Mrs Ruth Irwin1, Ms Laura Scerri1, Ms Jenna McGeever1, Ms Sarah Binchy1
1NETS NSW
Biography:
Ruth Irwin is a dedicated Nurse Practitioner with 8 years of experience and a strong background in paediatric critical care, having worked in the field for 16 years. For the past 2 years, she has been both privileged and humbled to work within neonatal and paediatric retrieval. Before joining NETS NSW, Ruth gained invaluable experience working in both mixed and paediatric emergency departments at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital and Sydney Children’s Hospital.
Ruth is deeply passionate about caring for children who have suffered traumatic injuries and providing support to their families during challenging times. She is also committed to delivering multidisciplinary, evidence-based clinical education to ensure the provision of safe patient care. Outside of her professional life, Ruth enjoys spending time outdoors with her family, taking part in activities such as bike riding, swimming, and playing soccer.
Abstract:
Background:
Nurse Practitioners are increasingly recognised and utilised across the globe to enhance healthcare delivery and improve patient outcomes. However, in Australia the Nurse Practitioner role remains relatively new, particularly in highly specialised fields such as retrieval medicine, where their presence is still emerging. NETS NSW has been developing the proposal for the Retrieval Nurse Practitioner role for two decades and in 2023 four new Retrieval Nurse Practitioner (NP) roles were added to the service.
Method:
Establishing the NP training program involved a rigorous, reflective approach consisting of:
• Business Case submission for Retrieval NP positions
• Recruitment of NP supervisors – three Retrievalists
• Recruitment of NPs (currently one endorsed NP, three Transitional NPs)
• Establishment of a comprehensive scope of practice
• Establishment of a retrieval curriculum and clinical competencies
• Direct clinical supervision and training
• Theoretical and skills assessments
• Individual clinical placements both internal and external to the Network
• Regular and rigorous mentorship with nominated mentors
• Continuous evaluation and refinement.
• Completion of a NMBA approved Master of Nurse practitioner
Results:
In 2025 the program is well underway, with one Retrieval NP now leading independent retrievals for level 3-5 neonatal and paediatric retrievals and three Transitional NPs close to completing their training.
Discussion:
The safety and effectiveness of Retrieval Nurse Practitioners (NPs) has been well established internationally. Our aim is to collect data over time to assess the integration of Nurse Practitioner-led retrievals within the NETS medical model, emphasizing patient safety and the retention of skilled NPs, ensuring their expertise enhances the quality and efficiency of the service.