Julie Calixto, Assistant in Nursing at Randwick

Having spent 12 years working in aged care, and many of those at SummitCare Randwick, Julie has made a positive impact on so many residents. “The most rewarding part of my job is seeing the residents happy,” said Julie with a genuine smile. “It’s wonderful knowing that what I’m doing is really making a difference.” 

As an Assistant in Nursing, Julie plays a pivotal role in the wellbeing of residents she cares for. A typical day involves managing essential daily living tasks, such as personal care - which includes things like showering and dressing. “Each day can be quite varied. We’re always there to help residents who need assistance, whether it be with feeding or toileting,” said Julie.

Two years ago, Julie received training in dispensing medication, which now occupies a significant portion of her duties. "Three days a week will be dedicated to medication, and one day will focus on my Assistant in Nursing role," she said.

“I usually start the medication round at about 8 am in the morning, and this will take about two hours or more. Getting to know the residents and their preferences is very important, which includes their unique medication requirements,” explained Julie. 

“Some residents require their blood sugar to be read before breakfast, which I do, and some require insulin, which a registered nurse would administer. You also need to know the residents who can swallow tablets and those that can’t, as well as those that need their tablets crushed.”

Building relationships with residents is a very special part of Julie’s role. "Many of the residents begin to see you as family, and you also get attached to them as well. It’s such a good feeling," she said. Julie recalled several sweet moments with residents like Joyce, who would sometimes hold her hand and not let go, or residents asking where she was on her days off. "I have a resident who says he trusts me the most because he knows he’s getting the right medication from me - it’s quite funny and very sweet," said Julie, smiling.

The continuous education and training provided at SummitCare, aimed at improving standards and finding better ways of doing things, is something Julie speaks highly of. "As an example, food service over the years has changed. We now bring food to residents on plates and preferably in a dining area where they can socialise with other residents, rather than in their room on a tray," she said.

Before her career in aged care, Julie worked in childcare in China. She moved to Australia after being invited by her cousins and started as a live-in home carer. "One of my cousins was working for SummitCare and recommended that I apply, so I moved into residential aged care and have really enjoyed the work," she shared. 

There are always challenges in any role and Julie explained that dealing with emotions can often be much more challenging than the physical work. “Sometimes funny things happen; one minute residents are fine and the next minute they are upset with you. But you know that it’s just a part of their condition and that it’s not personal.”

Julie feels a deep sense of fulfilment in her role at SummitCare, especially when residents express their gratitude. “It’s so lovely when the residents, who are able, say thank you and tell you how much they appreciate your help. It really makes you feel good.”

Respect for residents and their choices is important in Julie’s work. "We don’t use the word ‘refuse’; we use the word ‘choose’ - it’s always about the resident’s choice," she emphasised. 

Her advice to those considering a career in aged care was to have patience and compassion. For Julie, she has found her true calling, making a meaningful impact on the lives of those she cares for every day.

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