Twenty-six-year-old Precious, a staff nurse on Foulis Ward, is part of the Migration Museum’s exhibition: Heart of the Nation, Migration, and the making of the NHS. Precious tells us why she chose to be part of the exhibition and how she finds life working for the NHS and Royal Brompton Hospital.
Precious came to London to join the NHS in January 2022 from Lagos, Nigeria. She trained as a nurse in Lagos for three years and practised for the following three before moving to the UK to join the NHS. Precious obtained her license to practise nursing in the UK in April 2022, where she joined Foulis Ward as a staff nurse.
Tell us about the exhibition, why did you choose to be part of it?
I really wanted to get involved as I thought it would be a great opportunity to help people understand the experience of being an international nurse working within the NHS, in the UK – to know what it is like leaving home to a new country, into a new role. The exhibition explores the rich history of migrant workers within the NHS over the past 75 years. Currently, it is embarking on a tour, commencing at the Leicester Museum in June, and is due to make its way to London in 2024. This is all exciting for me as it provides an opportunity for individuals to engage with and appreciate the compelling experiences of migrant NHS workers and our contribution to the success of the healthcare system.
Why nursing?
Well, I made the decision to go into nursing at 18. Initially, I contemplated pursuing a career in engineering, but it was not long before I realised it was for the wrong reasons. From a tender age, I’ve loved to look after people and care for their well-being. Nursing later in life, became the path that allowed me to embrace my passions of truly caring for people. Through my shifts, I strive to maintain a genuine smile, knowing that it carries love and care to my patients. Hearing them make comments on that and how it makes them feel brings me happiness. Being able to connect with people, share their experiences, and be involved in their healthcare journey is fulfilling and it’s a privilege I’ll remain grateful for. I believe that my purpose is found in truly providing compassionate care to my patients. It’s nice to serve as a channel of hope, witnessing the transformative impact of a smile and leaving a lasting impression on their lives. The heartfelt gratitude expressed by my patients in the past and into my current role resonates deeply, fuelling my passion to keep giving my best.
Why did you choose to come and work in the NHS?
The prospect of providing free healthcare through the NHS was a strong drive for me in my decision to come and work in the NHS. I believe that healthcare is a basic human right which should be free and accessible by all, and the NHS stands as one major system in the world where individuals, regardless of their income or status, receive good healthcare at no cost. I think the NHS gives people hope and to feel at ease knowing fully well that their healthcare needs would be met. I knew that being a part of the NHS would allow me to contribute to this vital cause, offering equal healthcare opportunities and making a meaningful impact in people's lives. It’s understandable that there will always be room for improvements, but I believe the good work and many health breakthroughs that’ve been achieved in the NHS over the years is worth noting.
What attracted you to Royal Brompton Hospital in particular?
I strongly appreciate the role of a specialist hospital, as it allows for the provision of focused and specialised care. I had read extensively about the Brompton and its recognition as a heart and lung hospital. With some experience in paediatric respiratory care, choosing to pursue a specialisation here was not so much of a hard decision. I had an interview online, and it was just so exciting when I got the offer letter. I mean, super-exciting. I really enjoy it, the work environment is one of the best I’ve worked in from my manager to the staff body, and I am really encouraged to develop my skills to take on more responsibilities presently and, in the years, ahead.
How did you feel leaving your friends and family?
I believe my excitement to try something new and to be a part of something bigger overwhelmed any other feelings I might have had of leaving home. I wasn’t scared to leave home, I felt like I’d be fine, and I have been. I stay in contact with my loved ones daily. Although, I arrived in London without knowing anyone, I have been very fortunate to forge friendships through my work, church, and other social circles. The kindness and warmth extended by everyone at the Royal Brompton made it effortless for me to settle in. For instance, I was assisted in finding nursing accommodation, and now I share a home with a good friend and colleague whom I met during my time there. I’ve also made friends with nurses and other healthcare professionals who have come through the Royal Brompton International Programme.
What has been your best day?
One of the most rewarding aspects of my nursing journey is the deep connections I form with my patients. A memorable experience stands out when a patient expressed profound gratitude when they said: "Precious, I just want to tell you before you leave that you are amazingly kind, life-enhancing and you’ve brought so much joy to me during my time in the hospital,” together with his spouse, as tears filled their eyes, they went on to say: “we will never forget you." This warmed my heart and moved me too, I didn’t realise how much difference I had made in their lives. Making a meaningful impact on someone's life and providing care that enhances their well-being, brings me immense fulfillment and happiness. However, I also encounter hard days, like the sad impact of losing a patient, which serves as a reminder of how fragile our lives are and how important the care we provide is.
Where would you like to be in 5/10 years’ time?
I see myself strongly pursuing a career as a clinical nurse specialist, focusing on patients with cystic fibrosis (CF) and potentially motor neuron disease (MND). A large percentage of the patients I care for are CF patients, I’m continually motivated by the specialized care they receive at the Brompton. I would love to build my skills in this area, and it is particularly fascinating to note that the Royal Brompton stands as one of the biggest CF centres in Europe. I also see myself playing a huge role in digital health in the coming years.
What has been the hardest adjustment coming to London?
The weather – the summer is too hot, I’ve not quite adjusted but I’m learning to deal with it daily.
In my opinion, choosing to work in the NHS is rewarding and it’s just important that we keep chasing after our dreams without limitations. One little impact at a time makes all the difference.