jane Maphosa

I was born and raised in Africa (Zimbabwe). I moved to England 20 years where I realised that British culture and Zimbabwean. It was difficult for me to migrate and settle in England due to cultural differences. My first job in England was in a nursing home, caring for older adults with different needs. I worked in a nursing home for a year, then moved to support adult patients with learning difficulties in the community. I enjoyed working with this group of patients and decided to pursue a professional career. I gained a Bachelor of Arts degree in Community and Social care between 2011/15. In 2019/22 I furthered my education and achieved my second degree in Mental health nursing.

During my nursing career, I became aware of the importance of treating people in a non-judgemental manner and respecting equality in mental health settings employees, and clients with different religious beliefs and different cultures. I feel it is important to use the Mental Health role to promote mental health illness to the public. I am convinced that mental illness is an area in which most people are uncomfortable either talking about or taking part in preventing and supporting those who suffer from mental issues.

Communication is key in the healthcare setting during patients' recovery while admitted under our care. I have excellent communication skills which I have gained through working in healthcare and study skills at the University of Derby. For example, when I am communicating with clients who have trouble with their speech or cognitive impairment, I use good body language and good eye contact. I also use objects such as Q cards for the receiver to get a better understanding of what I am communicating. I always avoid using slang or jargon language to avoid misunderstood. Good communication is a vital skill that shapes the good care of our patients to deliver a high standard of care. In nursing, we communicate via speaking listening, and documentation. I always make sure that when I document any notes to patients’ files, they should be clear and easy to understand by others.

Patients’ safety is one of my priorities when on duty. Patients are harmed due to unsafe care. It is important for me as a nurse on duty to make sure that the ward is safely staffed, and staff are up to date with training especially moving and handling and DMI (restraining).

Risk assessment is a major task when caring for mental health patients. Their behaviors can be triggered by anything and escalate to serious situations. When presenting with inappropriate behavior, I should assess the cause or trigger of the behavior rather than judge. I can also offer one-to-one support to the patients to express themselves.

I am a good timekeeper, by plan my journey before the day to avoid being late for work or meetings. Plan my daily workload, this helps me to complete my work on time.

I can work under pressure, such as quick decision-making and problem-solving abilities.

I am competent in mathematics, drug calculation in medication administration. Also, it is important for a nurse to be familiar with and have knowledge of the medication administered to the patients.