A Day in the Life of Amanda Bartosewicz

Despite encountering some very challenging circumstances and setbacks in her personal life, Amanda Bartosewicz always knew her dream was to work in aged care.

“I always wanted to work in aged care for as long as I remember. Initially I had dreams of becoming a geriatrician; however, I found it challenging to progress into medical studies due to some challenges in my earlier years,” she said.

Born and raised in Australia, Amanda moved to Poland with her mother when she was 16. Despite not knowing any Polish, Amanda managed to complete high school and begin her studies in nursing. However, her mother then moved back to Australia, leaving Amanda in Poland with her abusive stepfather. She ultimately became homeless when he kicked her out of the family home.

After moving to Australia without a degree or a diploma, Amanda decided to become a carer at an aged care home — which she absolutely loved, because caring for people was what she had always wanted to do. Due to the fact that the idea of becoming a registered nurse initially scared her, Amanda decided to instead study a Diploma of Enrolled Nursing.

“After having my placements for enrolled nursing, I just knew that my heart wasn’t in hospitals. I knew my place was in aged care,” she said.

Amanda with Calvary Brighton resident Arnie Rankin.

Four months after completing her Diploma in Nursing, Amanda applied for and was successful in securing an enrolled nursing position at Calvary’s Brighton aged care facility. While working at the facility, Amanda found the courage to achieve her lifelong goal by furthering her studies to become a registered nurse.

“I was given the opportunities to step up and learn new skills. From teaching me the clinical side of things early on and recognising my potential, the support from Calvary and my husband Chris 100% helped get me here,” Amanda said. “The staff — and management — were so supportive. They even put up a countdown for how many days left I had left of my degree.”

Since completing her registered nursing degree, Amanda has taken up a position as Calvary Brighton’s Clinical Coordinator.

“As one of the Clinical Care Coordinators at Calvary Brighton, I ensure all residents’ needs are met and the staff are happy and managing their responsibilities,” she said.

“My day normally starts with doing a quick round where I chat with residents to see they are getting what they need, before checking in with staff and making any referrals that need actioning. Ensuring we have supplies and equipment ordered is also part of my morning routine.

“I then get on with the rest of my day, which includes conducting audits, updating spreadsheets, assisting with meal rounds and connecting with families to make sure they’re feeling supported.

“I’d encourage anyone considering a career change to give aged care a go. Working with the elderly is life-changing. I’ve had some beautiful conversations with my residents throughout my career and they have shaped who I am today. The biggest reward is the honour of caring for another human in their final chapters of life.”

Top image: Amanda Bartosewicz.