Shima Ishikawa: Nursing Professionalism Felt Within the School Building

When I received the request for this manuscript, the first thing that came to mind was "Reflections from a Conversation at a Hair Salon" (June 2024 issue) contributed by Professor Miho Suzuki of this faculty. It was written about a hairstylist's skillful communication techniques, and I found myself nodding deeply while thinking about the salon I visit. Although I make a living in nursing, I am not particularly good at socializing, and I have been going to the same hair salon for over 20 years. Just thinking about going to a different salon makes me nervous, and the thought of having to verbalize how I want my hair cut feels like a chore. The hairstylist who cuts my hair is also highly skilled in communication. When I mentioned being encouraged to buy a beauty device that was supposedly effective for thinning hair, they laughed and said, "If such a device existed, there wouldn't be any people with thinning hair left in the world." Regarding living with parents, they stated firmly, "It's all about the word 'Endurance.' Love thy neighbor." They give me blunt, straightforward words without any hesitation. My shaggy hair gets cleaned up, and my fuzzy thoughts are cut through decisively (and I am saved from the crisis of buying an ineffective beauty device). They are not only a beauty professional but also a mentor in life.

Professor Suzuki graciously gave me her permission to mention her with a smile. Nursing professors are very kind. Once, when I had a sudden lower back strain (gikkuri-goshi) and was hobbling along, several professors rushed over to me in an instant. One professor procured a walker, another took off the corset they were wearing and put it on me, saying, "It's warm from my body heat, but that's okay, right?", and another accompanied me to the parking lot when I went home. They instantly judged what was necessary, divided the tasks, and provided care suited to my condition. Furthermore, anticipating that the back pain would likely continue for a while, they even contacted various departments on my behalf. The expertise of those who have studied nursing is not just the ability to treat injuries or illnesses, but the ability to foresee what will be necessary for life ahead based on the current situation and support the individual so they can cope on their own. There are times when one must convey things that are difficult to hear, and it is not easy to encourage a person so that they feel like trying their best.

When I had that back strain, I was—and still am—deeply grateful that the professors looked at me as an individual, judged what was needed now and in the future, and allowed me to experience the very essence of nursing.