Melbourne Convention & Exhibition Centre, Bays 9 and 10
NURSING & MIDWIFERY CAREERS
Why our Graduate Programs?
As a Graduate Nurse or Midwife at Bendigo Health you can preference your clinical rotations, allowing you to take control of your career. You will also be provided with ongoing employment following the successful completion of your graduate year.
Why Bendigo Health?
Bendigo Health is a growing dynamic and technologically advanced health service. We have a great teaching culture and very supportive staff. Our patient base is diverse, friendly and accepting of people advancing their career.
Why Bendigo?
With a population of more than 120,000, Bendigo is a thriving regional city 150km north west or 90 minutes from Melbourne. It is a city with the attributes of urban metropolis, and the benefits of living in regional Australia.
KICK START YOUR NURSING CAREER
We know all about the challenges you are facing as a nursing student – trust us, we’ve been there. But don’t worry, we are here to help!
By joining the ACN tribe you will receive an inside view into our profession, gain skills, knowledge and experience outside the classroom and clarify where you would like to take your career.
What perks do I receive as an ACN undergraduate member?
Receive one-on-one career mentoring from experienced nurse leaders
Connect with a community of likeminded individuals who are passionate about nursing through our online engagement platform
Stay up-to-date with nursing news and opportunities
Opportunity to join an ACN Faculty to explore career pathways and nursing specialties
Ready to soar to new heights?
Visit acn.edu.au/ undergrad to join ACN today and unlock the doorway to nursing excellence!
FORENSICARE 2025 GRADUATE NURSE PROGRAM
As a graduate nurse at Forensicare, you will be supported in your transition from student to Registered Nurse.
Our Graduate Nurse Program will provide you with a supportive environment where you will:
• enhance your clinical and professional confidence and competence; and
• given opportunities to continue learning and be given professional responsibilities and independence.
YOUR TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT
To facilitate your ongoing development into a competent, knowledgeable, and responsible Registered Nurse in a specialist forensic mental health service all our graduates will be enrolled into the first year of a Graduate Diploma in Mental Health Nursing. You will also be given the opportunity to continue your postgraduate study following the successful completion of academic and clinical components of the first year. Study leave will be provided to support your academic requirements.
YOUR PLACEMENT
Graduate nurses at Forensicare work rostered shifts, including nights. Placement during the program is rotated across a range of our service areas.
Yarra Bend Road, Fairfield
Victoria Australia 3078
T: +61 3 9495 9100
F: +61 3 9495 9199
forensicare.vic.gov.au
INFORMATION SESSIONS
Come along to one of our Graduate Nurse Program information sessions and tours:
When: Upcoming dates and booking information are available on our website.
Where: Thomas Embling Hospital Yarra Bend Road, Fairfield
Meet: Hospital reception
RSVP: 1 week prior to session via our online booking form on our website.
Forensicare, (Victorian Institute of Forensic Mental Health), is the leading provider of forensic mental health care across Victoria. We deliver recovery focused mental health programs for our patients, from early intervention and prevention, inpatient care, rehabilitation, and community transition support. These services are delivered through:
• Thomas Embling Hospital: a secure mental health hospital
• Prison mental health services: specialist mental health services within men and prisons
• Community Forensic Mental Health Service: specialist community mental health programs
MORE INFORMATION
For more information about our Graduate Nurse Program contact the Graduate Co-Ordinator
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ABOUT THE EXPO
Attendance at the Expo and educational seminars are FREE!
What can I expect from the Expo?
The ACN Nursing & Health Expo is the perfect place to discover and progress your career in the nursing and health professions.
The ACN Expo has a strong reputation for connecting visitors with a range of organisations, including hospitals, health care services, educational institutions and specialty nursing groups.
With over 50+ exhibitors participating in the ACN Expo, there are a wealth of products and services; visitors will gain practical takeaway advice and skills in a series of complimentary educational seminars. If you are a nurse, currently studying nursing or considering a career in the nursing or health professions, this Expo is for you.
Who will be exhibiting?
