2014March

Also in this issue:

Focus on Reps

HERC 1 Year Anniversary Specials

Annual Delegates Conference 2014

State Election 2014

The Tasmanian nursing magazine for ANMF members

The

2 INFUSION | March 2014 The Tasmanian nursing magazine for ANMF Members

www.anmftas.org.au facebook

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Infusion is the official publication of ANMF (Tas Branch). Letters and articles are welcome. Advertising rates available on request by emailing marketing@anmftas.org.au. Publishing deadline is 1st of each month prior to publication. Statements/opinions in Infusion reflect views of the authors, they do not represent official policy of the ANMF unless stated. Material featured in Infusion is copyright and may be printed only by arrangement with the ANMF (Tas Branch).

BRANCH SECRETARYNeroli Ellisneroli@anmftas.org.au

MANAGER, INDUSTRIAL SERVICESAgnes Stanislaus-Largeagnes@anmftas.org.au

LEAD ORGANISERSue Robertsonleadorganiser@anmftas.org.au

ORGANISERSNorthStuart Footenorth@anmftas.org.auTreica Waretware@anmftas.org.auNorth WestJan Robinsonnorthwest@anmftas.org.auSouthSue Darceysue@anmftas.org.auJude Mullanejmullane@anmftas.org.auNorm Blackburnnblackburn@anmftas.org.au

INFORMATION OFFICERSinfo@anmftas.org.au

INDUSTRIAL CONSULTANTCaroline Saintcaroline@anmftas.org.au

BUSINESS MANAGERClaire O’Loughlinmanager@anmftas.org.au

NURSE EDUCATION MANAGERLisa Daltoneducation@anmftas.org.au

HOBART182 Macquarie StreetHobart, Tasmania, 7000P 03 6223 6777 1800 001 241 (outside Hobart)

F 03 6224 0229

LAUNCESTONCity Mill Business Centre 76 York StreetLaunceston, Tasmania, 7250P 03 6223 6777 1800 001 241 (outside Hobart)

F 03 6334 3928

ULVERSTONE22 King Edward StreetUlverstone, Tasmania, 7315P 1800 001 241 (outside Hobart)

F 03 6425 1028

ANMF BRANCH COUNCIL & EXECUTIVEEmily ShepherdPresident, LGH Acute Medical UnitJames LloydVice President, RHH Central Coordination UnitKim FordExecutive, RHH Specialist ClinicsJenny ParkerExecutive, LGH ICUOggy ThynneExecutive, Spencer ClinicAngela ManionExecutive, MCH ICUTania BattagliniLGH Renal UnitSally BondePalliative Care SouthAmy BoonMental Health Services DoPM

Deanna ButlerRHH EDHelen DykstraNWPH TheatreHelen MurphyNWRH DEMLea YoungEastern Shore Community NursingAndrew OstlerRHH NeurosurgicalRoslyn GorrieMental Health ServicesSancia WestMCHKen HarrissUAC, NinganaZara BrownRHH Clinical Support

branch

Your Vote Counts!Tasmanian residents are voting at the Poll on 15 March to determine our new Government. Nurses, midwives, care staff and families will make a difference this election and you vote is important. That is why ANMF (Tasmanian Branch) has sought the views of parties on key issues affecting Tasmanian health, to make it easier for you to decide who will get your vote!

The key issues cover funding of our health system, allocations to primary health, systems and infrastructure, retention , recruitment and promotion of the nursing and midwifery professions and governance and the future of THO’s.

Please take the time to read the responses in the Tasmanian State Election brochure inside this edition of Infusion.

Another hot political issue this month is the Federal Government’s announcement of a multi million dollar Royal Commission into union corruption. ANMF Tasmanian Branch prides itself on the control systems which are in place, which are closely monitored by Executive and Council.

However, I thought it timely to reassure our members that the Tasmanian Branch of ANMF continues to review and improve our systems to ensure you can be comfortable that your money is being rigorously monitored and spent in your best interests on member services.

How do we do this?At Tasmanian Branch, we have always had a system of internal and external controls to protect the Branch finances. Our Council is involved in setting the strategic plan and annual operational plan with Key Performance Indicators monitored in quarterly reporting. Our Business Unit Managers also report against Business

Unit Strategic Plans and associated KPI’s.

The Branch Executive meets monthly to approve the financial statements and approves all cheques prior to payment. Two signatures are required on every cheque. The financial statements are endorsed by Executive and Council, the budget is closely monitored and a mid term review ensures we resource any approved strategic changes. The Tasmanian Branch has a range of policies and guidelines in place to cover all aspects of financial management eg Credit Card Policy.

A Risk Management Plan has been in place and is regularly reviewed and updated to ensure any identified potential risks are mitigated with controls. Our external auditors review the annual financial statements and this final check is then endorsed by Council.

