Dedication to nursing earns OAM

OF all the critically important tasks emergency nurse Julia Crilly takes on each day, it is the work she does with patients’ families and the vulnerable she is most passionate about.

Professor of Emergency Care Dr Crilly this week received an Order of Australia Medal for her service to emergency care nursing.

Now the fourth staff member in the department at the Gold Coast University Hospital to have received the award, Prof Crilly (pictured) said the recognition was a reflection of the award-winning team.

Colleagues who received the honour in the past include Dr Donald Campbell, Director of Emergency Medicine Associate Professor David Green, and Dr Dinesh Palipana.

Earning her PhD during her 21 years with Gold Coast Health, Prof Crilly has worked to improve many aspects of emergency care inside nursing homes and vulnerable populations.

“I love working in emergency because of the difference you can make to people in such a short amount of time,” Prof Crilly said. “To make a difference in the worst day of someone’s life is what it is about.

“I think the talent at the hospital is reflected in the amazing leadership of Dr Green, who has a vision for the value of research, and a drive to keep improving outcomes for our patients.”

Prof Crilly said while 2020 had been unforgettable year for medical workers, the pandemic had highlighted to the public the value of nurses.

“It is the compassion in the role that makes nurses and health workers special.”