From Nurse to Change-Maker: Hannah Luah’s Journey in Improving Patient Care

Nurse Hannah Luah (Advanced Diploma in Nursing (Medical-Surgical), Class of 2025), a recipient of the inaugural NYP-SkillsFuture Lifelong Learning Award, shares how learning deeply, mentoring others, and improving systems have allowed her to make a wider impact on patient care.

I didn’t always know I would become a nurse. Like many people in healthcare, I explored different paths. I even considered medicine. But during my clinical attachments while studying nursing at NUS, something clicked. Nursing gave me what I was looking for: real conversations with patients, hands-on care, and the chance to be present at many moments that truly mattered. I knew I had found my place and my calling. 

Along the way, I’ve grown into a role that goes beyond my own patients. As a senior staff nurse, I’ve been called to mentor students and junior nurses at at Sengkang General Hospital. For me, it’s not just about doing things right, but understanding why we do them, and helping others grow confident in their practice.

That mindset was shaped during my time at Nanyang Polytechnic, when I enrolled in the Advanced Diploma in Nursing. My lecturers rarely gave us direct answers. Instead, they challenged us with questions. One question stayed with me: “Is it evidence-based?” It made me curious, reflective, and more intentional as a nurse. Today, when I mentor juniors, I do the same, guiding them to think, not just follow routines.

My education has also changed how I work. Working in the Acute Medical Unit, I assess patients, pick up early warning signs and work closely with doctors to recommend care. Whether it’s breathing difficulties or chest pain, identifying potential discharge issues, or conveying what my patients think are ‘simple’ concerns - being able to step in early allows me to advocate better for my patients. 

Beyond bedside care, I’ve also worked on improving systems. One research project I was involved in focused on better blood sugar management for diabetic patients receiving tube feeding. What started as a pilot later became a hospital-wide protocol. It wasn’t easy, but seeing one idea improve care for many patients showed me the real power of learning.

Looking ahead, I hope to pursue a Master’s in Nursing and become an Advanced Practice Nurse. I see this role as a bridge between nurses and doctors, combining clinical care with research and decision-making.

Receiving the NYP-SkillsFuture Lifelong Learning Award reminded me why learning matters. For me, learning is not just personal growth. It is how I care better, teach better, and make a wider impact.