Statistics have revealed by 2021 the health, wellbeing and community services industry area is forecast to grow by 4.4% on the North Coast and will become the largest employer in the area[i].

Acting Nurse Unit Manager of the ward which cares for COVID-19 patients at Lismore Base Hospital, Rose Turner is encouraging local job seekers to consider a career in nursing. Ms Turner has made a career of caring for people who are suffering, based on the foundations of her introduction to nursing at TAFE NSW Lismore.

The graduate worked her way up the ranks to managing the ward which cared for Influenza A and B patients in 2019, which equipped her with the infectious disease management skills to face COVID-19.

Ms Turner said operating the ward, which can house up to 28 patients, is not something she ever saw herself doing.

“I enjoyed my time studying to become an Assistant in Nursing at TAFE NSW so much that after graduating I had the hunger to learn more. I enrolled at university and became a Registered Nurse.”

“Managing the COVID-19 ward is not too different from managing the Influenza ward, it’s just much more stringent with protocols. Staff were initially nervous about working in this environment, but thanks to the planning and policies we have in place everyone knows what to do.”

Ms Turner said the hardest part of her time managing the ward was caring for a patient who could not see his family.

“Thankfully, that patient is now recovering well.”

“TAFE NSW gave me a really great stepping stone to where I am now. My teacher encouraged me and convinced me I could pursue a career in nursing. After being introduced to industry contacts, a whole new world opened up for me.”

TAFE NSW Regional General Manager Susie George has commended Ms Turner on her career achievements.

“As Australia’s largest education provider, TAFE NSW has an excellent reputation with employers across the state for producing qualified and passionate industry professionals.

“I congratulate Rose on the amazing career results she continues to achieve.

“I would also like to thank her along with all front line nursing staff for the tireless support and care they continue to provide during this pandemic.” Ms George said.

For more information about studying a Certificate III in Individual Support or any TAFE NSW courses, please visit www.tafensw.com.au or call 131 601.

Media contact: Sarah Lievore, TAFE NSW Media Officer, sarah.lievore1@tafensw.edu.au

[i] TAFE NSW research, 2018