ANMF has recently changed the ANMF Federal Rules to be compliant with the amendments to the Fair Work Act and as a result all Branch Councillors have undertaken a day training course in an endorsed governance program last week. The Branch will be strengthening the Executive committee role and having an additional sub-committee to oversee the finances and risk management framework as the new Finance and Risk Committee.

Additionally, as a Branch of the Federation, the Tasmanian Branch is required to meet and report against annual ANMF Branch benchmarking, forward all Branch financials to the Federal Office and Fair Work Australia. ANMF also has a Federal Executive and Council which meets regularly and monitors the Branch and Federation reporting.

Your trust in ANMF is paramount and the Councillors and ANMF staff work extremely hard to ensure diligent management and transparent reporting and governance in an effort to protect and enhance your membership at the Tasmanian Branch. n

MESSAGE FROM

Neroli Ellis

secretary

ANMF Tas Branch is not affiliated with any political party but is keen to influence and seek policy responses of political parties and candidates regarding issues relevant to nursing and midwifery professions.

3The Tasmanian nursing magazine for ANMF Members INFUSION | March 2014

In addition to the numerous bargaining processes already underway in the private sector, the following enterprise agreements are due for renegotiation in 2014:

Employer Employees Covered

Island Care Nursing and non nursing staff

Mary’s Grange Non nursing staff

ACSAG Nursing and non nursing staff

Emmerton Park Nursing and non nursing staff

Christian Homes Nursing staff

Meercroft Care Nursing and non nursing staff

Mt St Vincent Nursing and non nursing staff

Queen Victoria Home Nursing staff

The Gardens Nursing staff and non nursing staff

Uniting Aged Care Nursing and non nursing staff

OneCare Ltd Non nursing staff

Masonic Homes Nursing and non nursing staff

Presbyterian Care Non nursing staff

Tandara lodge Non nursing staff

Wynyard Care Nursing and non nursing staff

Anglicare Tas All employees including nurses

Calvary Hospital (North and South) Nursing staff

Hobart Day Surgery Nursing staff

Hobart District Nursing Service Nursing staff

Private Sector Enterprise Agreements 2014 – Have Your Say

ANMF Member SurveyNegotiating a new agreement provides ANMF members with an opportunity to improve wages and conditions of employment. ANMF will conduct a survey of members which we will use to form the basis of the ANMF’s log of claims for each new agreement.

Get InvolvedIt is vital that we have employee representation at the bargaining table. If your worksite does not have an ANMF representative and you are interested in taking a more proactive role in representing ANMF members, you can nominate to be a workplace representative. If you are interested, please contact the ANF Info Centre on 1800 001 241 or speak to your local ANMF Organiser. n

We ask the major parties questions that are important to YOU!

You will find all the information you need in the ANMF 2014 State

Election Guide provided with this issue of Infusion.

STATE ELECTION

15 March 2014

4 INFUSION | March 2014 The Tasmanian nursing magazine for ANMF Members

ININ FOCUS

The importance of having ANMF Member Representatives at the negotiating table when bargaining for a new Enterprise Agreement (EA) cannot be emphasised strongly enough. The ANMF Organiser or Industrial Officer has expertise in the Industrial matters associated with bargaining for an EA and, in most cases, many years of practical nursing background. However, they do not have the first hand knowledge of ‘life on the floor’ of your particular work area. The practical and realistic aspect that Reps bring to the table is invaluable in achieving successful outcomes. These EA’s are your working conditions and will be with you for 3-4 years so it is important that we together achieve as much as possible from the negotiations.

Kerry Jackson and Christine Riley, both ECA’s working at Tandara in Sheffield, are very active ANMF Reps and took part in the bargaining process for their EA. Kerry sat through the negotiations bringing her practical expertise to the table while Christine had huge input from the sidelines taking care of communicating the needs of members and organising members in preparation for and during the bargaining

process. These dedicated ANMF Reps had the following to say about how they were able to bring about change and assist with what they consider a very successful outcome from negotiations.

Christine and Kerry were able to seek opinion on what was important to each member e.g. parental leave, long service leave, work conditions etc. Obtaining member feedback enabled them to accurately reflect member’s needs at the bargaining table. They felt it was important to know what members were prepared to give up in order to advance. They learnt that issues had to be prioritised and they had to prioritise and be selective about which issues to pursue based on member feedback. They were able to confirm events from the meetings and communicate these to their colleagues. Kerry and Christine stated that communication skills and appropriate behaviour were both important at the table and with their colleagues in reaching a good outcome. They didn’t think the process was ‘a drama’ at all and stated that Organiser Sue Robertson was really good at the table. They both found information sessions with Sue prior to entering the negotiations and member meetings was very helpful and thus did not find the process daunting.

ANMF highly value our Reps and encourage them to be involved with the EA process. ANMF provide EA training for Reps who wish to be involved. n

The Power of Reps at the Negotiation Table

YOUR WORKPLACE

NEEDS AN

REPRESENTATIVE

Could it be you?

