Recently, my husband had a major operation and was in NGH for four weeks and five days. The time he spent on Willow Ward was at a critical stage in his recovery; he was very ill and very weak. I spent four and a half hours with him every day and was, therefore, in an ideal position to observe the nursing care he received. Almost without exception, the nurses who looked after him were kind, caring and efficient. However, Hayley Au stood out.
She always carried herself with dignity and poise. Her knowledge, expertise and clinical skills were impressive throughout. Her organisational skills were particularly apparent as was her total dedication to her work. She was constantly aware of the needs of all the patients and very quick to respond to any changes, requests for help and any particular needs. She was always alert and never appeared to take a rest. Her paperwork was completed after her shift had finished.
In addition to carrying out her work so effectively she showed tremendous compassion and concern. She reassured us constantly when complications arose and was able to set our minds at rest when my husband seemed to be making very little progress. She dispelled our fears at particularly worrying developments. We felt totally supported by her kindness and willingness to spend time explaining clinical details. Even after my husband was moved to a neighbouring ward, she showed great concern for his wellbeing and progress. On one occasion I met her in the corridor when I was particularly upset and emotional and although she was no longer my husband's nurse she stopped to comfort me and made me feel so much better.
Clearly, nursing is far more than just a job to Hayley Au. Her humanity and dedication shine through all her work and have an amazing effect on the welfare of her patients.