Staff spotlight: aged care nursing more than just a job

For many registered nurses, working in Residential Aged Care Homes (RACH) is more than just a job – it’s a calling.

At BUPA Merrimac, three dedicated nurses recently shared their experiences, highlighting both the challenges and the deeply rewarding moments that define their careers.

A career-changing experience

For Monalisa Arcenas-Baterna, a registered nurse and quality education manager, working in aged care has been nothing short of life changing.

With a background in the Philippines Department of Health and as a nursing instructor, stepping into aged care in Australia a decade ago was a completely new experience.

“This role is not for the weak,” Monalisa said.

“The biggest challenge we face is the nurse-to-resident ratios; we want to provide quality care, so it’s important those ratios are right.”

Despite the challenges, Monalisa finds immense satisfaction in what she does.

“Our residents treat us as family, and in many cases, we are as involved as their own family members in major decisions about their care,” she said.

Monalisa is also heavily involved in government compliance, ensuring the facility continuously improves and meets residents’ needs.

“Making a difference in their lives, in whatever ways we can, is what it’s all about,” she said.

A personal connection

Celine Hawes’ journey into aged care nursing was inspired by the deeply personal experience of caring for her father when he fell ill.

Coming from working at the casino and in a bakery, she never expected to find her passion in nursing, but looking after her father sparked a love for caring for the elderly.

“[Although an unusual pathway] it seemed like a natural progression, and I haven’t regretted a moment of it,” Celine said.

“That said, it can get hectic on the floor, and no matter how well you plan, things can change quickly.

“And there’s a fine balance between completing tasks and spending time with residents, but we make it work.”

Celine said one of the most rewarding parts of her job is witnessing residents regain independence.

“When someone comes back from hospital with mobility issues, we work closely with them on their rehabilitation,” she said.

“Seeing them walk again, seeing that smile on their face, it’s an incredible feeling.”

Celine encourages those considering aged care nursing to give it a go.

“It will challenge you and make you question if you want to do it, but if you do, the rewards are definitely there,” she said.

Building trust and understanding

For Piyush Patel, a registered nurse and clinical manager, working in aged care in Australia has been a completely different experience from his medical background in India.

“In India, we don’t really have aged care facilities like this,” Piyush explains.

“Here, we work closely with the same residents every day, which allows us to develop strong communication and understanding of their needs.”

He says a key challenge in his role is managing immediate medical concerns, as there is no on-site doctor.

“Many residents get upset when they must go to the hospital, so the more we can manage their care here, the better it is for them.

“People need to trust that we can provide that level of care, and I believe they do,” he said.

More than just a job

Despite the pressures, all three nurses agree on one thing – aged care nursing is incredibly rewarding.

It requires resilience, compassion, and a willingness to go the extra mile.

But for those who embrace the challenge, the sense of purpose and the difference they make in residents’ lives make it all worthwhile.

Whether it’s seeing a resident regain their independence, becoming a trusted part of their extended family, or ensuring the best quality care is provided every day, aged care nurses play a vital role in the lives of some of society’s most vulnerable members.

And for Monalisa, Celine, and Piyush, that’s what makes the job truly special.