Redland Satellite Hospital’s Minor Injuries and Illness Clinic Nurse Unit Manager Michelle McDonnell is celebrating 40 years as a nurse.
From a young age, Michelle said knew she wanted to be a nurse.
“I can remember starting Grade 1, and the first library book I borrowed was called 'I want to be a Nurse',” she said.
Michelle said many changes had occurred in nursing since she started.
“Firstly, we don’t wash bed pans anymore after delivering patients their breakfast. All the nurses reported to the food trolley where the NUM would hand out meals then they would go to the pan room to scrub metal pans with Ajax. How times have changed!”
Michelle said she cherished caring for patients and families.
“Everyone has a story to tell of their life experiences – I love listening. I’ve observed people show strength and courage in times of sadness and adversity,” she said.
One memorable experience involved a retired nurse in her 80s.
“She had a gentle and calm manner, and she gave me a handmade thank you card with The Nurses Prayer, which I still have today,”
Advances in cancer treatment stand out in Michelle's career.
“I worked on a cancer ward where many women with breast cancer were terminal. In today’s world, they would have survived.”
Michelle said her career had taken her across Central Queensland, overseas, and even to Birdsville for the Big Red Bash.
Her advice to new nurses is to be passionate about helping others.
“Nursing is demanding but rewarding.”