You will have the opportunity to interact with:
• education providers
• hospital and health care services
• recruitment agencies
• specialty nursing groups
• companies offering health products and services.
To find out more about who will be attending, view the exhibitor list on page 24 of the eGuide.
Who should attend?
ACN encourages everyone who is interested in the nursing and health professions to attend the Expo. It is particularly beneficial to:
• high school students
• undergraduate nursing students
• enrolled nurses
• registered nurses
• health professionals.
Nursing & Midwifery
Careers at GV Health
INDIVIDUALISED PROGRAMS AND POST GRADUATE PATHWAY OPPORTUNITIES READY FOR YOU
GRADUATE NURSE GENERAL
Experience a broad range through 3 different rotations every 4 months, with the opportunity to choose from all wards and speciality areas.
GRADUATE NURSE MENTAL HEALTH
Explore your passion in the Mental Health stream, making a difference to our consumer’s recovery journey.
GRADUATE NURSE MIDWIFERY
Provide quality care for women and neonates presenting to Maternity Services. Education and support through the antenatal, intrapartum and postnatal period.
GRADUATE NURSE GENERAL/MIDWIFERY
General & Midwifery rotations, a combined program experience. Clinical support and the opportunity for consolidation of theory and refinement of clinical skills.
OUR COMMUNITY CONNECTOR PROGRAM
Your relocation consultant to support you and/or your partner/family’s move to our region. Offering 1:1 assistance with real estate, schooling, connecting you with community/ sporting/religious groups, partner’s employment and the like.
To learn more about our programs and job opportunities
contact talentacquisition@gvhealth.org.au
CALL SHEPPARTON HOME
The charm of a rural lifestyle combined with all the big city facilities. Known as the food bowl of Australia with a vibrant, diverse culture making living and working here unique.
TOP 5 LIFESTYLE
REASONS TO MOVE TO SHEPPARTON
Affordable & quality housing
Extensive range of education opportunities
Welcoming, celebrated & diverse community
Great wine, food, events, facilities & a relaxed lifestyle
Rivers, lakes & snowfields at your doorstep
SIMPLE SELF-CARE TIPS FOR NURSES
This article was originally published on ACN’s NurseClick blog
As we navigated through the multifaceted impacts of COVID-19, the pandemic not only highlighted the vulnerabilities of our physical health but also underscored the pressing need to prioritise our mental wellbeing. Healthcare professionals were among the most significantly affected groups, with over 70% reporting a deterioration in their mental well-being stemming from pandemic-related restrictions and outcomes (Mental Health Australia, 2020).
As the pandemic gradually subsides, it is more important than ever to maintain our focus on mental health. Our mental health is the bedrock upon which our individual and collective capacities are built. It influences our decision-making abilities, shapes our relationships, and ultimately, moulds the world we inhabit (WHO, 2022).
Moreover, it is crucial to recognise that mental and physical health are intimately intertwined. They are not independent entities but rather interconnected facets of our overall well-being.
To help you embark on the journey of enhancing your mental health, we present five easy yet effective tips to help you combat daily stresses and work towards a healthier, happier you.
EMBRACE THE OUTDOORS
Engaging with the great outdoors through activities such as walking, meditating, reading, or simply sitting outside can significantly enhance our mental well-being. Nature connection has been shown to alleviate stress and improve mood, attention, and cognition. A noteworthy aspect of this connection is the exposure to sunlight, which has been distinctly associated with positive impacts on mental health. The sun’s rays not only
boost our vitamin D levels but also help regulate our mood and sleep patterns. Thus, regularly immersing oneself in nature and embracing the sunlight can be a rejuvenating and transformative mental health practice.
MOVE YOUR BODY
You don’t need to push through a gruelling workout to reap the benefits of exercise. Even gentle, consistent exercises like dancing, stretching, or leisurely
walks can yield significant benefits. These activities work to mitigate stress hormones, enhance concentration, and foster better sleep quality. The ripple effect extends to reducing anxiety and elevating confidence, cultivating a positive mind-body connection. Integrating such accessible forms of exercise into your routine can act as a cornerstone for maintaining mental wellbeing, providing a natural and enjoyable pathway to balance and resilience in both mind and body.
