“If someone had sat down with me and explained how alcohol could harm my baby, I would have given up sooner.”
Mother of a child with Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD)
Advise women who are pregnant or trying to conceive that they should not drink alcohol, and provide support to help them achieve this.
Find out more about the free and accredited training available online. This provides
information and support to help you optimise pre-coception and pregnancy care.
Welcome from the ACN President
A BRIGHT FUTURE FOR ACN AND NURSING
I acknowledge the peoples who are the Traditional Custodians of the Land on which we are meeting. I also pay respect to their Elders both past and present and extend that respect to other Indigenous Australians who are present at National Nursing Forum (NNF) 2024. We meet in Cairns for NNF at a very opportune time in the political cycle.
There will be elections in Queensland and the ACT in October.
There will be a Federal election no later than May 2025. Elections are fought and won on policies and ideas. There is no greater election policy than health policy. Health affects every one of us.
And there is no greater or more significant element of health policy than that which is led by nurses, and which impacts all nurses and the people in their care.
Health policy is informed by human experience at the front line of service delivery. It is informed by ideas. It is informed by innovation. It is informed by compassion and empathy. And it is informed by unique skills and knowledge. Nurses have all this in spades.
We come to NNF to share this knowledge. We come to bounce around ideas and highlight innovation in health care. We shine a light on excellence.
Above all, we come here to network and learn.
NNF is where amazing health policy is created.
With all the Government reviews completed or due for completion, we expect to see genuine and meaningful health reforms that will benefit our profession and the people in our care.
The Government has rolled out its Strengthening Medicare Taskforce, the Primary Health Care 10 Year Plan, The Mid-Term Review of the National Health Reform Agreement, Medicare Urgent Care Clinics (incorporating Nurse-led Walk-in Clinics), and the Working Better for Medicare Review.
Of particular interest have been the Nurse Practitioner Workforce Plan and the ongoing work for the National Nursing Workforce Strategy.
Notwithstanding the existing challenges with Australia having an available and capable nursing workforce - which includes the maldistribution between metropolitan and rural settings - when comparing Australia to the international environment, Australia does well.
We currently have one of the highest ratios of nursing workforce per population of any country.
We all must take on the mandate to support those countries and regions that are challenged with growing and maintaining a workforce to meet their community needs.
The major piece of work we have been keeping the closest eye on is the Unleashing the Potential of our Health Workforce – Scope of Practice Review.
We highlighted the potential positive outcomes for nurses and nursing in Australia in our pre-Budget Submission.
We have since made two responses to the Review’s Issues Papers. And we have released our new Position Statement: Scope of Practice – Registered Nurses in the community setting.
At the heart of our advocacy this year has been recruitment and retention of nurses, attracting nurses back to nursing, and creating rewarding life-long careers in the profession.
Key to this is promoting a positive image of nursing and highlighting the breadth of diversity that a nursing career offers.
Our policy and advocacy strength has traditionally been polished and endorsed at NNF over the years. This year will be no different. NNF is a catalyst and a celebration of good health policy.
We will learn from local, national, and international experience.
I look forward to engaging with you throughout the amazing program that our team has created.
And I look forward to joining you in celebrating our wonderful profession.
Adjunct Professor David Plunkett FACN GAICD MBA RN
A DEDICATION OF NURSES
Welcome from the ACN CEO
ACN is grateful to the Queensland Government for its outstanding support in helping us stage this event.
When I noted with great pleasure and pride how our College has attracted such a large group of nurses to attend our National Nursing Forum (NNF) in faraway Cairns, I was curious to find out the collective noun for nurses.
I am so glad I did. And what a bonus. There are several. A dedication of nurses. A compassion of nurses. A care of nurses. A team of nurses. A unity of nurses. And even a crew of nurses.
How appropriate. What a reflection of reality. As Interim CEO these past few months, I have seen first-hand all these qualities in action – from the broad profession and its representative organisations, our members, nurses on the frontline of care and research and academia, and our staff.
