Nursing - FAQ's
Q: Do I have to
work rotating shifts 24 hours/day like hospitals?
No – this is one of the best things about RDNS. Most of the nurses work
day shift. We do have evening shifts and staff can choose to work these shifts.
We do have flexi day shifts (see shift information on the vacancy page)
Q: Are my shifts the same days each week?
Usually, unless you have been contracted otherwise (eg 7 day roster).
Often the part time staff will have the same days at work and same days off work
over the fortnightly pay period. For example: Working every Monday Tuesday and
alternate Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday.
Q: Are rosters negotiable?
Yes, provided they meet the needs of the business and are equitable.
Q: What sort of orientation does RDNS provide for new
nursing staff?
RDNS provides a comprehensive 12 week orientation program. The first 2
weeks includes working full time in a supernumerary capacity with a preceptor as
well as having various specialist education and training sessions (e.g. manual
handling, safety training, wound care & palliative care, and clinical
information sessions). The specialist education sessions continue on a weekly
basis and the orientation is completed with a final meeting at week 12. Even
when the orientation phase is completed, there are many professional development
opportunities in the organisation.
Q: I have a holiday booked but I won’t have any annual
leave accrued.
RDNS recognizes that some of our new employees will have holiday plans
that may have been arranged before changing jobs. You will be asked at interview
if you have any holidays booked. You won’t be eligible for paid annual leave
however you can apply for leave without pay when you start with us.
Q: Can I bring my service over from the public sector?
No. RDNS is not a public sector organisation and therefore doesn’t
recognize service from other organisations.
Q: What experience and education do I need to get a
position with RDNS?
Minimum of 2 years' post graduate experience ideally with a broad nursing
focus (i.e. experiences in wound care, aged care & palliative care etc).
Q: What courses will strengthen my application for an RDNS
position?
Further studies in Palliative Care, Diabetes, Wound Care,
Gerontology/Aged Care will strengthen your application.
Q: Will I work in speciality areas?
Not as a community nurse, unless you progress your career into those
areas.
Q: How much overtime will I have to work?
RDNS is committed to a balance of work and family - overtime is minimal
Q: I know RDNS operates across the whole metro area, where
will I work?
Although staff are employed to work wherever RDNS needs them, it is
recognised that people like to have a home base. Nurses commence and finish work from one of our Divisional offices.
Some positions may start from home. You would only be transferred from that location if you apply for another
position or if you are required to move for business reasons.
Q: What will I get paid?
RDNS pay rates are very competitive, and our great salary sacrifice scheme can add thousands of $$ to your disposable income. If you work weekends and
or after hours then you will be entitled to penalty rates as well.
For information on other services visit our web site: www.rdns.org.au
