The Bridges Story

Leisa, driven by a deep-seated passion for healthcare instilled by her mother's longstanding commitment as a registered nurse, embarked on a remarkable journey that spans over two decades. Her initial foray into the field commenced with Enrolled Nursing at Wodonga TAFE, propelling her through a dynamic trajectory of professional growth. A Bachelor of Nursing and subsequent specialisation in Intensive Care Nursing lay the foundation for a rich and diverse career.


At Albury Wodonga Private Hospital, Leisa truly left a mark on the healthcare landscape. Over an 11-year tenure, she spearheaded the hospital's Infection Control efforts and seamlessly assumed roles as After Hours Hospital Supervisor, Senior Educator, and Ramsay Staff Health Manager. During this period, her multifaceted expertise and leadership underscore her commitment to fostering a culture of excellence in healthcare.

Leisa's infectious control journey extends beyond the confines of Albury Wodonga Private Hospital. Her impactful role in an international team addressing the Middle Eastern Respiratory (MERs) outbreak in Saudi Arabia showcased her dedication to global health. Having witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of infectious diseases, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Her proactive initiatives, be they in reducing bloodstream infections or preparing healthcare systems for pandemics, reflect not just a seasoned professional but also a compassionate advocate for public health. Leisa's story is one of resilience, dedication, and an unyielding commitment to shaping a safer, healthier world through her work in the infectious control space.

Accreditations

Victoria University, 2022

  • Graduate Certificate, Public Health

Deakin University, 2007

  • Graduate Diploma, Intensive Care Nursing

La Trobe University, 2002

  • Bachelor’s Degree, Registered Nursing/Registered Nurse

Wodonga TAFE, 2008

  • Certificate IV Workplace Training and Assessment

Australian Collect of Nursing (ACN), 2007

  • Certificate, Immunisation for Registered Nurses

Research & Conferences

  • 2020 Incidence of SARs-CoV 2 in International Travelers Returning to Regional Australia; co Author

  • 2019 5th Criterion Infection Control Conference [Melbourne]; Chairperson and Keynote Speaker

  • 2019 Study investigating CDI rate in non-hematology oncology patients and undertaking study investigating CDI Risk Assessment Tool to screen patients requiring isolation

  • 2018 Represented Australian Private Hospital Association [on behalf of Ramsay Health], on the revision of the Australian Standard AS3186 Clinical and Related Waste Management

  • 2018 Antimicrobial Stewardship Case Study submission for the ACSQHC 2nd ed. “Antimicrobial Stewardship in Australian Hospitals”

  • 2017 ACIPC Working Party for review of the 2016 ACHS Infection Control Clinical Indicators and 2018 Infection Control Indicators collection recommendations

  • 2017 Australian College for Infection Prevention and Control (ACIPC): National Sharps Injury Survey by Doctor Terry Grimond

Meet the team

Sue Gugger - Waste Auditor

Leisa Bridges - Senior Consultant

Rijo Jacobs - Waste Auditor