For this issue, we decided to interview our Early Year Nurse, Mrs. Layal Diba in an effort to highlight the important hard work the LSQ Nursing Department does on a daily basis!
- Can you tell us a bit about your background and experience in nursing, and what led you to become a nurse?
I graduated from the American University of Beirut. I was working at AUBMC for around 5 and a half years in the pediatric sector. When I came to Qatar, I joined Hamad Medical Corporation to design and implement projects towards improvement of the population including the pediatric populations. Then, I joined Al Ahli Hospital as a clinical nurse also in the pediatric department. Afterwards, I joined LSQ and I’m incredibly thankful for this opportunity to serve our community outside of the hospital setting.
- What does a typical day look like for you as a school nurse in the Early Years?
Extremely busy! I don’t always have time to even take a break. The kids keep coming in with different issues especially after recess since they tend to hurt themselves while playing. On the other hand, it is also interesting and never dull.
- In your role as a school nurse, what are some of the most common health issues or concerns you encounter among students?
Usually, we take a holistic approach with the children and not just their physical health. We also consider their mental development and wellbeing. Whatever we notice during our assessment, we must include the administration, teachers, counselors, and the parents to keep everyone in the loop.
- Can you share a memorable or rewarding experience you’ve had as a school nurse that highlights the impact of your role?
Despite not having been here for long, parents always send me thank you messages for taking care of their children. Lately, one child was having recurrent headaches, so I performed the eyesight exam and noticed that he could not see the letters clearly. We referred him to a doctor to get an official diagnosis and the glasses he needed. The mother was very appreciative, so she called me and thanked me.
- How do you stay updated on the latest health trends and issues affecting school-aged children?
I’m always attending conferences like the Vision Screening conference recently. As nurses in Qatar, we should always be updated, and that’s possible thanks to the Ministry of Health because they constantly provide us with online sessions which I always attend. Additionally, we have the e-Taleem platform which is an additional resource for us to find professional development.
- What protocols or procedures do you have in place to handle medical emergencies at school, and how do you ensure that staff members are well-prepared to respond?
All nurses in Qatar need to be licensed which means we attended the mandatory emergency life support sessions provided by the Ministry. Any updates on the information presented in these sessions are usually sent to us, and these sessions are done frequently. This has also led us to update our Nursing Policy in the school.
- As a school nurse, how do you foster a positive and trusting relationship with students, so they feel comfortable seeking help?
We must listen to the students. When they visit my office, they usually have a lot of concerns. We should talk and explain everything. Also, we need to be empathetic. This office is a comfortable place for all students to share their ailments.
- What do you see as the most significant challenge in your profession?
Nursing as a job can be challenging from time to time, this does not exclude being in a school. As a school nurse, you must work with parents, students, school staff, and administrators to promote the health and well-being of students. School nurses do more than give medications or bandage wounds. You may experience days when you care for a student who has major chronic problems. These situations require you to be aware and make critical decisions to promote the safety and well-being of the student. On the other hand, the huge number of visiting students each day, the high case load makes a big challenge facing us daily. Although being a school nurse is hard, it can also be a rewarding job.
- What advice do you have for parents in fostering a healthy lifestyle for their children, both at home and at school?
Always make sure your children are getting their nutrients by eating healthy food and avoid junk food not just for the sake of their health, but also their teeth. Make your children sleep early and shower daily to maintain hygiene. Also, don’t send them to school when they’re sick, so they can rest and to stop the spread of any infections inside the classes.
