A quick chat with… a nurse and midwife on the postnatal ward

A quick chat with Ann Blackmore about life as a nurse and midwife.

Which hospital do you work at and what do you do there?

I work at Liverpool Hospital. I work on the postnatal ward as a registered nurse/midwife.

What is your educational background?

I did my registered nurse training the "old fashioned way" (chucked in at the deep end) at Bedford General Hospital in the UK.

After moving to Australia, I completed a conversion course at the University of Southern Queensland. I went on to complete a Graduate Certificate in Sexual and Reproductive Health (Family Planning NSW). I then completed a degree in Child and Family Health and Midwifery at Western Sydney University.

Why did you choose this career path?

I have always had a keen interest in family health.

What does a typical day on the job look like for you?

My day is full. Caring for mums and babies, admissions, discharges, working within a team of healthcare professionals, spending time listening to families and making sure their postnatal experience is a good one. Supporting, mentoring and teaching students during their secondment to the ward.

What do you love about your job and what would you change?

I love the continuity of care when I am able to care for a family from the time they are admitted to time of discharge, watching and supporting new mums adapt to the new role of being a mother.

What advice would you give to nurses entering the profession?

Don't be afraid to take up any opportunities that come your way – move out of your comfort zone.

What advice would you give yourself on your first ever day?

Find a mentor, ask questions and ask more questions.

What is the next step in your nursing career?

Reduce hours/retire/win lotto.

What books are you reading at the moment?

See What You Made Me Do: Power, Control and Domestic Abuse by Jess Hill, and The Rosie Result by Graeme Simsion.

What was your first concert?

Thin Lizzy at Slane Castle, Ireland, 1981.

Most recent?

Hugh Jackman tonight, or Hugh Jackman the last time he was in Sydney. There is a pattern forming...

What's the best holiday you've ever been on?

Trip to UK, Ireland, Jamaica, Paris and Amsterdam with four kids under four. They slept on every plane trip. Nothing else mattered.

What's your ideal meal?

At home, lots of people. Doesn't matter what we are eating.

What’s your ultimate day-off activity?

Beach/bush walk with family or friends. Lunch somewhere nice, and home to a clean house. I have never managed to achieve the clean house part, but I'm living in hope!

 

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