Aged care nurse
What does an aged care nurse do?
The compassion and care that aged care nurses provide to the elderly is truly unique and an essential part of a functioning society. An aged care nurse, sometimes known as a geriatric nurse, is often a registered nurse (RN) who has specialised in caring for the unique needs of older adults. If you decide to work in this profession your day-to-day might involve creating healthcare plans, educating patients, and providing emotional support to families. You will also assess the physical, mental and emotional state of your patients – always working to improve their quality of life where possible. You could be based in a community setting, retirement village, hospital, residential aged care facility, or work as a home care nurse or private nurse.
Is a career as aged care nurse right for me?
While supporting the health and wellbeing of older people is at the heart of an aged care nursing career, a range of other skills are equally important. Strong decision-making abilities, attention to detail and the ability to manage competing priorities are essential, along with empathy, resilience and a person-centred approach to care.
Other skills and attributes beneficial for this role include:
The ability to build positive relationships and support others effectively.
An ability to manage change positively and perform effectively in changing environments.
Clear written and verbal communication skills, supported by strong interpersonal skills.
An ability to work effectively and collaborate with a range of stakeholders.
The ability to take initiative, demonstrate personal drive, and maintain a professional attitude.
Problem-solving and decision-making
The ability to identify issues, evaluate options, and make informed decisions.
How to become an aged care nurse
To work as an aged care nurse, you typically need a bachelor’s degree in nursing, along with specialist experience or a qualification in gerontology.
Every journey is individual, and there are several paths to reaching your career goals in aged care. A common path to becoming an aged care nurse:
- Complete a nursing qualification, such as a Bachelor of Nursing.
- Register as a nurse with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia.
- Gain clinical experience in healthcare settings such as hospitals, residential aged care facilities or community care services.
- Develop specialised expertise through experience in aged care and further study, such as a qualification in gerontology.
- Pursue an aged care nurse role, providing clinical care, health support and advocacy for older people.
Accreditation and qualifications
To work as a nurse in Australia, you'll need to be registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA). UniSQ's Bachlelor of Nursing degree is accredited by the NMBA and is listed as an approved program with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA).
How long does it take to become an aged care nurse?
The time it takes to become an aged care nurse varies depending on your previous education, the training requirements of specific fields, and employment opportunities.
Completing a bachelor’s degree in nursing typically takes around three years of full-time study, or the part-time equivalent. This formal education is necessary to starting a career in aged care nursing, providing the knowledge and skills necessary. From here you can continue to enhance your knowledge and pursue a postgraduate qualification, such as UniSQ's Graduate Certificate of Nursing (Gerontology), Graduate Diploma of Nursing (Gerontology) or Master of Nursing (Gerontology).
Start your journey with UniSQ
At UniSQ, there are multiple pathways you can take to set yourself up for a successful career in aged care. Explore the various nursing paths available at UniSQ.
Responsibilities and work settings
Assessing, planning, implementing, and evaluating nursing care for patients according to accepted nursing practices and standards.
Collaborating with other health professionals and members of health teams.
Providing interventions, treatments, and therapies such as administering medications and monitoring patients' responses to treatment plans.
Answering questions and providing information to patients and their families about treatment plans and care.
Supervising and coordinating the work of enrolled nurses and other healthcare workers.
Aged care providers
Community health organisations
Disability services providers
Private healthcare providers, clinics and practices
Public hospitals and health services
Aged care nurse FAQs
Related careers
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