Dedication. Compassion. Care. Team. Unity. Crew. I am sure we would all be proud to have all these qualities on our CVs. And we do. And these qualities are alive and kicking right here in Cairns at NNF –in the room and online.
NNF 2024 has many highlights.
We are honoured to have messages from the Minister for Health and Aged Care, Mark Butler, and Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care, Ged Kearney, who is a nurse and a champion for nursing. We thank Shadow Minister for Health and Aged Care, Senator Anne Ruston, who made it here in person at the end of a busy Parliament sitting week.
Our very special guest speaker is Professor Dame Anne Marie Rafferty DBE, who has come all the way from the UK to share her wisdom and experience with us, and maybe give us some insider gossip about the recent UK election.
We have the Commonwealth Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer, Professor Alison McMillan; Professor Sabina Knight, who co-chaired the Working Better for Medicare Review; and many other leading lights in health and nursing who are listed in the program.
There is so much to do and get involved in at NNF. And learn. So much to learn.
We have presentations on palliative care, nurse prescribing, First Nations health, aged care, mental health, professional standards, innovation, clinical trials, voluntary assisted dying, environmental action, emergency nursing, robotics, digital solutions, health care in disasters, workforce, safe workplaces, telehealth, climate health, rural and remote nursing, cooking classes, and so much more.
We will announce new Fellows, announce our Trailblazer winner, mingle at networking events, and celebrate at our Gala Dinner.
I am especially looking forward to the debate between the History Faculty and the Next Generation Faculty that will be moderated by Jean Kittson.
Thank you to our sponsors and supporters. Thank you to our affiliates. Thank you to the team of NNF organisers. And thank you all for being here.
I urge you to immerse yourselves and enjoy NNF 2024.
Emeritus Professor Leanne Boyd
Dip App Sci, BN, MN, Grad Cert Crit Care, Grad Cert Higher Ed, PhD, MTEM, GAICD, FACN
General information
VENUE
Cairns Convention Centre
Corner Wharf and Sheridan Street, Cairns 4870
Queensland
Virtual Tour
Venue Map
SOCIAL MEDIA – #NNF2024
Join the NNF conversation using #NNF2024 and follow:
Facebook: @acnursing
X: @acn_nursing
Instagram: @acn_nursing
LinkedIn: australian-college-of-nursing
YouTube: Australian College of Nursing
SOCIAL EVENTS
ACN Club Lounge
Date: Tuesday 13 August
Time: 5:00pm - 7:00pm
Venue: Foyer Cair ns Convention Centre
Networking Reception
Date: Wednesday 14 August
Time: 5:00pm - 6:00pm
Venue: Exhibition Halls
G ala Dinner
Date: Thursday 15 August
Time: 6:30pm - 11:30pm
Venue: The Rankine Mill Shed, 60-70 Magazine Street, Stratford. Transport will be provided to and from the Cairns Convention Centre.
Dress Code
Forum: smart casual
Networking Reception: smart casual
Gala Dinner: cocktail attire (1940’s theme)
Farewell Drinks: smart casual
CATERING AND DIETARY REQUIREMENTS. Enjoy morning teas, lunches, and afternoon teas served in the exhibition halls. For those with special dietary needs, please visit the ‘special dietary requirements table’ in the exhibition area.
PHOTOGRAPHY AND FILMING:
Please be advised that a professional photographer and/or videographer may be present during the event for promotional purposes. Attendees who prefer not to be filmed or recorded should inform the photographer/ videographer on-site and move out of the camera view.
MOBILE PHONES AND DEVICES
Attendees are asked to switch their mobile phones and other devices to silent when in sessions.
REGISTRATION DESK HOURS:
To streamline your registration process, please take note of the following desk hours:
Tuesday, 13 August: 5:00pm- 7:00pm
Wednesday, 14 August: 8:00am - 5:00pm
Thursday, 15 August: 8:00am - 5:00pm
Friday, 16 August: 8:00am - 5:00pm
N AME BADGES
Name badges must be worn at all times during the Forum and will be required for access to the exhibition and all Forum sessions.
