NURSES and midwifes are the heart, soul and backbone of the health system, according to SA Health chief nurse and midwifery officer Jenny Hurley.
Visiting the Mount Gambier and District Hospital on Friday, Ms Hurley met with industry leaders within the South East, stating the conversations provided “real” feedback for the profession.
“I have spent the day talking to leadership about what we can do to work towards a better nursing and midwifery system within the South East and South Australia,” she said.
“I want to take all ideas on-board and bring them back with me to head office for growth in the right direction.
“Midwifes and nurses have the opportunity to talk to me about what challenges and opportunities they are exposed to and share strategic direction through simple conversation.”
Ms Hurley said the main aim of her visit was to create discussion with staff working in the South East sector, which they can then claim ownership over.
“It is important to create conversation about what the real world is as whatever we build and grow has to connect with reality,” she said.
“We need to reinforce we are a caring profession and discuss whether we need to look at other areas or continue to research how we can shape things to make our system the best.”
Based in Broken Hill, Ms Hurley said her country connection made for relatable conversations when visiting rural townships.
“It is always a pleasure for me when I visit rural areas like Mount Gambier because even though staff are busy, they will still take the time to say hello and are always friendly and kind,” she said.
“They are proud and motivated and always make sure they meet the community needs.
“Nurses and midwifes always go the extra mile and give that exceptional care being a 24/7 community service.”
Ms Hurley said she was a proud representative for all “clever, highly-educated, articulate and authentic” nurses and midwifes.
“I can really see the same essence here at the Mount Gambier and District Hospital,” she said.
“It is really humbling to see everyone at work and the state-of-the art facilities we have here in Mount Gambier including the University of South Australia campus.
“A highlight for me was the quality education for future generations provided by the replicated Royal Adelaide Hospital room and nursing and midwifery simulations at the campus.”
Ms Hurley will continue to tour around South Australian regional areas over the coming weeks.
