Senior sister and supervisor of staff in the Alzheimer’s (forget-me-not) section at Park Care Centre, Sarah Ramphisa says it takes staff with patience and love to work in this ward.
Having been with the Park Care family for 17 years, Ramphisa is serving her final month of work before going into retirement.
Her work at Park Care includes the oversight of 104 patients and the supervision of nursing staff.
“The patients in this ward really need us. Not every nurse can cope with working in this ward. Patients need so much compassion and love,” said Ramphisa.
“I tell myself if I’m not doing this job, who will? It’s not about the money. It’s about the calling. We bond with these residents. They love us and we love them.”
Ramphisa recalled a success story where a patient entered Park Care from an abusive background and presented as a very withdrawn and shy resident. With time, love and care, she has blossomed into a welcoming and friendly resident.
“She feels love and safety here, which makes all the difference.”
Ramphisa said that many staff who work at private hospitals undermine the work of nurses at Park Care and other facilities.
“They don’t see why we stay here so long, but when they bring their mother to our facility, they see our purpose and value. We must learn to respect each other, no matter the work.”
She said her biggest challenge during Covid-19 was relying on patients to adhere to the regulations. She explained that it is a struggle to tell a patient with dementia to social distance and remain in their room since patients forget these instructions within minutes.
“The residents are so vulnerable and this virus can spread so quickly here. We are thankful that there have been less Covid cases this year.”
Reflecting on her time at Park Care, Ramphisa said she would miss the people in forget-me-not.
“We are never lonely while working. There is always action and busyness in the ward. I will really miss that.”
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