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Building bridges in AOD care: Elise’s journey from Graduate to Nurse Care Coordinator
Elise is an Alcohol and Other Drugs (AOD) Nurse Care Coordinator and GP Liaison, for Lives Lived Well based in Katoomba and Lithgow.
Her role is all about coordinating vital care for individuals managing alcohol and drug dependence, as well as fostering strong relationships with medical centers and pharmacies across the Blue Mountains and Lithgow regions. Elise also actively promotes opioid treatment programs to enhance community support.
“I have been given so many opportunities while working here to… continue my growth as an AOD registered nurse,” she said.
From new graduate to AOD advocate
Elise did part of her new graduate nurse rotation in the AOD inpatient withdrawal unit, where she developed a passion for AOD nursing. She decided to stay on there, completing a transition to a specialty program focusing on AOD and mental health.
“I felt like [AOD nursing] was the most rewarding nursing I had done…” Elise commented.
She completed her post graduate studies in Addiction Studies for Health Professionals at the University of Tasmania. She began to work across the inpatient withdrawal unit, opioid treatment clinic and the triage and intake assessment unit.
Cultivating connections
In her current role, Elise starts her week by planning her visits between Katoomba and Lithgow, often enjoying the scenic autumn drives filled with vibrant colours. She starts her days planning out her tasks and what she wants too achieve for the day, as well as checking emails and Healthlink referrals.
Since this position is new to the area, she has focused on establishing her presence and connecting with local medical centres and pharmacies. This involves organising meetings to introduce Lives Lived Well’s services to health professionals, creating a network of support for AOD clients across the region. Her day-to-day also includes handling referrals, documenting her work, tracking data, and even pitching in to feed the office chickens at Katoomba.
“The most rewarding parts of my job are making an impact, supporting others, and growing more with the opportunities available to me,” she said.
Embracing growth and finding fulfillment
Coming from the public healthcare system, Elise appreciates the supportive, close-knit environment at Lives Lived Well.
“…this has been such a refreshing change for myself. Everyone has been so kind and approachable,” she said.
“I have been given so many opportunities while working here to be a part of conferences and training to continue my growth as an AOD registered nurse.”
After work, Elise relaxes by playing with her energetic toddler and watching TV shows.
Her advice to anyone considering AOD nursing? “Do it, it has been an area of health that has overlooked for such a long time. Once you are in it, you realise how rewarding it is to be able to support these AOD clients and other healthcare professionals.”
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