Tackling a nursing role where every day’s different is the thing that drew Haidee Kerr to a career with the Royal Flying Doctor Service (RFDS) (Queensland Section).
Now 15-years on, Haidee’s able to reflect on her time with the flying doctor and the difference she’s been able to make in people’s lives.
“Having grown up in a rural area myself, I saw first hand the value the RFDS brought, as I’d had family aeromedically retrieved,” Haidee said.
“I was working at Mount Isa Hospital Emergency Department where I upgraded my qualifications to include midwifery, and I was fortunately successful in applying for a Flight Nurse role at RFDS Mount Isa Base.
“From the moment I took off on my first flight I knew I was exactly where I wanted to be.”
Haidee now bases herself out of Brisbane but knows the state’s capital is just the starting point and her day can take her anywhere.
“From landing on dirt airstrips in remote Queensland to collaborating with other agencies to retrieve patients, the variety that comes with each day and the requirement to constantly adapt is what makes the role challenging but also rewarding.”
“I also get the chance to work out of the RFDS Operations Control Centre supporting other Flight Nurses and partnering agencies.
“This can involve providing equipment and policy support over the phone, obtaining patient updates to assist our crews in the field and supporting the team on the tarmac when we land in Brisbane.”
While the variety of each day has always appealed to Haidee, the greatest impact on her life has come from helping people when they need it most.
“I’m constantly in awe of the courage and resilience demonstrated by our patients and their families,” Haidee said.
“Many of my patients demonstrate remarkable courage, resilience and positivity and their strength is a constant reminder for me to focus on what truly matters.
“It really does inspire me to approach my own life with greater perspective and gratitude.”
