A new appreciation for life
BRYANSTON – As the unit manager in the hospital's Emergency Centre Christell Nkabinde has seen first-hand both the effects of Covid-19 on the community and the impact that this demanding period has had on her fellow healthcare workers.
Mediclinic Sandton’s Christell Nkabinde has gained a new appreciation for life and those around her.
As the unit manager in the hospital’s Emergency Centre Nkabinde has seen first-hand both the effects of Covid-19 on the community and the impact that this demanding period has had on her fellow healthcare workers.
This unique roller coaster has also made her realise a number of things over the last few months. “Covid-19 has given me a new appreciation for life, family and friends. It has also made me realise that I need to take care of myself in order to take care of and be an advocate for my patients as well as my staff. Life is precious and there is no time to waste on negativity,” she shared.
Nkabinde was among the first of the hospital’s employees to test positive for Covid-19 which believe it or not, actually made her feel quite angry, especially at herself.
“I am a firm believer in the fact that nothing happens by chance and that maybe this was a reset for me, I had to start looking after my health, both physically and psychologically,” she said.
As someone who was constantly looking after others, it was time for her to turn the mirror on herself. “I had to learn that I am and will always be number one – self-care has become very important to me and I now preach this to my husband as well.”
Nkabinde’s day begins bright and early at 5.30am where she prepares to head to work. She arrives at about 6.30am where she immediately hits the ground running. “My world is ever-changing and I thrive on that adrenaline but Covid-19 brought a different type of adrenaline.”
Some days can be more challenging than others especially for someone who is the first contact point for dozens of patients on a daily basis. “We experience everything about our patients first and need to be sure we know what we are doing and how to manage. We are also often first to implement many changed processes so being open and adapting to change is important.”
After a day of problem solving, processes, procedures, making sure that there are enough stocks of personal protective equipment (PPE) and working equipment, at the end of her 12-hour shift, she is greeted by a friendly face, her husband.
“This is a time for us to chat, catch up and get a feel of where we are in our lives. I also spend a lot more time with my husband and dogs now,” she said.
Nkabinde encourages the community to preserve as everyone working on the front line continues to give their all each and every day. “We give 110 per cent each day – trust us. This too shall pass.”
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https://www.citizen.co.za/sandton-chronicle/279283/mediclinic-rejects-fake-message-circulating-on-social-media/
https://www.citizen.co.za/sandton-chronicle/279469/local-coffee-shop-keeps-health-workers-fueled/