If you are interested in discovering more inspiration to prioritise your mental health, we invite you to join our NurseStrong Facebook group, a safe space where nurses support each other on their health and self care journeys.
CONNECT WITH LOVED ONES
Never be afraid to open up and share your challenges with someone you trust. Interpersonal connection is critical to our health and wellbeing, with a strong correlation observed between the quality of our relationships and the levels of happiness and contentment we experience in other parts of our lives. Establishing a support system is a crucial strategy to safeguard our mental health, aiding in enhancing happiness, managing feelings of loneliness, and preventing social isolation.
PRIORITISE QUALITY SLEEP
Altered sleep patterns can serve as a significant indicator of stress, reflecting the intricate relationship between our mental state and our rest. Ensuring a regular and quality sleep schedule is not just about clocking in the hours; it’s about cultivating a restful environment and establishing bedtime routines that signal to our body that it is time to wind down. This is essential for managing negative emotional responses to daily stressors and fostering positive emotions, allowing us to wake up feeling refreshed and ready to face the day’s challenges. Implementing relaxation techniques, maintaining a comfortable sleep environment, and avoiding stimulants before bedtime can further optimise sleep quality.
UNLEASH YOUR CREATIVITY
Discovering and regularly engaging in an activity that brings you joy, whether it be yoga, meditation, painting, gardening, or sewing, can serve as a gateway to stress relief and self-expression. Participating with the sole intention of deriving joy encourages mindfulness, reduces stress, and fosters tranquility. Activities like painting and gardening can be especially therapeutic, providing a canvas for emotional expression and a medium to connect with nature, respectively. Creativity also nurtures self-esteem and a sense of accomplishment. Completing a creative project, no matter how small, can give you a sense of achievement and boost your confidence.
The activities shared in this article are a starting point towards fostering a healthier, happier you. If you are interested in discovering more inspiration to prioritise your mental health, we invite you to join our NurseStrong Facebook group, a safe space where nurses support each other on their health and self care journeys. Your wellbeing matters, and together, we can make strides towards improving our physical, mental and emotional health.
References
American Psychological Association. (2020). Nurtured by nature. Monitor on Psychology, 51(3). https://www.apa.org/monitor/2020/04/nurturednature
Australian Government, Australia Council for the Arts. (2022). Connected lives: Creative solutions to the mental health crisis. Retrieved from https:// creative.gov.au/wp-content/uploads/2022/06/ Connected-Lives-Creative-solutions-to-themental-health-crisis-Web-version.pdf
Beyond Blue. (2022). Sleep and mental health. Retrieved from https://www.beyondblue.org.au/ mental-health/sleep
Columbia University. (2022). How sleep deprivation impacts mental health. Retrieved from https://www.columbiapsychiatry.org/news/howsleep-deprivation-affects-your-mental-health HeadSpace. (2021). Stay active: Information for young people. Retrieved from https://headspace. org.au/explore-topics/for-young-people/stayactive/
Homage Australia. (2023). Friendships and mental health: A resource guide. Retrieved from https:// www.homage.com.au/resources/friendships-andmental-health/
Mental Health Australia. (2020). Support for friends and family crucial to health workers’ wellbeing. Retrieved from https://mhaustralia. org/media-releases/support-friends-and-familycrucial-health-workers-wellbeing
Schertz, K. E., & Berman, M. G. (2019). Understanding nature and its cognitive benefits. Current Directions in Psychological Science, 28(5), 496–502. https://doi. org/10.1177/0963721419854100
The University of Melbourne. (2021). The arts and Australia’s mental wellbeing. Retrieved from https://pursuit.unimelb.edu.au/articles/the-artsand-australia-s-mental-wellbeing
Wang, J., Wei, Z., Yao, N., Li, C., & Sun, L. (2023). Association between sunlight exposure and mental health: Evidence from a special population without sunlight in work. Risk Management and Healthcare Policy, 16, 1049–1057. https://doi. org/10.2147/RMHP.S420018
World Health Organization. (2022). Mental Health: Strengthening our response. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/ detail/mental-health-strengthening-our-response
Join our team of compassionate nursing and midwifery professionals
3.08pm 5.24pm
WORK LIFE BALANCE - LIVE LIFE EAST GIPPSLAND-STYLE
An array of opportunities to progress your career. We recognise and encourage talent and you’ll be supported to learn, grow and take your career where you want it to go.