POSTERS
Poster presentations and judging sessions will be held on Thursday 15 August, from 8:00am to 8:45am in the exhibition area.
CPD HOURS
CPD hours are awarded to professional development activities that are organised by ACN or have been endorsed or accredited by ACN. One point equates to 60 minutes of education.
Forum Delegates will receive the following:
Attendance dateSessionCPD hours
Wednesday 14 August Forum day one7
Thursday 15 August Forum day two7
Friday 16 August Forum day three 6
CERTIFICATE OF ATTENDANCE
Following the Forum, delegates will be emailed a Certificate of Attendance detailing their CPD hours and a link to provide feedback on their Forum experience.
DISCLAIMER
ACN reserves the right to make alterations to the program where necessary and without notice, either before or during the event. Please note, this program is correct at the time of publishing.
Career accelerator for ambitious nurses who want to strengthen their in uence and command respect and recognition.
Supporting nurse leaders every step of the way
The Australian College of Nursing (ACN) supports nurses to be fully equipped for the challenges and expectations they face in today’s health care environment. No matter where you are at in your career, we will support you to realise and reach your full leadership potential.
Career consolidator for driven nurses who want to supplement their professional experience with a challenging leadership intensive to advance their careers.
Career developer for those in, or those aspiring to nursing unit management roles with practical skills required to in uence and manage self, others, resources, and operations for the bene t of staff, the community, and the recipients of care.
SCAN TO FIND OUT MORE or visit acn.edu.au/leadership
Career kickstarter for up-and-coming nurse leaders who want to fast-track their leadership journeys and set themselves up for rewarding careers.
Exhibitor listing
030 ADF Careers
023 Ausmed
015 Australasian Institute of Clinical Gover nance
029 Australian College of Nursing (ACN)
024 & 025 Australian Gover nment Department of Health and Aged Care
012 Australian Nursing & Midwifery Accreditation Council (ANMAC)
032 Bank First
041 BEAT Bladder Cancer Australia
001 Cair ns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service
034 Caring for You Nursing Agency
Charles Sturt University
004 cmr | Cor nerstone Medical Recruitment 003 CRANAplus
022 Department of Health Tasmania 008 Department of Home Affairs
037 Healthcare Australia 031 Healthscope
039 & 040 HESTA
036 InterPharma
005 Kenmore Health Recruitment Pty Ltd
035 Med App
026 Nurse Midwife Health Program Australia
014 Nurse Midwife Support, Statewide Services, Turning Point
038 Nurses and Midwives Health
016 Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia
019 Nutricia
002 Rural Locum Assistance Program
007 Serco Australia Pty Ltd
009 & 010 State of Queensland acting through the Department of Health | Office of the Chief Nurse Officer
006 Trend Care Systems
011 University Of Tasmania 017 University of Wollongong
033 Wolters Kluwer
028 YNA – Your Nursing Agency
UPGRADE YOUR NURSING CAREER
Pursue your passion, become an expert practitioner in your clinical specialty and increase your earning potential by enrolling in one of ACN’s online graduate certificates.
FEE-HELP is available and ACN members receive an exclusive 10% discount*.
Choose from:
• Acute Care Nursing
• Aged Care Nursing
• A lcohol and Other Drugs
• B reast Cancer Nursing
• Cancer Nursing
• Child and Family Health Nursing
• Community and Primary Health Care Nursing
• Cosmetic Nursing
• Critical Care Nursing
• D ermatology Nursing
• D iagnostic and Interventional Radiology Nursing
• D igital Health
• Leadership and Management
• Neonatal Care
• Nursing (Re-entry)
• O rthopaedic Nursing
• Paediatric Nursing Studies
• Palliative Care
• Perioperative Nursing
• S tomal Therapy Nursing
Ministerial video messages
HON MARK BUTLER MP
FEDERAL MINISTER FOR HEALTH AND AGED CARE
Mark Butler has been a Labor Member in the Federal Parliament since 2007 and has been the Federal Minister for Health and Aged Care since May 2022.
