Mdantsane nurse passionate about helping Covid-19 patients

Phumza Nkohla, a nurse at National Renal Care in Mdantsane, has been in the field for seven years but believes there is always more to learn.

“I have developed a number of skills in the treatment of renal kidney failure, but have also learnt skills that help me understand the depth of renal failure,”  she said.

Nkohla considers herself a compassionate and supportive person, making her ideal for her profession.

“Making life-changing decisions and caring for my patients is something I always aspired to do. Seeing patients happy with the service inspires me to become better at what I do,” she said.

“Their [patients’] safety and wellbeing is my number one priority. I believe if you care about yourself and others, then you can provide good quality care.”

Relative Cuma Bokwe said Nkohla was fearless and no matter what the risk of contracting diseases or infections from patients, she always ensured they received the treatment they needed.

“She has dedicated her time and has a passion for her job. She even volunteers to keep the keys and open the branch, as early as 4am. Sometimes she is there until  9pm.

“She hopes to further her studies, but her finances do not allow this,” Bokwe said.

“Most patients always ask for her even when she is off. She does her job with passion and is not simply there for the pay cheque. She depends on public transport, and goes to the bus stop early in the morning.”

Bokwe believes Nkohla deserves recognition, as she works extremely hard and her patients are close to her.

“During Covid-19 she worked closely with patients who were infected. Anyone who needs her help, gets it.”

Nkohla said negotiating the pandemic as a front-line medical practitioner was challenging, as she often did not sleep because she was anxious.

“There is fear of contracting the virus. I also fear infecting my children.”

But Nkohla remains determined to improve herself so she is able to give the best possible care to her patients.

“My goal is to learn as much as I can so I can achieve a leadership role. I want to be able to go back to school and use the knowledge I get to help my  community,” she said. — DispatchLIVE