Aged care provides endless opportunities in nursing

May 5, 2016

Uniting AgeWell’s Clinical Care Coordinator, Luke Pualic, believes nurses working in aged care have a wonderful opportunity to make the biggest impact on people’s lives. 

The Kingsville-based nurse will join the rest of the organisation in celebrating International Nurses Day on Thursday, May 12.

Uniting AgeWell General Manager People Services, Helen Baker, says Uniting AgeWell’s nurses are a highly valued part of the workforce and International Nurses Day is a great opportunity to thank all our nurses and personal care workers for their commitment to the care of residents and the invaluable services they provide. 

“We have very dedicated nurses and care staff throughout Uniting AgeWell, with Registered and Enrolled Nurses providing high quality clinical care every day,” she said.

“These are critical roles ensuring the wellbeing of residents, particularly those who have complex care needs.” 

Luke says a career in nursing has opened many doors and allowed him to work in different areas of the health industry.

“I’ve worked in hospitals and in theatre but I’ve always returned to aged care because there’s an opportunity to make the biggest impact on people’s lives,” he said.

“A lot of focus is given to people at the start of life, but I really believe there should be more focus on end of life care as well.

“It’s very rewarding getting to know our residents and their families intimately, forming long lasting relationships, making a difference and developing friendships and partnerships through care.

“I consider it an honour to support and enhance the wellbeing of older people.” 

Luke has been at Uniting AgeWell for more than 18 months and says the organisation has provided him challenges unparalleled to any other roles he has done.

“Working at UA constantly pushes me to learn and extend myself professionally and personally,” he said.

“There’s a huge diversity of residents at UA, people from all walks of life, ethnicities and health complexities.  Everyday is different.

“We work closely with chaplains, physiotherapists and other areas of the organisation to meet the goals of supporting older people to experience a sense of wellbeing at every age and stage of their lives.”

Nurses make up 20 per cent of the workforce at Uniting AgeWell’s 20 residential sites across Victoria and Tasmania. 

Photograph and interview opportunities are available.