New pathway into perioperative nursing

14 Sep 2021

Registered Nurse Shelbi Morrell has graduated from the twelve-week course that saw her gain experience in different areas of nursing within the Operating Theatres suite and will see her continue to work in the space.

The course is designed to support experienced registered nurses who are looking to change specialties and move into the surgical areas.

Shelbi was ready for a change when she applied for and received a place in the first round of the course.  

“Early in my career I missed out on a graduate program and didn’t have the opportunity to experience a range of different clinical areas and complete a formal training program,” said Shelbi.

“After four years’ experience as a registered nurse in the Endoscopy Department I wanted to grow my career and was ready for my next challenge, the course provided a way in.

“I now feel more confident in the operating suite but I know I have just started to scrape the surface and look forward to continuing to learn and experience different surgical specialties.”

Clinical Educator Simone Crombie facilitated the course and said that while it was shorter than previous versions it still included all the detail needed to qualify.

“Nursing has such a diverse area of expertise and many choose to continue their learning and undergo specialist training, which is needed in the surgical field,” said Simone.  

“The Introduction to Perioperative Services course was a pleasure to facilitate as it is fast moving but comprehensive and kept the participant’s attention throughout the curriculum.

“The best part is that Shelbi will have the opportunity to choose her preferred area to work in and we now have a new, fully trained perioperative nurse.”

St John of God Mt Lawley Hospital will host two more nurses in the next round of the Introduction to Perioperative Services course in October 2021.