What does a nurse do?
The tasks and responsibilities of a nurse will vary based on their specialisation and work environment, but a general outline of daily duties will likely include performing and supervising patient care tasks, administering medication and treatments, using medical equipment, observing and reporting on the condition of their patients and providing information to patients and family members about medical conditions.
Tasks:
- Provide rehabilitative, curative and preventative treatments to patients
- Monitor, assess and report on patient condition
- Work closely with other medical professionals
- Offer support and information to patients and their families
- Use a variety of medical equipment
What skills do I need to be a nurse?
Being a nurse is a demanding but rewarding career. Nurses are at the frontline of patient care, coping with the need of the sick, injured or impaired. To be a nurse you need compassion and patience, the ability to communicate with people from a wide range of cultural backgrounds, an efficient approach to completing tasks and a detail-oriented focus on your work. Nurses often work long hours on their feet and may be required to work shifts involving nights, weekends and public holiday.
- Caring and patient demeanour
- Can perform tasks exactly as instructed
- Good attention to detail
- Problem solving skills
- Communicates well with all people
Specialisations
Nursing is a huge industry, full of different career paths that allow you to tailor your studies and training to help you find fulfillment in your professional work. Below are some popular clinical nursing careers, though many more related roles exist in nursing management, research, policy and education:
Enrolled Nurse
Registered Nurse
Emergency Nurse
Paediatric Nurse
Aged Care Nurse
Oncology Nurse
Perioperative Nurse
Remote Area Nurse
Community Health Nurse
Mental Health Nurse
Study pathways for nurses
There are opportunities for employment in the nursing industry at every level, from entry-level jobs requiring vocational training to specialised study for those purusing high-level roles within the healthcare system.
Getting Started
These vocational courses will allow you to join the nursing profession in an entry-level role, such as Enrolled Nurse.
Skill Building
Study for career advancement. Qualify as a Registered Nurse or pursue a career specialisation.
Professional Development
These study options will enable you to pursue high-level employment options requiring extensive qualification or specialisation in a particular nursing field.
Industry Recognition
Nurses in Australia are required to register with the Nursing and Midwifery Board after completing their professional accreditation. Find out more about the professional requirements of the nursing industry in the Resources section.
Getting a job after graduation
Put your training to good use and get the best professional head start in your nursing career. Take a look at our sample resume and cover letter and put your best foot forward when you apply for nursing jobs