Sinead Murphy, Registered Nurse with NNA, speaks about her experience ​on what it's like to work with a nursing agency in Sydney and highlights how this type of work "gives you the freedom of working when you want and need".

Why did you first get into Nursing? What do you love most about the job/ working with NNA?

Truly I got into nursing as my best friends mum told me to. She was a nurse and said I had all the features of a good one. There was no “I wanted to be a nurse all my life” feeling. When I qualified I absolutely loved it and knew I was good at it. What I like most with working with NNA is truly the opportunities it has brought into my life. There are roles (clinical advisor/facilitation) I would never have been able to do in Ireland/ England.

What is your nursing specialty and what facilities/locations do you usually work at?

When I started with NNA I was working in ICU/facilitation. In May 2018 Nathan at NNA proposed a 6-month contract role in an insurance company in which I worked as a clinical advisor and I have worked here since.

Do you enjoy the flexibility of picking and choosing shifts suit your family and/or lifestyle?

When I was on the floor I like the flexibility of working when I wanted however with that comes downfalls. Work can be slow some weeks which can be worrying if you’re trying to pay the bills etc. Unlike me you just need to be smart and save for the rainy day.

What is a typical day like for you?

My day looks significantly different than it used too. I wake up at 5.00 go to the gym and have a small walk and start work around 730/800 am. I work till 5.00 and usually take a 1 hour break where I get fresh air. One thing I have very much learnt in a corporate role is that your “you time and break” is essential. On the floor you feel guilty for taking a break as you have SO MUCH TO DO! However, how can you provide the best care to an individual/individuals when you aren’t looking after yourself?

What are the main challenges you face as a nurse?

As a nurse the main challenges I can see looking back is burn out. You’re working so hard and think very little about yourself. Nurses tend to be martyrs (strong word) who will always put the patient first regardless of how they may be suffering. That needs to change and nurses need to see then values in themselves. Also as an agency nurse there can be many challenges as there is no real TEAM MORAL as you can be working in various different locations. This can lead to anxious about shifts etc.

What do you love most about nursing?

I truly love patients and the feeling like I am helping them and making a difference to their journey in hospital. I have to say elderly patients will always be my favourite as they are very grateful and full of wisdom and knowledge.

What advice would you give to other agency nurses?

Agency life is not for everyone and that’s ok. It can be filled with worry about shifts, money rent etc (perhaps this was just me as I terrible with saving and money management). Although, that being said it gives you the freedom of working when you want and need. Which leads to more adventures and holidays. That work life balance. I can only speak from experience with NNA but there is just so many prospects out there and NNA will provide it.

If you are looking for Agency Nurse opportunities with NNA, click here to register with us: https://www.nursing-agency.com.au/jobs