As I reflect on my journey into the world of endocrinology nursing, I am filled with a sense of awe and gratitude for the experiences that have shaped my career.

It all began in 2016 when, after gaining my nursing qualification in my home country Romania, I made the bold decision to embark on a new chapter in the UK, seeking both professional growth and personal fulfilment. Little did I know that this decision would lead me down a path of discovery and passion unlike any I had experienced before.

Assigned to the diabetes and endocrinology ward at Royal Stoke University Hospital in Stoke-on-Trent, I was initially apprehensive about the challenges that lay ahead. With a family history of type 1 diabetes, I couldn’t help but feel a personal connection to the patients under my care. However, as I immersed myself in the complexities of endocrine disorders, I soon realised that this was where I was meant to be.

One of the biggest hurdles I faced in my journey was grappling with the intricate roles of hormones and metabolic pathways that govern the body’s functions. However, with each passing day, I found myself drawn deeper into the mysteries of endocrinology, fuelled by a burning desire to understand and help my cohort of patients.

My turning point came when I stumbled upon a book entitled Advanced Practice in Endocrinology Nursing.¹ This comprehensive resource served as a guide, providing me with invaluable insights and equipping me with the knowledge and confidence to navigate the complexities of the field, alongside the unwavering support of my colleagues and consultants.

I found myself drawn by this field and I became determined to deepen my understanding and expertise in this area. In pursuit of this goal, I embarked on a journey of continuous learning, completing modules in health assessment and non-medical prescribing. These experiences not only expanded my skill set but also reinforced my commitment to provide the highest standard of care to my patients.

Furthermore, my involvement with the Society for Endocrinology provided me with opportunities for collaboration and professional growth. Inspired by the organisation’s mission to advance the field of endocrinology, I seized the chance to enrol in a work-based module offered by Oxford Brookes University, further solidifying my knowledge and expertise.

As I continue my journey in endocrinology nursing, I am filled with a profound sense of purpose and gratitude for the privilege of serving those in need, from the challenges I have faced to the triumphs I have celebrated.

I have had the privilege of witnessing the resilience and strength of countless patients facing the daily struggles of managing their conditions. Each encounter has taught me invaluable lessons about empathy, compassion and the importance of holistic care.

I am reminded time and time again of the profound impact that small acts of kindness and compassion can have on patients and their families. Whether it’s lending a listening ear during moments of uncertainty, providing reassurance and encouragement during treatment, or simply offering a comforting presence, these gestures of empathy and compassion can make a world of difference in the healing process. This is reinforced by Hildegard Peplau’s Interpersonal Relations Theory² which emphasised the nurse–patient relationship as the foundation of nursing practice.

‘Nursing has made great progress from being an occupation to becoming a profession in the 20th century. As the 21st century approaches, further progress will be reported and recorded in cyberspace – the internet being one conduit for that. Linking nurses and their information and knowledge across borders – around the world – will surely advance the profession of nursing much more rapidly in the next century.’ Hildegard Peplau

I would like to thank the consultants in my department who have supported, encouraged and guided me to pursue endocrinology.

COSMINA SCHITEANU
Royal Stoke University Hospital

REFERENCES

1. Llahana S et al. (Eds) 2019 Advanced Practice in Endocrinology Nursing Springer Cham.
2. Werner O’Toole A & Rouslin Welt S (Eds) 1989 Interpersonal Theory in Nursing Practice: Selected Works of Hildegard E Peplau Springer Publishing Company.