Dedicated Nurse: More Than Just Caregiving

23 March 2025

KOTA KINABALU: International Nurses Day (IND) is celebrated worldwide on 12 May each year, coinciding with the anniversary of Florence Nightingale's birth, to honour the invaluable contributions that nurses make to society.

This occasion provides an opportunity to reflect on and commend the selflessness of nurses, particularly during challenging times such as the recent COVID-19 pandemic. Their sacrifices are truly unparalleled.

Among those who have experienced the full spectrum of this role is Muneeswari Velautham, the Chief Nursing Officer at KPJ Sabah Specialist Hospital.

She hails from Taiping, Perak, a region renowned for its stunning natural beauty. Growing up in such a serene environment instilled in her a profound sense of care and compassion, which has significantly shaped her nursing journey.

"Although my career has taken me to various locations, including hospitals in East Malaysia and the Middle East, I settled in Klang Valley after my marriage. I am currently in my third year serving in Sabah."

“In terms of education, I completed my Diploma in Nursing at Assunta College of Nursing (1994-1996), followed by a Midwifery Course at Hospital Kuala Lumpur in 1999. I later earned a Bachelor's degree in Nursing from the University of Hertfordshire. This academic journey has provided me with a solid foundation in nursing practice, leadership, and patient-centred care.”

With 27 years dedicated to the nursing profession, she has worked across a variety of departments, including Multidisciplinary Wards, Labour and Delivery, Special Care Nursery, Maternity Ward, Surgical and Medical Wards, Intensive Care Unit (ICU), and Accident & Emergency (A&E).

Throughout her career, she has served in numerous hospitals across East and West Malaysia, as well as in Middle Eastern countries, gaining invaluable international experience and exposure to diverse healthcare systems. These experiences have not only shaped her leadership style but have also deepened her commitment to enhancing nursing standards.

One wonders about her inspiration and motivation to pursue a career in nursing and eventually become a Chief Nursing Officer. However, for her its not just a job or a career: it is a calling.

“The ability to comfort, heal, and make a real difference in a patient’s life is incredibly fulfilling. From the early days of my career, I knew I wanted to influence change to improve healthcare systems. My experiences throughout my nursing journey in Malaysia and abroad have given me a broader perspective on patient care, leadership, and nursing excellence. Upon being promoted and transferred to Sabah, I saw an opportunity to contribute my knowledge and elevate the nursing standards in our hospitals,” she answered.

“Becoming a CNO allows me to lead, inspire, and support a team of dedicated nurses in delivering the highest quality of care,” she shared adding that as a Chief Nursing Officer, her role is multifaceted, balancing patient care, staff management, and hospital operations.

Her day typically involves conducting hospital rounds to assess nursing operations and the quality of patient care. She collaborates with consultants, hospital management, and the nursing team to address any issues or identify areas for improvement. Additionally, she oversees staff scheduling and workforce planning to ensure optimal patient care.

She implements training programmes to enhance nurses’ skills and professional development while ensuring compliance with healthcare policies, safety protocols, and hospital accreditation requirements. Engaging in strategic planning, she works to improve nursing services and the overall patient experience.

To excel as a Chief Nursing Officer (CNO), one must possess strong leadership skills to guide, support, and inspire the nursing team. Effective communication is essential for collaborating with hospital management, consultants, and staff.

Additionally, a CNO should have the ability to solve problems efficiently, addressing challenges in patient care and operations. Adaptability is crucial in the ever-evolving healthcare landscape, along with sound decision-making skills, particularly in high-pressure situations. Furthermore, empathy and emotional intelligence are vital for understanding and supporting both patients and staff.

“One of the challenges I face in my role is understanding the mindset of younger nurses. Unlike previous generations, they prioritise work-life balance, seek rapid career progression, and have different learning preferences. “

“To address this, I emphasise mentorship and coaching to instil resilience, patient care ethics, and a commitment to continuous learning. I foster open communication, encouraging feedback and discussions to bridge the generational gap in work expectations. Additionally, I strive to create a positive and engaging work environment where nurses feel valued and motivated while upholding high professional standards. By adapting our approach, we can nurture a new generation of competent and compassionate nurses.”

She emphasised that to retain skilled nurses, she focuses on creating a supportive work environment where nurses feel valued and heard.

She also prioritises providing career development opportunities through training, promotions, and leadership roles, while recognising and rewarding hard work with incentives, awards, and appreciation events.

Additionally, she ensures work-life balance by implementing fair shift schedules and offering mental health support.

To young people considering a career in nursing, she expresses that nursing is not merely a job; it is a privilege, a calling, and a profound commitment to care for others.

It involves being present during vulnerable moments, providing comfort, and making a tangible difference in people's lives.

She encourages the younger generation to step forward with courage and passion. While this journey may present challenges, it will also reward you with experiences unparalleled in any other profession.

Nurses are the backbone of healthcare, whether at the bedside, in leadership roles, within education, or in research. The world needs skilled, compassionate, and dedicated nurses, and if you possess the heart to serve, you can create an impact far beyond your imagination.

To the public, she urges you to recognise and appreciate the unwavering dedication of nurses. Behind every successful treatment, every safe delivery, and every recovered patient, there is a nurse who has worked tirelessly to ensure the highest standard of care.

Nursing is not just a job; it is a lifelong commitment to healing and humanity.

“Let us work together to elevate the nursing profession, ensuring that those who dedicate their lives to caring for others receive the support, respect, and opportunities they rightly deserve. With strong, empowered nurses, we can build a healthier and more resilient future for all.”