Postgraduate nursing student Caitlyn Simpkins-Field is gaining hands-on experience and shaping her future career through her placement at Monto Hospital.
It’s a setting she says offers learning opportunities you simply can’t replicate elsewhere.
After completing her studies at CQUniversity in Bundaberg, Caitlyn chose to return to Monto for her postgraduate placement after completing her undergraduate placements at the hospital.
“When you work at a rural facility it’s all about the experience,” she said.
“I feel like I can gain more experience here than I would in a metro or even a regional hospital.”
Reflecting on her earlier placements at Monto, Caitlyn said the learning environment stood out immediately.
“It was amazing working here as an undergraduate, I learnt so much,” she said.
“Everything you study is expanded so much more in a rural setting. You really get to put theory into practice.”
When asked what she is most looking forward to during her postgraduate placement, Caitlyn said it was hard to choose just one thing.
“I’m probably most excited about following patients through their journey and seeing their success, whether that’s going home or moving on to other care,” she said.
“I can’t wait to learn the skills that will be vital for my future as a nurse.”
Caitlyn’s passion for rural nursing grew steadily throughout her studies, particularly as she compared different placement experiences.
“In some other placements I found things weren’t as hands-on,” she said.
“Out here, you really benefit from one-on-one time with nurses and the chance to try different things.”