Masters student — Benjamin Olusola Otenaike
After deciding on a nursing career, Benjamin chose to study the MSc Nursing (Adult) at Edge Hill University
Why did you choose this postgraduate course and university?
Nurses play a crucial part in the care of patients from the moment they become ill until they get better. Being one of the professionals who try to ensure the patient leaves in a better way than when they came into my care gives me great joy.
Edge Hill has a great reputation for teaching and learning. Before applying I researched the course and spoke with people with experience of the university. I discovered that the facilities are modern, and everybody is willing to help you.
The university also impressed me with the beauty of its campus and the fact that its facilities are in one place.
While researching where to study for my Masters, I visited four universities. As a customer experience, Edge Hill University was great. They communicated with me promptly and didn't leave me in the dark. Every step in the application process was clear, and they were always willing to help and clarify my concerns, which was a big deal for me.
Tell us a bit about the work placements.
These placements have really challenged me. Some of the things I have achieved during my placement include:
- feeding patients with a nasogastric (NG) tube
- administering medications with the help and supervision of my practice assessor
- observing venepuncture and blood transfusions
- collecting blood from patients
- learning about lumbar draining
- discovering how to find the pedal pulse
- conducting bladder scans
- and observing suctioning.
I enjoy learning from experienced nurses and healthcare assistants. I also love that it was not long before many of the patients I cared for knew me and appreciated the help and care I provided for them.
We know our patients better than any other professionals. Speaking up for them when they lack the capacity reminds me that nurses play an important role. We don't just come into patients' lives and then disappear - we're involved in every step of care.
What do you hope to do when you graduate?
I've started thinking about how we can improve the nursing profession in the 21st century. I want to use my expertise and valuable skills to contribute to the body of knowledge in the nursing profession. How do we ensure that our nurses are well cared for in the same way we care for our patients? This is part of what I'd like to work on in the future.
I realise that it isn't going to be a walk in the park, but when I look back on the great difference and the positive impact I've made in people's lives and the smiles on the faces of my patients, I'll be glad I took up the challenge. I can walk with my shoulders high and say, 'Yes, I'm a nurse.'
What advice would you give to others considering a nursing career?
If you choose to study nursing, you'll never be bored. Nursing provides an array of specialities that you can delve into. You're always assured of continuous learning, which makes it unique.
Nursing is a noble and rewarding profession. If you're empathetic and compassionate about people and want to make a positive difference and impact in people's lives, then nursing would be a great path for you.
Never give up on anything, no matter the challenges. Also, take every opportunity that comes your way. Never restrict yourself. Open your mind to learning new things - the sky is your limit.
Find out more
- Consider which Masters degree is right for me?
- Explore graduate jobs in healthcare.
- Study the MSc Nursing (Adult) at Edge Hill.