I joined Carefor in 2009 as a Personal Support Worker and worked for a period of time in our Inner City Program. In 2016 I became an RPN and joined Carefor’s Visit Nursing Team. Two months ago I transitioned to being an RPN at Carefor’s Belfast clinic. Suffice to say, I’ve seen a lot of what Carefor offers in the community. Working as a nurse in the community was a great experience as a new nurse. I got to use a wide scope of practice with my clients and was never bored, always seeing something new. Working on my own I felt challenged but knew that I had the support of my colleagues and supervisors in case I had questions or issues.

Community nursing is different than in the hospital. You really get to see how someone lives and what they need. You’re able to see how your work is just one part of their care. Being in their home and seeing their reality allows you to make other recommendations such as physiotherapy and dietetics to offer better care The family is also often a part of your care, which can be a great benefit to the client. My goal isn’t just to treat the illness but also to treat the whole client, so having family involved can offer a better sense of the client’s day to day and their situation.

What’s more, the family can treat you like an honoured guest as they work to help their loved one improve or end their journey with peace.