Not every calling is obvious at the start. For Sr Gouri Naidu Applaidu, Senior Nursing Manager of the Medical / Surgical Ward Tower C at Sunway Medical Centre, Sunway City, it became clear after a few months as a hospital aide, a job she took on the advice of her father’s friend.

Through that experience, she realised how much she enjoyed helping and caring for patients. She went on to pursue higher education in nursing, and the rest is history. 

Today, she has built a fulfilling career in a field she is genuinely passionate about. In this article, we share her experience as a nurse, what drives her, and the moments that have stayed with her to this day.

More Than Just Providing Physical Care

For Sr Gouri, the most rewarding part of nursing goes beyond physical care. It is the comfort, reassurance and emotional support she can offer patients when they need it most.

"Knowing that my care, even in small ways, can make someone feel more comfortable or help them through a difficult time gives me a great sense of satisfaction," shares Sr Gouri.

Much of what makes that care possible happens out of sight. Behind every calm bedside manner, nurses are closely observing patients, recognising changes in their condition, coordinating with doctors, managing medications and documentation, and supporting families. 

"People may not realise how much critical thinking and decision-making are involved. We must stay alert, prioritise and respond appropriately when a patient's condition changes,” she says. 

That’s not all. Nurses also carry the emotional side of the job. When patients are in pain, frightened or going through a difficult time, nurses provide support, all while staying calm and professional and managing their own emotions. 

And through her nursing journey, she has held on to one simple truth. 

"Small things, such as listening to a patient, giving reassurance or simply being present, can make a difference," she shares. 

The One Moment She Will Never Forget

Few moments have shown her this more clearly than one night shift, when a young patient collapsed in the toilet. With only herself and another nurse on duty, and unable to move her safely to the bed, they began CPR where she lay while waiting for the emergency team.

"My only thought then was that we had to do everything we could to save our patient," she recalls. 

The patient was quickly intubated and transferred to the ICU by the emergency team, and she made a full recovery. Even after being discharged, she would regularly come back to see Sr Gouri and the team. She even wrote a newspaper article about her experience and how grateful she was to the nursing staff. 

"It was the only time in my career I had to perform CPR in a toilet, so it's certainly something I'll never forget," she shares with a smile. 

"More importantly, it reminded me that even in a difficult and unexpected situation, the care we provide can have a lasting impact."

Life Outside the Hospital

Away from the ward, family has been her anchor. Working shifts while raising two children was not always easy, and she credits her husband's support. 

"He has always been very supportive. When I came home after a long shift, most of the chores were already taken care of, so I could simply shower, rest and spend time with my family," shares Sr Gouri.

These days, she likes to unwind by watching a movie with her husband. Since he usually reaches home earlier than she does, a film has often been picked out by the time she gets back from work. It is these simple moments that help her relax and recharge.

“Getting enough rest and spending time with the people I love helps me come back to work feeling refreshed and ready for the next day,” shares Sr Gouri. 

Advice for Those Considering Nursing and Those Just Starting Out

Having found her own way into nursing, Sr Gouri has encouraging words for anyone considering the profession but is not yet sure it is right for them.

"Keep an open mind and give yourself time to discover what nursing means to you. Be willing to learn, ask questions and gain experience."

For newcomers, she also has a few reminders on what matters most in their nursing career.

"Skills and knowledge are very important, but compassion and the ability to listen are equally valuable. Nursing is a lifelong journey, and every experience can teach you something new," she advises.

Nominate a Nurse for the DAISY Award

A great nurse can make all the difference in a patient's life, and they deserve to be recognised. Know of someone deserving? Click the button below to nominate a nurse now.