Benefits of Being an ANF Rep

ANMF Workplace Representatives (“Reps”) form the vital communication link between your workplace and the ANMF. Reps can be Registered Nurses, Enrolled Nurses or Carers. They work to ensure members are represented in the workplace and they build density and power through recruitment.

If you have any queries please do not hesitate to contact the ANF Information Centre on 6223 6777, 1800 001 241 (outside Hobart area) or email info@anftas.org.

• The opportunity to improve working conditions for nurses and carers

• Personal and professional development through free rep training

• Leadership Development• Opportunity to network with others

in the nursing team• Attend the Annual Delegates

Conference free of charge• Be seen as an advocate for nursing

and the health industry

Christine Riley and Kerry Jackson ECA Rep Tandara

5The Tasmanian nursing magazine for ANMF Members INFUSION | March 2014

FOCUSININ FOCUS

Being a rep is fun!!

Due to the name change to ANMF we now have a new Facebook page. To join our online community head to www.facebook.com/anmftasbranch and hit the like button.

If you have a mobile device with a QR code reader, scan this code to take you directly to our page.

New name.New Facebook page.

ANMF FOB WatchesNow available at anmftas.org.au

ININ FOCUS

6 INFUSION | March 2014 The Tasmanian nursing magazine for ANMF Members

As an ANMF representative for many years I have always believed in fairness and equality and the members in my work place inspire me to want to be part of the EA process. The solidarity within our work place is very strong and I felt that I should contribute to the team as I do not like to see my work mates under stress or feeling low in morale.

I knew that the task of setting up an EA needed to commence early and I contacted ANMF for support. It was identified that an additional Representative would be beneficial, so a meeting was organised and a nomination received with a new Rep elected to the position. Along with the Nubeena Representative we now have the process well under way.  An agenda was formulated and from that, tasks were allocated to members to collect data so that the outcomes could be reported on at the next meeting and then included as part of the overall process.

At the first meeting a number of areas for improvement were identified and these were

Reps: taking the lead during the EBA processbased around safety issues, travel time, paper work, workloads and effective client care. It is important to work towards a good outcome during the process both as a team and in conjunction with Management. I believe that good outcomes provide better workplace morale and higher productivity. A happy, safe work place has less sick leave and less work place injuries.

My suggestion to Representatives wanting to be part of the EA process is to commence the process early with work site meetings so that mapping the process can take place. It is important to work on increased membership numbers and participation to  gain solidarity and the members need to be involved in data collection to assist with the Log Of Claims. Sound reporting at the meetings and good communication between all members is also important.

The ANMF have been supportive in providing information and giving assistance over the past months. They have been prompt in organizing times for meetings that coordinate with the members’ workloads. We have had great ANMF representation at our meetings.

Christine McCracken RN and Rep, Hobart District Nurses

A call was received from one of Christine’s work colleagues who knew she was writing an article and has asked that this special quote of Christine’s be used.

“I do this because I love my mates, and I don’t want them to get a raw deal”.

ū Christine (22 January 2014).

Editor’s note: Christine’s level of commitment and self drive to be inclusive and professional in this process has been an exemplary example to ANMF personnel!!!! n

Christine McCracken with her Grandson Myles

7The Tasmanian nursing magazine for ANMF Members INFUSION | March 2014

FOCUS IN

“For me it was about talking to fellow nurses and getting them talking about the EA. It was discussing conditions that might be lost if we did not fight to keep what had already been fought for in past years. Being able to “Rally the troops” to attend member meetings, even on days off, which in turn resulted in high attendance from our ward, was for me the biggest impact of my first EA as an ANMF Ward Representative.”Marita Meadows, RN, LGH AMU

“At a site level, together with a couple of colleagues I am seen as really representing staff. They know I will support their issues through the negotiating process and give accurate feedback. At the negotiating table, I am able to give on-the-spot feedback to ANMF’s Industrial Officer where any clarification may be required, as well as directly to SCC Management. The opportunity to represent staff is very rewarding and by the same token, SCC’s support & acknowledgement of staff representatives is very much appreciated.”Alison Matthews, RN, Yaraandoo

“Staff feel they are able to approach me with confidence as a first line with advice. Members regularly as to look at my copy of the agreement and then ask for help with interpretation of the clauses. Strong ANMF membership produces favourable outcomes in negotiations.”Kerry Jackson ECA, Tandara

“I think my involvement created awareness with the rest of the staff about the benefits of being in a union and the benefits of good communication with Management. Even though you have to give and take in a bargaining situation, by working well together good outcomes can be achieved.”Christine Riley ECA, Tandara

“Being able to take my fellow workers thoughts and ideas to the EA meetings and then communicate them back to the work site when good outcomes are achieved. It is rewarding to be part of the process.”Sally Blackaby, EN, Corumbene

“As a member I have been able to contribute as an ECA and represent endorsed ECA’s and Carers during the negotiations for a new enterprise agreement.”Deb Lawrence, ECA, Karingal

On the Heartbeat for March: What impact have you made by being part of the Negotiating team during an EA process?

