As Bairnsdale Regional Health Service prepares for its busiest time of year, one registered nurse has found a new way to make a big difference and bring a smile to patients along the way.

Kim Burke has been a nurse since 1993 and joined Bairnsdale Regional Health Service 18 months ago, working primarily across maternity and the Emergency Department. This week, Kim stepped into a new role, completing her very first shift in the hospital’s busy discharge lounge: a vital service responsible for helping patients leave hospital safely and get home.

She loved it so much, she came back the very next day.

But Kim didn’t just return for a second shift, she returned wearing a t-shirt she designed herself overnight.

On the back of the shirt was a hand-drawn emu, symbolising Kim’s approach to the day ahead. With one of the busiest discharge days of the year predicted, she was ready to be a “fast and furious” emu, helping patients get home safely for Christmas.

“It’s a really special role,” Kim said.

“Discharge is such an important moment in a patient’s journey. People are often excited, sometimes nervous, and sometimes facing a challenging time at home.

“I love nursing because it gives me the chance to meet people, hear their stories and understand what support they need.”

The days leading up to Christmas can be particularly difficult for some people in the community, and Kim says a friendly face and a bit of humour can go a long way.

Behind every smooth discharge is careful planning, and Kim works closely with BRHS Complex Discharge Coordinator Bronwyn Hamilton, whose lead-up work in the days before ensures patients a smoother process.

“Bronwyn’s planning is what makes everything flow,” Kim said. “The work she puts in ahead of time means that when patients arrive in the discharge lounge we can focus on them and getting them home safely.”

The impact of that planning is felt right across the hospital.

Rotamah Ward Nurse Unit Manager Michelle Wealands said that every safe and timely discharge creates a ripple effect throughout the health service.

“For every patient we discharge safely, it positively impacts at least five other patients,” Michelle said. “It allows someone waiting in Emergency to move on to a ward, which then frees up space for an ambulance to admit another patient and get back out into the community.

“It’s a chain reaction that supports patient flow and care across the entire hospital.”

BRHS Chief Executive Officer Peter Abraham said it was vital to recognise the work being done across the hospital in the lead-up to the Christmas and New Year period.

“This time of year is always busy, and it’s even more important to acknowledge the dedication and teamwork of our staff,”

Mr Abraham said. “From planning and coordination through to patient care on the day, every role contributes to keeping our community safe and supported during peak periods.”

For Kim, the reward is simple.

“Helping people get home, especially at Christmas, feels really meaningful,” she said.

“And if I can make someone smile along the way, that’s a bonus.”