news
Staffing, inclusivity
lead inquiry
Senate examining 24/7 RN cover,
LGBTI sensitivity issues this year.
By Patrick Avenell
T
he Australian Nursing and
Midwifery Federation is lobbying
for regulations that would require
an RN onsite and available at all times at
nursing homes.
This was one of the major components
of the ANMF’s submission to the Senate
inquiry into the future of Australia’s
aged-care workforce.
ANMF federal secretary Lee Thomas said
having RNs available 24/7 would ensure the
dignity of older Australians is preserved.
“The rostering of an RN should be based
on the high-care needs of patients, not on
the discretion of the aged-care facility’s
operator,” Thomas said. “It’s scandalous
that on any given night at nursing homes
across the country, a single care worker
with minimal training can be looking
after 30–50 frail, vulnerable patients with
complex, chronic conditions and many
with dementia.”
The inquiry accepted submissions
through early March. The subject matter
2
agedcareinsite.com.au
was mapped out in the terms of reference,
released on December 1 last year, and
included emerging issues such as the
challenges of creating a proficient and
inclusive industry to cater for the specific
needs of Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander people, and lesbian, gay, bisexual,
transgender and intersex people.
Also under the microscope is how aged
care is delivered in rural, regional and
remote centres, as well as classic industrial
relations matters such as remuneration,
working environments, staffing ratios,
education and training, and upskilling.
Thomas added: “RNs are essential in
prescribing multiple medications, wound
care, performing procedures and providing
palliative care. The quality care RNs deliver
means that their patients can continue
to be treated in nursing homes and avoid
the need to be transferred to a hospital
emergency department.”
The chief executive of Aged &
Community Services (New South Wales &
ACT), Illana Halliday, is opposed to such
regulation. Her organisation represents
not-for-profi Ё