May 2005

Alfred nurse training graduates through the years

It is 125 years since Matron Henriette Strong began formal nurse training at the Alfred hospital.

The nursing profession has come a long way from the days where junior nurses were expected to stand when senior nurses and matrons entered a room and cleaning and cooking were part of their duties.

The move to tertiary education of nurses in Victoria and the phasing out of hospital-based training has given nurses degree status and equality with other health professionals who are university-trained.

The Alfred saw the last graduation ceremony from its School of Nursing on September 29, 1992.

This was not an end of an era, however, but the beginning of a new phase for nursing.

Since then, the Alfred has continued to take student nurses on clinical placements as well as a large intake of graduates from many universities each year.

As well, a range of specialty postgraduate courses have been developed in collaboration with the tertiary sector.

In January, the Alfred welcomed 80 graduates.

The Alfred’s program is unique in that graduates stay in one clinical area for the duration of their training—enabling them to develop in a team and gain a sound understanding about the complex range of patient needs.

Claire Hurley is a nurse who started in January.

Claire was initially impressed with Alfred staff who came to talk to students at her university open day and has not been disappointed with her choice so far.

‘I especially liked the one rotation scheme and the overall structure of the program.

‘It was great to have the first two weeks working alongside another nurse to build up my confidence and get to know the ropes.’

Amy Mahady did her clinical placements at the Alfred as a student and enjoyed the mix of people and the support she was given.

‘I think it’s a fantastic, supportive program.

‘Everyone is encouraging you to develop skills and further your knowledge in all areas.’

Nursing Education Manager Gwenda Peters said the graduate program was designed to build on thinking and problem-solving skills.

‘We encouraging a reflective, inquiring environment.’

After graduates finish their first year, they have the option of continuing in that area of practice, exploring another area of nursing practice, or undertaking specialty post-graduate studies through La Trobe University/Alfred Clinical School of Nursing.

In 2004, there were three new speciality Nursing Science Post Graduate Diplomas—Neuroscience Nursing, Renal Nursing and Wound Prevention and Repair.

The Alfred’s Graduate Diplomas in Intensive Care are Emergency, Cardiac, Perioperative and Perianaesthisa Nursing.