May 12, 2025Nurses are at the heart of our health system – caring for lives, families, and communities every day.
Today, 12 May, Northern Health proudly celebrates International Nurses Day.
In line with this year’s theme, “Our Nurses. Our Future. Caring for nurses strengthens economies,” we’re sharing reflections from our very own Ann Dewey, Nurse Practitioner with our Residential in Reach service, who provides specialist care to aged care residents.
Q. What does International Nurses Day mean to you?
International Nurses Day is a day to acknowledge and celebrate the fabulous work all nurses do, regardless of clinical speciality or geographical setting.
Q. What motivated you to choose a career in nursing?
I always knew my career needed to involve contact with people, and nursing offered that and the opportunity to make a difference to those I met. The fact that it could also allow me to travel while working sealed the deal.
Q. Can you walk us through your professional journey in nursing?
It all began on the other side of the globe at University College Hospital in London, back when nurse training was hospital-based. I went on to complete post-basic qualifications in intensive care and cardiothoracic nursing, and worked in both specialties.
Some years later, after a long working holiday, I found myself in Melbourne. Here, I completed my degree along with a variety of postgraduate certificates.
Several children and many jobs later, my career took a new direction. I went on to complete a master’s degree – first in gerontology, and then, when it became available, a nurse practitioner qualification in aged care.
I now work with the In Reach Service, providing specialist care to those living in Residential Aged Care, helping to avoid unnecessary hospital presentations.
Q. What keeps you inspired and driven in your role?
Anyone I encounter who finds innovative solutions to resolve problems makes me believe I can do the same. These individuals renew my enthusiasm and truly inspire me. Having a great team to work with also makes a big difference – their professionalism, skill, and patience on a daily basis continue to carry me forward.
Q. Is there a patient story or moment of care that has left a lasting impact on your heart?
I will never forget the first injection I gave all those years ago. I was a very nervous and inexperienced student, shaking far more than the patient. The smile and thank you I received came as a completely unexpected surprise and, to be honest, a huge relief. I never forget those who show kindness, especially when it’s shown to me.
Q. What message would you like to share with your fellow nursing colleagues?
The small things we do can make a big difference to the people we do them for. Never forget that, and no matter how tough the day gets, there will always be something in it that makes the effort worthwhile.
