Supporting nurses to work to their scope of practice
In October 2023, the federal government launched Unleashing the Potential of our Health Workforce – scope of practice review. The independent review will examine the barriers and incentives faced by health practitioners working to their scope of practice (SoP) in primary healthcare (PHC). The review aims to deliver better health outcomes for people as well […]
Transforming nursing assessment in acute hospitals
Optimising ward nursing physical assessment to detect early changes and trends in patient condition can enhance hospital safety, new research shows. The approach re-focuses nursing assessment from routinised patient observations of vital signs to purposeful and ongoing physical assessment. “Although hospital rapid response systems for rescuing deteriorating patients provide a safety net, detection of clinical […]
Developing and evaluating a clinical supervision training program for mental health nurses
The continued support for nurses through education and training is fundamental to the success and growth of the profession. This is particularly relevant within mental health nursing, where staff often face complex and emotionally challenging circumstances. The past decades have seen a growth in interest and understanding of workplace support within mental health settings through […]
Healthcare sustainability Champion
Registered Nurse Kaitlyn Cooke, realised the environmental toll of disposable PPE after using 50 sets during a single shift caring for a COVID-infected baby. “I thought, this is actually really bad for the world. There’s got to be a better way we can do this,” said Kaitlyn who was based in Tasmania at the time. […]
Nursing, midwifery, and care worker workforce reform
Nursing and midwifery workforce reform in Australia is essential for adapting to changing healthcare needs, improving patient outcomes, addressing health disparities, and ensuring that the right number of skilled professionals are empowered and enabled to provide timely and high-quality care. It demands strategic planning, improved education, and policy changes to help build a sustainable workforce […]
Aged care reform
Following years of neglect, significant aged care reforms in 2023 marked a turning point in the nation’s commitment to ensuring the delivery of safe and high-quality care for our elderly Australians. The Albanese Government implemented sweeping reforms across the sector, highlighted by pivotal legislation mandating the presence of a registered nurse 24/7 in every nursing […]
Nurse awarded peace prize for passionate advocacy
A trailblazing Australian nurse has been recognised for her passionate advocacy for peace in the Middle East, as well as her dedication and care for the refugees and innocent victims of conflict. APHEDA co-founder, nurse and advocate for refugee and women’s rights, Dr Helen McCue AM has been awarded winner of the 2023-2024 Jerusalem (Al […]
Language barriers contribute to higher aggression in immigrants with dementia
Immigrants living with dementia are more likely to present with agitation and aggression compared with their non-immigrant counterparts, new research shows. Behaviours and psychological symptoms of dementia (BPSD), such as agitation and aggression, are common. However, its presentation may be influenced by the cultural background of the person, according to research from Edith Cowan University […]
Victorian nurses leading the way in accessible infant and child first aid
Victorian paediatric critical care nurse Grace Larson has joined forces with her sister Skye helping provide free infant and child first aid to disadvantaged parents and carers in the state. Still in its early days, The Sisterhood Project is partnering with accredited first aid providers to offer free infant and child first aid training to […]
Bring back the arvo nap to combat summer heat
Having an arvo nap may be better for your health than cranking up the air con to combat the heat this summer. Too much air conditioning may be harming our health, according to a study led by researchers at the Australian National University (ANU). Despite spending substantially more time in air-conditioned spaces over the past […]