.
A Every job has its own unique job responsibilities, but one thing that remains constant through every paediatric nursing job is the interaction with children. The ability to effectively communicate with young patients and their parents, as well as other members of the medical team, is important.
Paediatric Nurses provide initial care, administer prescribed medication and perform physical assessments, measure vital signs and monitor patients’ progress. We also assist doctors during procedures. Our duties also include managing the admission, transfer and discharge of patients.
As a nurse, we must learn to recognise early signs of deterioration in a patient’s condition with a physiological assessment. We must also be able to provide support to families and address their concerns, fears and options.
In addition to these duties, another of my responsibilities is to guide and facilitate junior nurses to develop specialised health education plans for our patients.
I am also a Clinical Instructor for Raffles Hospital and have been facilitating students on clinical
postings for over a year. It is a joy to impart my knowledge to the novices. What I love most about teaching is seeing the growth of these nursing students; I get satisfaction in seeing them learn and helping them achieve their highest potential.
It is always a blessing to see them in the hospital after their training, as nurses succeeding in their calling.
Q What were some challenges working in Paediatrics? How did you overcome those challenges?
A Adults can express their feelings and can identify the severity and nature of pain. But a child may not be able to communicate this in detail. As a Paediatric Nurse, it is important to interpret and understand the child’s behavior and reactions.
To build trust with little kids, it is important to rely on their parents for both information and assistance. The family can share a lot, but it
is also essential to identify the symptoms in the child’s body language and through his/her speech.
To allay a young patient’s anxiety, I always try to find fun and creative ways to ease the pain, like talking about their favourite cartoon character, favourite game to play, how high he/she can count, role playing and singing nursery.
Q What do you enjoy most working as a Paediatric Nurse?
A Kids are just so adorable! I get the opportunity to help children when they are most vulnerable, sick or in pain. Gaining the trust of a little child and seeing him/her bounce right back to wellness relatively quickly is the most satisfying part of my job.
7 Years of working experience
Q A
SSN II/CI Chua Jenielou Grace Deloso, Ward 8B
How did you become a Paediatric Nurse?
My passion for nursing started when I joined St. Clare’s Hospital in the Philippines as a Neonatal Intensive Care Unit nurse. Following that, I worked at KKH as a High Dependency Medical-Surgical Unit nurse and then it led
me to where I am now at Raffles Hospital as a Paediatric Nurse.
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I also love that I can have ‘fun’ with the
children at work; amidst their treatments and medications, I get to read them a bedtime story or sing songs, while waiting for them to fall asleep.
On top of that, I also act as an advocate of change and an educator by helping parents who are still learning the ropes of parenting and guiding them on caring for their sick child. Being a Paediatric Nurse can be extremely rewarding but it often also comes with a great deal of responsibilities. It offers you a chance to make a difference in little children’s lives.
Q What were some changes over the years that have left a deep impression?
A COVID-19 was an eye-opener for everyone, as it placed a great deal of strain on the healthcare system and caused physical and mental exhaustion in healthcare providers. Despite the difficulties, nurses continued to prioritise patient care ahead of our own health. The team dynamics hasn’t changed significantly, we just had to work harder.
One of the saddest parts of the pandemic
for me was having to care for patients who cannot be with their families or loved ones. The experience has underscored the fact that life is fragile.
We leveraged technology a lot for communication. Video conference calls with members of our core unit to discuss work and any issues became our way of life.
With the ever evolving COVID regulations and policies, it was critical that we adhere strictly to correct protocols and procedures.
It was our responsibility as frontline staff to allay patients’ fears and anxieties, reassure them if possible, and keep those channels of communication open and hopes alive.
‘BEHIND-THE-SCENES’ STORIES
Making a difference in Small People
As a nurse, the feeling of being able to touch someone’s life and make a difference is something that nursing encompasses; which
is an art - “As a nurse, we have the opportunity to heal the heart, mind, soul and body of our patients, their families and ourselves. They may forget your name, but they will never forget how you made them feel.”
Q What is your most memorable patient experience?
A I’ve had a quite few memorable patient experiences over the years but the one that always comes immediately to my mind is a case of a 5-year-old boy.
He was admitted with a fractured femur following a fall. He was a pure delight, a very cheeky and friendly child. He was accompanied by his mother during the day of admission and had an Open Reduction Internal Fixation done on the same day.
He was very drowsy when he arrived from the Operating Room. He started to scream that he is feeling thirsty and wanted apple juice. He said it several times and became hysterical, demanding, “I WANT APPLE JUICE! I WANT APPLE JUICE!” But his hand was pointing to the bathroom! So, I hugged him immediately because he tried to climb over from the bed
and I was scared he might fall. I calmed him down and offered him the bedpan. I could see a sign of relief on his face.
