A Milton nurse already accomplished at the start of her career says she cannot wait to work in the hospital where she was born.
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Sarah Smith is currently working at Batemans Bay but is due to start at Milton Hospital in a few weeks.
She was a recent joint runner-up as one of three finalists nominated for Recently Graduated Nurse of the Year, in the Australian Primary Health Care Nurses Association’s 2016 awards.
The Association recognised Sarah for the passion and leadership she has shown for research to improve nursing and healthcare.
“I have been working at Batemans Bay Medical Centre for three years, half of that as a registered nurse,” Ms Smith said. “They have been very supportive of my studies, allowing time off for pracs and study time.”
APNA said in the short time Sarah has worked she has “demonstrated significant insight into the possibilities for nursing care in general practice and a clear desire to advance the nursing role”.
“Sarah has contributed to a better understanding of the knowledge and practices of nurses in influenza and vaccination, having had two publications accepted into the Journal of Clinical Nursing, a top international peer-reviewed journal.”
These were from her thesis titled Australian General Practice Nurse's knowledge, attitudes and practices regarding influenza vaccination, which graduated her with first class honours in her Bachelor of Nursing from the University of Wollongong.
“This is a significant achievement for any nurse, let alone a recent graduate, and has led her to be awarded a postgraduate scholarship to undertake her PhD,” APNA said.
APNA awards recognise nurses working in primary health care who have excelled in their local communities.
APNA President Karen Booth says there is a good reason nursing is a sought after career with vast opportunities, particularly outside acute care, such as in general practice and in the community.
To fulfil this [high] demand we need to support and nurture new nurses, take the time to build their experience and reach their potential,” Ms Booth said.