Meet Theresa, Registered Nurse, one of the many clinicians counting down to the opening of Hervey Bay Hospital’s new Medical Ward 4 later this year.
For Theresa, being part of a brand‑new ward is a rare opportunity to help shape the culture, processes, and standards from day one. She’s especially excited about the state‑of‑the‑art design and the dedicated cardiac care area, both of which she believes will make a meaningful difference for patients and staff.
How long have you worked in nursing?
I’ve been working as a Registered Nurse since 2024. Although I’m relatively early in my nursing career, I bring a diverse professional background that has shaped my approach to excellence in patient care, teamwork, and safety. Beginning my nursing career in a busy Emergency Department allowed me to rapidly develop my clinical skills which were then further enhanced on an acute medical ward. My role as a health and safety representative has allowed me to develop my passion for safety and quality assurance within healthcare settings.
What’s the most rewarding part of your job?
The most rewarding part of nursing for me is being able to make a genuine difference during some of the most vulnerable moments in a person’s life. Being local to the Wide Bay and having been a consumer of our health services personally, I have genuine insight into being on the receiving end of care and how our health service's values, particularly "through patients' eyes" are applied. Whether it’s providing comfort, advocating for a patient, or contributing to a positive clinical outcome, it’s incredibly fulfilling to know that my care has had a meaningful impact. I also find great reward in supporting my colleagues and fostering a safe environment for both patients and staff.
What aspect or feature of the new Medical Ward 4 are you most excited about?
I’m particularly excited about the state-of-the-art design and the dedicated cardiac care area. Having a specialised space for cardiac patients means we can deliver more focused, timely, and evidence-based care. The integration of modern equipment and thoughtful layout will support both patient monitoring and staff workflow, which ultimately enhances safety and efficiency.
How do you think the new space will change the way you and your team care for patients?
The new ward will significantly enhance the way we deliver care by improving visibility, accessibility, and collaboration. With updated, spacious facilities and smarter design, we’ll be able to respond more quickly to patient needs, reduce risks, and streamline communication within the multidisciplinary team. From a health and safety perspective, the improved environment will also help minimise workplace hazards and support better patient experiences and outcomes.
What excites you most about being part of this next chapter for the hospital?
Being part of a brand new ward is a unique opportunity to help shape the culture, processes, and standards from the ground up. It’s exciting to contribute to a forward-thinking environment that prioritises innovation, safety, and high-quality care. I’m especially looking forward to growing alongside the team and being involved in establishing best practices, such as our 24-hour Standards of Care model, in a modern healthcare setting.
What advice would you give someone considering a career in nursing?
I would say go into nursing with an open mind and a willingness to learn, because no two days are ever the same, and there are so many different types of nursing to pursue. It’s a challenging profession, but also incredibly rewarding. Build resilience, value teamwork, and never underestimate the importance of compassion. If you are considering a nursing career a little later in life, your background and life experiences are extremely valuable and valued—they shape the kind of nurse you will become. And most importantly, always advocate for your patients, and for safe, quality care.