Celebrating International Nurses Day

On International Nurses Day we met nursing team Gillian and Andrea who work together in the Cardiac Care Ward, of Mater Mothers’ Neonatal Critical Care Unit.

Gillian is mentoring Andrea and together it is clear to see how passionate they both are about their chosen careers as nurses.  

Gillian followed in her mother’s footsteps and became a Registered Nurse in 2015.

“My mother is a midwife and I think that sparked a sense of curiosity and interest in nursing. I always knew I wanted to a job that helped other people. I wanted to be a part of a family’s story and journey. I felt as though I could bring something special to the world,” Gillian said.

“Working in the NCCU was always a dream. I knew I wanted to work with either paediatrics or neonates and I was attracted to the NCCU cardiac surgical as there isn’t anything like it in Brisbane.”

Gillian says that she’s loves caring for Mater’s tiniest patient every day.  

“I love everything about my job. I love caring for the smallest or biggest little people in the world. I love meeting families and having an impact on their lives. I also get to spend each shift with some of the best nurses. I have a wonderful team.”

As part of her role, Gillian mentors Andrea a nursing student which allows her to share her knowledge and skills.

“I love the challenge. I enjoy supporting someone, just as ai was supported. I remember how important my mentor was to me and I want to be able to give that back to someone else who is just starting out,” Gillian said.

Andrea has been paediatric nursing for four years working between emergency and the intensive care unit.

“I recently moved to neonatal intensive care nursing. I became interested in nursing through my mum as well as she is also a nurse and a very kind and caring person,” Andrea said.

“I love working in a team environment in the NCCU. Sometimes ICU nursing can be quite hard emotionally and physically, so I think it’s important to surround yourself with people who are like minded and have the same end goal of delivering the best possible cafe for our patients and families.

“Learning from Gillian helps me confirm my “textbook or classroom” knowledge and allows my mentor to support me in what can sometimes be some challenging times.”