At Unity Health, we’re celebrating National Nursing Week! Today we're proud to shine a light on a creative and compassionate nurse educator who is mentoring nurses across our organization.
𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭𝐬, 𝐋𝐞𝐚𝐝𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐌𝐢𝐧𝐝𝐬: 𝐒𝐡𝐲𝐚𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐢 𝐉𝐞𝐞𝐯𝐚𝐤𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐧, 𝐍𝐮𝐫𝐬𝐞 𝐄𝐝𝐮𝐜𝐚𝐭𝐨𝐫
A dozen nurses crowd around a long table as nurse educator Shyalini Jeevakaran RN, MN, CNeph(C) walks them through the step-by-step process of automated peritoneal dialysis (APD)—a treatment for people experiencing kidney failure. A chorus of electronic beeps fills the room as students enter treatment parameters into the machines before them.
“My journey into nursing started from a place of wanting to make a difference in the lives of others,” says Jeevakaran who began her nursing career more than two decades ago. “Moments at the bedside were eye-opening; I saw the impact a compassionate nurse could have during the most vulnerable times in someone’s life.”
Part of her work always involved teaching and mentoring others. Eventually her love for this work led her toward a career in education.
“Transitioning into nursing education felt like a natural next step for me,” said Jeevakaran. “I realized I could inspire and mentor current and future nurses, instilling in them the same passion for patient care that I had developed.”
“As an educator, I gain new insights with each lesson I teach; it's truly a journey of teaching and learning”
However, sharing knowledge and helping patients aren’t her only passions. Painting had always been a part of Jeevakaran’s life, but when she and her husband had their two children, art took a backseat to a busy family life.
Two years ago, she felt drawn back to her art and decided to pick up her paints and brushes again.
“For me, painting isn't just a hobby; it's also a vital form of self-care,” says Jeevakaran who on her weekends is known to retreat to her basement studio for 10-hour marathon painting sessions.
“When I paint, I can completely immerse myself in the experience. It's just me, my colours, music, and the canvas. Nothing else occupies my mind.”
“It’s incredibly relaxing and rejuvenates me, allowing me to manage the emotional demands of my work better.”
Helping to train nurses at St. Michael’s Hospital, St. Joseph’s Health Centre, Providence Healthcare as well at the Kidney Care Centre, Satellite Dialysis Centre in East York, Jeevakaran finds her role rewarding knowing her work has a direct impact on both patient care and nursing practice.
When it comes to balancing busy work and personal life, Jeevakaran has some great advice for her fellow nurses.
“It's so important to find a self-care activity that truly brings us joy,” says Jeevakaran. “Whether it’s painting, walking, reading, praying or simply cooking a nice meal, these moments help restore our energy and uplift our spirits.”
“When we take care of ourselves, we’re better equipped to tackle the challenges of the day with a positive mindset.”
Read more: https://lnkd.in/ew96QHsX
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