Nurse practices mindfulness to care for cancer patients

“Nursing isn’t just about treating a condition—it’s about treating a person. Sometimes, the smallest gestures mean the most.”

These words guide Senior Staff Nurse Esther Tong in her work at the National Cancer Centre Singapore (NCCS) Oncology Clinic @ Changi General Hospital (CGH). Her dedication and empathy have earned her multiple healthcare awards. Yet for Esther, the real reward comes from gaining the trust of those she cares for. She shares her motivations, challenges and her commitment to improving the quality of care for her patients.

Esther was awarded the SingHealth Quality Service Awards (SHQSA) 2025 – Superstar Award in the Exemplar Professional category. (Credit: Esther Tong)

1. What inspired you to pursue a career in nursing, particularly in oncology?

When I first joined NCCS in April 2020, I wasn’t sure if it was the right path for me. Over time, as I worked with different patients and understood the challenges they faced as cancer patients, I realised I had found my calling. I see patients at every stage of their treatment, from the first consultation to chemotherapy. This has helped me empathise and better understand their journey. Nursing isn’t just about clinical work - it’s also about supporting patients through their struggles and wins.

2. Can you describe your role and responsibilities at NCCS Oncology Clinic @ CGH?

I provide holistic care to patients – administer chemotherapy and immunotherapy, manage symptoms and side effects, and mentor new nurses. I also educate patients and families on treatment options and self-care, while providing emotional support.

Esther preparing a patient for chemotherapy at the NCCS Oncology Clinic @ CGH.

3. How do you cope with your emotions while caring for very ill cancer patients?

I practice mindfulness and manage my emotions by attending emotional wellness classes at church and clay therapy. I also recharge by participating in activities such as badminton and making community visits. Importantly, I focus on being present for my patients and appreciate every moment with them, knowing that some of them have very advanced-stage disease. My colleagues and I also share our feelings and support one another, so we can continue to provide compassionate care for our patients. 

4. Have there been any moments in your career that moved you?

One time a late patient’s husband came to the clinic to thank the staff for caring for his wife with a box of cupcakes. When he handed me one, he mentioned that it was my favourite flavour - his wife had remembered and told him what I liked. It was a simple gesture, but so thoughtful, and it meant so much to me. It reminded me that even the smallest acts of kindness, such as listening and offering reassurance, can leave a lasting impact on our patients. It confirmed why I chose nursing and the importance of building meaningful connections with patients.

5. You’ve led various Kaizen initiatives at the clinic, which focuses on continuous improvement through small, incremental changes to enhance efficiency and quality of patient care and workflow. Could you tell us about one that you’re particularly proud of?

One initiative I’m particularly proud of is the creation of the Adverse Drug Reaction (ADR) Kit. Previously, when we encountered an ADR, nurses wasted precious time gathering the necessary supplies needed. By having the essential supplies in a single kit located in an accessible location, we can now quickly grab it and focus on providing timely care when a patient has an adverse drug reaction. I also designed a ‘Follow Up Reminder Card’ to monitor patients’ requests (for medical certificates, reports or porter service) before they leave the clinic. This system improves efficiency, eliminating the need for patients to repeat themselves asking different staff or calling the clinic after they leave. 

6. What has been the most rewarding part of your work?

Hearing patients say the clinic feels like a second home! It’s nice to know that despite battling cancer and undergoing chemotherapy treatment, they still feel joy, comfort and support when they come here. Knowing that I’ve helped make their journey better, even just a little, is incredibly fulfilling and reminds me why I chose this career path. 

7. Congratulations on winning the SingHealth Quality Service Awards (SHQSA) 2025 – Superstar Award in the Exemplar Professional category and multiple healthcare awards in the past. How do you feel about this recognition?

I feel humbled. I never expected to receive this recognition. It’s great to be reassured that my efforts have had a positive impact on patients who are fighting tough battles.

Esther (right) on a Hong Kong Disneyland trip she won, for exemplifying high standards service excellence at NCCS, (with her sisters) in December 2024. (Credit: Esther Tong) 

8. What are your future plans to grow and develop in your role as a nurse?  

Caring for terminally ill cancer patients has sparked my interest in advanced pain management and palliative care. I would like to develop my expertise in these areas to provide more holistic, compassionate support to patients and their families.

9. What advice do you have for aspiring nurses, especially those considering oncology nursing?

While hands-on nursing skills are important, always remember the compassionate side of nursing. Take the time to listen to your patients’ fears and hopes and provide comfort when they need it most - these are the things that make a difference. Oncology nursing is emotionally demanding, but it’s also incredibly rewarding.