60 seconds with Rithu Valappil
Job Title: Registered Nurse, Band 5
Department/Area/Division and Site: OPD, Hemel Hempstead Hospital
How long have you worked at the Trust? I joined the Trust in December 2022, starting in the Surgical Ward. I transitioned to a permanent position in OPD on 1 November 2024.
Tell us a bit about your role: I am a registered nurse with over 13 years of experience across various specialties, including Emergency Departments and ICUs.
In India, I held diverse roles throughout my nursing career, progressing from Staff Nurse to Nurse Manager. I made significant contributions during the COVID-19 pandemic, working in association with government nodal offices.
In my current role in OPD, I work across various departments, assisting with minor operations, ENT scopes, and microsuction procedures. I am skilled in compression bandaging for leg ulcer clinics, chaperoning, clinic setup and closure, and FP10 checking, all while adhering to NMC standards and delivering high-quality patient care.
What do you love about your job? Nursing has always been more than just a job for me - it’s a part of who I am. I care for my patients as if they were my own family, ensuring they feel supported and valued during their most vulnerable moments.
I love the sense of teamwork in my role, knowing that together with my colleagues, we can make a real difference in people’s lives. There’s something incredibly fulfilling about being there for someone when they need it most, whether it’s through a kind word, a comforting gesture, or skilled care. It’s this connection with people that brings me the greatest joy and keeps me passionate about what I do every day.
What is not so good? I haven’t encountered anything negative so far. While staff shortages can be stressful at times, the exceptional support from the entire OPD team makes challenges manageable.
What (if any) improvements would you make to your daily work life? I always aim to be more mindful and present, both for my patients and my team. I want to be even more responsible in anticipating needs and offering support where it’s needed most. At the same time, I recognise the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance so that I can recharge and continue to give my best at work. It’s about finding that harmony between being there for others while also taking care of myself.
What would you name the autobiography of your life? My Life, My Achievement
If you could learn to do anything, what would it be? Professionally, I aspire to become a Nurse Practitioner, specialising in minor surgeries or endoscopy procedures.
If you won the lottery, what is the first thing you would do? Honestly, I don’t believe in luck. I believe in hard work and trusting myself to achieve my goals.