Samoa’s unsung heroes

By Joyetter Feagaimaali’i-Luamanu 26 December 2017, 12:00AM

While most people were enjoying their Christmas and Boxing holidays, not everyone could afford that luxury.

Police officers, health workers and many others who worked to provide essential services remained on duty.

Maternity Nurse Manager and Head Mid-Wife, Finau Tema Amiga, of Sili, was among the public servants working throughout the holidays.

 “In any community, nurses are essential team members who ensure patients make a speedy recovery and that is why we are required to work during holidays, aside from usual work days,” she said. 

A nurse since 1980, Tema said when entering nursing, one must be aware that in most jobs nurses are required around the clock 365 days a year. 

 “While other professionals get this time off to be with their loved ones, nurses are caring for their patients and working to ensure the safety of our people,” she said. 

She told the Samoa Observer that working in their field for so long, working during the holidays is just like another normal day at the hospital.

“My family is used to the fact that our job as nurses require a lot of time at the office and working when everyone is taking the day off. 

 “While some nurses may be lucky and be off on the holidays, the majority of nurses will be working on some of the major holidays. 

 “Once you have accepted this reality, you will have no problem.

 “If you show up to work with a smile on your face and a positive attitude, hopefully it will impact others, especially the patients in a positive way.

 “And that is why it’s important that you understand and accept the fact that nurses are unique, they are so special they work during the holidays to save lives.

 “While it is an honor at any time to care for the sick or injured, we understand it can be especially difficult at the celebratory times of the year.” 

The Nurse Manager said the only hurdle they encounter most especially during Christmas is nurses calling in they will not make it to work.

 “But, there are still those die-hard committed nurses who put the needs of others, first than their needs, they will always be at work to hold down the fort. 

 “We have leave so some put in request for leave and of course they are granted, but when its the holidays, we are required to be working around the clock,” she said. 

By Joyetter Feagaimaali’i-Luamanu 26 December 2017, 12:00AM
Samoa Observer

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