Graduate nurse says every day is different in country nursing

According to Graduate Registered Nurse Caleb Van Kuele, no two days are ever the same in country health.

“One day I could be looking after rehabilitation and aged care patients and the next I'm looking after post-operative patients or mental health patients,” Caleb said.

“Working in the city, you just don’t experience all the different specialties in the one ward.”

Caleb made the move from Perth to the Midwest as part of the GradConnect program and is currently on rotation in Geraldton.

“In the past 12 months, I’ve spent time on the general wards seeing a wide range of patients from medical and surgical, mental health care, aged care, rehabilitation and maternity among other specialties,” he said.

“I’m working in the emergency department right now and it’s the best.”

Having lived in the city his whole life, Caleb said he chose country for the adventure and change of scenery.

“One of the reasons I chose the Geraldton is for the fishing!” he said.

“There are so many great spots in the Midwest to catch different species of fish. I also love jumping in my 4WD and exploring the beaches and sand dunes.

“Kalbarri is only a short drive away too, so I’ve spent many day and overnight trips to explore and fish there as well. 

For Caleb, learning more about rural health has been a highlight.

“I’ve always been interested in Aboriginal health and how nurses can improve health outcomes for Aboriginal people,” he said.

“WA Country Health Service has been the best place to learn about Aboriginal health and make an impact in this space.”

Caleb said being a newly qualified nurse in country health has given him access to opportunities to upskill and allowed him to make the most of the teaching available through his colleagues.

“In Geraldton, we have staff from all around Australia and the world that bring a wealth of experience. It is inspiring working alongside passionate clinicians and being able to learn from them,” he said.

“There is a good sense of community between the graduates. At the end of the day, we are all on this journey together.” 

Acting Executive Director Nursing and Midwifery Yvonne Bagwell said WA Country Health Service is the place for newly qualified nurses and midwives to increase their scope of practice

“Country health is known for supportive communities – among our staff and patients. We have always been proud that our regional hospitals are a great learning environment for early career nurses and midwives.”

Caleb’s advice for other graduates is to befriend the people around you. You might even find yourself a ‘nurse mum’.

“I have multiple nurse mums at the hospital and ask a hundred questions a day!” he said.

“The GradConnect program has given me a great start to my career and already helped me build social and professional connections.” 

Newly qualified registered nurses and midwives that start working in regional WA after 1 July 2023 may be eligible for up to $12,000 support on HECS-HELP loans.

If you’re a newly qualified nurse or midwife looking to call the country home, apply for the GradConnect program before 17 July 2023.