A student is balancing completing her university education with working on a coronavirus ward during the on-going pandemic.
Caitlin Donlevy, 23, is working full-time as a staff nurse at the Royal Infirmary while studying a Masters degree in diabetes at Glasgow Caledonian University where she is on track to receive a merit.
Caitlin, who recently graduated from Glasgow Caledonian University in 2018 with an undergraduate in Nursing, looks after patients diagnosed with Covid-19 and provides end of life care.
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Due to strict restrictions on visiting, family members often cannot be with their loved ones in hospital which has lead to Caitlin, and other nurses across the country, providing patients with emotional support and reassurance during their time of need.
Despite upsetting moments and 12-hour shifts, Caitlin remains optimistic.
She said: “Keeping positive is so important for my patients, as well as my colleagues.
“During my shifts I aim to be as upbeat as I can be and carry out the days as normally as I can!”
Caitlin is currently living with her flatmate, Bryony Charleson, who is also a nurse at the Royal Infirmary.
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Caitlin’s younger sister, Eilidh Donlevy, has just started out as a nurse at The Royal Hospital for Sick Children in Edinburgh and through facetime, Caitlin has been reassuring and motivating her.
Their mum and dad, Brian and Susie Donlevy, are incredibly proud of their daughters working on the frontline during this pandemic.
All of Caitlin’s loved ones are very proud of her and her optimistic attitude.
Her boyfriend, Aidan Smith, said: “It’s been tough not seeing her but she’s managing to keep her head up and she’s determined to get us all through this.
“I don’t know how she does it.”
Caitlin said: “I have found this time very stressful, not only due to work but also as I am not seeing friends, family or my boyfriend!
“However, my coping mechanisms have been lots of Face Timing and doing online workouts! My advice for everyone right now is to call your friends and family, keep in touch, and stay positive!”
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