News

Faces of Ramsay - Melissa Cassady

Feb 07, 2024

For former real estate agent, Melissa Cassady, it was seeing how she and her children were cared for that inspired her to become a nurse, a career decision she regards as the best she’s made.

Part way through her Bachelor of Science (Nursing) degree, Melissa is participating in the Ramsay Cadetship Program.

Ramsay cadets at Joondalup Health Campus (JHC) complete all their clinical placements at JHC and they are also guaranteed an interview for the Graduate Pathways Program, a two year program supporting new graduates to transition from study to the workforce.

Cadets have the opportunity, subject to availability, to work as an Assistant in Nursing (AIN) once they have completed 50 per cent of their degree.

AIN’s assist patients with their personal care, such as, showering, toileting, shaving, oral hygiene, dressing, feeding, mobility and adherence to care plans, and observation.

“I feel a sense of worth that I am able to assist those that aren't fully capable of looking after themselves and ensuring that they are looked after the way I would want my own family to be cared for,” Melissa said.

Melissa has experience in the perioperative department and other areas of the hospital and is currently employed in the Emergency Department (ED) where she says her role includes clinical and non-clinical work.

“I enjoy the time I am caring for patients and when I am assisting the ED team with clinical duties as it contributes to my learning on my pathway to becoming a registered nurse,” she said.

Melissa says the cadetship is more than a program…it is a holistic approach to further developing her clinical skills within the health system.

“It is allowing me the opportunity to practice and develop my clinical skills while continuing my degree, plus build strong relationships, constantly improving and growing,” she said.

Melissa is finding the work environment friendly and supportive.

“With the flexible work practices that Ramsay Health Care offers I can maintain a healthy work/life balance with my nursing studies, career and my family and am supported in my pursuit of learning opportunities,” she said.