Kelli Fletcher is a graduate of the UniSQ Bachelor of Nursing program, delivered locally at the Geraldton Universities Centre. Since completing her degree, Kelli has embarked on a journey into the world of trauma nursing, demonstrating both passion and resilience.

After securing a highly competitive graduate position at Royal Perth Hospital—Western Australia’s only Level 1 trauma centre—Kelli began her career in the operating theatre, rotating through orthopaedic trauma, anaesthetics, general surgery, plastics, and reconstructive surgery. However, it was during her anaesthetics rotation that she discovered her true calling: trauma nursing.

Driven by a desire for deeper patient interaction and care, Kelli proactively sought out opportunities in the trauma unit, even spending her lunch breaks introducing herself to staff and expressing her eagerness to join the team. Her determination paid off, and she transitioned into a permanent trauma nursing role in August 2024.

In her current role, Kelli manages complex trauma cases involving spinal injuries, chest wall trauma, and intercostal catheter care. Her daily responsibilities include pain management, patient monitoring, multidisciplinary collaboration, and supporting families through critical care experiences. She has become neck-hold competent and regularly assists with patient rolls and trauma protocols such as CHiP (Chest Injury Prevention).

Kelli’s passion for trauma extends beyond clinical care. She actively supports preventative education through programs like PARTY (Prevent Alcohol and Risk-Related Trauma in Youth), helping young people understand the real-life consequences of poor decision-making.

Looking ahead, Kelli is considering Royal Perth’s ICU Foundations Program, which would allow her to further upskill in ventilated patient care and organ donation support—areas she finds deeply meaningful.

Kelli’s journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the opportunities available to students from regional areas. She encourages aspiring nurses to “take the jump,” embrace every learning opportunity, and never let geography limit ambition.

“If you told me I’d be working in trauma at Royal Perth, I wouldn’t have believed you. It felt like a dream—but here I am. Studying regionally is no barrier. If you want it, fight for it.”