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Local nursing students start their careers early at Joondalup Health Campus

Jan 19, 2012

Eight local nursing students have started their careers early after being selected to take part in an innovative program at Joondalup Health Campus (JHC).

Seven students from Edith Cowan University and one from Notre Dame University started work at the hospital this week as enrolled nurses. They will each work 28 hours per fortnight over the next 12 months while completing their nursing degrees.

JHC Director of Nursing and Midwifery Shane Combs says the EN Registration Nurses Program enables nursing students to learn valuable on the job skills.

“Enrolled nurses play an important role looking after patients in the Emergency Department and those who have been admitted to the hospital. Working under the supervision of registered nurses, enrolled nurses deliver direct patient care such as wound care, medications and monitoring patients. In addition, experienced Enrolled nurses can give intravenous medications.

“By working as enrolled nurses, nursing students start building their practical nursing skills early while also earning money to help them through their studies. They also gain a better understanding of the hospital and the way we work.”

Quinns Rocks resident and ECU nursing student Abby Geddes (29) says she is extremely excited to start the program.

“As a young single mother of three girls, I have always put my career on hold. The flexibility and support offered by this program allows me to continue my studies, gain some valuable practical experience at a reputable hospital and continue to be a mum!”

Wanneroo resident and fellow nursing student Caree Porter (31) agrees adding the program allows students to not only gain experience in the field of nursing but also offers a unique opportunity to meet and develop professional working relationships with fellow hospital staff.

“Joondalup Health Campus is my local hospital and is where I want to work when I finish my nursing degree. The hospital is expanding rapidly and I’m excited to be part of the team.”

Both students are hoping to have future careers as nurses at Joondalup Health Campus.

The EN Registration Nurses Program was formulated through a partnership between the Western Australian Department of Health, the Nurses and Midwives Board of Western Australia and Edith Cowan University School of Nursing, Midwifery and Postgraduate Medicine.

Upon successful completion of the program, each student is offered an interview for the hospital’s Registered Nurse Graduate Program, which supports graduates in their transition into the workplace.

Enquiries regarding this program can be directed to the Manager, Education and Research Unit on (08) 9400 9417.