The following day, the doctor decided to discharge him. The mom asked me to look
after him for a while as she took a call. While the mother was away, I took the time to talk to him about his favourite cartoon movie, skiing and flying planes, his favorite food (french fries!). Shortly after, the mother came back
and thanked me personally before they bid goodbye. The little kid gave me a high five and hugged me, and said, “Thank you nurse auntie.” Soon after, I received a lengthy feedback from the mother conveying her heartfelt appreciation to all the paediatric nurses. I learnt a valuable lesson I would take with me throughout my career – it is the ability to empathise with patients and their families as the patient could be your own family member. Think, protect, and act accordingly.
Each day, I am thankful for every child I get to meet. I am so lucky to be able to work with some of the most compassionate, dedicated, empathetic and hard-working nurses who always put their patient’s needs before their own.
They empower me. They inspire me. They are superheroes.
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‘BEHIND-THE-SCENES’ STORIES
COVID-19 Special: COVID-19 Treatment Facility (CTF)
COVID-19 Special:
COVID-19 Treatment Facility (CTF)
Written by: Ms Siti Adhawiyah, SOC Ambulatory Operations Manager
In February, Singapore experienced a steep wave of COVID-19 infections due to the Omicron variant. A new COVID-19 Treatment Facility (CTF) was set up in Singapore Expo
to care for children and the elderly, who are higher-risk and more vulnerable. It joined the existing CTFs there, for which Raffles Medical is the appointed healthcare provider.
Ms Siti Adhawiyah, SOC Ambulatory Operations Manager, shares how our Raffles frontier healthcare team braved the storms and overcame adversities to provide these vulnerable patients the best care possible.
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CTF staff learning to perform housekeeping duties to ensure the facility is always neat and tidy.
SN II Silva Phil Victor Mactal is briefing non-medical staff on the use of hospital bed at CTF
CTF staff who is involved in teaching non-medical staff on the management of patients with medical condition e.g., stroke, breathlessness, hypoglycemic
Dr Tan Joo Peng briefing CTF staff on what medical conditions to expect
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BEHIND-THE-SCENES’ STORIES
COVID-19 Special: COVID-19 Treatment Facility (CTF)
Q
A The centre was initially named Community Care Facility (CCF) and was meant to cater to Activities of Daily Living (ADL) independent Singaporeans. However, along the way there were changes implemented by MOH to meet changing community needs. There was a rise of COVID infected cases within the elderly community and the centre was renamed COVID-19 Treatment Facility (CTF).
CTF was designed to take in children and the elderly. Our youngest admission was three years old while the oldest was up to hundred years old.
Patients were segregated into three halls:
• Children with caregivers & Independent ADL adults/elderly are housed in Hall 7 & Hall 8,
• Dependent ADL adult/elderly (Females) are housed in Hall 9,
• Dependent ADL adult/ elderly (Males) are housed in Hall 10.
What is the CTF Centre and how did your team help to establish it?
Q
A
As the demand for our services grew, so did our team. Currently, together with 2 other nurse managers, we oversee the operation which has a total of 380 locum staff of HCAs and nurses.
How big is your team?
We started with a team of two nurse managers and one admin manager. We hired 35 locum staff in addition to the 13 staff deployed from Raffles Hospital inpatient wards. Out of these 48 staff, 28 are healthcare assistants (HCA) and 20 are nurses. We were divided into four teams on rotating shifts.
Q
A
What is the daily routine like?
In CTF, the patients are also known as Patient Under Isolation (PUI).


Recreational activities such as folding paper crane, “Go Fishing Game”, Bingo and Blowing Balloons activites ( to expand their lungs and throw the balloon up in the sky for hand activities) that are carried out by CTF staff
CTF staff who volunteered to cut patient’s hair upon her request
CTF staff conducting morning exercises for Patients Under Isolation (PUI)
CTF staffs who accompanied CTF patients to watch Drama Series at CTF
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BEHIND-THE-SCENES’ STORIES
COVID-19 Special: COVID-19 Treatment Facility (CTF)
On a daily basis, just like in the wards, the day starts with PUIs’ hygiene such as oral toilet, assisted showering and bed-sponging. These are followed by serving and feeding of meals as well as medications. Right after medication rounds, the PUIs will be entertained with exercise regimes, muscle stretching for the bed-ridden patients, playing of board games as well as craft works for the independent elderly.
Bed side nursing care are rendered to those on diapers. Frequent diaper changing as well as 2-hourly turning for the bed-ridden. There were several PUIs that required wound dressing due to underlying chronic illnesses.
Q As the CTF was set up to aide in this national crisis, what were some examples of resources that were brought in?
A Initially, when CCF was set up, we mirrored the operation needs as per our deployment days in Changi Exhibition Centre (CEC) aka “Migrant worker days” in last April 2021. During the set up in Connect@Changi, there were a
lot of intense coordination and arrangement
for both consumables and medications ordering from MMD and Inpatient pharmacy departments. Equipment and items brought in were vital sign monitoring machines, emergency trolleys, standard upper respiratory tract medications.
However, as we progressed and levelled up
to CTF, operation needs started to accelerate as well. We started to plan more like a “mini- hospital facility” to cater to CTF settings for the Activity Daily Living (ADL) dependent patients. We started to bring in commode chairs, hospital beds, macerators, disposable bed pans, disposable urinals and more chronic medications. We also ordered adult diapers, stoma bags, urine bags, and insulin needles.


