It takes a kind and compassionate heart to work in aged care, and after 44 years at Carramar Aged Care Facility at Leeton Hospital there is no doubt enrolled nurse Marian Aliendi has that in spades.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
While caring for residents is rewarding, Mrs Aliendi said it could also be exceptionally challenging.
“I love the compassion. I love nursing, love the people, watching them talk about their family, seeing them smile, making them happy, and helping brighten their day,” Mrs Aliendi said.
“However it is very hard saying goodbye. We treat all as our own family and they become close, so it’s like losing a family member.”
“But we have an excellent team here, we are all supportive of each other, and work well to provide the best care we can.”
As a registered nurse, Mrs Aliendi started her career in 1974 at Leeton Hospital and never left, although did take a few years off to have children.
“Back in those days we did our training at the hospital,” Mrs Aliendi said.
“And I would actually like to see that happen again.
“It would bring more nurses to the profession as they are being paid while they are also getting that hands-on learning experience.”
Working in age care, the one value she says anyone considering working for this area needs to have is compassion.
RELATED:
“You absolutely have to have compassion to look after the elderly, and I would say moreso than they do with other patients. And for those coming here, I think it’s a lovely place to be, to be well looked after.
“It’s a nice place with a friendly environment.”
***
While you’re with us, you can now receive updates straight to your inbox every Friday at 6am from The Irrigator. To make sure you’re up to date with all news in Leeton sign up here.
