NORTHERN Health shone a spotlight on the tremendous compassion and dedication of nurses and midwives and the vital role they play within our community this month.
International Day of the Midwife is observed on Monday, May 5 and International Nurses Day, a week later on Monday, May 12.
Northern Health has over 4,000 nurses and midwives who work across all areas and sites of the health service.
Chief Executive Debra Bourne started her career as a nurse and then became a midwife.
“This was a wonderful and rewarding time in my professional life,” she said.
“At this time of the year, when we recognise our midwives and nurses, I am grateful for all the work they do in providing care for our women, their families and newborns.”
Northern Health shared inspirational stories and journeys of some of their staff and distributed cupcakes to nurses and midwives on their wards.
Acting Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer Jennifer Gilham acknowledged the professionalism, compassion, skill and dedication nurses and midwives demonstrate to patients and the community.
“This year’s theme is Our Nurses. Our Future. Caring for nurses strengthens economies,” she said.
“[The theme] highlights the importance of supporting the health and wellbeing of our nurses who are vital to the functioning of health systems globally.
“Nurses face numerous challenges—physical, mental, emotional, and ethical, and it is imperative that we address these challenges in a way to promote their overall health.
“At Northern Health, we are committed to supporting the wellbeing of our nurses and their overall long-term health, enabling a healthier sustainable nursing workforce for the future.”
Northern Health Foundation has partnered with BankVic to provide a $5,000 scholarship to a Northern Health nurse or midwife in recognition of valuable service and dedication to the role.
The lucky recipient can use the scholarship towards further education, a national based conference of a professional development activity.
This is the second year BankVic has partnered with Northern Health Foundation to provide the scholarship.
A committee comprising Northern Health Executives and BankVic representatives will choose the successful submission. The successful applicant will be announced on Friday, May 30.
