Maitland Private Hospital
Oncology
Clinical Nurse Specialist Fiona Watkins has made caring for people with cancer her life’s work, and she wouldn’t have it any other way. Fiona believes her work has made her the person she is today, and that caring for people with cancer is the most satisfying job in the world.
Fiona started her nursing career in 2005 when she graduated as an Endorsed Enrolled Nurse, and began working at the Sydney Adventist Hospital specialising in Cardiothoracics. Five years on, Fiona graduated from the Avondale University, achieving a Bachelor of Nursing. In 2010, Fiona travelled to Atoifi in the Solomon Islands where she learned skills of rural and remote nursing, and was involved in the co-ordination of clinics and assisting in theatres. On her return, Fiona moved home to the Hunter Valley and embarked on her career as an Oncology and Chemotherapy Nurse at Calvary Mater Newcastle, taking on extra duties as team leader and in clinical management. Fiona completed her Graduate Certificate in Oncology in 2012.
Fiona has pioneered the development of the Maitland Private Chemotherapy and Infusions unit since 2019, and has seen the unit grow during that time from 4 to 8 chairs. Having nursed a family member through cancer, Fiona understands the difficult journey someone with cancer, and their loved ones goes through.
“I’m here to make a difference for people who have cancer. I’m here to deliver their treatment and help them feel safe and comfortable. Part of my role is to support and answer any questions they have throughout their treatment,” says Fiona.
Fiona prides herself in establishing a therapeutic relationship with every patient receiving chemotherapy, immunotherapy, biologics, and other treatments at Maitland Private. Fiona believes the tailored patient- centred approach, together with excellent collaborative relationships within the multidisciplinary care team, is what sets us apart.
When Fiona is not helping patients at Maitland Private you may find her playing hockey, pottering in the veggie garden, or playing with her 3 dogs.
