Inspired to care

20 Jul 2016

20 July 2016

While Kylie had worked in banks and offices throughout the years, her mother’s experience as a patient at St John of God Mt Lawley Hospital sparked Kylie’s interest in training to become a Patient Care Assistant.

“While mum was in the SRS with a broken hip, I was really interested in what the nurses and carers were doing. I enjoyed watching how they interacted with patients, and how every part of the patient’s care was catered to,” said Kylie.

“I spoke with Mark, the Nurse Manager, and he encouraged me to train to become a Patient Care Assistant. He helped me navigate my way into a course and encouraged me all the way.”
Kylie began working in the SRS as a casual after qualifying from the course, and became permanent, working full time the year after.

Since then, Kylie was encouraged to train to become an Assistant in Nursing, and is now an Enrolled Nurse.

“I love working here for the many aspects of care we deliver," Kylie said.

“Often our patients stay here for longer periods of time as they are undergoing rehabilitation, so you get to develop a great relationship with them.

“Seeing patients come in, and how much better they are when they leave is also an absolute bonus. You can truly see how all the different disciplines, such as physiotherapy, occupational therapy, social work and other allied health services, together with nursing, help patients on their way to recovery and improved wellbeing.”

When asked what her favourite thing about being a nurse in the Specialist Rehabilitation Service, Kylie is full of praise.

“The care we provide is very people-focused, which fits very well with the way I live my life," Kylie said.

“I have received so much encouragement from my team and other colleagues to continue to learn and grow as a nurse.

“It reflects one of my favourite sayings – a listening ear can be better than any medicine."