BEHIND-THE-SCENES’ STORIES
COVID-19 Special: COVID-19 Treatment Facility (CTF)
Left to Right: SSN I Jeffry Surva Flores, Manager, Ms Siti Adhawiyah. Senior Manager, Ms Catherine Soo, Manager, Ms Emiliah Binte Hamzah and SN II Silva Phil Victor Mactal
Q A
First was during the Delta surge in September 2021. We had only 12 staff in a shift to manage an average of 403 PUIs in both Hall 7 & Hall 8.
The demographic of the PUIs were independent elderly with underlying medical conditions. Although the elderly PUIs were independent, dementia and hearing impairment were the challenges we faced in handling them. They were often found walking lost and roaming around in the room corridor aisles, as they couldn’t remember the route back to their rooms or their room numbers. Although they were reminded to always stay in their rooms, sadly they couldn’t remember this instruction. Thus, we implemented hourly patrolling duties. Our staff ensured no lost “walkers” were on
the loose. On top of ensuring patients’ safety, we performed daily swab tests, vital sign monitoring, admissions and blood taking on a daily basis.
Second was the Omicron surge, immediately after Chinese Year in February 2022. We had minimal nurses and trained ADL HCAs to manage the surge. We were experiencing an average of 430 PUIs in-house daily with only 40 staff to manage a total of four halls.
The demographic of the PUIs were dependent elderly with underlying medical conditions. In addition to the demented and hearing-impaired elderly, we then faced a bigger challenge of handling PUIs with psychiatric issues and violent behaviours. We faced difficulties during diaper changing as the patients were violent towards the nurses at times.
There was one particular PUI which needed four strong men to hold him down just to clean and change his diapers. Dr Tan Joo Peng was one of the four men. He had to hold the patient’s legs from kicking the nurses while another male staff had to hold his mittened hands from boxing the nurses.
There was also another patient who would spit saliva at the nurses while they turned him for diaper changing.
What were some challenges faced?
Manpower was one of the challenging factors. There were two main periods when we were hit by sudden surges.
Ensuring PUIs’ safety was our top-most priority. Despite the unpleasant situations or dangers, our healthcare team continued caring for
the patients diligently to perform vital signs monitoring, admission, serving of medications and attending to the PUIs’ daily needs, as they were fully dependent on our assistance.
During this period, our healthcare staff were badly hit by the omicron virus as well. This exacerbated the manpower shortage, and impacted the day-to-day operation.
Q How did you overcome these challenges?
A It helped that Raffles Medical Group is one big family and during such times we can count on support from Chief Nurse Lilian Yew, General Manager Dr Tan Hsiang Lung, and Deputy Managing Director Dr Kenneth Wu. Inpatient nurses came to our rescue, our nightingales in shining armour! We are very grateful for their continuous support.
MOH also spotlighted the situation and appealed to the general public as well as nursing students to come forward to help the nation. Indeed, we received tremendous response to the call.
However, another challenge came with the overwhelming response, and that was to train and manage these individual members of the public.
We needed to manage their expectations and prepare them mentally on the responsibilities that they were about to face before they entered the ‘warzone’, as they were not medically trained. We explained to them
the challenges they would be facing, such
as aggressive patients, and PUIs who might
be roaming around or stealing other PUIs belongings. There were also many other difficult patients who tested the nurses’ patience at
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BEHIND-THE-SCENES’ STORIES
COVID-19 Special: COVID-19 Treatment Facility (CTF)
the door open but unfortunately it was latched and we couldn’t break in. We then activated security to break open the door. Once we opened the door, we saw the patient happily eating her dinner and watching TV. She didn’t realise that there were four people staring at her.
At that moment, we didn’t know to be angry
or to laugh. Of course, we chose the latter as we all understood that Mdm Tan had hearing deficiency and was demented at the same time. What mattered most to us all was that she was safe and eating well.
A team is
a group of
people who
trust each
other”.
~ Simon Sinek
Q What is the biggest takeaway for you working at the CTF?
A I am grateful for all the team members. They are one of the toughest, most resilient people, soldiering on no matter the odds faced. We all worked together when manpower was lean and many times by the end of our shifts, we were drenched in sweat and even have tears in our eyes. At times, it felt like we were
in a battlefield. Yet, not once did we admit defeat. We marched on because we believe in our calling as nurses. As the saying goes, “Tough times never last, tough people do.”
times, and one of the staff faced some cheeky patients who had touched her despite being disabled. We reassured the volunteers that their safety was our topmost priority and to flag to us immediately if ever faced with such situations, which would be escalated to the police.
We also implemented a buddy system to tag them to an experienced ADL trained HCA or a nurse in their daily nursing care such as feedings, diaper changings, transferring and assisting PUIs to the toilets.
Q What was your most memorable experience?