He served under the Gillard Government as Minister for Ageing and Australia’s inaugural Minister for Mental Health. He has also held the ministries of Housing, Homelessness, Social Inclusion, Climate Change, Water and the Environment.
Before Mark was elected to Parliament, he worked for some of the most disadvantaged and vulnerable people in the community as an official with United Voice for over 15 years, 11 of those years as State Secretary.
HON GED KEARNEY MP
THE ASSISTANT MINISTER FOR HEALTH AND AGED CARE
THE ASSISTANT MINISTER FOR INDIGENOUS HEALTH
Ged Kearney is the Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care and the Assistant Minister for Indigenous Health. Ged has served in the parliament since March 2018, when she was elected in a by-election. She is the first woman to hold the seat.
Ged started her working life as a nurse and rose to become Federal Secretary of the Australian Nursing Federation. From 2010, Ged served as the president of the ACTU – the peak body of Australia’s union movement – where she fought for better conditions for Australian workers.
Ged’s working life – from nurse to President of the ACTU to parliamentarian – has been about fighting for the rights of others.
She is a strong voice for social justice, workers’ rights and universal healthcare inside Parliament. Ged is a passionate advocate for the environment and throughout her career she has supported a humane response to refugees.
Ministerial address
Master of Ceremonies
SENATOR THE HON. ANNE RUSTON SHADOW MINISTER FOR HEALTH AND AGED CARE
Senator the Hon. Anne Ruston has been a Senator since September 2012. She is currently the Shadow Minister for Health and Aged Care, Shadow Minister for Sport and Manager of Opposition Business in the Senate.
In July 2014, Anne was elected Senior Deputy Government Whip in the Senate and Chair of the Senate Environment and Communications Legislation Committee. She was also an active participant in the Rural and Regional Affairs and Transport Committee.
Senator Ruston was appointed Assistant Minister of Agriculture and Water Resources in September 2015. She was subsequently appointed as Assistant Minister for International Development and the Pacific in August 2018. Prior to the 2022 election, Senator Ruston was a Cabinet Minister, holding the positions of Minister for Families and Social Services, Minister for Women’s Safety and Manager of Government Business in the Senate for three years.
Prior to becoming a Senator, Anne held several senior positions in government and the private sector, including as the inaugural Chief Executive of the National Wine Centre. She was also a primary producer and irrigator, owning and operating the largest commercial rose garden in Australia.
Born and raised in Renmark, on the River Murray in South Australia, Anne continues to have a strong connection with the Riverland community. She is passionate about regional South Australia and is the only SA Senator who maintains a regional electorate office.
KAREN COOK FACN
A registered nurse for over 40 years Karen currently works in the Nursing Taskforce in the Australian Government Department of Health and Aged Care where her role includes providing strategic policy advice and stakeholder engagement.
Over her nursing career she has worked in many areas including as a surgical nurse, in aged care, hospital administration, regulation and policy. She has post graduate qualifications in Gerontological Nursing, Health Administration and Business Administration and is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors.
Her previous roles include Senior Nursing Advisor to the Commonwealth Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer, Nursing Advisor at Health Workforce Australia and CEO of the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Council – the precursor to ANMAC.
In her spare time Karen is a marriage and funeral celebrant, event MC, chorister, and grandmother.
Keynote speakers
WEDNESDAY
PROFESSOR DAME ANNE MARIE RAFFERTY DBE FACN (HON)
PROFESSOR OF NURSING POLICY AND FORMER DEAN OF THE FLORENCE NIGHTINGALE FACULTY OF NURSING AND MIDWIFERY AND PALLIATIVE CARE AT KING’S COLLEGE LONDON
Dame Anne Marie is Professor of Health & Nursing Policy, former Dean of the Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery & Palliative Care, King’s College, London and Past President of the Royal College of Nursing. She holds degrees from Edinburgh University (BSc Soc Sci Nursing Studies); Nottingham University (MPhil Surgery) and was the first nurse to graduate with a doctorate from Oxford University (DPhil Modern History). She was also the first nurse to win a prestigious Harkness Fellowship in Health Policy (University of Pennsylvania).
