Danielle
Danielle is a Registered Nurse, working on Ward 1B at Perth Children's Hospital.
Why did you choose a career in nursing?
After completing my undergraduate degree in science, I was looking for a fulfilling and hands on career. I didn't belong in a research lab. I felt I needed an active and interactive job. Nursing provided the perfect career to build on current knowledge whilst providing interaction with lots of different people. I wanted something that would be different daily!
I have also had opportunities though university to complete my honours, so hopefully one day will be able to pursue more research opportunities to further contribute to the world of paediatric nursing.
Tell us about how you got this role
After moving to Perth from Melbourne in 2020, I applied for the Supported Introduction into Child and Adolescent Nursing. I received a call a few weeks later from the Clinical Nurse Manager on 1B informing me that I had been accepted into the program!
What are the best bits about working here?
I love working with the kids, every day we see so many different little personalities. I love that we can make things fun and ensure that everyone feels safe and comfortable whilst staying with us. The best part is when we see kids who have not been so well get better and become themselves again. I also love working with my team on Ward 1B, everyone has been so supportive and we have a good laugh along the way. Having only been in Perth just over a year, having an accepting and fun team to work with has made the move so much easier. And I love ‘fun scrub Friday’!
What are the most challenging parts about working here?
Seeing a sick child can be confronting at times, especially if they are quite unwell. Fortunately, there is a lot of support around the hospital to make sure not only are patients and their families are supported but also the staff.
What is the most rewarding thing about being a nurse?
I just love working with kids. I love building rapport with my patients and getting to know our kids even if they are only admitted for a short period. The interactions we have are so meaningful and been able to see patients and their families leaving with smiles is such a rewarding part of this job.
Five reasons to come and work at CAHS
- Kids make the best patients, they are fun and interactive. Their smiles alone are worth it.
- The support and education provided by PCH and the education department has been great. I felt my transition from adult to paediatric nursing has been an easy transition and so rewarding.
- The staff are fantastic. Everyone works to support each other. Everyone is on the same page wanting to provide high quality family centred care.
- Research opportunities. I am hoping on day to be able to make my own contributions to paediatric research and there are pathways offered within PCH to pursue these interests. Very exciting!
- Career progression within the organisation. There have been lots of opportunities for upskilling. I have already had opportunities to become tracheotomy competent and upskill into a shift coordinator role. You better the lives of the future generations and in doing so improve the health of communities.