Why I became a BLF nurse
Leanne started working for the Asthma UK and the British Lung Foundation helpline in December 2020. Here, she answers questions about her experience working as a nurse on our helpline and supporting people with a lung condition during the pandemic.
What made you want to become a nurse on our helpline?
The British Lung Foundation has provided so much support and resource to both myself and my patients over the years. I wanted to be able to work on a national platform and reach more people with respiratory conditions, to give them the support they need. As respiratory nurse specialists, we also provide a valuable service to support and educate health care professionals, including GPs and practice nurses.
My father-in-law was diagnosed with an interstitial lung disease (ILD) in 2019. I wish I had known about the helpline back then, as it would have helped his wife to understand the diagnosis and given them vital support at such a difficult time. It’s always when you come away from hospital or GP appointments that you think of the questions you wished you had asked. Now, as a nurse on our helpline, I can be there for people going through similar situations.
What is the most rewarding part of the job?
Being able to spend time talking to people affected by lung disease and helping them is amazing. It doesn’t matter if the call is 20 minutes long or an hour, we are there to provide understanding and advice to improve their lives, which is ultimately why I became a nurse on our helpline. I feel very privileged that they share their experiences and concerns with us. In that one phone call, we build a trusting relationship, that educates, guides, and supports them in the management of their lung condition.
What is the hardest part of the job?
You never know who is going to call in, and what advice they are looking for. Life is like a box of chocolates, as they say! Although this can be a challenge at times, it’s also what I love about being a nurse. Some people phone in about a life-limiting illness. We don’t always have all the answers, and it would be nice to be able to wave a magic wand. However, a listening ear and a self-management plan can have a huge impact on these callers.
What are the most common concerns of callers at the present time?
The most common concerns from callers at the moment is around COVID-19. Because of the pandemic, many people with lung conditions have been unable to have a face-to-face appointment with their health care professional to get a breathing test or have someone listen to their chest. This has been a huge source of anxiety for many callers.
Mental health has also been a major factor in a lot of calls. I have been able to offer support and reassurance to people feeling isolated and alone because of having to shield. Even though we don't have all the answers, I feel I have had a positive impact during such a difficult time.
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