A Since CTF Connect@Changi is the biggest Covid Treatment Facility in Singapore, we received patients from different walks of life. During the parameters rounds, we saw a housekeeper knocking on one of the patient’s door. She explained that she received a call from the patient’s daughter informing that her mother hadn’t been eating for a few days and was feeling weak. We got worried and all three of us started knocking and shouting for the patient to open the door. We then tried to push
“A team is not a group of people who work together.
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NURSES’ INSIGHTS
Nursing Education
Elderly Care Nursing Workshop
Perform Elderly Care Nursing
Clinical Educator, Dira d/o Haridas Nursing Education Department
Nursing Education Department collaborated with Dr Tan Joo Peng’s team to conduct the Perform Elderly Care Nursing workshop to train healthcare assistants for the CTF. The workshop is designed to equip the healthcare assistants (HCA) with more in-depth knowledge and application skills to assist elderly patients with daily care activities during their stay to ensure safe patient care.
This workshop was a six-days programme comprising three full days of workshops including competency assessments and three full days of on-the-job practical attachment.
As I specialise in gerontology, I was truly glad to be part of this workshop. I was able to tap on my expertise to share my experiences with the participants.
We engaged the participants with various group activities, introducing them to elderly care and concepts. We provided relevant updates to their knowledge and skills in elderly care.
I personally feel that by appreciating the characteristics of common geriatric conditions as well as the needs of the elderly, the HCA will better understand geriatric conditions so that they are able to apply to practical well.
Providing this training to the participants has allowed them to feel more confident and competent in nursing elderly patients.
As an educator, I feel proud and ecstatic
to share my knowledge in gerontology and serving the community indirectly during this difficult period of time through providing the participants the insights of elderly nursing care.
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Performing safe and transfer techniques


Compliments for our nurses!
Each nurse is a service ambassador in RMG, and they play an important role in shaping the Raffles Experience by delivering excellent service. Our service standards are based on Service with an I-M-P-A-C-T. We are pleased to share our patients’ heartfelt gratitude towards our compassionate nurses who have gone the extra mile to provide outstanding and seamless service.
SN II Claudio Maureen Rachel Arcibal, Ward 10B
SN II Caballes Ma Ria Karlyn Lai, SOC Raffles Fertility Centre
They have been very patient with
my mother who was warded for two weeks. My mother was feeling very low at the beginning did not want
to talk much. But these nurses were very encouraging and kind, keeps talking to her even though she didn’t response. They helped to change her diaper, feed her drinks. Days gone
by she starts to open up and be back to her usual self. The nurse even mentioned she is so talkative. A very big thank you to the nurses here. Appreciate all your effort!!
Dear Sir/Madam, I’d like to give good feedback for the Fertility Centre and Raffles Women’s Clinic, well done to both the teams! I’d like to say a special thanks to Ms Ria. Over the past year, she’s been nothing but outstanding providing personalised service, a listening ear, reverting so efficiently & professionally via telephone, email & especially face to face interaction. She’s always smiling & remains calm even during busy hours, her attention to detail (demonstrating use of injections, prescribing medications is flawless!). She’s really an asset anywhere and an amazing team player, a big thank you. Well done Ria!
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Xu Ying Jun is a very caring nurse. She cares about patients under her care. She will take her time to explain how to care for myself for my illness. She is never rude. Her blood-drawings skills were excellent due to her background in kidney care. She always tries to
do the best in her job. Thank you for being my nurse.
EN II Allera Eric Ababon, Ward 13 SSN II Mosendo Sarah Jane Asna, Ward 9 SN II Hsu Nyat Nyi Nyi, Ward 9
SN I Junaiti, Ward 13
Jasmine (Hsu), Junaiti, Eric, Sarah, Wailam and others. The nurses are professional and proficient in what they do. Passionate in their nursing and friendly and ready to assist when called or even when not called and they noticed patients requires help. Doing things from their hearts. Noticed they were usually cheerful which brought comfort to the patients (Eric was even singing while he worked). Calmly yet firmly they were able to pacify one of the upset patient. Salute them for not only attending to the medical, nursing needs but also the hygiene and cleaning up and feeding of weaker patients. Even the young intern nurse, Wailam did well and was
a good help in the ward, which reflects the excellent guidance and leadership of the senior nurses and management. The last time I was hospitalized was about 7 years ago in another hospital, but I must say my stay in Raffles Hospital exceeded my expectations, and the ward I stayed was not class A or B but the basic ward. Not that I like to stay in the hospital, but I must say I am impressed by the fine quality and high standard and outstanding service. Thank you for making my hospital stay a wonderful experience. Keep smiling... Cheers...
SN I Gayomale Gesha Guinanao, Ward 9
I would like to add here: Nurse Gesha, one of the most jovial and cheerful nurse I have met. She is very experienced especially when handling elderly patients. She was helping an elderly patient in his 80s pass motion in bed, he was uncooperative and was screaming and even hurled vulgarities and abusive language at her. Yet she kept her composure, assured and controlled the patient and helped him with his business and cleaned him up. She did not get upset
with the abuse but continue to serve other patients after that. Her work attitude is exceptional and admirable.
