A cancer diagnosis can be life-altering, often leaving patients and their families feeling overwhelmed and unprepared for the challenges ahead. At the National Cancer Centre Singapore (NCCS) Senior Nurse Manager Tamilarasi d/o Arumugam and her team at the Specialist Outpatient Clinics (SOCs), support patients through their cancer journey, while fostering a supportive environment for both patients and staff.
Sister Tamil, who has been a nurse for 36 years, shares how she embarked on a life-long career in oncology nursing, and the challenges and rewards she faces while making a meaningful difference in her patients' lives.
Sister Tamil joined NCCS in 1999 and is currently a Senior Nurse Manager at the Specialist Outpatient Clinics.
Why did you decide to pursue a career in healthcare?
When I was young, I developed an interest in nursing, specifically in midwifery. After I graduated from the School of Nursing in 1988, I began working at Singapore General Hospital (SGH) in the department of Othropedics and moved on to Obstetrics and Gynaecology ward to pursue my dream of specialising in midwifery.
It was very rewarding to care for women and their families at such a crucial point in their family-building. After specialising in obstetrics and gynaecology for seven years, I was keen to explore a different area of patient care. I started working in the Oncology Centre at SGH in 1998 and moved to the Ambulatory Treatment Unit at NCCS in May 1999.
I observed the resilience and courage of some patients with cancer and found that it deeply inspired me. Even in the face of challenging prognoses, they found the strength to fight bravely and maintain a positive outlook. I wanted to do more to support them as they faced these challenges. So in July 1999, I made the decision to join the Cancer Education and Information Service (CEIS) at NCCS to help set up the cancer helpline. A year later, I made the move to the Specialist Outpatient Clinics (SOCs) to broaden my nursing skill sets even further.
Can you tell us more about your role at CEIS? How does working at the SOCs differ from that at CEIS?
At the Cancer Education and Information Service (CEIS), besides managing the cancer helpline to support patients and raise awareness about early warning signs of cancer, my key responsibilities were organising outreach events and prepared educational materials.
When I was with CEIS, a gentleman called the helpline, who was the fiancé of a female patient who had tragically passed away from advanced lung cancer shortly before their wedding. He was distraught at her passing, and over a few years would call for support as he navigated her grief. I provided a listening ear and helped him eventually find closure.
My work at the SOCs presents different challenges. As a Senior Nurse Manager, I oversee seven clinics and focus on optimising workflows, ensuring patient and staff safety, and improving patient experience. My team comprises nurses who administer treatment, educate patients and families on treatment options, manage patients' symptoms and identify patients who may need further counselling, patient service associates who manage patient registration appointments and enquiries and healthcare assistants who prepare the clinic and help patients with mobility issues. By reviewing processes and implementing initiatives together with colleagues from other departments, we are committed to delivering safe, efficient care while ensuring a positive patient journey.
Sister Tamil reviewing work processes to ensure patient and staff safety and improve patient experience.
How do you and your team deliver quality care for patients and foster a supportive environment for staff?
I help to plan and develop comprehensive orientation programmes for both nursing and non-nursing staff at the SOCs, focusing on enhancing effective and clear communication between patients and the care team.
Sister Tamil and her team gathered in a huddle to gather feedback for positive patient journey and ways to support the team.
In addition, I lead weekly huddles with staff to review safety bulletins, share and gather feedback, and explore ways to encourage and support the team. One of the methods which I have found helpful is implementing a buddy system to provide hands-on guidance so that all staff are equipped to deliver quality care while feeling supported and empowered to seek help when needed.
It is also important to balance work with fun! Last year, we organised a retreat for over 70 SOCs staff and their families which included a barbeque, games and prizes! Everyone had a great time and the event helped to strengthen team bonds and uplift morale.
How has your family supported your career?
My family has been a pillar of support throughout my career. When I started my career in oncology nursing, my two children were only 3 and 4 years old. My husband and my mother took care of them and ensured that I had time to rest and recharge, allowing me to dedicate myself to the challenges that came as I transitioned from specialising in obstetrics and gynaecology to oncology.
What advice would you give to those considering a career in oncology nursing?
Oncology nursing extends beyond clinical expertise and medical interventions. It is about offering comfort, hope and understanding to patients and their families during the most difficult moments of their lives. Oncology nurses often build long-term relationships with patients and their loved ones.
While the work is undeniably challenging, it is deeply fulfilling. The gratitude we receive from patients and the opportunity to witness their recovery journeys serve are our sources of motivation.
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