She served on the Prime Minister’s Commission on the Future of Nursing and Midwifery, 2009-10 and been recipient of various awards; Nursing Times Leadership Award (2014); Health Services Journal Top 100 Clinical Leaders Award in 2015; 2017 nominated as one of 70 most influential nurses in the 70 years of the National Health Service.
Dame Anne Marie holds Fellowships from the Royal College of Nursing (FRCN), American Academy of Nursing (FAAN) and was elected Fellow of the Academy of Medical Sciences 2019, Member of the Academia Europaea 2020 and National Academy of Science & Medicine in the US in 2021. She was awarded a Dame Commander of the British Empire (DBE) from Her Majesty the Queen for services to nursing in 2020. In 2024 she was also awarded Honorary Fellowship from the Australian College of Nursing (ACN).
PROFESSOR ALISON MCMILLAN MACN COMMONWEALTH CHIEF NURSING AND MIDWIFERY OFFICER
As the Commonwealth Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer Alison provides high-level strategic policy advice to the Australian Government and within the Department of Health and Aged Care on nursing, midwifery, health system reform, health workforce, regulation and education.
Alison has held senior executive roles in government and health services in Victoria.
She has received a number of awards including a Distinguished Alumni Award from Latrobe University in 2024, a Public Service Medal, a Humanitarian Overseas Medal, a National Emergency Medal and a Humanitarian Overseas Medal.
Keynote speakers
WEDNESDAY
PROFESSOR SABINA KNIGHT AM FACN
DIRECTOR QUEENSLAND CENTRE FOR RURAL AND REMOTE HEALTH, JAMES COOK UNIVERSITY
Professor Sabina Knight AM is a Fellow of ACN, a career long member of Close gap - CRANAplus and the Director of the newly established JCU Central Queensland Centre for Rural and Remote Health in Emerald. Sabina has a background in remote area nursing, health workforce, policy and reform. She has held leadership roles in Close gap - CRANAplus, the National Rural Health Alliance, Regional Woman’s Advisory Council and a range of advisory bodies. She served as Commissioner on the National health and Hospital Health Reform Commission and currently is an Independent Reviewer for the Working Better for Medicare Review. She held a long involvement with the CARPA and CRANA manuals for remote practice and then the suite of the remote PHC manuals leaving the editorial committee the last edition. Sabina moved to Emerald following 11 years in Mount Isa leading the Murtupuni Centre for Rural and Remote Health. She has been recognised by her peers with two Aurora Awards, a Centenary Medal, the Ariotti Award, is a Member of the Order of Australia and last year was awarded QLD Life Sciences Woman of Influence Award.
LINDA KINGSTON MEMBER EDUCATION MANAGER, HESTA
Linda Kingston is a Member Education Manager at HESTA, based in Queensland.
Linda is a big believer in superannuation as well as good financial advice. She has been working in the super industry almost since its inception – that’s about 25 years of experience helping members on a daily basis.
Rise and Shine Breakfast Engage with us
THURSDAY
KAREN GRACE MACN
ACN NATIONAL DIRECTOR PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE
Karen joined the Australian College of Nursing as the Director of the Institute of Leadership a year ago and assumed her current role shortly thereafter. She is a Registered Nurse with almost forty years’ experience. Prior to joining ACN, she held various executive leadership roles across a variety of health settings. Most recently she was the Executive Director of Nursing and Midwifery at Canberra Health Services.
Karen has extensive healthcare leadership and management experience and is passionate about the role of nurses and midwives in the delivery of highquality healthcare. She has been involved in numerous transformational changes as a leader, through the development of new infrastructure, innovative new services, contemporary models of care, and systems innovation. She has supported these changes through the creation of a culture of safety, quality and improvement and the development of high performing teams.
Karen is committed to developing all nurses as leaders and promoting opportunities for nurses to grow and develop as both people and as leaders.
