Written by Mia Elliot.
As a nursing student working in the healthcare field while studying is a valuable way to get experience. Working in my hometown hospital of Tamworth (3.5 hours from the Port Macquarie Campus) as an Assistant in Nursing (AIN) has equipped me with many essential skills that I have taken with me throughout my degree.
Seeing first-hand what happens in a hospital has been eye-opening. I work in the Deployment Unit, so I always see new and interesting things with every passing shift. No two days are ever the same, and meeting new nurses, patients, and broadening my skills are some of my favourite parts of the job.
Working in the hospital system is ever-changing. I always pride myself on providing a calm, collected, and open nature so that patients feel that they can confide in me and that I can make their experience better while they are with us. Working in the hospital as an AIN has made me fall more in love with my degree and realise what I can accomplish in my profession as a Registered Nurse (RN). The range of jobs is endless, and there are so many specialties to choose from.
By already working in the field, I have been exposed to many procedures and daily routines that are taught during the first year of the Bachelor of Nursing. I have taken this opportunity to help my peers in the labs and refresh my clinical skills.
While living on campus this year in Port Macquarie, I have worked as a Support Worker in Disability and Aged Care. This role has shown me another side of healthcare that is very different from hospital nursing. Caring for people in their own home and making sure that their wishes are met, such as living with their families or independently, is the most wholesome feeling ever. Providing high-quality care in the home ensures that clients feel safe, secure, and can relax as much as possible while receiving essential services.
Challenges can arise when trying to balance study and work. My advice is to be open and clear with potential and current employers about your study load. It’s important to set aside time for lectures/ labs, study, work, and space for yourself! Prioritising your mental health is vital when working in healthcare. Make sure you take the time to look after yourself first and treat yourself with kindness!
So, to all Bachelor of Nursing students, I highly recommend applying for that AIN job after your first year. It can open your eyes in the best of ways and provide you with a toolkit to work your way to being an amazing RN in the future!
Charlie blog is a SSAF funded initiative.
