FIVE University of Sunshine Coast students have gained hands-on experience in an aged care placement program at Immanuel Gardens in Buderim as part of the Bachelor of Nursing degree.

Immanuel Gardens Director of Nursing Rae Stokes said the first-year students have kicked many goals during their five week placement.

“What stood out about the interns were their manners, their impeccable dress sense and how they approach each task as a professional,” she said.

“This placement prepared students for the real world through carrying out a variety of hands-on duties.

“It’s opened the students’ eyes to what aged care is really about as many of them haven’t worked in this type of environment before.”

The students have enjoyed their time at Immanuel Gardens. Ninderry resident Tess Murphy, 46, said she was really impressed with the level of care provided to residents at Immanuel Gardens.

“The staff are really caring and look after the residents really well,” she said. 

“Aged care nursing is a good job and I like that you get to know the residents and have more of a relationship with them as opposed to a hospital where the turnover is higher.” 

Mooloolaba resident Rebecca Johnston, 23, said she has learnt fundamental skills about her chosen profession.

“I’ve learnt a holistic approach that when you look after a person you need to look at all levels of care and not parts of it,” she said.

“I’ve been showering, taking care of feeds and learning about medications and wound care.”

Landsborough resident Kara Brien, 19, said she loved Immanuel Gardens. 

“I like the friendly atmosphere, the residents and it is peaceful here,” she said.

Immanuel Gardens General Manager Steve Stacey said this is the second cohort of nursing students this year.

“I feel pleased to work in partnership with the local university to provide work placement opportunities for students to gain valuable practical experience,” he said.

“It is encouraging to see these students who have already shown their enthusiasm, commitment and passion for a career in nursing.”  

University of the Sunshine Coast’s Senior Lecturer in Nursing Eleanor Horton said the Bachelor of Nursing program curriculum emphasises the importance of clinical placements enabling students to establish relationships in a real working environment.

“The University of the Sunshine Coast currently has a strong partnership with Immanuel Gardens and appreciates the model of care that the facility enables the students to experience,” she said.

“For example, they can experience healthy ageing in a retirement village, in supported accommodation, through to those residents who require the meeting of high care needs.”

University of Sunshine Coast Facilitator for Nursing Gea Vaughan-Johnson said the relationship between Immanuel Gardens and the nursing industry was vital for driving students’ careers forward.

“Forming relationships with people is what nursing is all about,” she said.

“Immanuel Gardens has given students the time to explore the things they like doing during their two days of practicum.

“They learn about medication, wound care, the role of allied health professionals, eating, socialising and mobility so when they get into an acute setting they have gained knowledge and a good bank of skills.

“It teaches them compassion, a holistic approach to care and an understanding of the different lifestyles available to the older person.”