Tamworth nurse wins National Award for Employee of the Year

22 October 2007

The award, which recognises a significant, outstanding contribution by an employee within a private hospital, who has acted above and beyond the call of duty, was presented at the APHA National Congress in Melbourne.

Sue was recognised for performing a wide range of critical roles in the particularly challenging environment of a rural private hospital.

She instigated an occupational risk management program that has a systems approach into the workplace at Tamara Private Hospital.

As a qualified return to work coordinator, she reviews all injured staff and develops return to work programs.

As a risk manager she has developed a risk management program that includes occupational, clinical and non-clinical risk. She undertook reviews of manual handling practices and equipment, safe management of obese patients and a falls prevention program all of which led to changes in practice and improved outcomes.

Sue is also the clinical education coordinator, infection coordinator and acts as a preceptor to nursing students from the University of New England undertaking their clinical placement at the hospital.

Executive Director of the Australian Private Hospitals Association, Michael Roff, said the judges were particularly impressed with the encouragement and support Sue provides to staff at all levels and that she is a tremendous role model for junior staff.

“Whether it is patients, their relatives, staff or doctors, Sue is always there to help others. She is the epitome of a good nurse, a caring person who responds to situations to ensure that immediate needs are met,” Mr Roff said.

Sue was a joint winner of this award along with Brenda Fieldhouse from Perth Clinic, WA.

For further information, contact:
Fiona Wilson 0416 171 266