Specialist Oncology Nurse, Croatia

As a dedicated oncology nurse, my journey in the face of the workforce crisis has been a profound and transformative one. Stepping into the oncology department each day, I am met with a potent mix of emotions - compassion, determination, and an unwavering commitment to my patients.

The first whispers of the crisis began as subtle shifts. Patients seemed to outnumber us, their needs becoming more complex and time-consuming. The workload surged, and the hours stretched longer. It wasn’t just physical exhaustion; it was an emotional toll too. Witnessing the bravery of my patients juxtaposed with the harsh realities of our staffing shortages became an everyday struggle.

In the depths of this crisis, I found my well of compassion tested in ways I never imagined. Every smile I shared with a patient hid the weight of our workload, but it was also a source of strength. Each connection, every hand I held, became a reminder of why I chose this path. My patients weren’t just cases; they were resilient souls fighting battles I could empathize with on a deeply human level.

The resilience within our nursing team became a beacon of hope. We leaned on each other, forming an unbreakable bond. In our shared challenges, we found solace. We became each other’s pillars of support, understanding the silent struggles and celebrating the small victories. Our unity was our greatest asset, reminding us that we were not alone in this fight.

However, the toll on our mental and physical well-being was undeniable. Self-care became paramount. I found solace in the quiet moments, the stolen minutes of reflection, and the encouragement of my colleagues. Together, we navigated the storm, acknowledging our limitations but refusing to let go of our dedication to our patients.

This crisis became a call to action, not just for me but for all of us in the oncology department. We raised our voices, advocating for better staffing, improved resources, and acknowledging the immense strain we were under. The crisis became a catalyst for change, urging us to speak up, not just for ourselves, but for the patients who depended on us.

In the face of the oncology department’s workforce crisis, my personal journey has been one of resilience, compassion, and advocacy. It’s a journey that has tested my limits but has also illuminated the core of my nursing spirit. I stand firm, knowing that even in the midst of crisis, our collective dedication as nurses can weather any storm, and that our patients will always remain at the heart of everything we do.