Starting this month, we are proud to launch a new initiative to recognize the incredible dedication and compassion of the nurses who care for us every day. Each month, we will shine a spotlight on one outstanding nurse who has gone above and beyond in their role—whether through a specific achievement, exceptional care, or a moment of kindness that made a real difference.
Our “Nurse of the Month” will be selected based on noteworthy contributions and the positive impact they’ve had on patients, colleagues, or the wider community.
It’s our way of saying thank you – and of sharing their inspiring stories with all of you.
Please join us in congratulating Ndandatho Nomvelo Nokwethemba Xaba, a Registered Nurse in the Cardiac Intensive Care Unit, as our very first Nurse of the Month!
To help us all get to know our Nurse of the Month a little better, we asked Ndandatho Nomvelo Nokwethemba Xaba a few questions about her journey, her passion for nursing, and what inspires her every day:
“What is your Current Position?”
Registered nurse (Cardiac Intensive Care Unit)
“How Many Years have you been a Nurse?”
Been a nurse for almost 3 years now (community service included)
“What inspired you to become a nurse?”
I think I’ve always been drawn to helping others and making a difference in other people’s lives, Nursing helps me combine my compassion to helping others with my interest in healthcare.
“What’s the most rewarding part of your job?”
I believe the most rewarding thing about being a nurse can vary depending on the individual’s experience and perspective. But for me is seeing my patients recover in time, developing strong bonds with families and patients, a change to grow both professionally and personally and being able to apply critical thinking skills in complex situations.
“Can you share a moment that made you proud to be a nurse?”
.The moment that stands out was during my community service, i was about to knock off and there came a patient who was in labour and said she can feel the baby coming out. I quickly rushed her to the delivery bed and when I did the PV exam the head was compressing the umbilical cord, I was able to diagnose the patient, call for help while explaining to the patient that she needs an emergency C-section and why. That night we worked together with the theatre team to ensure the baby’s delivery was safe and quick and when the baby came out he was not responsive due to lack of oxygen supply so we resuscitated and he responded, at that moment when I heard the baby’s first cry and saw the relief on the mothers face was proud and sure that I want to be a nurse for the rest of my life
“How do you keep motivated during challenging days?”
I stay motivated by reminding myself why I chose this job and acknowledge my progress by celebrating my accomplishments no matter how small. That always makes the positive thoughts to outweigh the negative ones
“What advice would you give to someone considering nursing as a career?” Advice I’d give to someone considering nursing is that they need to have passion, patience and compassion and not go in for the remuneration but for the love they have for nursing
