Nurse Shelly Niles, who is no stranger to ThingsGuyana, is one of the nurses who have been working on Christmas Day, offering care, comfort, and compassion to critically ill newborns and their families.
Impacting her patients during their most vulnerable moments is what drives Nurse Niles
A CALLING TO CARE
Niles, who hails from Albouystown, Georgetown, comes from a family deeply rooted in the medical profession, which inspired her to pursue a career in healthcare.
Choosing nursing, particularly in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU), was a natural decision.
One of my most memorable experiences was working with an infant who came in very ill and spent about three weeks in the NICU. I cared for him and brought him back to excellent health, and he was eventually discharged. That baby later became my Godson.
Nurse Shelly Niles
THE BITTERSWEET REALITY OF CHRISTMAS IN THE NICU
For Nurse Niles, working on Christmas Day is both challenging and rewarding. She is attached to the West Demerara Regional Hospital (WDRH).
It’s tough missing out on family time but there’s something really special about being there for patients and their families during the holidays.
Spending the holidays in the NICU presents unique challenges. Nurses must manage the emotional toll of caring for critically ill babies while providing reassurance to worried families.
The uncertainty of a baby’s health can weigh heavily, especially during a season meant for celebration. However, the rewards are equally profound.
Nurses form strong bonds with families, offering support and celebrating small victories, like a baby making progress or being able to go home. Working alongside dedicated colleagues creates a sense of community and shared purpose, making the holiday feel special despite the circumstances.
SPREADING CHEER IN THE NICU
Despite the seriousness of the NICU environment, Nurse Niles and her team work hard to create a festive atmosphere for the babies and their families.
We decorate the NICU with cheerful holiday-themed banners and lights.
EMOTIONAL SUPPORT DURING THE HOLIDAYS
Furthermore, supporting families emotionally during the holiday season is crucial to Nurse Niles’ role.
I focus on being a compassionate listener, allowing families to express their fears and concerns. It’s important to validate their feelings and remind them that they are not alone in this journey.
This nurse shared that she also fosters a supportive environment where families can connect with one another, share their experiences, and find comfort in community.
REFLECTING ON THE HOLIDAY SEASON
For this nurse of four years, Christmas in the NICU is a time of reflection and gratitude.
While it can be challenging to be away from family, it’s also a period where I see the resilience of families and the strength of the human spirit.
She noted that witnessing the progress of her tiny patients and sharing meaningful moments with their families makes the holiday season a deeply rewarding experience.
Nurses on duty on Christmas Day at the West Demerara Regional Hospital (WDRH) Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU).
A MESSAGE OF HOPE
Remember that you are not alone. There is a whole team dedicated to caring for your baby and supporting you through this journey. Cherish the small moments and celebrate the progress, no matter how minor it may seem.
For those considering a career in neonatal nursing, Nurse Niles highlights the rewards of the profession.
It’s a path filled with challenges and triumphs. You’ll have the opportunity to make a profound impact on the lives of families during some of their most difficult times. If you have a passion for helping others, this field can be incredibly fulfilling.
