The 2000 nurses and midwives who work at hospital, community, oral health, mental health and correctional health centres throughout West Moreton Health have been applauded for their care and commitment during a fortnight of celebrations to mark International Nurses Day and International Day of the Midwife. 

West Moreton Health Executive Director Nursing and Midwifery Karyn Ehren said it took a special kind of person to provide compassionate care to people when they were at their most vulnerable. 

“We often get wonderful messages from patients and the community thanking our nurses for all that they do, and they really appreciate this support,” Ms Ehren said. 

(Pictured, clockwise from top left): Midwife of the Year Jacqueline Matyear, Nurse of the Year Paul D'Arcy, Preceptor Midwife of the Year Sophie Clarke and Preceptor Nurse of the Year Stephanie Harlow.

Theatre scrub/scout Registered Nurse Paul D’Arcy was named Nurse of the Year and Clinical Nurse Stephanie Harlow was awarded Preceptor Nurse of the Year to mark International Nurses Day this week (Wednesday 12 May).  

Multicultural and Refugee Liaison Midwife Jac Matyear was named Midwife of the Year and Registered Midwife Sophie Clarke was awarded Preceptor (Educator) Midwife of the Year during International Day of the Midwife celebrations last week.  

Ms Ehren congratulated the winners and applauded the contribution of West Moreton Health’s entire nursing and midwifery team.  

“Jacqueline is a strong advocate for multicultural and refugee women and supports them to access the care they need to achieve the best possible health outcomes.   

“Sophie is similarly valued for her experience and expertise and is a respected mentor who takes time to connect with others to ensure they have a positive learning experience.  

“Paul is a scrub/scout nurse working in the operating theatres who is an incredible team player and a strong patient advocate. Paul is really valued for his sense of humour and the rapport he builds with patients and staff alike.   

“Stephanie works in the surgical ward and is an innovative and passionate mentor to others who paces learning to the individual needs of others.”  

Ms Matyear said it was rewarding to coordinate the midwifery care for women with refugee and multicultural backgrounds.  

She provides community antenatal clinics and extended postnatal care, while working with other clinicians to coordinate culturally safe maternity services throughout the care experience.  

Ms Matyear, who has worked for West Moreton Health for 10 years, said refugee and multicultural women with trauma backgrounds were at greater risk of health complications for themselves or their babies.  

“Providing continuity of care for women is really important,” Ms Matyear said. “By providing care in the community, closer to home, we allow women the advantage of seeing the same midwife throughout their pregnancy.”  

Ms Harlow, a passionate mentor, said she tailored learning and development opportunities to the needs of the individual to ensure the best possible outcomes for patients.  

“Nursing is forever changing as a profession, so life-long learning is the key to achieving the best outcomes for patients, both physically and emotionally,’’ Ms Harlow said.  

Ms Ehren said the nurses and midwives at West Moreton Health were passionate patient advocates who supported consumers to make informed decisions about their care.  

“It is my privilege to champion the contribution of so many knowledgeable and capable midwives and nurses at West Moreton Health,” Ms Ehren said.