If you have a suggestion for something you’d like to see included in Infusion, contact the ANMF marketing team by emailing marketing@anmftas.org.au or calling Matt on 6223 6777.

Letters and articles from members are also welcome. Contributors should note that their articles may be edited and will be published at the discretion of the ANMF. n

Have your say in infusion

8 INFUSION | March 2014 The Tasmanian nursing magazine for ANMF Members

Information Centre staff regularly advise Members that any complaint or grievance about them must proceed in a manner that is consistent with procedural fairness. The term ‘procedural fairness’ is synonymous with steps that follow ‘natural justice’.

In relation to a worksite complaint or grievance, the principles of natural justice and procedural fairness require:

• The person complained about is told the substance of the allegations against them;

• The person complained about has an opportunity to respond to the allegations;

• All parties to the complaint have a right to be heard;

• The person making the decision acts impartially and honestly; and

• The final decision is based on findings of fact that are supported by relevant evidence and sound reasoning. Irrelevant matters must not be taken into account.

Have you been summoned to the Manager’s office to discuss an issue or allegation? You have rights that employers should comply with, that are enshrined in the common law and the Fair Work Act 2009, (in regard to termination of employment).

Usually having a ‘chat’ with your employer is collegial and productive. However, employees may also be invited to discuss concerns the employer may have about the employees conduct or performance in relation to their work.

Your employer has a right to call you to a meeting within your hours of work, but if the purpose of the meeting is to raise concerns or to seek a response in relation to a matter which could impact on your ongoing employment, there are processes which employers must comply with.

If you are asked to attend a formal meeting, you must be provided details in writing stating why they want to meet with you and

ANMF INFORMATION CENTRE

What do you know about procedural fairness/natural justice?

give details of any allegations, ideally well in advance. If a complaint has been made about you, you must be provided an opportunity to respond; this means you have time in which you can seek advice from the ANMF. Meetings may be to investigate matters such as a complaint or allegation against you, to obtain information about a worksite issue, making a formal complaint, or a disciplinary process.

You have a right to access information relevant to an allegation to enable you to provide an informed response. This may include viewing the patient’s medical and nursing charts. You must be given an opportunity to sit down and read the patient’s file before making a statement.

If you are required to submit a written response, you are advised to send your draft statement or response to the ANMF Information Centre for review prior to submitting it. This service is another benefit of your ANMF membership.

When you are required to attend a meeting, you are entitled to take a support person with you to act as your witness and to ensure you are treated fairly. Ideally, you will be asked to attend at least 24 hours in advance of the meeting so you can make arrangements for support. If the meeting’s

specified time and day means your support person or Representative is unavailable, do request in writing (email is fine,) to have the time changed for mutual convenience.

An advantage of your ANMF membership is access to representation and ANMF Information Officers and Organisers have considerable experience with investigative meetings and understand your rights and responsibilities.

Other ANMF information Sheets which you may find useful are available on the ANMF Tasmania Branch website include:

• The Role of the Support Person

• Responding to an Allegation

• Making a Statement

• Employee Assistance Program.

ANMF appreciate that this may be a difficult time and encourage members to access their workplace Employee Assistance Program or alternatively seek support through their GP.

If you would like to discuss your issue or require further information, please contact the Information Centre (03) 6223 6777 or 1800 001 241 (outside Hobart area) during office hours, or email info@anmftas.org.au n

ANMF (Tas Branch) Information Centre team

9The Tasmanian nursing magazine for ANMF Members INFUSION | March 2014

ANMF members may on occasion be asked by their employer to attend a meeting to address conduct or

performance issues. This is the right of the employer however they are bound to follow the appropriate process. The principles of Procedural Fairness / Natural Justice must be followed and these include:

• The person complained about is informed of the substance of the allegations against them in writing

n-west

Meeting with your Employer about Conduct or Performance Issues

• The person complained about has an opportunity to respond to the allegations in writing

• All parties to the complaint have a right to be heard

• The person making the decision acts impartially and honestly

• The final decision is based on findings of fact that are supported by relevant evidence and sound reasoning. Irrelevant matters must not be taken into account.

It is important that members understand their rights in relation to requests for such meetings. When a member is requested to attend a meeting the first step is to contact the ANMF Information Centre on 6223 6777 or 1800 001 241 (outside Hobart area) to seek advice. The first meeting should only be for the purpose of receiving the written

information. The member is then given adequate time to study this information and formulate a written response. The member should then forward their written response to ANMF for checking prior to submitting it to the employer. A meeting to discuss the issue will then be scheduled at a time convenient to the member, ANMF Organiser and the employer.

