Meet Isabelle, nursing specialist in Nieuwegein
“At ADHDcentraal, we make a difference for every patient.”
Can you explain what your position is and what you do like?
I am a nurse specialist. Within ADHDcentraal, the nurse specialists do the initial history interview with all patients who come in. This is a comprehensive interview, in which we want to know as much as possible about the patient. We also take physical measurements, such as blood pressure, heart rate and weight. We end up looking with the whole team to see if the patient has ADHD. As a nurse specialist, you get to take charge and determine what, if any, follow-up treatment looks like for a patient diagnosed with ADHD. We also do follow-up treatment for all patients.
What does a workday of yours at ADHDcentraal look like?
Every week I have two diagnostic days, when we see new patients. The other days are consultation days, when I speak to the patients again. Then I review how the patient is doing, how the weeks have gone and what, if anything, they are up against. We also discuss medication in detail. How is that working out? How long does it work? And does it help in the right way?
As a nurse specialist, you are also a director, so I also discuss with patients how the therapy is going. Other issues are also discussed then, such as how things are going with sleep. We really discuss the whole package with the patient.
Why did you choose to work at ADHDcentraal?
Before I came to work here, I worked with a very complex target group. I was looking for a little more stability and peace, a little less crisis. At ADHDcentraal, I have a little more structure and overview. Therefore, my job is also easy to combine with my private life. There is a lot of freedom, there is thoughtfulness, and if you want to work from home sometime it is no problem at all.
Do you have an example of a situation where you felt you could really make a difference for the patients of ADHDcentraal?
At ADHDcentraal, we make a difference for every patient. People are so grateful for what we do. That’s what struck me most when I came to work here. People can return to studies, get back to work or function in a family. It’s super rewarding work.
What do you get the most energy from in your work at ADHDcentraal?
I get the most energy from the fact that the patients are so grateful that you help them. And the team is very pleasant. Although you work very individually, you can always drop in on each other. That’s really nice. I feel welcomed and valued as a nurse specialist. They’re glad you’re here!
What superpower would you like to have that could be useful in your work at ADHDcentraal?
I would like to read people’s minds sometimes. If some people have difficulty putting words to things that happen, it would be quite nice if you could take a look inside their heads.
What would you give people who want to apply for a job at ADHDcentraal?
Just do it! The work is fun, varied and rewarding. It is a well-oiled machine, there is room for flexibility within a clear framework. There is much appreciation from the organization for nurse specialists. And working with other nurse specialists is also a real plus.