“If we can all keep a positive and open mind, we will get through this pandemic together.” Nurse Zeenat Jiwani.
Brave. Caring. Dedicated. These are only a few words that describe Zeenat Jiwani. Zeenat graduated from the Aga Khan University School of Nursing in 1990 and received her Master’s in Nursing Management and Organizational Leadership from American Sentinel University.
In the uncertain times of the COVID-19 pandemic, Zeenat tirelessly dedicates her time and passion to help others. “Due to this virus, my professional life, as for others who are also in the medical field, has been a little more hectic and devastating when you have to be a mediator for critical patients, and be their eyes and ears,” she says.
Zeenat describes her day-to-day experiences working as a nurse during this crisis. “Currently we are wearing masks and carrying all personal protective equipment all the time,” she explains. “I wear glasses at work and my glasses fog up. It is difficult carrying out all of my usual tasks.”
Zeenat worked in the emergency department for 20 years, starting off as a staff nurse and eventually being promoted to clinical coordinator. Currently, she works as an administrative nursing supervisor at Emory Decatur Healthcare. “Within my 30 years of experience, my range of capabilities has extended from bedside nursing to leadership, and from pediatric care to geriatric care,” Zeenat says. “Actually, I used to be scared of needles and blood,” Zeenat admits, “Nursing was not my first choice in terms of a career. I had always wanted to be a pilot. I lived in a country where there weren’t many opportunities for women to become pilots.”
Zeenat realized that she wanted to be a nurse when a family member was diagnosed with breast cancer. “I noticed the nurture and care nurses put into their patients and I felt like I should be doing the same.”
Today, Zeenat’s professional talents have helped and touched the lives of many. Her role includes supporting patients and their families, as needed, with care and providing information to their loved ones who are unable to visit those infected with the coronavirus.
Zeenat shares a story and admits it brought tears to her eyes. “A family member called into my office and was upset because they were not allowed to see their loved one who was being treated for COVID-19.” She took the initiative to help this family, saying, “I asked the doctor if the family member could see the patient over FaceTime,” Zeenat says. “The family was so appreciative and thankful that it brought tears to my eyes.”
Zeenat continues to spread not only her professional talents as a nurse but also her caring personality. “As a healthcare professional, I feel unsafe all the time but I also find the courage to deal with this pandemic and keep moving,” she shares.
“If we can all keep a positive and open mind, we will get through this pandemic locally and globally together.”