ANMF support cooperation between the member and the employer but at no time should a member feel obligated to attend a meeting at a time not convenient to them or in the presence of patient / resident / relatives or without a support person or ANMF representation.

ANMF members often have no idea of their rights because it is not an area of expertise for them (whereas nursing duties are!). That is why it is SO important to seek advice to help you through the journey. n

Practice Nurses have a vital role within the General Practice. They are able to help improve

service provided to the patients by general co-ordination and care management. Within most practices the practice nurse is able to relieve the workload stress on the GP, by performing tasks. The practice nurse is able to have autonomy and possess professional skills to effectively manage episodes of patient care.

Practice nurses are now managing patients with chronic illness. Giving nurses an extended role with the practice can improve the management of patient’s conditions. The Australian population is living longer and experiencing more disease and disability. The practice nurse has had to adapt and develop new skills to enable appropriate management of chronic illness. Emphasis should be placed on the ability to communicate effectively and liaise with other colleagues; this enables management of patients to be efficient. The practise nurse can act autonomously whilst still being a member of a multidisciplinary team, managing

north

and coordinating all the disciplines required to meet a patients needs and ensures they function cohesively. With the ever increasing work loads placed on general practice, practice nurses are a ensuring that effective care is delivered and that there are improved patient outcomes.

Practice nurses need to ensure they have local policy and frameworks in place to support quality outcomes and professional development. ANMF has received funding from the commonwealth department of health to review the Competency Standards for nurses in the general practice. Researchers from the University of Wollongong, in partnership with the ANMF, will consult extensively with Registered and Enrolled Nurses working in General Practice. Become involved in this forum can help the practice nurse to also build a support network and get to know others within this field. Some practice nurses feel a need to perform tasks beyond the recognised scope of practice. Practice nurses need to ensure they have Professional Indemnity Insurance, as in some instances may only be partly covered by the General practice insurance policy. With the ANMF membership you are fully covered and can request a Certificate of currency for accreditation purposes.

Practice nursing can be considered one of the fastest growing areas within the healthcare sector and covers many specialist

The nurse will see you nowareas including; lifestyle education, aged care, women’s health, men’s health, infection control, chronic disease management, cardiovascular care, immunisation, cancer, asthma, COPD, mental health, maternal and child health, health promotion, care plans, population health, diabetes, wound management and much more.

ANF provides support for nurses both industrially and as a professional body. ANMF provides opportunity for nurses in general practise to improve their venepuncture and cannulation skills. Currently ANMF HERC is offering the Venepuncture and Cannulation workshop on 16 April in Launceston. These courses are quick to fill so to secure your position contact reception on 6223 6777.

The ANMF encourages Practice Nurses both RN and EN to participate in the Focus Group for nurses in General Practice. This is a review of your competency Standards giving you a chance to have a say in how relevant they are to your practice, how they may need to be updated and what might need to be added. If you are a practise nurse and would like to be part of the discussions with researchers please register your interest with Jo Jones on 62236777. nwww.tasmedicarelocal.com.auwww.apna.com.au www.aph.gov.auwww.mja.com.au

10 INFUSION | March 2014 The Tasmanian nursing magazine for ANMF Members

A meeting with key stakeholders was convened and an ANMF representative group of experienced mental

health nurses, Amy Boon, Ros Gorrie, Anne McKee, Oggy Thyne and Neroli Ellis, ANMF Branch Secretary had a very successful and positive meeting with Cath Schofield, Nick Goddard, A/DSMHS & Dr Leonard Lambeth, Tasmanian Chief Psychiatrist to discuss the; ‘recommendations to be considered as an approved registered nurse (DIV 1) by the Chief Psychiatrist under the Tasmanian Mental Health Act 2013.’

It was agreed that all nurses with a mental health post graduate qualification would be eligible to become an “approved nurse”. The new Act has changed the definition and criteria

to include experience without any further qualification. The parties had lengthy discussion on the criteria for experience alone to enshrine agreed recommendations to protect both nurse and clients in the future.

The initial DHHS recommendation was that a registered nurse with six (6) months experience working in a mental health environment would be eligible to undertake the role of an “approved nurse”. ANMF members expressed their concern of such limited experience or demonstrated competencies required prior to being acknowledged as an “approved nurse” and strongly opposed this recommendation. One of the main concerns was that the registered nurse is signed off by the Chief Psychiatrist as an “approved nurse” becomes responsible, under the Act for the decision to restrain or seclude a patient/client.

At the meeting ANMF expressed their concerns for the limited experience required for a nurse to be considered eligible and presented an alternative recommendation for criteria to cover experience. The outcome of the preliminary discussions included the following criteria:

• A minimum of 12 months experience in a mental health environment;

• Initial recommendation to the Chief Psychiatrist would be made by two “approved nurses”

• One being a grade 4 or higher and the other being a grade three or higher;

• An agreed set of competencies, including an understanding of the Tasmanian Mental Health Act 2013, would be demonstrated; and

• Provision of the applicant’s current CV.