An incredible way of life when you clock off with surf, the Gippsland Lakes, rainforests, mountains, rivers, snowfields and great wine, arts and culture on your doorstep. It’s all here in East Gippsland. Take the next step. Click on the logos for all the details.
A LOOK BACK AT PREVIOUS ACN NURSING & HEALTH EXPOS
What I enjoyed most about the Expo...
“Social media was a buzz about this show and I wasn’t disappointed.”
“It was great to learn about so many opportunities available for nurses, I feel so inspired to continue along this path.”
“So much to see, so much to learn it was a great experience attending the Expo!”
“The seminars were worthwhile attending, I particularly liked the one on resume writing and how to dress to impress, very helpful great tips and advice.”
“This is a great place to visit when considering a career in nursing, it’s a one-stop shop.”
FIVE TIPS FOR STAFF WELLBEING IN NURSING
ASHLEY PAGE MACN
Australian College of Nursing (ACN) Graduate Certificate in Leadership and Management Nurse Educator
This article was originally published on ACN’s NurseClick blog
Prioritising the wellbeing of nursing staff extends far beyond mere compassion; it’s a strategic imperative, essential for fostering exceptional patient care, and integral to achieving organisational excellence.
When nurses feel valued, supported, and cared for, their job satisfaction soars, leading to higher retention rates and lower turnover. These outcomes not only reduce recruitment costs but also ensure continuity of care, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes.
By implementing small yet impactful strategies to boost morale and job satisfaction, you can significantly enhance your employees’ wellbeing and performance.
To help you get started, Ashley Page MACN, Australian College of Nursing (ACN) Graduate Certificate in Leadership and Management Nurse Educator, has shared her top five human resource (HR) management tips for nurse leaders who want to maximise their team’s wellbeing and performance.
FOSTER A POSITIVE WORK CULTURE
Create a positive work environment that promotes open communication, collaboration, and respect among team members. Encourage a culture of appreciation and recognition where nurses feel valued for their contributions.
Try this: Amid the hustle and bustle, it’s challenging to remember to share positive feedback during busy workdays. To help with this, establishing a regular way to express appreciation can be helpful. At ACN we have introduced ‘Thankful Thursdays’, an opportunity for employees to give a shout-out to a colleague that has helped them or gone above and beyond that week. The shout-outs are shared with the whole organisation on Microsoft Teams and provide a special opportunity for quiet achievers to be recognised for their accomplishments.
EFFECTIVE PERFORMANCE MANAGEMENT
Implement a robust performance management system with regular feedback, goal setting, and performance evaluations. Provide constructive feedback to help nurses improve their skills and promptly and professionally address performance issues.
Try this: Providing feedback can be challenging, especially if you prefer to avoid confrontations. A great way to ease into it is using the ‘Sandwich method’. Start by offering positive feedback about something the staff member has been doing well, then move on to the problem you are trying to address, before finishing again with some positive words of encouragement. Using this method softens the impact of negative feedback and makes it more likely that the recipient will take it on board.
Nurses
face high levels of stress and burnout. Implement strategies for employee wellbeing, such as access to counselling services, stress management programs, and wellness initiatives. Promote self-care practices and encourage nurses to prioritise their physical and mental health.
INVEST IN EMPLOYEE WELLBEING
Nurses face high levels of stress and burnout. Implement strategies for employee wellbeing, such as access to counselling services, stress management programs, and wellness initiatives. Promote self-care practices and encourage nurses to prioritise their physical and mental health.
