Being a parent helps me in children’s nursing

Chris Steele on how his personal experiences are used to enhance his caregiving

When I tell people who know me as a father that I want to become a children's nurse, they say: 'That will be too emotionally difficult.’

I understand such opinions, but my passion for children’s nursing drives me on.

It hasn't been easy. Being part of the care for a child in respiratory arrest; seeing the effect of life-limiting conditions and end of life care on children and young people and their families; or observing how unwanted variations increase health and developmental concerns – are all part of working life in children's care.

I would come home, embrace my children and cry. Not because I was upset, but because I was thankful that I have five healthy children, who I couldn't imagine life without.

'One thing