Hoi Shu Yin
Senior Nurse Manager
Tan Tock Seng Hospital
Introduction
I am currently a senior nurse manager at TTSH. This is my 8 th year in service at TTSH.I received the Public Service Commission (PSC) scholarship in 1997 to pursue a 4 yrs degree course in Nursing at Kings' College London. Back then in 1997, I was concurrently offered a place at NUS to undertake the bachelor of business administration degree. I was midway through the university orientation program when I decided to boldly steer and venture into a path seldom thought of by my peers. As I learned more about nursing, a growing passion to help people who are most vulnerable at a point/phase of their lives brewed. Contrary to what most people believe, nursing entails far more possibilities than one can dream of. You can be an excellent clinical nurse, or an educator to the up and coming, or a researcher seeking science to improve care or a visionary and impactful nurse leader. Most importantly, whatever you do as a nurse, you will impact the lives of the needy others. The old saying remains true- Nursing is more than a vocation.
What are some challenges that you have faced during your course?
As a scholar, there was definitely some pressure to perform well academically. The tricky part was to convince my overseas course mates that I would enjoy fun things too while having to work hard. Overcoming cultural barriers and stepping into their world without compromising my beliefs was tough for me.
What are some of the memorable moments you've experienced in NHG?
I joined TTSH following my graduation in 2001. The initial 3 years at TTSH was centered on consolidating clinical skills at the bedside. Following a short stint at a medical ward, I was rotated to various clinical settings including a surgical ward, the Intensive Care Unit and a specialized cardiology unit. The rotation enhanced my understanding of real clinical issues at the ground and facilitated future decision-making at managerial level. I was also exposed to clinical teaching as a Clinical Nurse Educator and subsequently joined the nursing administration department as project manager in 2004. I enjoyed the friendships that were built over the initial years and am particularly thankful to the nursing officers who have supported me to where I am now. They have precepted me, mentored me and showered me with patience and understanding. Without them, it would be difficult to assume a senior role with limited ground experience.
Next  |