Try this: ACN’s NurseStrong Facebook group is a safe space for thousands of nurses around the country to support and uplift each other. The free group is the perfect place to receive wellbeing inspiration and advice that is specific to nurses and engage with peers that are experiencing the same challenges along their wellbeing journeys.
PRIORITISE WORK-LIFE BALANCE
Create a supportive work environment that understands and accommodates personal needs and obligations. Recognise the importance of work-life balance for your nursing team. Encourage flexible scheduling whenever possible and promote policies for adequate time off.
Try this: Where possible introduce remote work options. This can help nurses balance their professional and personal responsibilities. This flexibility enables nurses to better manage childcare, pursue further education, or engage in personal hobbies and interests. Although not all positions can be performed remotely, you may be able to think of creative ways to incorporate some remote elements. For example, staff members may be able to complete professional development in the comfort of their own home rather than face-to-face.
SUPPORT TRAINING AND DEVELOPMENT
Provide ongoing training and development opportunities to enhance the skills and knowledge of your nursing staff. Support them in attending workshops, conferences, and relevant courses to stay updated with the latest practices and technologies.
Try this: Becoming a member of the professional association for nurses, ACN, is a convenient way to stay on top of professional development. Members receive access to complimentary CPD courses as well as discounts on events, leadership programs and graduate certificates. You can support your staff members to join on a discounted Affiliate membership rate by signing your organisation up to become an ACN Affiliate.
Introducing these small strategies can make a big impact on your success as a nurse leader and your team’s performance and wellbeing. If you are feeling inspired to learn more about human resource management and are interested in pursuing a formal leadership qualification, look no further than the ACN Graduate Certificate in Leadership and Management. You will be able to study online, anytime, anywhere and can gain your postgraduate leadership qualification in as little as 12 months.
While you care for others, let us care for
financial future
Hello. We’re Aware Super.
As one of Australia’s largest profit-for-members superannuation funds with a strong heritage of supporting the health sector, we always remember whose money it is and whose future we’re looking after. Our 1.1m+ members. They’re the people who inspire what we do and how we do it, every day.
Along with super returns of 8.4% p.a. (over ten years, for our High Growth option)*, and expert super advice and guidance for right now, it’s what makes us super helpful. Join the 1.1 million Aussies who already trust us to help grow their savings into a happy retirement. With super advice and super returns Aware Super is super helpful.
SIX CREATIVE WAYS TO EARN YOUR CPD HOURS
This article was originally published on ACN’s NurseClick blog
As 2024 continues at a fast pace, keeping an eye on continuing professional development (CPD) should be at the back of every nurse’s mind. As part of the requirements set out by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia, all nurses are required to complete 20 CPD hours every year to remain registered.
CPD hours are only considered if they are relevant to the person’s context of practice. Despite being mandatory, CPD is a great way for nurses to upskill, maintain best practice skills and learn something new in the vast profession of nursing.
Never fear – it does not mean you have to spend 20 hours travelling across the country or sitting through a webinar you don’t enjoy. There are many, many ways that you can engage with and mix and match CPD to ensure you are getting the best out of your 20 hours of CPD a year.
Check out our six favourite ways to get your CPD below.
EXPLORE CPD ONLINE FROM YOUR OWN HOME
For busy nurses who are managing shift work, social lives and professional development, especially those living in regional, rural, and remote areas,
having CPD available at the tips of your fingers in your own home can be a game-changer in ensuring your hours are completed.
Online hubs such as the Australian College of Nursing (ACN) CPD Centre provide nurses the opportunity to search through over 180 CPD courses in over 30 disciplines, that are developed by nurses, for nurses.
E-learning modules work in a selfpaced manner, allowing you to get up to six CPD hours at a time in the comfort of your own home.
Learn more about online CPD options at the ACN CPD Centre.