Professional, dedicated, responsive & reliable, caring & amicable. Over the years she has been consistently helpful, even going out of her way to help us with other departments matters when we are unable to reach anyone for advice. True gem in our opinion and she makes our regular visits less stressful. An asset to the hospital and a great team - both Dr Chan and Angelyne.
SEN Angelyne Tan Siew Hua, SOC Raffles Internal Medicine
Alicia is very patient, caring and professional. I felt extreme pain on my first night. I am thankful to have her and for her dedicated service that helped me pull through the night. Alicia could understand how much pain I was in that night and she tried all means to lessen my pain. She made sure I was alright before leaving the room.
SSN I Belderol Alicia Lapining, Ward 8D
Gilian is professional and she would observe my diet and whether I was recovering well.
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SSN I Xu YinJuan,
SOC Raffles Internal Medicine Centre
SN I Gilian Poon Yi Hang, Ward 8D


SSN I Chiew Yann Ling Magdelene, Ward 10B
I was scheduled for a day surgery procedure on 23 March and had a brief business office transaction with staff Valentino. He was patient in his explanation and kindly guided me to a pre-arranged holding room as i was in pain.
Throughout the waiting for my slot at ward 10 (I was in bed 1009), the ward staff was professional but one staff named Magdelene stood out. Post-op, I had a severe reaction to the procedure and had to be admitted instead of being discharged from day surgery, and so was briefly returned to the same room while they arranged
for a bed in ward 8. Magdelene was absolutely fabulous! She was so gentle, understanding and that instantly comforted me so much while I was processing the unexpected turn of events. I also want to commend the staff of ward 8 (I was in bed 853 on 16 -17 March and in 842 on 23-24 March 2022) who made sure I was always comfortable and even waited on me while I was in the toilet to ensure my safety.
This is my third hospitalization at RH and I must say, you’re my private hospital of choice. Food is good, my treating specialists are mostly my own medical school friends, and the staff are superb. Thanks so much for a great hospitalization experience, although I hope not to repeat it anytime soon :)
SN II De La Cruz Jomar Ramos, Ward 13
Jomar has excellent rapport with patients, understands the emotional make-up of patients and makes every effort to offer patients a clear and concise explanation on how and why things are done in a certain way in
the hospital. I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to Jomar, and to the team at ward 13 for the care and kindness accorded me during my stay. Very best wishes to all.
Everyone was very professional yet very caring. They went all out to make
me feel comfortable during our stay at the ward. They were reassuring and responded promptly to our queries. In particular, I would like to single out
the midwife on duty during my delivery, Emma, whose presence was very comforting. Her gentle assurances while I was in the midst of labour made the experience a more bearable one.
Midwife Emma Hard, Ward 8 (Labor Ward)
Basically any last minute changes, they will pass the info immediately and this will ease the tension placed upon the patient.
EN I Galanida Fern Agatha Geraldino,
SOC Women’s Centre
Nurse Fern is exemplary. She is pro-active and efficient. She is very considerate and professional. It is always a pleasure dealing with her and we feel very well taken care
of. Nurse Gemma as well, is very accommodating and pleasant when she assists us. Thank you very much for being trust worthy and making us feel comfortable.
I’d like to extend my thanks to staff members “Katt & Julia” of Simei Raffles Medical. As it was a busy afternoon and the staff were all occupied but they made effort to acknowledge me everytime I made a statement. Definitely recommend this place to anyone that really need the attention and care, even for a small facility, I felt really secure and assured. Thank you members of staff, and I really appreciate you a lot!
SSN II Fiangachen Julia Sagwit, RMC Changi Business Park
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SN I Filzah Hazirah Binte Hairol, SOC Urology Centre


These four staff in particular were very friendly, helpful and extremely polite! They made me feel at ease and reassured throughout my entire stay at the hospital. Even in the difficult moments, the four of them showed compassion and comforted me or made me laugh. I always looked forward to seeing them on shift because I knew I would be in good hands. I’m so lucky to have witnessed their professionalism and have been taken care by them.
Gloria: Takes initiative (changed my sheets without me asking) and reassures. Alvin: Ball of positivity and spreads the positivity by just being around and sincere.
Sey Mi: Very professional, always ready to help and humourous.
Tricia: Cheerful, very friendly, super helpful (even wheeled me all the way down when I discharged!) and lovely energy
SEN I Gloria Josephine Mary Michael, Ward 10C SSN I Go Sey Mi, Ward 10C
SN I Villarma Alvin Cris Balinas, Ward 10 SN I Tricia Yeo Yuwen, Ward 10C
EN II Ibanez Kindy Desiree Conducto,
24HR Emergency Department
Very caring, helpful and polite. As Kindy had noticed that my mom was on a wheelchair, she very promptly came to assist. As we were at the fever clinic area, she volunteered to check if there was an available bed in A&E that my mom could use while waiting for the doctor. As A&E was full, she then asked the doctor to see my mom as soon as possible. She is a credit to Raffles Hospital. Thanks.
