NURSES across the region will be recognised for their commitment to caring for others today as they celebrate International Nurses Day.
Taking place each year on May 12, the day provides an opportunity to thank nurses around the world for their contribution to healthcare.
This year, the theme is “A Voice to Lead – Achieving the Sustainable Development Goals”.
The event raises awareness among the nursing profession and general population on sustainable development goals and why they matter.
Mount Gambier Hospital nurse Julie Campbell is one of many who will be giving thanks to her fellow nursing colleagues today.
“It gives nurses an opportunity to recognise each other and also gives patients the chance to reflect on and remember times when they were under the care of a nurse,” she said.
“Last week it was International Midwifes Day so I sent a photograph to the midwife of my son who is now 16.”
Working in the industry for almost 30 years, Ms Campbell has played a vital role in helping patients fight cancer.
“I first started as an intensive care unit nurse, but quickly moved into the community health area,” she said.
“When the opportunity arose to work in the oncology ward, I couldn’t pass.”
Developing an interest in breast cancer in particular, Ms Campbell worked with patients undergoing chemotherapy, helping with education, assessment and most importantly giving them support through the difficult time.
“Over the years my skills have continued to develop and I have learnt that while you can’t always change the outcome, you can support them through their most vulnerable time,” she said.
“Cancer is a chronic disease and in many cases you work with the same patient for five years and develop a special relationship with them and their families, so it can be quite an emotional experience.
“Some people get through it and others succumb to the disease, but it is still a really special time to be a part of and a big privilege to help.”
Starting at the Mount Gambier Hospital 15 years ago, Ms Campbell now works with patients undergoing treatment for all types of cancer.
“It wasn’t anything special when I moved here, but with time it has grown dramatically and we are really proud of the services we have on offer for cancer patients,” she said.
Also working at the Mount Gambier Hospital, graduate nurse Hannah Walshaw is just beginning her nursing career.
Coming from a family of nurses and people who work in the health industry, nursing was always something Ms Walshaw has been interested in.
“I first did work experience in a nursing home in Millicent and from there develop a desire to assist with the clinical aspects as well,” she said.
Going on to study nursing at the University of South Australia Mount Gambier campus, Ms Walshaw was fortunate to secure a graduate nurse position at the Mount Gambier Hospital.
Starting the Transition to Professional Practice Program with the hospital, Ms Walshaw has spent the first part of the year on rotation, experiencing different areas of nursing.
“I have been working in acute care, day surgery, emergency and geriatrics – I have a real passion for geriatrics, so I think that is where I would like to end up,” she said.
“The elderly have such complicated health issues and I find it really interesting to work in that area.
“However, I have also enjoyed my time in acute care – you can really see the impacts of holistic nursing there.”
A part of the program for one year, Ms Walshaw said she was thankful for the support from staff at the hospital.
“They have been so supportive in my transition into the workforce it really makes me love coming to work,” she said.
“That is the great thing about nursing, every day is different and full of new challenges to face.”