JOIN YOUR COLLEAGUES FOR FACE-TO-FACE CPD WORKSHOPS
If you are wishing to get hands-on with CPD, face-to-face sessions are the best way to connect your hours with practice, learn new methods, and meet like-minded professionals in your field. These face-to-face courses allow nurses to get practical experience under the supervision of expert health professionals. The chance to work directly with your colleagues and other health professionals enhances your teamwork and collaboration skills in a safe and supportive environment.
Organisations such as ACN provide the chance to develop nursing skills face-to-face in your hometown, with courses such as Wound Management, Venepuncture and Cannulation, and Mental Health Assessment for NonMental Health Nurses offered around the country throughout the year.
Find out more about ACN’s face-toface CPD courses.
JOIN THE CONVERSATION IN WEBINARS
For nurses who are interested in using their CPD to develop their understanding of lived experiences of the health care systems and issues in a more nuanced manner, webinars are an easy way to get your hours and stay up-to-date on issues affecting the nursing profession.
Webinars are a great opportunity to add to accrue your final CPD hours,
with each session providing 0.5-1 CPD hour. Some of ACN’s upcoming webinars offer insights into nursing history, how-to guides for registration, how nurses can create social impact, and developing the nursing community. Organisations such as ACN provide official CPD certificates after you have attended a webinar.
MEET UP AT EVENTS TO LEARN FROM AND CONNECT WITH OTHERS
Getting the chance to meet and learn with others has become more valuable since returning to in-person events. Whether it be networking, community development or contributing to nursing reform, events offer the potential for you to contribute to furthering the nursing profession.
Events are occurring all over Australia throughout the year. Just make sure that the event is relevant to your context of practice to be counted towards your CPD hours!
Not sure where to start? Register your interest for upcoming ACN events.
LEVEL UP YOUR NURSING CAREER BY ATTENDING A CONFERENCE
For those who want a chance to collect a number of CPD hours in one go, attending a conference can help develop your skills, meet like-minded health colleagues, and gain new perspectives on the nursing profession. Outcomes from conferences include new strategic priorities, contributing to
policy to change the profession, and better-quality care for all Australians.
There are several one-, two-, and three-day events that occur in Australia and across the world that showcase the breadth of skills for the nursing profession. Conferences can be general health or nursing focused or specialised within the profession tailored to your context of practice.
Learn more about ACN’s flagship conference the National Nursing Forum.
CATCH
UP ON THE LATEST BEST PRACTICE THROUGH READING NURSING RESEARCH
Nursing research and journals are not just for nurse researchers or nursing students! For every hour of relevant nursing research read, you can claim one CPD hour– just make sure to record your work and your reflections on the research to present to the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia.
In nursing journals, you can access the latest information on nursing practice, specialist developments, and find out more about how the nursing profession is affecting the world on a wider scale.
ACN Fellows and Members can get full access to our refereed academic nursing journal Collegian: The Australian Journal of Nursing Practice, Scholarship and Research as part of their membership. For all others, check out the Collegian Featured This Month series for the latest open access articles.
The Australian College of Nursing is excited to work with nurses to develop CPD that is refreshing, welcoming, and thought-provoking to enhance their understanding and passions for nursing. ACN’s new and improved CPD Centre is now available with over 180 online courses, face-to-face courses in several locations across Australia, and webinars. ACN members receive 90+ free online CPD hours, and a significant discount on face-to-face courses and signature events. Not a member? Join today.
Study Nursing
At Torrens University Australia and Think Education, you can gain a high-quality nursing education at one of our four leading-edge campuses across Australia. Bring your passion and abilities to life, and gain nursing competencies that are in demand around the world.
Choose to enrol directly in the Bachelors degree to become a Registered Nurse or start with the Diploma, become an Enrolled Nurse and pathway seamlessly into the Bachelor degree with advanced standing.
Contact a Future Student Advisor on 1300 575 803 to find out more or email enquiries@tua.edu.au
When you’re constantly on the go it’s hard to find the time to look after yourself but even taking one minute to switch off can make a big difference.
Here are some quick tricks you can use to ground yourself and fight off stress and anxiety.
