Susan McGahey facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Susan McGahey
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| Born | 1862 |
| Died | November 16, 1919 (aged 56–57) |
| Occupation | matron |
| Known for | President of the International Council of Nurses (1904 - 1909) |
Susan Bell McGahey was an important nurse and leader who lived from 1862 to 1919. She was known for her work as a matron, which is like a head nurse, at a major hospital in Australia. Susan also helped create a special group for nurses and even became the president of a big international nursing organization.
Early Life and Learning
Susan Bell McGahey was born in 1862 in a place called Stewartstown in Ireland. She learned some things at home before going to a college in Belfast. At college, she was a very good student and won many awards and scholarships.
In the 1870s, Susan moved to England. There, she trained to become a nurse at The London Hospital. She finished her nursing training in 1887. She also earned an extra certificate from the Obstetrical Society of London, which meant she had special training in caring for mothers and babies.
Making a Difference in Nursing
Susan McGahey started her nursing career at The London Hospital in 1884. She worked there as a student nurse for five years.
In 1890, she moved to Australia. Her first job there was as a matron at Carrington Convalescent Hospital in Camden, New South Wales. A convalescent hospital helps people get better after an illness or injury.
The next year, in 1891, Susan became the matron of the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital (RPAH). This was a very important role. As matron, she made new rules and suggestions for how nurses should be trained and hired in New South Wales. These changes helped make nursing education better.
In 1904, Susan left her job at RPAH. She then opened her own hospital where she could train new nurses.
Besides her work as a matron, Susan McGahey also helped start the Australasian Trained Nurses' Association (ATNA) in 1899. This group was important for nurses in Australia and New Zealand. While she was part of ATNA, she was chosen to be the president of the International Council of Nurses in 1904. This was a huge honor, as it meant she was leading nurses from all over the world. She continued to work as a secretary for the ATNA until 1912.
Later Years and Passing
Susan McGahey passed away from cancer on November 16, 1919. She died in Carlingford, New South Wales, Australia.
