Although their job is challenging and often does not receive the recognition it deserves, practical nurses at the St Ann’s Bay Regional Hospital are dedicated to serving patients at the institution.

For them, it is more than a job. It is providing quality service to those whose needs they attend to daily.

A group of practical nurses who spoke with the Jamaica Observer North East said contrary to popular belief they are “the heartbeat of the hospital,” working alongside doctors and nurses to provide quality health care.

“We play a very important part in the hospital,” one practical nurse said.

The practical nurses said they are contented with their jobs and while they may not be receiving the highest salary, bringing happiness to others through the service they provide gives them satisfaction.

Four of the nine practical nurses, whom the Observer North East spoke with, have given a combination of almost 100 years of service to the hospital.

Charlene McLean has been serving for more than 24 years; Andrea Jack-Davis 22 years; Doreen Kalm 27 years and Paulette Williams 22 years.

Practical nurse Aileen Hibbert said the group of women, who carry out hygienic duties and assist nurses throughout the hospital, enjoy their job and get satisfaction in serving others.

“I leave home happy and I go home happy after a hard day’s work,” she said, pointing to the fulfilment received from giving of her best. “”I love my job. I go the extra mile to do all I can for people.”

According to Jack-Davis, words from patients such as “God bless you” are very rewarding.

For Curlin Curtis, her most memorable moments are when patients leave the hospital happy because of the service they receive.

“When you see a patient cry because they are leaving and they miss you, you feel good about what you do,” she said.

The practical nurses said they are often greeted on the street by patients whom they do not remember, but who have not forgotten their kind deeds.

The practical nurses said their duties are also motivated by conscience as they want to be at peace with themselves, knowing that they have served to the best of their abilities.

“I am happy and contented with work well done. When I go home at night I can sleep with a free heart,” McLean said.

Although they sometimes work under trying circumstances over the years, the women said they were always motivated to do their best.

“We start out doing our best and we will continue doing our best,” McLean added.

“It is not just about having the job, but it is about providing health care,” said Andrea Wright, who has served for the past 11 years.