Clinching the Nurses’ Merit Award

Tse Pei at the Nurses’ Merit Award ceremony, graced by Minister for Health, Mr Ong Ye Kung.

Tse Pei is a quiet stalwart of the Woodlands satellite team, which she has been leading as a nurse manager since 2019. Her gentle demeanour and professionalism have earned her the respect of her team members, and the patients and families she goes the extra mile for consistently. “She understands the strengths and weaknesses of each team member, and helps us work in a way that allows us to complement each other,” explains HCA Assistant Manager Nicole Peng, who is also based at the Woodlands satellite team. “This is why our team is very cohesive.”

“Over the years, Tse Pei has given us strong support and understanding – and it shows by actions, not words, as she is mostly quiet.”

Tse Pei’s perceptive nature has also enabled her to build trusting relationships with her patients and their families. Sensing the anxiety that caregivers have over caring for patients at home, she often takes the time to guide caregivers on care techniques and demonstrates use of home care equipment, like syringe pumps, while lending a listening ear to any concerns they may have. On several occasions, she would personally deliver medications to patients after work hours, if caregivers are unable to collect it from the office during the day.

One of her patients’ caregiver (and wife), B, found it challenging to discuss ACP with her husband. Understanding the delicate situation, Tse Pei stepped in and began building rapport with both B and her husband through her weekly visits, providing both symptom management and offering practical caregiving guidance. Over time, the patient became more receptive, and with Tse Pei’s gentle guidance, they were able to discuss his ACP and last rites in a meaningful way.

Tse Pei was recently conferred the Nurses’ Merit Award, for her dedication to her patients, families and team members. “I am grateful and thankful to HCA and all the colleagues, clients and caregivers whom I have worked and journeyed with,” she says.