A quick introduction to yourself?
I’m Zazi, one of the Registered Nurses working here at CannaPlus.
How long have you been in nursing, and what brought you to CannaPlus+?
I have been nursing for 6 years, I initially worked in the emergency department where I met a lot of the doctors who I now also work alongside at CannaPlus+.
What inspired you to work in the field of medicinal cannabis?
I became interested in medicinal cannabis after being unwell myself. I was diagnosed with multiple sclerosis and many support pages had suggested it as a part of treatment to manage symptoms.
I looked further in to this and realised it was such a beneficial option alongside my current treatment plan. After seeing the results personally, I wanted to help others achieve the same outcomes and improve general health and well-being.
What is your approach to patient care?
It is my goal to help our patients improve multiple areas of their health with education and the assistance of medicinal cannabis alongside regular treatments. I am and advocate for individualised treatment plans and caring for people as a whole, rather than just a symptom or condition.
What do you find most rewarding about your role as a nurse in this field?
I love helping people feel confident in having autonomy for their health and well-being.
How do you collaborate with other healthcare professionals at CannaPlus+ (such as doctors, pharmacists, etc.) to ensure holistic patient care?
We have an amazing team. It is easy to ensure we are all on the same page and connected to achieve the best outcomes for our patients across our clinic
What do you enjoy doing when you’re not working?
I enjoy going to the gym, spending time with friends and family around good food, and taking my dog faz with me everywhere I can
What is one piece of advice you’d give to patients considering medicinal cannabis treatment?
DO IT! JUST DO IT! – Shia LaBeouf 2015
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZXsQAXx_ao0
What’s something unique about you that patients might find interesting?
I went overseas for medical treatment of my MS and am in a TVNZ series about my journey!
Can you share a memorable or humorous moment you’ve experienced with a patient during a consultation?
I had a patient I checked in with after trialling medicinal cannabis for the first time. She had tried so many things in the past to manage her pain and sleep, nothing could control it. Her mental health was suffering because of this and she no longer was able to do the things she enjoyed.
After starting a treatment plan with us, I called to check in about 4 weeks later, she said it had “changed her life”. She felt the “best she had in years”.
These calls then became more of a regular occurrence, and why I love what I do.
What would you say to patients who are new to the clinic and medicinal cannabis?
Any treatment involves some trial and error. Medicinal cannabis works differently for everyone, just like many other medications. It is important update on progress and follow up with your doctor to ensure we can find the right fit to optimise your health and symptoms.
There are many options we have available that all work in different aspects depending on your circumstances – we are here to help you achieve the best possible outcomes.
How do you stay updated with the latest advancements in healthcare and medicinal cannabis?
We have regular education sessions here at Cannaplus, we are constantly looking into the latest information with Medical Council and Ministry of Health.
Can you share a success story (anonymized) that reflects the positive impact of medicinal cannabis on a patient’s health?
A paediatric patient of ours was unable to take prescribed medication for the management of symptoms from ASD. After seeing our Paediatrician and starting on a treatment plan with CBD isolate, our patient was able to the sleep through the night for the first time in years!