Our educational preparation and specialised placements will make you job-ready after graduation.
92% of Think Education graduates from Diploma of Nursing were working in 2023.*
91% of Torrens University Health graduates were working in 2023*
#1 Fastest growing university in Australia*
*Sources: QILT 2023 Survey, Department of Education 2023 Torrens University Australia Ltd, ABN 99 154 937 005, RTO 41343, CRICOS 03389E. Think: Colleges Pty Ltd, ABN 93 050 049 299, RTO 0269, CRICOS 00246M. T0438
torrens.edu.au | think.edu.au
Smile at yourself in the mirror (you may feel silly but it works!)
TEN TIPS FOR TRANSITIONING FROM CLINICAL NURSING TO MANAGEMENT
This article was originally published on ACN’s NurseClick blog
The transition from working in clinical nursing providing direct patient care to assuming a management role is a path many of us have taken, yet few were adequately prepared for. Unlike other promotions, advancing into management within health care frequently happens without the requisite administrative or leadership skills development.
As many nurses find themselves navigating this transition, it’s crucial to approach it with intention and strategy. Here are ten comprehensive tips to facilitate a smooth transition from clinical nursing to management roles.
1. DEVELOP YOUR LEADERSHIP SKILLS
Transitioning from clinical to managerial roles requires the development of specific leadership skills. Seize every opportunity to attend leadership workshops, seminars, or programs, such as the Australian College of Nursing (ACN) Nurse Unit Manager Leadership Program, to bolster your abilities in team management, conducting challenging conversations, and resolving conflicts. Remember, leadership, much like administering medication, is a skill that can be acquired and perfected through practice.
2. EMBRACE CHANGE
As a nurse manager, you will encounter numerous changes, from policy updates to fluctuations in staff composition that could lead to skill mix imbalances. View these changes as opportunities for growth rather than hindrances. Remain adaptable and open to innovation, exploring new methodologies with enthusiasm. A key part of navigating change successfully is relying on and developing your team.
3. MASTER EFFECTIVE COMMUNICATION
At the core of nursing management lies effective communication. It’s crucial for conveying team expectations, advocating for resources, or coordinating with other departments for equipment needs (can someone say ‘bladder scanner’). The importance of clear, concise communication cannot be overstated. It’s not just the message, but the delivery that counts. Beyond the indispensable skills of therapeutic communication and de-escalation, there lies the oftenunderappreciated art of active listening This skill is paramount in building trust, understanding, and collaboration within teams.
4. STRIVE FOR WORK-LIFE BALANCE
Nursing management can be demanding, but don’t let it consume your entire life. We all know the signs of a burnt-out NUM. Take time to recharge outside of work, whether it is indulging in a hobby, spending time with loved ones, or simply enjoying some quiet moments of solitude. Role-model healthy boundaries and prioritising self care to your team and practice what you preach! The NurseStrong Facebook group is a great place to gain self care inspiration specifically for nurses and connect with like-minded colleagues who are motivated to prioritise their wellbeing.
5. CELEBRATE WINS
In the fast-paced healthcare environment, it’s easy to zero in on the negatives. However, it’s important to celebrate achievements, no matter their size. Acknowledge your team’s hard work and the positive impact you’re making on patient care. Celebrating successes can significantly boost morale and contribute to a supportive workplace culture. Additionally, networking with other managers offers a valuable platform for sharing victories and forging new opportunities.
6.
UNDERSTAND THE BUSINESS ASPECT
Management roles in health care also require an understanding of the business side, including budgeting, staffing, and resource allocation. Familiarising yourself with these aspects through mentorship or
ACN Institute of Leadership programs can enhance your decision-making skills and overall effectiveness as a manager.
7. BUILD A SUPPORTIVE NETWORK
Creating connections with peers, mentors, and other healthcare leaders can provide invaluable support and guidance. These relationships offer an opportunity to share experiences, gain advice, and learn from others’ successes and mistakes. ACN’s online engagement platform The Buzz offers a platform for nurses to engage in professional discussions on a private forum as well as seek out mentoring relationships.
