My journey goes back to April 2014, when I joined AFHSR ICU as a junior, in the very same year, the first СВАНІ accreditation took place, and that was the start of a great moment as I was part of the team for the accreditation. From thereon, I was part of every CBAHI accreditation as well as the three JCI accreditations.

I was also awarded the Outstanding Performer for JCI. In 2020, the horrid COVID-19 pandemic brought the most critically ill patients to the ICU. At that stage, there was a severe shortage of staff, due to staff also being infected, the long working hours, and being the Team Leader in the ICU, demanded quick decisions. The fear of also being infected was present; however, I put myself on the frontline to ensure that patient care and safety were maintained.

As you can imagine, Critical Care Nursing is not for the weak, as my role as a senior demands critical thinking skills and knowledge to ensure the best possible patient outcomes. I have, over the years, mastered the skills and expertise in the ICU, remained calm during very complex situations, precepted new staff, led the team through accreditations, and worked very closely with all members of the multidisciplinary team.

My dedication and continued commitment to the ICU will remain my priority, to empower and impart my critical care knowledge and skills to colleagues, thereby ensuring patient safety and a positive patient experience in the ICU.