#IYNM20: Focus on Nursing Leadership

2020 has been named The International Year of the Nurse and Midwife by the World Health Organisation, the key campaign message is Champions of Change.

At the forefront of change are our nursing leaders. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO) nurses and midwives are already advocates and innovators in the health care system, but they must be properly valued and represented in health leadership roles where they can guide health policy and investment.

A key investment area for this year’s campaign is “Invest in nursing and midwifery leadership”.

Nursing and midwifery leadership plays a critical role and makes a significant contribution to health care in Australia. Nurse leaders are in a solid position to help design models of care that can make a real difference to people’s lives. This includes the ability to foster a positive work environment, which is unquestionably key for creating better patient outcomes.

Here, our very own Nurse Leader Jennine Harbrow, Director Clinical Services, tells us a little about herself, including her plans to nurture a positive work environment for the Jessie McPherson Private Nursing and Midwifery Team.

 

PROFILE: JENNINE HARBROW, DIRECTOR CLINICAL SERVICES, JESSIE MCPHERSON PRIVATE HOSPITAL

What gets you out of bed in the morning?

Firstly, it’s the dogs wanting to go out for a walk, and secondly I have a passion for helping others.

 

What keeps you awake at night?

Too much coffee!! Otherwise I’m good.

 

If you could have tea with anyone who ever lived, who would it be and why?

I would invite my mum and dad (who both passed away 15 years ago) over to my home.  We would catch up on all the many events and things that have happened since their passing, as well as chatting about the good old days. I miss them.

 

Favourite sports team?  

Go the Swannies!

I have followed the Sydney Swans since they were based in South Melbourne.

 

How would you describe your job to a child?  

My job involves caring for the sick, both young and old, in a hospital. The team I work with help people get better so they can get back home to their loved ones.

 

Why did you choose Nursing as a career?

From an early age I was interested in becoming a nurse, I wanted to make a difference.

I discovered very quickly that nursing connects people, and it’s that bond that continues to inspire me and drive me forward. I’ve seen first hand how vital the relationships with patients are to the provision of excellent care. Nursing is an extremely rewarding career, whether you are starting out or in a position of leadership, every day is an opportunity to grow, and learn something new.

 

If you hadn’t followed nursing what would you be doing?

Still in a health care profession but as a Dental Therapist, focusing on preventative and restorative dental care.

 

Night out or night in?

I’m a homebody, I love to stay in.

 

Favourite take-out food?

I love Indian food, my favourite choice has to be samosas and butter chicken.

Previous role?

Over the past 9 years I have been working at the level of Operations Director or Director of Nursing. My roles have included Director of Nursing at Dandenong Hospital, Acting General Manager at Casey Hospital and most recently Director of Nursing, Monash Health Community.

During my most recent role at Monash Health Community I led a team that worked with clients across the age spectrum, providing care which supports clients through all stages of non-acute care from prevention through to rehabilitation. Providing services which support clients in their homes, community based facilities and dedicated community hubs. The aim being to empower and prepare clients to self-manage their health and health care, with a particular focus on the most vulnerable community members.

I’m excited to bring my knowledge and experience to the Director Clinical Services role at Jessie McPherson Private Hospital.

 

What are you most looking forward to in the role of Director Clinical Services at Jessie McPherson Private Hospital?

Working with the Jessie Nursing Team! I feel very fortunate to be working with passionate people at Jessie McPherson Private, people who are committed to their profession and their patients.

My goal is to partner with our nurses to recognise the key roles they perform, and assist in delivering excellent patient centred care. From a nursing leadership point of view I will ensure Jessie McPherson Private provides our nursing team with a work environment that is not only supportive, but also fulfilling, with opportunities for career growth and professional development.

And speaking of championing change, I hope to inspire and motivate individuals and teams to achieve better patient outcomes, by empowering our nursing team to understand their ability to make key contributions to the health care system and be a force for change.

 

Cat, dog or other?

Love both, but I find dogs are loyal.  My family rescued two female border collies, Tilly and Franki (pictured).

 

 

 

 

Learn more about Jennine and our leadership team here.

Learn more about the International Year of the Nurse and Midwife here.