Graduands of nursing programs, both B.Sc. and M.Sc., from the Amrita College of Nursing received a fond farewell on August 11, 2012 even as incoming students were welcomed to campus on the same day.

Prof. Alka. D. Kalambi, Principal, L. T. College of Nursing, SNDT Women’s University, Mumbai inaugurated the function.

“The art and science of nursing is not learned from books alone. The most important attribute that one should cultivate in the profession of nursing is to be cool, calm and considerate to both patients and colleagues,” stated Prof. Alka, speaking to the graduands.

“Patients want nurses to be caring and understanding rather than smart and dashing. Listen first, ask next and then convince. The patient needs to be heard and comforted,” she emphasized.

Dr. Prem Nair, Medical Director, Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences, delivered the presidential address.

“Today we are standing on the threshold of a very complex healthcare system with all the latest advancements in technology and medicine. Bedside nursing still remains the hallmark of nursing care. This art of nursing is particularly emphasized in our institution where our beloved Chancellor Amma shows us the way to take care of an individual,” he stated.

Elaborating on the same ideas, Swami Jnanamritananda Puri who delivered the benedictory address, said, “Our life is too short. During this short life span, we should be able to spread the light of love and compassion in the lives of at least a few people.”

Sri. Kochouseph Chittilappally, Founder and Vice Chairman of V-Guard group and Dr. Jyothi Clara Michael, Director of Nursing, Global Hospital and Health City, Chennai also spoke.

While the former highlighted how there is medical equipment today to measure everything, but not the emotional level of a patient, the latter emphasized the benefits of keen observation.

“A patient who is lying down may be in pain, there may be an elevation in temperature, sodium level may be reduced, sugar levels altered; these are the diagnoses that nurses can make at the bedside. Nothing happens all of a sudden. At least ninety-nine percent of the patients will be showing signs and symptoms prior to any emergency situation. No patient should be left unattended. Observation is the best method of learning,” summed up Dr. Jyothi.

Later, Bri. Sai Bala, Nursing Director, Amrita Institute of Medical Sciences, administered the nurses’ pledge to the new graduates. This was followed by prize distribution for excellence in various academic and clinical pursuits.

August 22, 2012
College of Nursing, Kochi