60 seconds with Florante Mangilinan: HCA (Healthcare Assistant)
What made you decide to get into health care and when did you join RFL PPU?
At a young age, I already discovered my passion to look after and care for people. Working for a hospital is an opportunity to merge my passion and job. I joined PPU in December 2013 so this will be my 10th year. I used to work in 12 West ward before I was assigned to the PPU dialysis unit.
Can you describe your role as HCA in the dialysis unit?
I mainly support the dialysis nurses. My responsibilities vary from inserting and taking off lines to the dialysis machines as well as doing observations. And if needed, I also perform phlebotomy. More importantly, I help patients settle in on their beds and make them comfortable.
What challenges do the HCAs face and how do you manage it?
Patients understandably have frustrations, and very often in pain, sometimes they take their frustrations out on you. This is when caring for them becomes challenging. I'm managing it by remaining calm and speaking gently to them and trying to understand where they are coming from. I also seek support from nurses whenever I think I need help.
How do you stay encouraged and motivated at work?
When I see happy patients, especially when they show how they appreciate the care we give to them. There are patients who are very expressive and we see it on their faces โ then I know I've helped, and this keeps me encouraged.
Helping patients is a rewarding job. Can you tell us one experience you wonโt forget caring for patients?
There was one patient who was worried and seemed anxious. I calmed her down by reassuring her she is being looked after. When her family arrived, I explained to them what happened, and they thanked me for the help I gave to their mum.
What does a good working day look like to you?
It may sound like a clichรฉ but itโs always been true, having teamwork amongst staff and supporting each other makes work a little less hard. And this is a good working day for me.
If you could teleport yourself to anywhere or any place, where would it be and why?
I would like to travel back in time to see my Dad and tell him how much I appreciate all the sacrifices he has made for our family.
What keeps you busy outside of work?
I usually spend time with friends eating out or with my partner travelling.