• DHHS representatives were very impressed with the alternative suggested and further work is being undertaken with ANMF representative and Cath Schofield to refine the discussed amended recommendations. Once finalised, the criteria will be outlined in Orders to ensure consistency statewide.

Congratulations to ANMF members for their professional stand and hard work to ensure that their clients/patients are at the forefront of changes that impact their care. n

Approved Psyciatric Nurse – Tasmanian Mental Health Act 2013

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2013 winners, left to right: Helen Williamson, Mary Fromberger representing Better Together Cottage Team, and Craig Mills representing RSL Care.

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11The Tasmanian nursing magazine for ANMF Members INFUSION | March 2014

Recently there has been a concerted effort to conduct nursing handover at the bedside within some Tasmanian hospitals. Posters advocating bedside handovers can be seen displayed in particular wards. Nursing staff have had to adapt to meet this changed expectation with little or no training and many have seen it as an unnecessary change to an approach that did not need fixing. While bedside handovers offer potential benefits it also has side effects, most seriously, risk to patient privacy and confidentiality.

Nursing handover is a multifaceted process in which a number of exchanges must occur. The primary purpose of handover is continuity of nursing care to the patient and must achieve an exchange of accurate, up-to-date information about all aspects of patient care1. Diagnosis, psychosocial and end of life issues will be discussed as will assessment findings and care plans. Further, handover provides an environment for the socialisation, organisation and education of staff2 and it is one time when nurses can de-brief, receive collegial support and exchange professional knowledge and skills3.

Bedside handover occurs successfully in some wards, Intensive Care and Recovery are examples. Most wards however have many multi-bed rooms and handover in these areas requires careful consideration to privacy and confidentiality. When a handover occurs in multi-bed rooms there is a serious risk that patient information will be overheard, most commonly by other patients. I have experienced numerous bedside handovers where nurses have lowered their voices to a whisper and, more concerning, nurses felt obliged to keep clinical details vague

Bedside handover: some unintended consequences of a ‘one size fits all approach’

and brief to protect patient information. I have experienced such scenarios in cases involving palliated patients, miscarriages, IV drug users, mentally ill patients and patients with testing personalities. Each time privacy and confidentiality was jeopardised and the primary purpose of handover undermined.

Bedside handover does raise some important issues. Patient centered care and patient involvement in care are fundamental and bedside handover has been popularised to promote these values4. Unfortunately I have been present many times where patient input during handover has been seen as a disruption, where they have been expected to listen but not speak or where they have simply been ignored during the process. These observations are not isolated incidents5.

Handover provides an essential opportunity for staff to review practice and receive feedback and education and may involve exposing deficits in knowledge, levels of experience or in standards of care4. Undertaken at the bedside this may impact on patient-staff confidence and trust and there is an understandable reluctance to do this. An unintended impact on staff knowledge and skill development may result.

Judgment is required about the best form of handover to adopt in each ward at particular times, with particular attention to each patient and their circumstances. Decisions should be made on a local level with close clinical staff consultation. Implementation of new methods requires training, regular program review and feedback systems.

Likely, the solution does not lie in any one method, but in a combination of two or more methods. Whichever is used there must be careful consideration relating to intended and unintended consequences.

Cameron Ford RN, GradCert (CritCare) n

(Endnotes)1 Street, M. Eustance, P. Livingston, PA.

Craike, ML. Kent, B. Patterson, D (2011), ‘Communication at the bedside to enhance patient care: A survey of nurses’ experience and perspective of handover’, International Journal of Nursing Practice, vol. 17, pp. 133-140.

2 O’Connell, B. Macdonald, K. Kelly, C (2008), ‘Nursing handover: Its time for a change’, Contemporary Nurse, vol. 30, pp. 2-11.

3 Meiβner, A. Hasselhorn, ,. Estryn-Behar, M. Nezet, O. Pokorski, J. Gould, D (2007), ‘Nurses’ perceptions of shift handovers in Europe – results from the European Nurses’ Early Exit Study’, Journal of Advanced Nursing, vol. 57, no. 5, pp. 535-542.

4 Cahill, J (1998), ‘Patient’s perceptions of bedside handover’, Journal of Clinical Nursing, vol. 7, pp 351-359.

5 Chaboyer, W, McMurray, A. Wallis M (2010), ‘Bedside nursing handover: A case study’, International Journal of Nursing Practice, vol 16, pp 27-34.

Image Reference: http://scrubsmag.com/nggallery/page-66216/image/571/

Letter to the Editor

The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not reflect the views of ANMF (Tasmanian Branch).

