Clint Taburnal didn’t expect applause. He didn’t expect a spotlight, especially not during a quiet night shift, just hours after his birthday. But as his charge nurse called him in front of the staff and presented Clint with a prestigious DAISY Award, the weight of nearly two years of dedication, compassion, and unseen care hit him all at once. Working nights at his facility in Searcy, Arkansas, Clint knew most patients would drift off before ever realizing the lengths he went to for their comfort and recovery. And yet, someone noticed his efforts. What followed wasn’t just recognition, it was a reminder of why the quietest acts of care can leave the deepest impact.
“This special award honors nurses who go the extra mile for their patients. It’s a meaningful validation that I care for my patients with kindness, compassion, and clinical excellence,” said Clint.
From the Philippines to the Frontlines
Originally from the Philippines, Clint brings 18 years of nursing experience to the bedside and a proud family legacy in healthcare. His grandfather was a doctor, his grandmother was a pharmacist, and his older sister is also a registered nurse.
“It was my dream to become a doctor someday to care for sick people like my grandfather did,” shared Clint. “But, I realized nursing is a noble profession that allows me to make a difference in patients’ lives, also.”
Clint pursued a U.S. healthcare career for more opportunities to support his family’s needs, improve his interaction with culturally diverse patients, and learn nursing practices in the U.S. setting. He’s learned gained valuable insight working as an RN in the country for two years, and continues to acquire new knowledge and skills from his hospital.
Working Med-Surg
Working in the medical-surgical unit, where nurses encounter a wide spectrum of conditions touching nearly every aspect of patient care, is both challenging and fulfilling. Clint continually hones his clinical skills, giving him a strong foundation for growth into specialized areas like the ICU, ER, or OR. One of his favorite parts of the job is connecting with patients and families from diverse backgrounds. It can also be one of the most challenging parts of his job.
One of the more difficult experiences Clint has faced during his deployment is discrimination from patients due to his cultural background.
“Some patients can be mean the moment they realize I’m not from here,” he shares. “But as a professional, I set aside those personal feelings and focus on their care.”
He emphasized the importance of listening first to help de-escalate situations.
“Nursing is mentally and physically tough,” he admits. “But when a patient says ‘thank you’ or I see them recover and know I played a role in that, that keeps me going.”
He also credits the camaraderie among nurses and clinical support assistants on his unit as a key source of motivation and support during even the most demanding shifts. However, throughout his journey, Clint says MedPro has played a vital role in his success. He appreciates the consistent support from his Employee Relationship Manager (ERM), who regularly checks in and offers help when needed. He also values how MedPro keeps international nurses on track with credentialing and ongoing education, and how the company goes out of its way to recognize nurses who go above and beyond in their workplaces.
“MedPro’s program has been great. It’s not just about getting you here, it’s about supporting you every step of the way.”
Making an Impact
Clint has made a home in Searcy. With an affordable cost of living, low crime rate, and welcoming, faith-centered community, he believes Searcy is an ideal place for healthcare professionals just starting their U.S. journey.
Outside of work, Clint enjoys dining out, traveling with friends, and unwinding with the simple comfort of a night at home and a good movie. He has built a small but strong support network in the US, with his uncle and older sister living in California, along with several college friends scattered across other states. Most importantly, Clint stays connected to his family in the Philippines, regularly video calling them and drawing strength from their love and support.
Clint is eager to grow professionally through certifications and new opportunities, pursuing a PhD in Nursing. To fellow international nurses considering a similar path, he offers this advice:
“Everyone who works abroad starts as a beginner. Learn the culture, the practices, and how to connect with patients from all backgrounds, and remember your purpose: to care for your patients. Everything else will eventually follow.”
Clint’s journey shows that when international nurses dedicate themselves, lead with compassion, and embrace growth, they thrive and make an impact wherever they go.