‘The art and science of nursing’: Celebrating Sinai Health nurses

“I became a nurse because, ever since I was a child, I have been drawn to helping others, especially seniors. I experience great peace and self-satisfaction when I can assist and make someone’s life a bit better by performing simple daily tasks with compassion, empathy, and a human touch.

For example, I have been working in bedside nursing for the past 15 years. During this time, I have encountered many patients who were unable to perform small tasks for themselves, such as walking, voiding, eating, speaking, and more. At this stage of their lives, even the smallest things I do can bring a smile and joy to their faces, which, in turn, brings me happiness.

I always remind myself that they could be my parents or my children because one day, we all may need similar care. Nursing is a very powerful profession.” - Dhondup Nangestsang, Clinical Extern Coordinator, Hennick Bridgepoint Hospital

"I became a nurse because I’ve always had a strong desire to help people and make a difference in their lives. Growing up, I witnessed the impact that compassionate care can have on individuals and their families during challenging times. My younger brother has autism with a developmental delay, caring for him taught me the importance of compassion, patience, and advocacy. I felt a strong desire to understand his world and help him navigate it, which ignited my passion for health care. I saw firsthand how dedicated nurses and healthcare professionals played a crucial role in his development and well-being.

During my eight years on a medicine and respirology unit in my previous role, I developed a profound understanding of patient care and the importance of addressing both physical and emotional needs. I enjoyed building relationships with patients and their families, which strengthened my commitment to nursing.

“Nursing wasn’t always the obvious path, but my friends recognized my caring nature and encouraged me to pursue it. I now work as a registered nurse on the medical and orthopaedic unit at Hennick Bridgepoint Hospital, where I began as a clinical extern. The support and teamwork I experienced there made a lasting impression, and I knew it was the right place to grow as a nurse. 

I actively support each patient’s emotional well-being through therapeutic communication, active listening, and personalized care. Small gestures like remembering a patient’s preference or offering quiet presence can make a meaningful difference. 

In challenging moments, I reassure myself that acting with empathy and purpose is what truly counts. The hospital’s values of service, humanity, inclusivity, and discovery guide me every day.” – Daniel Paul, Registered Nurse, Medical and Orthopaedic Rehabilitation, Hennick Bridgepoint Hospital

"I had a mentor who always says mental health nursing is where the ‘art and science of nursing align’ and this is something that has always stuck with me. Mental health patients come to the hospital not just with their minds, but with their bodies as well, and we have a responsibility as nurses to be able to care for the whole person. That’s what I have always found so special about mental health nursing! 

Human connection and clinical precision really come together in this area of health care, and I am so proud to be a part of driving that work forward with our team and across the organization.” - Jessica Campbell, Patient Care Manager, Inpatient Psychiatry, Mount Sinai Hospital

“It's not like I always knew I wanted to be a nurse. Sometimes you just find your way there. I tried different things, studied different subjects. But deep down, I always wanted my life to be meaningful: to make an impact. It wasn't just about doing a job, but I wanted to help people.

Eventually, I entered health care through dental administration. At first, I thought I couldn’t handle blood. But one day, the dentist I worked with let me observe a major dental surgery. Surprisingly, I wasn’t worried about myself, rather I was concerned about the patient. I realized I could handle it, and I was genuinely interested. That was a turning point. I thought, maybe I could fully pivot into nursing. Then I went back to school and became a nurse. 

At the end of the day, I think most people want to feel that their life means something. It can take a while to figure that out. I’m still on that journey. Nursing is hard, both emotionally and physically. So I have to take care of my own emotions, my own biases, and my anxiety.” - Simret Tewolde, Registered Practical Nurse and Certified Diabetic Educator, Science of Care

In Labour and Delivery, clinical care, education, and advocacy are provided not only for the patient but also for their families. Supporting a mother through labour begins with a caring approach. Trust is established when kindness is present, clinical skill and judgment are assured, and collaboration among caregivers is observed.

I work with an exceptional team of nurses. In some of the most intense, critical situations, we support one another to ensure the best possible outcome for our patients and their families. Nurses understand that caring for patients takes a team.

Mount Sinai Hospital brings the best people together to provide exceptional care to our mothers and their newborns, and nurses are an essential and integral part of that team. 

“In my world of pain management, clinical care and patient connection are quite intertwined. Often, the pain experience is exacerbated by a lack of emotional and psychological well-being. Therefore, the provision of pain management care that focuses on the whole patient often results in improvements in both clinical outcomes and general patient well-being." - Christopher Brown, Acute Pain Service Nurse Practitioner, Department of Anesthesiology and Pain Management, Mount Sinai Hospital

“Firstly, I try to listen, validate, and empathize when supporting my team during challenging moments. Many of the unit’s staff are experienced clinicians, and I think that the fact that they still care for their patients so deeply is remarkable. 

I also see myself as part of the team – as a Patient Care Manager, sometimes I can assist in presenting challenging information so as to not damage clinician rapport or take away from time for care delivery. I also try to encourage staff to be well and feel energetic, in whatever context that may be for them – this may be using our employee assistance program, some of our wellness resources, or being flexible with work where possible.” - Kathleen Reid, Registered Nurse, Patient Care Manager, Acquired Brain Injury and Medical Rehabilitation at Hennick Bridgepoint Hospital