12 INFUSION | March 2014 The Tasmanian nursing magazine for ANMF Members

After the success of last year's Super Heroes seminars, RBF will again be running a half day program in both Hobart and Launceston.Our team of heroic Super Heroes includes: RBF, RBF Financial Planning, Centrelink and The Public Trustee.

THE RBF

SUPER HEROES SEMINAR IS BACK,

BETTER THAN EVER!

Presentation topics include:• MyPath – Understanding

RBF’s new lifecycle option• Member Investment

Choice options• RBF Life Pension options• Transition to Retirement• Extra contributions• Budgeting for financial health• RBF’s investment strategy• RBF insurance products

RSVP by Thursday 3rd April 2014. Visit www.rbf.com.au or http://bit.ly/superheroes2014 or call 1800 622 631

LAUNCESTON 5TH APRIL - HOBART 12TH APRIL

The RBF Board (ABN 97 724 593 931) is the Trustee of the RBF (ABN 51 737 334 954). When considering an RBF product, please refer to the product disclosure documents available at www.rbf.com.au

13The Tasmanian nursing magazine for ANMF Members INFUSION | March 2014

To prepare student nurses and personal care workers for working in a wide range of home and community-based environments, HERC has established an authentic home simulation space. The home health and care simulation curriculum at HERC is being organized through its relationship to community health themes such as care of individuals in the home and community and health and care of vulnerable populations in the community.

These are exciting and new simulated learning opportunities for HERC students. Although Simulation based learning is becoming a standard feature of contemporary nursing education programs, few scenarios reflect home and community care perspectives.  

Simulation based education is a powerful way for students to learn because the spaces and equipment are generally very realistic of actual practice settings. When designed well simulated scenarios often work in a way that allows students to forget they are in a learning situation and they often start to think and act as if they were really involved in a practice situation. The space in which simulation based education is therefore not simply a physical reflection of the professional

Home Care Simulation at HERC

environment. It also reflects the perspectives that dominate the curricula and to date most published simulation scenarios have focused on traditional acute care specialties.

Graduates who intend to work in home, community or aged care settings require learning experiences that are outside the traditional acute care setting. The new home and community simulation space is a valuable addition to our training facilities for allowing learners to readily apply skills and knowledge within a safe and authentic home care learning environment. n

Harmony Day Harmony Day 21 March – Everyone Belongs

21 March is Harmony Day. Harmony Day is a day of cultural respect for everyone who calls Australia Home. Harmony Day encourages participation in culturally rich activities which promote learning and understanding of how all Australians from diverse backgrounds equally belong to this nation and enrich it.

The message of Harmony Day is Everyone Belongs. It is a day to celebrate Australia’s diversity. It is a day of cultural respect for everyone who calls Australia home – from the traditional owners of this land to those who have come from many countries around the world.

There are many ways we can celebrate Harmony Day – through sport, dance, art, film, music, storytelling, cooking and sharing cultural meals. By participating in Harmony Day activities we can learn and understand how all Australians from diverse backgrounds equally belong to this nation and make it a better place.

Harmony Day is an Australian Government programme and coincides with the United

Nations International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination.

Since 1999 Harmony Day has been widely celebrated across schools, childcare centres, community groups, churches, businesses and federal, state and local government agencies.

To encourage celebrations, free Harmony Day promotional material is available to those who register events on the website. There are also educational resources for teachers and students to celebrate Harmony Day in their schools.

You can promote a harmony day activity in your workplace.Register your event at www.harmony.gov.au and receive free promotional products such as ribbons, balloons, stickers and more! n

After the success of last year's Super Heroes seminars, RBF will again be running a half day program in both Hobart and Launceston.Our team of heroic Super Heroes includes: RBF, RBF Financial Planning, Centrelink and The Public Trustee.

THE RBF

SUPER HEROES SEMINAR IS BACK,

BETTER THAN EVER!

Presentation topics include:• MyPath – Understanding

RBF’s new lifecycle option• Member Investment

Choice options• RBF Life Pension options• Transition to Retirement• Extra contributions• Budgeting for financial health• RBF’s investment strategy• RBF insurance products

RSVP by Thursday 3rd April 2014. Visit www.rbf.com.au or http://bit.ly/superheroes2014 or call 1800 622 631

LAUNCESTON 5TH APRIL - HOBART 12TH APRIL

The RBF Board (ABN 97 724 593 931) is the Trustee of the RBF (ABN 51 737 334 954). When considering an RBF product, please refer to the product disclosure documents available at www.rbf.com.au

Those members who register for any professional development session at HERC up until the end of April will receive a coupon for 50% off their next session at HERC.  Below is a list of some of the courses being offered during this period.

You can register online for any of these courses at herc.anmftas.org.au

Advanced Wound Management

11 March 2014 10:00-16:00 The Tramsheds - Launceston

Jan Rice is a leading expert in wound care. This seminar is designed to increase the knowledge and skills related to advanced wound care practice for those with existing knowledge of basic wound management. This seminar will provide an opportunity to learn from a leading expert. Topics will include: aetiology of wounds, triaging of wounds, complex wound management and there will be a complex case presentation.

