Sister B's Care Circle

05/04/2026

Families, Technology, and Care: Working Together :

I was fortunate to spend a fascinating time with a young couple with careers in technology. I learned so much and inspired me keep learning.

This encounter and many questions answered inspired me to write about a how technology has entered into care and challenges I often face in the area of my work and how I have had to learn and grow as a nurse from beginning with absolute zero tech !!

In today’s world, families have instant access to information through Google and now AI tools. This can be both empowering and overwhelming. I’ve often seen anxious relatives arrive with pages of search results or AI-generated advice, hoping to understand their loved one’s condition.

The truth is: these tools can be helpful, but only if the right details are included. Age, height, weight, recent vital signs, the current problem area, comorbidities, general history, medications, and overall clinical condition all make a difference. Without this context, results can be misleading or even alarming.

As nurses, we need to welcome these queries rather than feel defensive. Families are trying to understand and support — their questions show care. By listening, clarifying, and guiding them back to accurate sources, we build trust and strengthen the circle of care.
I began nursing in 1975, when patients and families were rarely encouraged to engage in care decisions. Today, inclusivity and informed consent are central. Technology has changed the landscape, but the heart of nursing remains the same: compassion, patience, and partnership.

Let’s embrace families’ access to information, help them use it wisely, and continue to provide the reassurance that only human connection can bring.

It has been a glorious and blessed Easter weekend in KZN . Wishing all those on the roads tomorrow safe travels.

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25/03/2026

Appreciation to this wonderful family, a beautiful brave lady who took charge and displayed such courage.I acknowledge as always the this work is never done alone and that's why working in a multi disciplinary team enhances healing and care. The team contributed enormously to training. Thank ypu the family for this appreciation message below.

We were asked to sign a DNR which was very hard to come to terms with. For almost a week we pondered on that piece of paper which would change our lives drastically,that was when an angel in the form of Sister Bronwyn comforted me,her kind, humble words gave me the courage on the decision going forward.A good heart these days is hard to find but i found a strong, independent woman who walked the same gravel road as me , encouraging and reassuring that all will be well "u want to take Mr Dubru home go ahead".Her words still echo keep going on no matter how hard it gets, believe in yourself,u can do this.When Mr Dubru was discharged,the kindness, love and support didn't stop,even a minor problem with equipment would be sorted out via a video call.The love , care, kindness and unwavering support.The constant messages and kind words of encouragement portrays the strength and resilience of a warrior ,her determination and perseverance towards a career so loved ,may u Sister Bronwyn succeed in all your endeavours. With much love and appreciation. Regards The Dubru family

24/03/2026

Mornè first came into contact with Sr Bronwyn Rutherfoord when he was admitted to Nuture Aurora Hospital on the 31st December 2024.
Mornè had been in the ICU at a Netcare Hospital for 75 days.
Mornè was warmly welcomed by Sr Bronwyn,and under her specialised care he soon started to show signs of improvement.
When he took his first steps(baby steps) with the walker,Sr was elated and even took a pic to capture the moment.
Even under very difficult circumstances,Sr continue to encourage him,with everything,motivating him when he was depressed.
When Mornè arrived at Aurora,Sr took great care of treating pressure sores to his heals,elbow,lower back especialy to a scalp wound.
This wound was a major challenge for Sr,who never gave up.
Even arranging for Mornè to see Dr Linda Whitlock-Jones who did a skin graft.
This wound took months to heal and even when Mornè was discharged from Aurora,Sr often send whattsapp messages to find out how he was,giving advice on treating the scalp wound.
To date Sr Bronwyn still enquires as to Mornè well being and continues to encourage him with care and love.
Sr Bronwyn is truly a dedicated health care worker,and whoever she treats for a long or short period will truly benefit greatly,she shows compassion and love and this all helps with healing.

21/03/2026

Testimonial gratefully received, from recent client.

I cannot thank Bronwyn Rutherfoord enough for the incredible support she provided to my mother following her stroke. While there were other carers available in the region, Bronwyn was willing to move in with Mum and provide a tailored level of care to suit her remote living environment and immediate needs. With most of our family living abroad it was an incredibly stressful time for us all and Bronwyn's rapid adaptation to the situation allowed us to provide the most incredible level of care in my mothers familiar home environment which made a huge impact on her recovery. Bronwyn was kind and caring throughout, carefully following the doctors guidance and also able to make wise decisions based on her years of experience working in hospitals. She worked with mum on cognitive development and physical recouperation and it really felt like they were tackling the recovery as a team. Bronwyn developed systems for developing independence, encouraging cooking meals and normal day to day activities, including learning to prepare medication, all under her watchful and reassuring eye. It has been remarkable how quickly mum recovered from such a severe medical upset and I truly believe that is down to Bronwyn's careful and professional approach. We will be forever in her debt! - James J

21/03/2026

Dear Family & Friends,

I am so excited to broadcast & launch a service in my newly adopted town of Howick in the Midlands. My journey started on the 25th of January 1975 in Bulawayo Zimbabwe. I have been privileged to have over 50 years in a profession witnessing on a very personal level the courage and resilience of the human spirit.

That transition can feel lonely and overwhelming—for patients, families, and caregivers alike. I’ve walked alongside many on this journey, being present at discharge and helping make move to home smoother and less daunting.

My recent clinical experience was based in high care in a physical rehabilitation setting and I focus on enabling people to work towards leading an improved quality of life and independence.

I’m offering home-based healing and care support with simple individualised care plans and assist with carer training utilising the plans.

My purpose is to compassionately aspire to and inspire brilliance in healing and care.

✨ Please reach out if you or someone you know needs guidance or support.

✨ I’d be grateful if you could share this with others in our community.

Take great care,
Bronwyn

Disclaimer ;Friendly Note: I’m here to offer guidance, care, and support at home—especially after hospital discharge. This is not a substitute for medical treatment, so please continue to follow the advice of your healthcare pro. I will at all times adhere professional and ethical practice. Confidentiality ensured. Maintain open contact with existing healthcare providers.