KATH LYNCH MACN
ACN MANAGER FOR PROFESSIONAL ENGAGEMENT
Kath trained as a Registered Nurse through the University of Newcastle and worked with the Hunter New England Health District for over 30 years. Apart from her Transitional New Graduate program, the remainder of her career has been in Emergency Nursing, progressing from a junior ED nurse to ED Nurse Unit Manager and then Operations Manager for Critical Care.
It was identified early in her career, that she had qualities of a good nursing leader and has focussed her career pathway on developing these qualities. Her compassion and willingness to be vulnerable has resulted in her being a mentor to many as she also has the important instinct for identifying and nurturing talent.
Kath places a big importance on nurse leaders remaining clinically relevant. This sees her being well respected amongst her peers for both her clinical and her leadership abilities. She has a strong belief in nurses remaining contemporary, while continually selfevolving.
She is extremely loyal to the nursing profession and is a strong advocate for nursing and all it has to offer. She is committed to continuing her advocacy for all nurses in her current role as Manager for Professional Engagement at The Australian College of Nursing.
Keynote speakers
THURSDAY
BRITTANY LOUISE LAUGA MP QUEENSLAND ASSISTANT MINISTER FOR HEALTH AND REGIONAL HEALTH INFRASTRUCTURE
Brittany grew up in Keppel and was elected as the State Labor Member for Keppel in January 2015, November 2017 and again in October 2020. Brittany served for 6 years as Assistant Minister for Education before being sworn in as Assistant Minister for Health and Regional Health Infrastructure in May 2023. She loves the area she grew up in and is now raising her 5 year old daughter Odette in the area.
An award-winning Urban and Regional Planner prior to politics, Brittany has a strong professional background in infrastructure, urban planning and design, approvals and community development.
Brittany is volunteer rural firefighter, a Legacy Legatee, member of the Planning Institute of Australia and Queensland Country Women’s Association, Co-Chair of the Parliamentary Friends of Surf Lifesaving, CoChair of the Parliamentary Friends of Resources and is also Patron of the Central Queensland Coast Guard, Emu Park Golf Club, Emu Park Men’s Shed and the Yeppoon Mallet Club.
In her spare time, Brittany loves bike riding with Odette, playing AFL and cricket, bodyboarding, fishing and mountain biking.
ADJUNCT PROFESSOR SHELLEY
NOWLAN FACN DEPUTY NATIONAL RURAL HEALTH COMMISSIONER
Adjunct Professor Shelley Nowlan has been a registered nurse in Australia for over 34 years. She has been widely recognised for her leadership and contribution to nursing and is currently the Deputy National Rural Health Commissioner (Nursing and Midwifery) and Chief Nurse Officer for Queensland Health.
Adjunct Professor Shelley Nowlan has represented Australia at the International Council of Nurses, United Nations, UNICEF and provided advice to governments of Australia, New Zealand, Canada and Ireland. She has worked for decades to ensure nurses and midwives are supported to meet the needs of people living in rural and regional Australia.
Keynote speakers
THURSDAY
FRANCES RICE MACN
SENIOR NURSING ADVISOR TO THE COMMONWEALTH CHIEF NURSING AND MIDWIFERY OFFICER
Frances Rice is the Senior Nursing Advisor to the Commonwealth Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer in the Department of Health and Aged Care. As a registered nurse, Frances provides specialist and strategic policy advice to Ministers, the Executive and internal and external stakeholders on complex matters in nursing, the health system, health workforce, regulation and education. A passionate leader and manager, Frances has a clinical background as a surgical nurse in trauma and orthopaedics and fertility nursing and spent many years working at the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Accreditation Council in a number of roles before joining the Department.
Frances enjoys coaching and mentoring nurses and non-nurses on career progression, job applications and interview preparation.
Frances has a Bachelor of Nursing Science from James Cook University and a Master of Business Administration from the Australian National University. In her spare time Frances volunteers for Labrador Rescue where she is the ACT Coordinator and also fosters dogs.
