One of the many incredible things about nurses is the diverse impact they have.
From caring for patients and supporting their families, to leading in safety and quality and educating the next generation. They are navigators and advocates, the heartbeat of healthcare and so much more.
Today, on International Nurses Day and the anniversary of Florence Nightingale’s birth, we recognise and thank our nurses for the profound impact their work has on the lives of those we care for.
This year’s theme for International Nurses Day is focused on the health and wellbeing of nurses, highlighting the important role a healthy nursing workforce plays in strengthening economies, improving health systems and ensuring better outcomes for communities worldwide.
In recognition of this year’s theme, we asked our nurses to reflect on health and wellbeing, and how they take care of themselves and each other.
Here is a reflection from Judit, a Clinical Nurse Manager at St Stephen’s Hospital.
Over 30 years ago, I began my nursing career in Hungary despite my mother’s wishes to go into primary school education. I felt my rebellious behaviour, passion for helping others and values aligned with a nursing career over educating young children. I worked 10 years in a county hospital in neurosurgery before deciding to move to the United Kingdom, to learn a new language and culture and to be able to fulfil my childhood dream of moving to Australia.
My dream of moving to Australia was delayed for 16 years, while I completed my Bachelor Degree in Nursing and specialised in spinal cord injury. To further my skill set, I was advised by my university supervisor to complete a Masters in Leadership and Service Improvement which added an additional two years to my study.
While studying, I worked full time in five different hospitals in multidisciplinary medical specialities and neurosurgery. My last position in UK was at Imperial College Hospital London as a Nurse Practitioner and I successfully completed non-medical prescribing at King’s College.
I moved to Australia in 2020, during the worldwide pandemic, and faced many obstacles to fulfil my dream. I commenced working at Hervey Bay Hospital for over three years as a Clinical Nurse Consultant in the Medical Ward. In 2023, I transitioned to St Stephen’s Hospital as the Clinical Nurse Manager on Alston, our surgical ward.
My dream to move to Australia was my drive for completing ongoing education and progressing through different nursing positions. I can encourage and support my team members in achieving their goals and dreams by reflecting on my own actions and being a positive role model. I have countless hobbies to add to my already busy schedule including gardening, cooking/baking, sewing, knitting, painting and arts and crafts. I find keeping busy and doing the things I enjoy helps me to relax, my wellbeing and ability to stay focused.
Happy International Nurses Day to all of our nurses St Stephen's Hospital.