SN I La Penes Laura Hinatea & EN II Opon Rose Mae Barino Ward 10
They have been very patient with my mother who was warded for two weeks. My mother was feeling very low at the beginning and did not want to talk much. But these nurses were very encouraging and kind, keeps talking to her even though she didn’t respond. They helped to change her diaper, feed her drinks. Days gone by she starts to open up and was back
to her usual self. The nurse even mentioned she is so talkative. A very big thank you to the nurses here. Appreciate all your effort!!
I like to thank nurse/receptionist Hariz and Michelle again for going above their duty to get my ART pre departure test done in a short notice, they can turn me away because time is running short for my flight check-in but they did their best to get it done within an hour and I made it in time for my flight, I was in a plight when other clinic (not raffles medical) failed to email my health cert after I waited for 40 hours. I hope most nurses/receptionist are as helpful and understanding as them. This made my visit to raffles medical terminal 3 a memorable and happy one. That date and time was 6th January 2022 after 12 midnight. Thank you again.
SN II Gulfan Michelle Arcilla, RMC Terminal 3
SSN II Magdelene Oh Chai Ching, Ward 10D
Magdalene is very professional in her job and has provided excellent nursing care
to my dad during his stay in Raffles Hospital. She is very detailed in her work and patient in listening to my dad’s requests and assisted him greatly throughout his stay. My dad can’t speak proper Mandarin and zero English but with a mixture of broken Mandarin and Cantonese. I have registered myself as the caregiver of my dad due to his age and mobility issue. Magdalene’s work attitude and the treatment towards my dad has impressed me and made me feel that my dad is under the right care. E.g. very detailed, gentle during nursing care, constantly provide update on my dad’s condition.
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I would like to compliment your doctor and staff of Blk 722 Ang Mo Kio Ave 8 branch. On 23/1/22, my dad was tested positive via ART kit and I called the clinic and the nurse was prompt and helpful to advise me to go down to see the doctor. The time was 1120 hrs near to the closing hour at 1 pm. The doctor that attended to us was patient and professional despite the condition of my dad and the nurses were helpful and polite even though we finished the consultation and PCR test past
1 pm. At this covid pandemic time, they would have seen many patients but I can see that their attitude is really good and professional. Being lost when a family member tested positive, their assistance is really
of great help to us. Please convey
my heartfelt appreciation to them. Wishing you and all a Happy CNY and stay safe. Once again, thank you!
EN II Samoy Grace Ann Valero, & EN I Siscar Haidee Mirasol Delallana, RMC Ang Mo Kio
SNC I Ng Hui Ping Kelly, SOC Raffles Children’s Centre
I am supposed to bring my son for ART test as instructed by the GP doctor so I visited Raffles Tampines on 12 Jan 11am. During that time, I was told that my son actually need to do swab for ART & PCR which I disagreed! After some clarification with GP, my son did ART there and was told to leave the clinic. Later on I was shocked to find out his ART test was cancelled!!! I called up Raffles Waterway Point in the afternoon to check if I need to make any appointment to bring my son for his swab test in the evening. I had spoken to Kelly, she was very patient and listened
to my concern about what happened in the morning. She was helpful to find out with the other clinic on my son 1st ART test results. I was very impressed with her on handling this matter. I arrived at Waterway Point clinic in the evening and had a wonderful experience with the staff there. Registration was easy and smooth, the nurse that perform the swab test was gentle and skillful. She explained to my son on the procedures. I met Kelly and thanked her for trying to check on the 1st swab test results. It’s just unfortunate that my son has to do 2nd ART again due to what happen in the morning. Overall it’s a wonderful experience with the ladies at Raffles Waterway Point!
To me, Junxia was a God sent guardian angel. Whenever she is my nurse in charge, I will be in very high spirits; as I know I will be in good hands. Jun Xia does not need the call-bell. Whenever, she passes by my room, she sticks in her head to check
if I am fine. She tops-up my water bottle, makes my bed and proactively orders pyjamas and items that I would need without being reminded. My requests to other nurses are either ignored or took forever to be fulfilled. When Jun Xia takes over, my request is fulfilled almost immediately. Jun xia is an excellen nurse, one with passion and sincere care for her patients. If there is a vote for the best nurse in Raffles Hospital, you can be sure that Jun Xia has my vote of confidence. ~ Christina
SSN II Sim Jun Xia, Ward 10B
SN I Celine Go Si Ning, Ward 9A
Celine made every interaction personable by addressing each
of her patient by name. She impressed upon me with her level
of professionalism and attention to tiny details which gave great comfort and ease to any patient. I observed that she regularly checks on her patients (once again addressing each by name), including myself and her passion for her job can be seen from her care for her patients. I’m most grateful to have been under her care.
Miss Bernice Tanlo is very attentive and detailed in arranging my upcoming cataract surgery. She explained the process to me clearly and she helped me to arrange a direct billing with my company insurer. This saves lots of work for me to file the claim with my company insurer later. I received the Guarantee of payment from my company insurer the next day. This shows Bernice’s efficient in her work. I compliment her diligence and good work.
