Samantha Brady, a Registered Nurse with Carinity Home Care Hervey Bay, is dedicated to ensuring Fraser Coast seniors can remain living in their home as long as possible – and as safely as possible. Her commitment saw her recognised as a finalist for the Queensland Nurses and Midwives’ Union Professional Practice Awards.
What inspired you to support older people in your community?
When I started working at the hospital while completing my nursing degree, I would regularly see elderly people come in. Many did not have the support they needed at home or did not have family nearby. Often what caused them to be in hospital could have been prevented if they had the right assistance in their home. I made it my mission to try and keep as many seniors at home and as safe as possible.
What does your role entail?
I help seniors to stay in their home as long as possible. This might include doing wound care, clinical and continence assessments, referrals and doing what I can do to make sure everything they need is in place and their home is safe.
Why do you think seniors should strive to remain living in their homes for longer?
For seniors, living in their homes longer plays a big part for them mentally and physically. Everyone is comfortable in their own environment and removing someone from that can change a person. Clients can be independent at home as much as possible and are in a familiar environment.
What do you enjoy most about supporting seniors in your district?
I love everything about my role. Being able to make my clients happy and positive makes my day. The thing I enjoy most is knowing my clients are happy and safe by the end of the day. It feels amazing to support as many seniors as possible in their homes. I even had one client call me ‘Dr. Sam’ as I managed to get her wound healed when others struggled.
What do you like best about working for Carinity Home Care Hervey Bay?
We have a great little team which works together and communicates to provide the best care we can to all our clients. Carinity has been one of the best places I have worked. I am glad I was given the opportunity to work here. It’s given me the chance to fulfill my dreams and goals.
What was it like to be a finalist in the 2021 Queensland Nurses and Midwives’ Union Professional Practice Awards?
It felt amazing because I was able to get awareness out there about community care and our home care service which greatly benefits the elderly who wish to stay in their home. I feel like I am accomplishing my goals.
Apart from supporting seniors, what are your other passions?
I am passionate about helping others and motivating everyone to appreciate the smaller things in life, not the bigger picture.