Managing the Deteriorating Patient

11 March 2014 09:00-16:00 HERC (Hobart)

10 June 2014 09:00-16:00 HERC (Hobart)

With the national focus on the deteriorating patient as one of 10 hospital standards, there is a need for registered nurses to be skilled and confident in the management of the deteriorating adult patient. This one-day interactive workshop will review and explore the challenges of these patient situations and focus on the knowledge and skills required for safe day to day practice.

A Systematic Approach to Nursing Assessment (Total CPD 8 Hours)

Venue: HERC (Hobart)

This series of workshops will provide knowledge and skills to conduct a physical assessment of the adult person through a systematic approach. This series of workshops will include the skills and knowledge to undertake the systematic collection of subjective and objective data to inform the development of the nursing diagnosis plan.

Session 1 (5 March 4:00pm-6:00pm) Session 2 (12 March 4:00pm-6:00pm) Session 3 (19 March 4:00pm-6:00pm) Session 4 (26 March 4:00pm-6:00pm)

To celebrate the Health Education & Research Centre’s first birthday ANMF HERC is offering a special promotion.

HALF PRICE CPD SESSIONS

Refugee Health and Wellbeing

08 April 2014 09:00-16:00 HERC (Hobart

This education seminar will assist nurses to work with the growing refugee population in Tasmania. The presenters have significant and diverse experience working in this area. Topics will include cultural competence. health screening, using interpreters, the particular needs of pregnant women, FGM and managing the potential effects of torture and trauma.

Venepuncture and Cannulation Workshop

09 April 2014 09:00-16:00 HERC (Hobart)

15 April 2014 09:00-16:00 Rural Clinical School Latrobe

16 April 2014 09:00-16:00

Launceston – Venue TBA

This course is designed to provide participants with knowledge and skills required for competently performing intravenous cannulation and phlebotomy. Course participants will have the opportunity to practice the skills under supervision.

This course is suitable for Registered and Enrolled nurses, Registered nurses endorsed as Nurse Practitioners, midwives and final year nursing students and student midwives.

Pre-requisite- The course assumes participants have knowledge of standard precautions, relevant anatomy and physiology and therapeutic communication.

Midwifery Forum

06 May 2014 09:00-16:00 Launceston – Venue TBA

This forum will focus on emerging challenges in midwifery practice related to the bariatric pregnant woman. Topics will include the care of the bariatric woman in labour, gestational diabetes and law and the midwife.

Emergency and Psychological care of Children and Young People

13 May 2014 9:00-16:00 HERC (Hobart)

This seminar will provide a comprehensive overview of the assessment of the paediatric patient and recognising and responding to the paediatric emergency. iCARE is a solution focused program designed to develop resilience in young people to prevent self harm. Nurses are at the forefront of this work. Hear from one of the project leads. The Commissioner for Children will provide an overview of the role and professional responsibilities related to children.

Acute Coronary Syndrome and Management

20 May 2014 09:00-16:00 HERC (Hobart)

This training seminar is aimed at providing up to date knowledge and skills related to the nursing response to acute Coronary Syndrome. The day will be supported by simulation experience.

• Understanding 12 lead ECG• Physiology of cardiac arrest• LMA Air way management• Using ALS Algorithms

Management of Cardiac Arrhythmias

IF YOU COULD CHANGE ONE THING AT YOUR WORKSITE WHAT WOULD IT BE? Guidelines to writing resolutions.Resolutions are to be moved and seconded by any ANMF Workplace Representatives who are attending the Annual Delegates Conference. Resolutions give ANMF the authority to act on behalf of members and are a great way to put change in motion.A Resolution:1. Must commence with “That”2. Must be quite specific3. Must be unambiguous4. Must not be worded in the first person5. Must have a background with further information

including an explanation by way of preamble6. May be in parts7. May be in the negative8. May have wording debated and changed at the

conference with the permission of the Primary mover and seconder.

ANMF Workplace Reps can look forward to the 2014 Annual Delegates’ Conference, being held at the ANMF Health Education and Research Centre in Hobart on 19 and 20 June.

Registrations will be open soon and all reps will be emailed a registration form.

Does your worksite have an outstanding ANMF rep?

example:“That the 2012 Annual Delegates Conference resolve that the ANF (Tasmanian Branch) lobby employers to offer permanent positions to casual staff and increased hours to the permanent part time employees.”

To submit a resolution for the 2014 Annual Delegates Conference please head to www.anmftas.org.au

2013

Register online now! Spaces are limited.www.anmftas.org.au

Nominations for the Faye Hoppitt Rep of the Year award are open now! If you know of an ANMF Workplace Rep who deserves this honour, visit the ANMF website at www.anmftas.org.au.