Nurse of the Year 2020 (Private Nursing) - Joisy J
Congratulations to Joisy J, NNA Nurse of the Year 2020 (Private Nursing). In this Q&A, see Joisy's advice to anyone looking to become an Agency Nurse with NNA and what she likes most about working as an agency nurse.
What does nurse of the year mean to you?
I can’t really express how much this means to me. This acknowledgment is something that I will cherish throughout my life. Like everyone else, I was surprised and delighted when I received the email. Recognition is a kind of great support. I felt fortunate to be a member of the NNA team. I would like to extend my thanks to the NNA team who have considered me to be worthy of this acknowledgment.
What do you love most about the job/ working with NNA?
Working with NNA has offered the chance to gain new skills and the ability to work with flexibility. It helps with my career development by accessing a wide range of environments to work in. For me, the chance to work in a new workplace with different teams is very exciting. I can focus on patient care without involving in hierarchical and team politics.
What is your nursing specialty and what facilities/locations do you usually work at?
I mostly work in medical and surgical wards, which are my areas of specialty. However, I do get chances to work in mental health, cardiac, ED and ICU. During this pandemic, I could help out in the COVID clinic as well. This has considerably improved my skills and confidence, I am able to provide better holistic care by knowing more about various aspects.
Do you enjoy the flexibility of picking and choosing shifts to suit your family and/or lifestyle?
It gives greater control over my work-life balance. I have greater choices over my hours and shift patterns. All I need to communicate my availability and preferences. NNA will secure the most suitable work for me.
What advice would you give to other agency nurses?
Be kind and genuine. Always clarify your doubts and admit your mistakes. Learn to ignore negative people and environment, be prepared for the worst and hope for the best.
