Precision in Practice: Interview with Medical Lab Technologist, Nur Farah Nabila
22 October 2024
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In the bustling world of healthcare, every role plays a critical part in ensuring the well-being of patients. For Nur Farah Nabila binti Mohd Halim, a Medical Lab Technologist specialising in cardiovascular diagnostics, her eight-year career has been one of dedication, precision, and empathy. Having joined Sunway Medical Centre in 2016, Farah’s work is integral to helping doctors diagnose and treat patients with heart conditions.
"Working in the healthcare industry wasn’t my initial plan," she admits with a smile. “I actually wanted to be a fashion designer. But my parents encouraged me to pursue a more stable career, and after some thought, I found this field interesting because it’s challenging." That challenge has become her motivation, leading her to excel in her work, performing tests such as echocardiograms, stress tests, ECGs, and more to assess heart health.
A Day in the Life of a Cardiac Technologist
Farah's daily routine is a blend of technical expertise and patient care. Her role involves welcoming patients, explaining procedures, and ensuring they are comfortable before conducting diagnostic tests. "I perform everything from ECGs to stress echocardiograms and even more advanced procedures like transesophageal echocardiograms," she explains. Beyond operating the equipment, she monitors patients’ conditions closely, making sure every test is accurate and reporting the results to physicians.
"Attention to detail is essential in my job," Farah says. "Even a small mistake can lead to a misdiagnosis, so I always double-check everything." It’s this meticulous nature that ensures the safety and well-being of her patients.
Rewarding Moments
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When asked what she finds most fulfilling about her career, Farah doesn’t hesitate. “Seeing patients recover and improve their quality of life after treatment is incredibly rewarding. It’s a reminder that our work makes a difference.” She also shares a touching story about patients who remember her. "It’s heartwarming when patients request me specifically for their tests. It shows that they trust me, and that makes all the hard work worthwhile."
Her ability to build rapport with patients is one of the aspects of her job she values the most. "Helping them understand their conditions and reassuring them during the testing process is just as important as the diagnostics themselves."
The Challenge of Staying Ahead
With the rapid advancements in medical technology, staying current is essential for professionals like Farah. She regularly attends industry conferences and takes online courses to enhance her skills. "Technology is constantly evolving, so we need to keep up to provide the best care possible. I’m always looking for new certifications to expand my knowledge."
She believes that continuous learning is key to being a successful Medical Lab Technologist. “The more you know, the better equipped you are to help your patients and make sure they receive the right care.”
Balancing Precision and Empathy
While technical expertise is important, Farah is quick to highlight the human aspect of her role. "Communication is key in this job," she explains. "Patients are often anxious about their heart health, so it's essential to be empathetic and provide clear explanations." This combination of skill and compassion is what defines a good technologist, in her view.
At the same time, the pressure to ensure accurate results can be intense. "Managing patient anxiety while also staying focused on getting the right data is one of the challenges we face. And, of course, the emotional weight of dealing with patients with serious conditions can be difficult."
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Advice for Aspiring Technologists
For those considering a career in this field, Farah’s advice is straightforward: "Focus on building your technical skills, but don’t forget the importance of empathy. You’ll be working closely with people who may be scared or confused about their health, so knowing how to communicate effectively is just as important as the tests you perform." She also encourages pursuing specialised certifications, especially in areas like echocardiography, to enhance career prospects.
Life Outside the Lab
When she’s not at work, Farah enjoys activities that allow her to unwind and recharge, embracing a balance of fitness, leisure, and adventure. "I love exercising, shopping, and travelling," she says, explaining how each activity serves as a vital part of her self-care routine. Whether she’s breaking a sweat in a high-energy workout or strolling through her favourite shops, these moments offer her a much-needed mental escape from the demands of her profession.
Travelling, in particular, allows Farah to explore new cultures and reset her mind, while shopping brings a sense of personal joy and relaxation. "It's a way for me to treat myself after a hectic week," she adds.
After a long day at work, however, it’s the simple moments at home that mean the most. She prioritises rest and cherishing quality time with her family. "Relaxing with loved ones helps me reset after a busy day at the hospital. There's something grounding about being surrounded by the people who matter most," she shares. These quiet, restorative moments with her family play a big role in maintaining her well-being and energy for the challenging days ahead.
Thank you, Farah, for your exceptional dedication and the difference you make in cardiac health every day.
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