By BRIDGET SCOTT
AS INTERNATIONAL Nurse Day nears, the number of women celebrating the occasion will heavily outnumber that of men.
The hard work of both men and women in the nursing profession will be recognised on May 12, however there are very few men in this career.
But for male nurse Ram Muslayah, the idea of females dominating his workforce doesn’t faze him.
Ram is a division 1 nurse and clinical care manager at Villa Maria Aged Care Residence, Berwick says there is no other vocation he’d prefer to be in.
Starting as a nurse 30 years ago, the Cranbourne resident has worked both interstate and around the world, including helping to establish an overseas nursing home.
Ram said like Australia, there were fewer male nurses in other countries as well. He would like other men to know it isn’t only a career for women.
“I find that people think nursing is a female profession,” he said.
“The job is for everyone – if that’s what they want to do.”
Ram said although he has never been bothered by the low number of males in the industry, he was often outnumbered when he attended events such as conferences.
“When I go to conferences or training I am usually the only male there,” he said.
Starting at Villa Maria six months ago, Ram has taken on a managerial role at the organisation, but said he loved nothing more than being able to interact with his residents or patients.
“Nursing is a very rewarding and satisfying profession,” he said.
“At the end of the day when you see people you care for smile, it is great that you have been able to provide care so that they can get back on their feet.”
Passionate about his job, Ram encouraged anyone, male or female, to become a nurse if they enjoyed caring for others.
“You have to have compassion and real drive to assist people who rely on you for care,” he said.
“For me, it brings enormous satisfaction.”
