Pediatric oncology nurse Fatiya Kabato, RN, brings expertise and a caring heart to her work
Since she was a child in Ethiopia, Fatiya Kabato, RN, has always wanted to help people. When she moved to Minnesota in 2001, she didn’t let language barriers or cultural differences keep her from pursuing her dream.
“I came here barely speaking English and I was immediately thrown into high school,” Kabato said. “But I graduated and went on to St. Catherine University, where I got my nursing degree in 2008.”
Kabato, who has served as a nurse for 14 years, brings her professional expertise and a caring heart to her work with young cancer patients and families at M Health Fairview Masonic Children’s Hospital. In honor of National Nurses Week, we asked Kabato to talk about her passion for nursing and her experience in her role.
Why did you decide to become a nurse?
Nursing was a calling for me. I knew I wanted to help people since I was a little girl. Nursing is a passion – and a science. While nursing can be physically, mentally, and emotionally exhausting, it is the passion that keeps me driven to make a positive impact in the lives of our patients and their families.
Describe your current role? How do you work with patients?
I am a bedside nurse and serve as a charge nurse overseeing a department of nurses as well. I work with young patients every day while also guiding my fellow nurses to provide the best care we can to children and families going through a difficult time. I strive to give the same care that I would want to get if my own children or loved ones were in similar situations. For me, it is not only a job, but also a duty that my faith teaches me. This makes me go above and beyond to provide the best care I can.
What do you find the most rewarding about being a nurse?
I am honored to have touched the lives of so many patients and families during their difficult health journeys. It is also rewarding when patients trust you with their care. My favorite part is empowering patients and families during those most vulnerable times, helping them feel strong and brightening their day even a little.
What has inspired you recently in your role?
During the pandemic, I was inspired to see that the compassion and care from our extraordinary nursing team did not stop. We nurses continued to give the best care possible to every patient and family. When visitor restrictions were in place during the pandemic, we also spent meaningful time with our patients and their family – just talking and keeping them company. We were there for them. I heard patients and their loved ones say to us: “You are our family,” which is the most meaningful experience.
What’s something about your job you wish more people knew?
Being a nurse is more than just giving patients medicine. As a nurse you get pulled in so many directions. Nurses play so many roles. We are therapists, receptionists, caregivers, and more. We sometimes act in a parental role to support young patients whose family members cannot be with them in the hospital all the time. It can also be stressful being a pediatric nurse. There are times when you cannot get a break to go to the restroom. No matter how difficult the shift gets, passion keeps me driven to make a positive impact in the lives of our patients and their families.
