My interest in nursing started at a young age, but it wasn’t until my children were of school age that I had the opportunity to turn that interest into a passion and commence my studies at the University of Canberra. After graduating, I soon realised that I was interested in working in the area of Acute Medical Nursing. From there I was able to work in Oncology and also Palliative Care. All of these areas I found very rewarding even in times of deep sadness. Being a Nurse and being with clients at a time of crisis, I feel, is a privileged experience that I will always value.

During my time in Nursing, I have also developed a passion for education and for teaching Undergraduate Nursing students. This lead to working at the University, in the Disciplines of Nursing & Midwifery.  In this role, I have had the opportunity to teach across the BN curriculum, but also have supported Nursing students out in the clinical environment.

Research Interests

My research interest focuses on undergraduate nursing students from a culturally and linguistically diverse background and their experiences that they have whilst studying here in AUstralia. Of particular interest, is exploring and understanding their experiences out in the clinical environment.

Recent Publications

Journals

Grealish, L., & Smale, L., (2011). Theory before practice: Implicit assumptions about clinical nursing education in Australia as revealed througha shared critical reflection. Contemporary Nurse. 39(1), 61-74.

Conference Papers

Practice development - transforming culture, transforming care: Conference at Monash Univeristy

Title: The implicit curriculum - creating cultural tensions in today's workplace