26/04/2026
Leading up to International Nurses Day
Meet Our Clinical Team - Emily, Clinical Care Coordinator (IPC Lead)
How would you describe nursing when you first started compared to today?
In my ten years of nursing, there has been significant change. While person centred care was always important, there was far less technology and almost everything was paper based. Today, nursing involves increased documentation, digital systems, and continually evolving standards of care. Despite all of this, the heart of nursing remains the same—caring for people with dignity, respect, and compassion.
What’s one thing about “old school nursing” that has stayed with you?
“Old school” nurses have been role models to me throughout my career. They place a strong emphasis on truly knowing your patients—taking the time to listen and advocating for those who can’t always speak up for themselves. This is something I’ve learned from them and will continue to carry with me.
Looking back, what part of your nursing career are you most proud of?
I’m most proud of the growth I’ve achieved. Starting as a personal care worker, I’ve always pushed myself to reach new goals and develop new skills. I became an enrolled nurse and, while continuing to grow my clinical skills, completed my bachelor’s degree to become a registered nurse. As I’ve taken on leadership responsibilities, I believe my career path gives me a unique understanding of how to support both residents and staff.
You’ve worked across many settings—what did those experiences teach you?
I’ve worked across many settings, with my main focus in aged care and acute medical environments. These experiences taught me adaptability, resilience, and the importance of teamwork. Each setting reinforced that high quality care relies on collaboration, clear communication, and mutual respect.
What does caring for residents at LVV mean to you?
Caring for residents at LVV means providing safe, respectful, and personalised care while honouring each resident’s life story, preferences, and independence. I’m honoured to learn residents’ stories and to be part of such an important service within the community.
What keeps you motivated in residential nursing?
Some may find it hard to believe, but I find it easy to stay motivated in my nursing career at LVV. Being able to make a positive difference and seeing residents feel secure, valued, and genuinely cared for makes the work deeply meaningful.
What has nursing taught you about life?
Nursing has taught me gratitude, patience, and the importance of empathy.
How do you stay compassionate and positive in such a demanding role?
By debriefing and leaning on supportive colleagues. It’s important—not just in nursing, but in life—to remember you’re not alone and that your actions can make a significant impact on someone else’s life.
What values do you believe are essential to being a great nurse?
Compassion, integrity, accountability, respect, and a commitment to continuous improvement.
What advice would you give to someone considering a nursing career?
There will be hard days, but they’re opportunities to learn. Nursing is challenging, but incredibly rewarding. Don’t dwell on the negatives—focus instead on the positive impact you’re making.
What qualities make someone truly suited to nursing?
A caring nature, empathy, resilience, and a genuine desire to help others.
What do you hope new nurses remember on challenging days?
That their work matters. Even on the hardest days, the care you provide can make a real difference.
When you look back on your career, what makes you feel most proud?
Knowing I’ve provided care with kindness, professionalism, and respect, while always taking opportunities to grow professionally.
How would you like residents and colleagues to remember you?
As someone who was approachable, supportive, and always advocated for doing the right thing for residents.
What do you think the true impact of a nurse is?
A nurse’s impact goes far beyond clinical tasks—it’s about providing trust, comfort, safety, and human connection to someone at their most vulnerable.
