Several years ago, a beloved family member became critically ill and spent an extensive amount of time in a major metropolitan hospital.
“During this time, I saw firsthand the way the healthcare professionals worked together to save my family member’s life and ever since, I knew this was something I wanted to become a part of in the future,” she said.
“They made me feel confident with the care being provided and I hoped one day I could do the same to many other families.”
The 24-year-old Moama woman has been a registered nurse for 18 months, working in numerous departments within Echuca Regional Health.
The past seven months, she has been working in aged care at Glanville Village.
“Being able to provide personal and emotional support every day to those most vulnerable is very rewarding,” she said.
“We have an amazing team who work around the clock to ensure the safety of all our residents which is our number one priority.
“Residents can be away from their families for a long period of time so being able to help minimise the emotional burden is a special feeling.”
She said the key to being a good aged care nurse was supporting residents and patients.
“Growing older can be a difficult time for the elderly,” she said.
“Helping them to retain their independence whilst being supportive of their emotions and their family’s emotions during what can be a challenging time for all involved is a crucial aspect of being a good aged care nurse.”
And while seeing a patient die doesn’t become any easier, Shanae said knowing you were there during their last moments and ensuring they were peaceful was special.
“It’s something I will cherish always,” she said.
Of course, there are also many funny, and slightly humiliating, moments that stand out too.
“When I was on my very first placement as a student nurse, I was asked to grab a urinal from a patient’s bedside,” she said.
“I was quite concerned that the substance in the urinal was severely crystallised and I expressed my concern to the doctor. After many cries of laughter, they were finally able to explain to me there is in fact absorbent sachets placed in there on purpose to prevent spillages.”
Shanae said it was important to celebrate and recognise nurses as they were “your greatest advocate”.
“Each day when I leave work, I know I have done all I can to ensure my patients or residents are safe and we as a team are working towards reaching their health or lifestyle goals,” she said.
“We are able to moderate care and ensure patients and families are involved in all aspects during what can be a vulnerable time for them.
“I get a strong sense of fulfilment from nursing.”
Shanae is one of several nurses the Riv is profiling as part of International Nurses Day on May 12.
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