Source: NorthTec
With the recent global COVID-19 pandemic putting healthcare workers in the forefront of the public eye, there has never been a better time to study nursing.
Dr Bev Mackay, Nursing Pathway Manager at NorthTec, says: “We cannot currently meet the demand for Bachelor of Nursing graduates in Northland. The nursing workforce shortages will only increase as an outcome of the COVID-19 pandemic and a revamping of the health system.
“Internationally throughout the pandemic, it has been demonstrated more than ever that nurses have a positive influence on health outcomes.The pandemic has forced changes in the health system and therefore the future of nursing is changing.
“There will be expanded opportunities for nurses including in Telehealth – the use of communication technology to deliver medical care from a distance.
“It’s a very exciting time to choose nursing as a career whether you are a school leaver, a second chance learner or changing your career pathway because of employment opportunities.”
Dee Telfer, Acting Director of Nursing & Midwifery at Northland District Health Board says in light of the recent COVID-19 pandemic, it is a great time to get into nursing because: “As a nurse, you have the ability to step up when a crisis occurs and provide confidence to society. As a nurse, you can rationalise fear, analysing information by critiquing the literature and using discernment and informed practice- this enables you to help friends and family stay safe and well.
“As a nurse, you have job security and a sustained income, not to mention the ability to keep our communities safe. Nurses throughout Northland joined forces to meet demand and diversity required to keeping our community safe.”
NorthTec’s NZ Certificate in Study and Career Preparation have newly been developed to allow for blended learning. This means you can learn anywhere in Northland online, with facilitated sessions available from NorthTec’s learning hubs in Kaitaia, Kerikeri and Whangārei. These programmes can lead you to study at degree level, including Nursing.
NorthTec recently held a digital Nursing Information Evening that was live-streamed on their Facebook page. The first of its kind, the event reached nearly 70,000 people which highlights the interest nursing is gaining in this current climate.
NorthTec graduate Marinda is currently working at KeriMed Doctors in Kerikeri and says nursing is a privilege. She says: “It was a privilege to be on the frontline helping and supporting people throughout the COVID-19 pandemic in Northland.
“We continue to work through rain, hail or shine in the car parks triaging people who arrived with chest pain, high blood pressure and severe anxiety. We worked hard together as a team to keep COVID-19 out of our community.
“This is a great time to become a nurse as it is clearly apparent right now the importance of the nursing role in caring for and supporting people through illnesses when they might not have their loved ones with them.”
