Nurses and midwives from the South Western Sydney Local Health District are among 24 state wide finalists nominated for the 2020 NSW Health excellence in nursing and midwifery awards.
The finalists have been selected from nominations across seven categories which recognise nurses and midwives who have made a difference in clinical practice, management and leadership.
Poumansing Gujraz is a finalist in the Judith Meppem leadership award, while Kaarina Paasila is vying for the Aboriginal nurse or midwife of the year honour.
Mr Gujraz is the nurse unit manager of the rehabilitation and geriatrics ward 1B at Fairfield Hospital and was nominated for his work leading workplace culture change.
“We have a good strong culture, where we work together to identify changes that need to be made and implement those improvements,” he said.
As the Binya Winyangara (Darug for pregnant mothers) midwife, Ms Paasila works with Aboriginal women as they prepare for the birth of their child at Liverpool Hospital.
“It’s so important that Aboriginal women feel comfortable accessing care with someone who is culturally aware,” she said.
“I feel so privileged to be in this position to be able to offer continuity of care in a way that is culturally sensitive.”
NSW Health chief nursing and midwifery officer Jacqui Cross said the awards recognise the contribution and dedication of nurses and midwives working in the NSW public health system, who this year have been facing the additional challenges of the Covid-19 pandemic.
“These awards are an opportunity to honour nurses and midwives across NSW who go above and beyond and make a real difference not only within their teams but, most importantly, to the patients they care for,” Ms Cross said.
Each local health district and specialty network nominated their nurses and midwives in six award categories.
NSW community members were eligible to vote for the Healing Heart consumer award, the seventh category, which recognises nurses and midwives who deliver outstanding patient care and support for families and carers.
This year, in line with Covid-19 safety measures, the awards ceremony will be held remotely.
Nurses, midwives, their families and the broader community will be able to watch the award show, which will be streamed on November 26.
There are more than 53,000 nurses and midwives working in NSW Health hospitals and health services.
The NSW Government is investing $2.8 billion to recruit 8,300 extra frontline staff over the next three years, including an additional 5,000 more nurses and midwives.
For more information on the 2020 excellence in nursing and midwifery awards click here.