8. IMPLEMENT STRATEGIC PLANNING
Developing strategic planning skills can help you align your team’s efforts with the broader goals of your organisation. Setting clear objectives, identifying key performance indicators, and regularly reviewing progress can drive your team to achieve significant outcomes. Embrace the power of SMART goals to ensure your objectives are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound, providing a clear blueprint for success. Learn more about setting effective objectives in the Australian Government’s goal setting guide.
9. CULTIVATE EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE
Emotional intelligence is a critical skill for managing relationships and leading effectively. Being aware of and managing your emotions, as
well as empathising with others, can significantly impact your leadership style and team dynamics. To aid in this journey, we have crafted a resource designed to help you discover your leadership style, enhancing your selfawareness by identifying your strengths and pinpointing opportunities for development.
10. CONFRONT IMPOSTER SYNDROME HEAD-ON
It’s important to acknowledge that Imposter Syndrome affects many, especially when stepping into new roles or expanding responsibilities. Remember, every expert was once a beginner. Trust in your skills, knowledge, and the unique perspective you bring to your role. When doubts creep in, remind yourself that growth and comfort do not coexist; embracing challenges is a sign of progress, not inadequacy. For more advice, check out our Five strategies to beat Imposter Syndrome.
By following these ten tips as you transition to a management role, you can confidently and skillfully navigate your new responsibilities. With each skill honed and insight gained, you’ll navigate the complexities of your new role with confidence and finesse. This isn’t just about personal growth—it’s your chance to leave a lasting impact on patient care and to lead change in the healthcare landscape. Embrace this adventure with enthusiasm and a strategic plan and watch as it unfolds into a rewarding and influential career in management.
If you’re seeking support to navigate the transition from clinician to manager, the Nurse Unit Manager Leadership Program is your pathway. The tailored program refines your leadership style to align with both personal values and organisational expectations, offering insights into organisational dynamics and their impact on clinical staff management. You’ll cultivate authentic leadership qualities to create a collaborative workplace atmosphere while mastering resource management to improve health outcomes and ensure safety. Through a comprehensive exploration of organisational, regulatory, and legislative frameworks, you’ll be equipped to lead with confidence and excellence, making a meaningful difference in health care. Join us to turn challenges into opportunities for growth and impactful leadership.
COURSES RUNNING IN 2024/2025:
– Master of Nursing (multiple specialisations available)
– Graduate Certificate in Rural Nursing Practice
– Graduate Diploma in Rural Nursing Practice
– Master of Nursing (Nurse Practitioner)*
– Graduate Diploma in Child, Family & Community Nursing
– Graduate Certificate in Mental Health*
– Master of Mental Health Nursing*
– Graduate Diploma in Midwifery
– Master of Midwifery Practice*
– Doctor of Midwifery
– Doctor of Nursing (Professional Doctorate)
– CPD programs
*online
SEMINARS
Attendance at all seminars is complimentary and registration is not required.
TIME TOPIC
9:00am – 9:10 am Welcome
9:10am – 9:30am CV’s and Interview Skills
9:3am – 9:50am Education as career fuel
9:50am – 10:00 am HESTA Presentation
10:00am – 11:00am Break
11:00am – 11:05am Welcome Back
11:05am – 11:25am Education as career fuel
11:25am – 11:50am CV Interview Skills
11:50am – 12:00pm Thank you and Close
Proudly sponsored by
Albury Wodonga
ANMF Vic Branch
Epworth
Federation
Epworth
KICK START YOUR NURSING LEADERSHIP CAREER
ACN’s renowned Emerging Nurse Leader Program is a career kick-starter for up-and-coming nurse leaders that want to fast-track their leadership journeys and set themselves up for rewarding careers.
The program’s five stages cater for final year nursing students through to enrolled and registered nurses in their sixth year of practice.
Program benefits include:
Mentoring
Career Coaching
Full registration for the ACN National Nursing Forum
