Every year, International Nurses Day serves as a heartfelt reminder of the incredible contributions nurses make to our lives. To honour this special day, Healthcare Australia (HCA) asked 190 of our nurses to reflect on what drives them, what they find most rewarding about their profession, and what advice they would offer to those just starting their nursing journey.
Their honest and inspiring responses came from diverse nursing specialties, including ICU, Theatre, and Travel Nursing. Here’s what they had to say about their profession and passion.
Why Did You Choose to Become a Nurse?
For many nurses, their career path is rooted in a desire to make a difference. A passion for helping others, giving back to the community, and the intrigue of science were among the common themes. Others were inspired by personal experiences, such as supporting a loved one through illness or following in a family member’s footsteps.
Registered Nurse Amy Irving shared that she wanted a career offering rewards, personal growth, and variety. “It’s a role where you are always learning and where you can help others in meaningful ways,” Amy says.
Jamilia Ali, a Medical, Surgical, and Neuro Rehabilitation Nurse, loves the freedom and fulfilment that nursing provides. “It allows me to travel anywhere in the world with guaranteed work,” she says, adding how it lets her meet new people and touch lives globally.
The sentiment is echoed by Critical Care Nurse Kaz Fairweather, who says, “It’s an absolute privilege to ease someone’s physical, mental, or spiritual pain. This work gives my life a profound sense of purpose.”
What’s the Most Rewarding Part of Being a Nurse?
Nurses often work with individuals during their most vulnerable moments, whether it’s supporting a patient through recovery or providing dignity and compassion at the end of life. Being part of these deeply personal journeys is one of the most rewarding aspects of the role.
Jodie Casserly, an Anaesthetics and Recovery Nurse, highlighted the joy of forming connections with her patients. “Some patients come in scared, which can manifest as anger or frustration. I love using kind words to reassure them. It’s incredible to see the transformation once they’re at ease,” she shares.
For Oncology Nurse Shrijana Khadka, her most fulfilling moment was working with the immediate relief team during Nepal’s devastating earthquake. “Listening to their stories and bringing smiles despite the tragedy was unforgettable,” she says.
Anaesthetics and Recovery Nurse Amy Gaffey, who has 20 years of experience, finds great reward in teaching the next generation of nurses. “Sharing knowledge gained over the years and helping newer nurses feel confident is deeply rewarding,” she remarks.
Advice for Aspiring Nurses
The surveyed nurses had an abundance of wisdom to offer those embarking on a nursing career. They emphasised the importance of curiosity, teamwork, and resilience while championing the enormous potential for growth within the profession.
ICU and Emergency Nurse Kerri Carpenter stated, “The only ‘silly’ question is the one never asked. Be honest if you don’t understand something, and never be afraid to own your mistakes. Teamwork will carry the day.”
Mark Smith, a Rural and Remote Nurse, advises new nurses to cherish both the high and low points. “Enjoy the good days. They’ll help you through the tougher ones,” he says.
Acute Care Nurse Catherine Linn Davis highlighted the importance of balancing positivity with the challenges of the job. “Discard negativity, hold onto the affirmations, and enjoy your work. There’s so much to learn from patients and their families, from neighbours to immigrants, each with unique perspectives and stories,” Catherine notes.
Ultimately, the shared advice underscores how nursing is not just a profession but an opportunity to grow as a person while making meaningful contributions to others’ lives.
Here’s to Nurses Everywhere
From personal fulfilment to the joy of lifelong learning, International Nurses Day offered an opportunity to celebrate the profoundly human aspects that unite nurses across specialties and borders.
At HCA, we’re proud to support nurses in achieving their professional goals while encouraging them to reflect on the immense positive impact they create daily. If you’re inspired by these stories and considering a nursing career in Australia, we invite you to join the HCA family.
Explore life-changing opportunities with Healthcare Australia. Contact us today or register your interest to take the first step towards a fulfilling career.
