Starting in Acute Paediatrics
Emily began her nursing career at the Great Northern Children’s Hospital, rotating through paediatric wards and the neonatal intensive care unit. Early on, she encountered a variety of conditions — from acute infections to complex chronic illnesses — which helped her develop critical thinking, rapid decision-making, and resilience under pressure. Working closely with families, she learned how essential empathy, communication, and reassurance are in supporting both young patients and their caregivers.
After a few years, Emily took on a role as a Paediatric Diabetes Specialist Nurse, where she provided education and tailored support for children and teenagers living with long-term conditions. “This role taught me that empowering children and families to understand and manage their conditions is as important as the clinical care we provide,” she says. “It’s about fostering confidence and independence while maintaining a supportive environment.”
Transitioning to General Practice Nursing
The move to general practice nursing marked a significant shift. “I wanted to extend my impact beyond the hospital walls and focus on preventative care,” Emily explains. In her new role, she manages routine health checks, vaccinations, chronic disease monitoring, and family health education — all while maintaining strong relationships with children and their families over time.
The transition wasn’t without challenges. Adapting from the fast-paced, immediate-response environment of a hospital ward to a proactive, longitudinal care approach required a shift in mindset. “In general practice, you don’t just treat a condition; you support overall wellbeing and early intervention, helping families stay healthy before problems arise,” Emily notes.
Seeing the Bigger Picture
Working in the community allows Emily to witness the long-term impact of her care. From routine health visits to advising families on lifestyle changes, she plays a vital role in shaping healthier futures for children. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see a child flourish over time because of consistent, person-centred care. Building those trusting relationships is what makes this work so meaningful.”
Emily also mentors new nurses entering community care, sharing insights from her paediatric background to enhance the quality of care provided. She emphasizes the importance of bridging hospital experience with community-based practice to ensure seamless continuity of care for young patients.
Looking Ahead
Reflecting on her journey, Emily believes the combination of acute and community nursing experience has shaped her into a more versatile and empathetic professional. “Both environments complement each other,” she says. “Hospital experience builds clinical confidence, while community nursing teaches you the value of holistic, preventative care. Together, they create a truly comprehensive approach to children’s health.”
Through her career, Emily Watson exemplifies how dedication, adaptability, and a focus on family-centred care can make a profound difference — not just in immediate health outcomes, but in the long-term wellbeing of the next generation.
