World Nurses Day: Voices from the frontline

Lokmat News Network

Aditi Sharma

Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar

Behind every hospital ward is a nurse carrying the weight of care and responsibility. From handling emergencies to comforting worried families, nurses remain the backbone of the healthcare system.

On World Nurses Day, under the theme "Our Nurses. Our Future. Empowered Nurses Save Lives," the nursing fraternity across the city shared the realities, challenges, and pride behind a profession dedicated to saving lives every day. Nurses across city, however, continue to work under immense pressure due to severe staff shortages, nursing unions warned. With patient loads far exceeding safe limits and little relief in sight, the workforce is stretched dangerously thin yet nurses show up, shift after shift, without fail.

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Despite under stress, rendering care to humanity

" As per norms, One nurse is meant to attend six patients, but many now manage 40- 50, causing severe physical and mental strain and forcing tough decisions on urgent care. No healthcare system can run without nurses. The government must fill vacancies and improve allowances to ensure quality care.”

- Indumati Thorat, president, Maharashtra State Nurses Union

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Caring for people gives me purpose

"I chose nursing after seeing my aunt work as a nurse. Her stories made me interested in this field. I know nursing is not easy, but I like that it gives me a chance to help people in a practical and meaningful way. Every day, this field teaches me something new about patience, responsibility and humanity.”

- Kajal Hoke, 3rd year nursing student

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Nursing is care with compassion

“For us Keralite nurses, nursing is a compassionate responsibility. We treat patients with varied illnesses and emotions, remaining calm and caring despite fear, restlessness or difficult behaviour. Long shifts and emotional strain are routine. Nursing is deeply respected in our culture, and we continue to serve globally with the same spirit.”

— Sheeba Tomy, Veteran Nurse

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Male nurses are breaking stereotypes

“As a male nurse, I have handled emergencies and critical care situations where quick decisions and teamwork are essential. Male nurses bring strength and calmness under pressure. Nursing is not only for women; it is a profession built on skill and dedication. Every day, male nurses are breaking stereotypes while proudly serving and saving lives.”

- Krishan Choudhary, Nurse