Practice Nurse Profile – Karen Cabacungan
01 Apr 2026
Originally from the Philippines, Karen brings a strong sense of community to her role. She is passionate about supporting people from all backgrounds, especially those within her own community, and guiding them on their health journey.
A Journey Into Nursing
Karen began her nursing career in the Philippines in 2010. Her passion for caring for others grew early, especially during her time working in a paediatric ward in Saudi Arabia, where she spent three years looking after children.
After moving to Australia, she chose to work in primary care, where she could build long-term relationships with patients and support both individuals and families in the community.
Role in Primary Care
As a practice nurse, Karen plays a key role in:
- Health education and promotion
- Chronic disease management
- Preventive care and health checks
She works closely with GPs to support patients and help them better understand and manage their health.
What Drives Her
For Karen, nursing is more than a job—it’s something she truly enjoys. She values being able to help patients improve their health and finds satisfaction in making a positive difference each day.
A good workday for her is one where everything runs smoothly—a calm, organised clinic where patients are supported and cared for effectively.
Life Outside Work
Outside the clinic, Karen focuses on both learning and relaxation. She regularly attends webinars to build her knowledge and skills, and enjoys spending downtime at a café with a skim mocha and almond croissant.
Working in South Western Sydney
Karen appreciates the strong sense of community in South Western Sydney. She describes the people as welcoming and supportive, especially when it comes to clinic development and accreditation.
Working close to home also helps her maintain a healthy work-life balance, giving her more time with her two children.
Inspiration and Motivation
Karen looks up to her fellow Filipino nurses, whom she describes as dedicated, hardworking, and passionate. She takes pride in being part of that community.
Supporting Patients
In her day-to-day work, Karen focuses on helping patients take control of their health. She explains medical information in simple, easy-to-understand language and provides practical advice on:
- Healthy eating
- Exercise
- Screenings
- Lifestyle changes
Her goal is to ensure patients feel confident, informed, and supported in managing their wellbeing.