An interview with the new Head of Nursing for NUHCS
PULSE Issue 47 | July 2026
With more than two decades of experience in nursing, Ms Nyeo Hui Qing has been at the forefront of key initiatives that have shaped patient care and safety, from leading the hospital-wide rollout of defibrillators1 to implementing the Next Generation Electronic Medical Record (NGEMR)2 in the Intensive Care Unit3, and introducing smart infusion pumps4 that enhances medication safety.
Now stepping into her new role as Head of Nursing at the National University Heart Centre, Singapore (NUHCS), where she leads a team of over 300 nurses, she reflects on her journey that defined her career and the values that continue to guide her leadership.
PULSE: What does leading a team of over 300 nurses mean to you personally and professionally?
It is a significant shift – from caring for individual patients to supporting an entire team that delivers care at a large scale, every day. What matters to me is building an environment where nurses feel respected, supported, and confident in their roles. When that happens, it naturally translates into better care at the bedside. I see leadership as recognising each nurse’s strengths and helping them grow, while ensuring we maintain consistently high standards of care. It’s a responsibility that goes beyond operations. It is about shaping a culture where people can do their best at work.
PULSE: As you begin this new chapter as Head of NUHCS Nursing, what challenges do you expect — and how do you plan to meet them?
One challenge is staying connected with the ground while managing both strategic priorities and day-to-day operations. In a large team, it is easy for distance to grow, and I am very mindful of that.
What reassures me is the strong support system around me. This includes a dedicated nursing team, a supportive operations and communications team, and doctors with whom I have worked closely over the years. I also rely on my mentor for guidance and my best friend who keeps me grounded outside of work. By remaining humble and continuously learning from those around me, I believe I will be able to navigate these challenges effectively.
PULSE: In your view, what is the most misunderstood aspect of the nursing profession?
Many people still associate nursing primarily with routine or “dirty” tasks, such as cleaning up after patients. While these are part of providing holistic care, they do not define the profession. Nursing today is highly skilled and requires critical thinking, clinical judgement, and the ability to make timely decisions, often in complex and fast-changing medical situations.
Nurses are often the ones coordinating care, identifying early signs of health deterioration, and ensuring that patients receive the right interventions at the right time. They also play a crucial role in helping patients recover and stay well. Many are also involved in education, research, and in driving improvements across the care system. What many people may not see is the depth of responsibility that comes with the role. Nursing is not just about completing tasks; it is about advocating for patients, compassion, and professional expertise. It requires both the heart and the mind.
PULSE: What are some hobbies that help you recharge outside of work?
I enjoy simple things like watching Netflix, shopping, and having a good cup of coffee; these small activities help me unwind. I also make it a point to spend quality time with my friends. We try to travel overseas together at least once a year, and that gives me something to look forward to. These breaks help me step away from work and return with a clearer mind and renewed energy.
PULSE: What advice would you give to those who are considering a career in nursing?
Be prepared for a journey that will challenge you, but also shape you in meaningful ways. Nursing can be demanding as you are caring for patients at their most vulnerable, and supporting families through some of their most difficult moments. At the same time, it is a deeply purposeful work. You develop resilience, sharpen your clinical judgement, and learn how stay calm under pressure. If you have the passion and the willingness to keep learning, nursing can be an incredibly fulfilling career.
PULSE: How has nursing evolved over the years, and how do you foresee nursing leadership continuing to change?
Nursing has evolved significantly over the past 20 years. Patients today often have multiple conditions, requiring nurses to develop broader knowledge and more advanced clinical skills. At the same time, the role of nursing has expanded beyond bedside care into leadership, coordination, and innovation. With advancements in technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI), nurses must now also build digital competencies and adapt to new ways of working. Leadership today is not just about managing; it is about guiding transformation, helping others adapt, and ensuring they feel supported along the way.
References:Every patient deserves the highest standard of care, regardless of circumstance, while every nurse should feel valued and supported in their role. Nursing is ultimately about making a meaningful difference for both patients and the people we work with.
