As a registered nurse working in an acute care setting, you can expect to be on your feet, in an active, dynamic environment delivering the highest standard of care. Being an advocate for patients whilst using your skills and knowledge to solve problems and provide solutions is what makes the nursing profession a fulfilling career choice.
We spoke to Molly, one of our fabulous travel registered nurses. Originally from New Zealand, Molly migrated to Australia in October 25, and has been working across regional New South Wales on short term contract placements with Pulse ever since. Coming from a family of nurses, nurturing and caring for others is engrained into her nature so it was only a matter of time before she followed in her family’s footsteps. Predominantly working across general medical/surgical and colorectal wards, she has always wanted to travel with her job. With her having family in Brisbane and Sydney, moving to experience Australia’s travel nurse opportunities seemed like a no brainer.
In contrast to working in the second largest hospital in Auckland, we find out what a typical day looks like for her on contract in the Central Tablelands, NSW.
What does a typical day look like for a general medical/surgical registered nurse?
Registered nurses working in acute care settings will often be assigned a certain number of patients to look after throughout the duration of their shift. The radio of patient to nurse will change depending on the shift pattern they are on and the availability of nurses. Registered nurses will be required to work around the clock, on a morning shift (07:00am – 15:30pm), afternoon shift (14:30pm – 22:00pm) and a night shift (19:00pm – 07:30am). Shift times can vary between healthcare providers. Below is what a day shift looks like for a registered nurse working in a hospital setting.
07:00am – 07:30am: morning handover from the night shift RNs
Once the shift commences, the registered nurses will receive a handover from those who have been on working throughout the night. A handover usually lasts 15 minutes and will detail any patients of concern, any procedures that are taking place that day and any patients who will be discharged.
The ratio of patients to nurses for the day shift is 5/6:1. A one-to-one handover will happen with these, whereby the nurse on day shift will meet the patients they’re due to care for. This includes confirming their personal details to avoid any mix ups and finding out their reasons for admission.
07:30am – 07:45am: planning for the day ahead
Once handover is completed, the registered nurses will then create a plan for the day. This consists of medication rounds (which often happen at 8am and 3pm) including what medications are needed and for what patient, with the time they’re due logged. Vital observations such as blood sugars and blood pressures are taken, which is factored into the patients care plan for the day.
08:00am – 09:00am: medication rounds and breakfast
With the help of the assistant in nursing members of the team, the patients are assisted with getting ready for the day. This can include:
• Getting changed
• Showering
• Toileting (when required)
• Personal grooming if the patient would like
The first round of medications is given by the registered nurses and breakfast is served. The team ensure that the patients are comfortable and are ready for the doctors to visit.
09:00am – 12:00pm: doctors visit
Doctors will make their way round to their patient’s mid-morning, checking in on their progress. The registered nurses will follow, ensuring that any changes to their care plans for the day are noted down so the correct type of care is delivered.
After the doctor’s visit, patients are allowed to walk around, read, and spend their downtime with an activity of their choosing. The registered nurses and extended healthcare team will be on hand to address any issues and to fulfill any patient needs.
12:00pm – 14:00pm: lunchtime
Similarly to the morning, patients will get prepared for lunch. This usually includes wound care, dressings, and any activities of daily living that are necessary to the patient.
Whilst lunch is served, the registered nurses will make notes on the patients progress and any concerns they have. These notes are made online using a shared system.
Afterwards, the patients will enjoy time at leisure, with the team on hand to help with anything that they need. Patients will have a bell near their bed which they can pull, alerting the team when they need assistance.
14:00pm – 15:00pm: vital observations
Another set of observations are taken before the afternoon shift registered nurses arrive. At 2:30pm, they will start their shift and the system of handover repeats. Any last medications are administered at 3pm and notes are finalised at this time. The day shift will then conclude at 3:30pm.
And that’s your shift complete! The afternoon shift is usually a bit steadier than the morning, as in the second half of the day patients are starting to unwind before bedtime. To work as a night shift registered nurse, you will need to build up your experience as there is a significantly reduced number of nurses working – often at a 7/8:1 patient ratio. There is usually one doctor on call for the entire hospital, so if anyone needs a clinical review during the night then observations may take a little longer.
Believe you have what it takes to be a registered nurse?
Ready to make a difference in the world of healthcare? Nursing is an admirable profession, one where you make a genuine impact in the lives of patients and their families every day.
To join a team that puts your career progression and personal development first, head to our jobs board to apply for one of our nursing vacancies or get in touch with our friendly team today.