Creating a positive environment for her patients is the number one goal for Anna—our wonderful Acting Nurse Unit Manager of the Day Medical Unit and Overnight Accommodation.
Despite loving being around other people, mother of three Anna considers herself more of an introvert who loves the country lifestyle.
Anna began her nursing career in her late thirties, some 15 years after first considering a career in nursing.
“I began my journey at the RCH in 2008 where I started as an enrolled nurse (EN) and was blessed to work with oncology outpatients,” Anna shared. “It was a mix of nursing and admin which was perfect for me as nursing was so new, but admin work wasn’t.”
When you fast forward 14 years to today, Anna is now achieving goals she never envisaged for herself.
“My goal was to complete my RN degree, and I would have been happy with just that achievement at my age.
“In 2012, I completed my bachelor’s degree and a year later finished the RCH Graduate Nurse Program. During my time at the RCH I have worked towards becoming a Clinical Nurse Specialist, Clinical Support Nurse, Associate Unit Manager and now a Nurse Unit Manager (NUM).
“I never expected to be in a NUM role within 10 years of nursing—or at all! Now, as a leader, the aim is to support my staff in ensuring we deliver high quality care to all our patients and families.”
In her new role, Anna continues to strive towards making her patients hospital journey a positive one.
“In the area I currently work in, my patients are mostly frequent flyers. I get to watch them grow and thrive into adults. I love my job and I love seeing these patients return with happy vibes.”
Anna is a true depiction of having the ability to accomplish more than you can imagine. “My career journey demonstrates that from an EN, you can actually achieve more than you think you can.”
“It’s such a rewarding career and if you are willing to learn, upskill and set yourself some achievable goals, you will thrive.
“I felt very supported over my time at the RCH, both clinically and professionally. The education team provided an excellent programme that met my needs in starting this journey.
“It’s a pleasure to be part of the EN programme and I am grateful for the career path it has given me.”
Come and join our team at The Royal Children’s Hospital!
If you are currently an EN within the first year of practice and a career in paediatric nursing is something you’ve dreamt about, our exciting 12-month ‘Enrolled Nurse – Transition to Paediatrics Program’ is commencing in March 2023.
Join the RCH and advance your career just like Anna by applying today: https://bit.ly/3VyGGdV. Applications close 7 December 2022.
We’re ready for you.