SSN I Tanlo Bernice Gayle Go, SOC Raffles Eye Centre
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On the
ON THE RADAR
Radar
Let’s welcome our new nurse joinees for the month of April - June 2022
Siti Nurzarifah Binte Hussain
Nur Hudah Binte Musli
Ho Yiting Elhannah
Nur Haziqah Binte Razalli
Rajeswari ramasamy
Clydia Tan Yaner
Koh Jia Qian
Siti Khadija Binte Mohamad Mydeen
Nurhanis Natalia Binte Johan
Christina Chen Sue Fay
Surita Kovindasamy
Nur Aliyah Binte Abdullah
Nasatiqah Fatin Binte Rosli
Tay Shi Min, Rachel
Joanne Neo Zu-Er
Tan Pei Nie Chrisminie
Liu Chunying
Nurfatin Ayuni Binte Ismail
Sim Pei Jun Samantha
Maelanny Fairny Anak Harmon
Nurliyana Binte Shukor
Khin Chaw Tha
Dinah Amirah Binte Rosley
Nurlizah Binte Samat
A&E
Dialysis Centre
Ward 13
Eye Centre
Ward 13
Ward 10
Ward 9
SLT
SLT
Ward 10
Ward 9D
Airport
Eye Centre
Urology
Heart Centre
NEX
Operating Theatre
MBFC
Fertility Centre
Ward 13
Diabetes & Endocrine centre
Terminal 3
O&G
Ward 13
Senior Staff Nurse I
Staff Nurse I
Acting Assistant Nurse Clinician
Enrolled Nurse I
Staff Nurse I
Staff Nurse I
Acting Assistant Nurse Clinician
Senior Enrolled Nurse I
Staff Nurse II
Senior Staff Nurse II
Assistant Nurse Clinician
Enrolled Nurse II
Enrolled Nurse I
Staff Nurse II
Staff Nurse I
Staff Nurse I
Staff Nurse I
Staff Nurse II
Staff Nurse I
Staff Nurse II
Staff Nurse II
Staff Nurse I
Staff Nurse I
Nurse Clinician I
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NURSES’ BANK
THE RESILIENCE EPISODE
Nurses’ Bank
The Resilience Episode
Taking care of our mental wellness reflects our state of mental health. The harder we work, the more important it is to ensure mental wellness. We must remember that mental health is not a destination, but a process. It’s about how you drive, not where you are going.
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NURSES’ BANK
THE RESILIENCE EPISODE
It’s easy to misunderstand job burn-out as daily work stress. Some useful questions for us to identify if we are really suffering burn-out or stress:
Burn-out: a state of chronic stress that leads to exhaustion, detachment and feelings of ineffectiveness.
1. Have you found yourself to be increasingly critical or cynical about your job?
2. Do you have feelings of dread about going to work?
3. Do you find it difficult to stay productive and focus on your job?
4. Are you easily irritable or constantly exhausted?
5. Do you spend most of your time at work bored or overwhelmed?
6. Do you find yourself impatient and snapping at others?
7. Do you feel that you’re under an unhealthy amount of pressure?
8. Are you noticing that job satisfaction is practically non-existent?
9. Do you feel a lack of control at work?
10. Do the requirements of your job seem confusing or overwhelming?
11. Are you using food, alchohol, or drugs to cope with the stress from your job?
12. Has your appetite or sleep schedule dramatically changed?
13. Are you often experiencing negative physical symptoms like headaches, back aches, or digestion issues?
~ Taken from: Elizabeth Scott, wellness coach and author of ‘8 Keys to Stress Management’
If you find yourself answering yes to most of these questions, there is a chance you are approaching or experiencing job burnout.
“To be healthy as a whole, mental wellness plays a role.”
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NURSES’ BANK
THE RESILIENCE EPISODE
Creating a healthy mindset is an investment in your overall well-being.
Let’s hear from our own Raffles Nurses how they alleviate stress and prevent burnout from work.
Life is all about perspective. Enjoy the symphony of call bells, phone rings, doctors’ voices, passing reports at the start of every shift. Be grateful that you have a job, and you are so strong that you have the ability to help many people! Breathe in and breathe out when you are stressed at work!
Enrich yourself with activities that make you happy after work, be it drinking, eating, painting or reading! By changing your perspective, your experience changes!
SSN II Go Sey Mi, Ward 10
From left to right: Painting/ Hiking during Sey Mi’s leisure time
Taking care of your physical, mental and emotional health are the most important factors to having work-life balance. It is also about making a conscious effort to break away from the hustle and bustle
of everyday life. For me, it is going to the gym or having exercise routines, going on food and coffee dates with my friends and having sufficient rest. Prioritising my tasks at work also helps me to manage stress better. Ultimately, taking charge of your own health is your own responsibility!
SN II Esther Ng Hui Xian, Ward 13
21 Nursing Times Vol 3, No. 2
From left to right: Kickboxing class, Café Hopping during Esther’s leisure time


NURSES’ BANK
THE RESILIENCE EPISODE
I am currently assigned at Ward 9D, Oncology and Bone Marrow Transplant Unit. Being in
this area, there are times that we are busy as our patients have several procedures and their conditions are not well due to their post-chemotherapy treatments and sadly some of their diseases are progressive. Even if it is busy, our unit manages to handle things as our team has a good teamwork and camaraderie.
