Why education makes better nurses
When I first started teaching at TAFE, I was worried that I would not know enough. When I realised I had enough knowledge, there was a sense of relief – I could teach them something and they would be able to perform procedures because of what I taught them. However, it became apparent, that this […]
Can an introvert survive in the world of nursing academia?
Are you seen as quiet, reserved, and reflective? Or are you perceived to be distant, withdrawn, reluctant to engage in activities with a room full of people and therefore not considered a ‘team player.’ Do people see you as someone to be tolerated or do they see you at all? Do opportunities bypass you because […]
An update on our Work Value cases
The ANMF currently has two Work Value cases before the Fair Work Commission (FWC). Work Value case – Aged care industry This case commenced in late 2020 and was progressed due to the efforts by the ANMF and Health Services Union. The wages gap between nurses and carers working in aged care and those working […]
Looking after your older self – Caring for your superannuation
In Australia, superannuation plays a crucial role in securing financial stability for individuals in retirement. Australia continues to have a gender super gap, and the gender pay gap contributes to this. Nursing and midwifery are female dominated professions and women face unique challenges that can place them at a disadvantage when it comes to retirement […]
Let’s talk about HIV (Stigma) – new video and learning resource for healthcare workers
With timely diagnosis and access to effective treatment, HIV is now a chronic, manageable condition with normal life expectancy. However, HIV stigma is widely recognised as being a major determinant of HIV health because it delays diagnosis (for example, it can lead to people avoiding testing, or clinicians may feel uncomfortable discussing testing with their […]
Developmental screening tools in adolescent period in relation to mental health and alcohol and other drug (AOD) use
Adolescents between 10 and 19 years of age, are at a pivotal stage of health development marked by curiosity, experimentation, self-discovery; this period of development is often when many young individuals have their initial experiences with alcohol and other drugs (AOD).1-3 The connection between AOD use and adolescent mental health is complex and associated with […]
Financial stress and your mental health
A higher cost of living has increased financial hardship for many Australians. Since 2020, interest rates, mortgages and inflation have risen fast, but real wages have gone down [1]. Despite low unemployment, higher living costs are affecting our living standards. This challenging economic climate has seen more people experience financial stress. And increased financial stress […]
Advocating for sustainable and accessible breastfeeding support for Australian mums and families
The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation (ANMF) has urged the Australian Government to ensure ongoing and comprehensive funding for the Australian Breastfeeding Association (ABA) as one of the outcomes of the 2023 Biennial National Conference resolutions. This vital commitment would help to foster a supportive environment for breastfeeding across the nation and would recognise the […]
Beyond judgement: A nursing perspective on obesity, medications, and the path to health
Recently, while waiting at a pharmacy, I witnessed an interaction that has stayed with me. A young man, around 30 years old, stood at the counter, visibly uncomfortable. He was breathless and sweating slightly, despite the cool, air-conditioned environment – signs of the physical and maybe emotional burden he was carrying. The pharmacist, with a […]
Introducing a person-centred approach to indwelling urinary catheter care in aged care homes
The care workforce is central to the quality of care in aged care homes in Australia. The knowledge, confidence and skill of the aged care workforce is fundamentally important for the quality of life and wellbeing of people in aged care homes. The Royal Commission into Aged Care Quality and Safety has identified the need […]