It is known that our patients are frail due to their conditions, thus it’s important to make them feel that they are genuinely taken care of. We empathise with them, treating them not just as a patient, but as a human being who wants to recuperate and live this beautiful life. The fulfilling part is when every time they appreciate all the things we have done for them, and most importantly seeing them get better.
At the end of the day, even if it is busy, I still find time for myself by eating out, watching a movie, going out with friends, having a good sleep, and most importantly talking to my loved ones. I make time to call my family back home, whom I haven’t seen for two years now due to the pandemic, as they motivate and inspire me to work hard.
SSN II Cabales Richard Keith Armero, Ward 9D
SSN II Keith while at work
NUS Student, Paul, enjoying himself at Universal Studios during his leisure time
Hi everyone, I am Paul. I am currently a Year 3 student from NUS and a RH scholar. On top of that, I am club president and an ad-hoc volunteer of Rotaract Club, elder brother, and devoted Christian.
With quite a number of things to juggle, how do I manage my school work and clinical work for my posting in RH? Well, I find meaning in what I do. After a long day, I often self-reflect on the small things I did and put myself in a bigger picture. Some questions I often meditate on includes - “What did I do well? What didn’t I do well? What can I do about it? Did I manage to complete tasks that are urgent and important today?” That way, my mind is set to do better each day without feeling worn out or procastinating about my work.
Although there were days I do not feel like coming to work or school to study, I had to reframe my thoughts and thinking. I am really inspired by Amy Cuddy, social psychologist, who said: “Fake it till you become it”. Rather than succumbing to my own feelings, I “make myself” the opposite of how I felt.
I pay attention to my non-verbal cues and thoughts going through my head. I also intentionally respond with a positive answer whenever I am asked about my thoughts and feelings. All these actions eventually influence my mind, shape who I am, and how people react to my positivity. As a result, I find people love seeing me and that translates into a happy working and study environment which I look forward to everyday.
Fake that you love what you are doing till you become one. Give it a try!
Paul Tang Lian Kwang, NUS-RH Scholar, Ward 10D
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Applicants must hold a current nursing certificate or diploma from a recognised school of nursing and have current registration with the Singapore Nursing Board.
Duration: Designation: Accredited by: Supported by:
24 months (Part-Time) Bachelor of Nursing Singapore Nursing Board Singapore Nurses Association
Nurses Learning Hub invite Registered Nurses to apply for the Bachelor of Nursing (Top-up).
DEGREE AWARDED
This programme is designed to enable Registered Nurses in Singapore to expand their knowledge base in the discipline of nursing and apply this to their practice without leaving home.
Students who successfully complete the programme will be awarded the Bachelor of Nursing by La Trobe University.
COURSE DELIVERY
The Bachelor of Nursing programme is conducted in block mode with face- to-face sessions for both lectures and tutorials, and is fully taught by academics from La Trobe University.
This Degree is also supported with on-line learning utilising study guides, required readings and activities, and assessment briefings for each subject.
ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
For promotion information and to apply, contact:
Singapore Nurses Association
77 Maude Road Singapore 208353 Tel: (65) 6392 0770
Fax: (65) 6392 7877
Email: [email protected]
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From left to right: CE Siti Zarinah, NE Karyn Choo, CE Jai Vaishnavi, Chief Nurse Ms Lilian Yew, CE Dira d/o Haridas, Senior Exec Khine Myat Thu, SNE Wang Hongwei
RAFFLES HOSPITAL IS COMMITTED TO LIFELONG LEARNING OF NURSES.
We are proud to achieve Accreditation with Distinction for Nursing Continuing Professional Development (NCPD) from ANCC
ANCC NCPD Accreditation with Distinction is awarded to organizations that demonstrate exemplary and innovative practices that go above and beyond the ANCC NCPD requirements. The ANCC formally recognizes organizations that provide high-quality nursing continuing professional development and ensures educational activities are designed using evidence-based criteria. By participating in NCPD learning provided by an ANCC accredited organization, registered nurses maintain continued competence in a rapidly changing health care environment.
Organizations that achieve ANCC NCPD Accreditation with Distinction are committed to quality learning and are invested in your future.
Learn more about Raffles Hospital at www.rafflesmedicalgroup.com/ or ANCC NCPD Accreditation at nursingworld.org/accreditation


“Nursing is a Progressive Art such that to stand still is to go backwards”
Florence Nightingale
WHAT IS NURSING?
Nursing can be described as both an art and a science; a heart and a mind. Nursing is more than a career. It is a calling.
A NURSING CAREER WITH RAFFLES
Find out more about the career development track and opportunities.
NURSING @ RAFFLES
The nursing team at Raffles is closely-knitted. Our nurses come together to care for our patients.
Our nurses are given opportunities to develop and build on specialised areas of interests, and are encouraged to pursue lifelong learning.
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