PROFESSOR BRENDAN
MCCORMACK MACN
HEAD OF THE SUSAN WAKIL SCHOOL OF NURSING AND MIDWIFERY (INC. SYDNEY NURSING SCHOOL) & DEAN, FACULTY OF MEDICINE AND HEALTH, THE UNIVERSITY OF SYDNEY
Brendan McCormack is Head of School and Dean at The Susan Wakil School of Nursing and Midwifery (including Sydney Nursing School), the Faculty of Medicine and Health at The University of Sydney.
Brendan holds various positions and titles worldwide. He is a Fellow of The European Academy of Nursing Science, the Royal College of Nursing UK, the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, and the American Academy of Nursing. He has been awarded the Sigma ‘International Nurse Researcher Hall of Fame’. He is also a member of The Academia Europaea, a prestigious European scientific academy. Brendan’s research focuses on person-centredness with a focus on the development of person-centred cultures, practices and processes. He has >600 publications reflecting these research areas. Brendan has a particular focus on the use of arts and creativity in healthcare research and development and has been featured in the Wiley Publishers ‘Inspiring Minds’ short films series https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=13c5C-tbcT4 in recognition of his extensive contributions to person-centred healthcare. In 2023 he was awarded an Honorary Doctorate from The University of Maribor, Slovenia for his services to nursing and healthcare.
Keynote speakers
THURSDAY
SARAH BROWN
AM
CEO PURPLE HOUSE
Keynote speakers
FRIDAY
DR BERNADETTE EATHER FACN CHIEF NURSE & CLINICAL SERVICES DIRECTOR
Sarah Brown AM is the Chief Executive Officer of Purple House, working with its board of Indigenous directors to run the organisation since its inception two decades ago. Sarah was recognised with an Order of Australia in the Queen’s Birthday 2020 Honours List “for significant service to community health, to remote area nursing, and to the Indigenous community”. In 2017 she was Hesta Australia’s Nurse of the Year and in 2018 made the AFR BOSS magazine’s ‘True Leaders’ list.
A fearless advocate for high quality, community-led health care for Indigenous Australians, Sarah has invested three decades of her life in this work across Australia. She holds a Master of Nursing, a Graduate Diploma in Aboriginal Education and a Graduate Diploma in Health Service Management. Prior to joining Purple House, Sarah worked as a remote area nurse in communities as diverse as Cape Barren Island (TAS), Balgo (WA), Yuelamu and Harts Range (NT). She has also been an Aboriginal health service manager in the Kimberley and a university lecturer.
Sarah paints, has exhibitions across Australia and overseas, has three grown up kids and drives a 1959 Morris Minor. She thinks ‘work/life balance’ is irrelevant if you love what you do!
Dr Bernadette Eather is the Chief Nurse and Clinical Services Director and Head of Clinical Governance for Ramsay Australia. She has worked in health care for more than 30 years in a range of clinical, operational, and clinical governance roles. She spent her clinical career as a Clinical Nurse Specialist in Intensive Care. Prior to her current role, she was the Director of Patient Safety for NSW Health.
She was recognised for her work in leading Ramsay Health Care’s National COVID response receiving the Front Line Hero Award in the Women’s Agenda Leadership Awards in 2021.
She graduated from the University of Sydney in 1988, and holds a Masters in Health Management, a Masters in Health and Medical Law and a Doctor of Nursing.
Keynote speakers
FRIDAY
ADJUNCT ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR
SONIA MARTIN MACN FOUNDER ONEBRIDGE, ACN STREET HEALTH FACULTY CHAIR
Adjunct Associate Professor, Sonia Martin, is a health equity advocate and a dedicated registered nurse with over 30 years of experience working with vulnerable populations. Leaving her public health sector job in 2018, she initiated change by providing healthcare from the back of a car, reaching those disengaged from healthcare for up to three decades. Sonia continues her work with people experiencing poverty and homelessness in Australia through her organisation, and as founder of OneBridge.
As a recipient of the Dr Dorothea Sandars and Irene Lee Churchill Fellowship in 2022, Sonia’s global travels to India, France, Italy, the UK, the USA, and Canada in 2023 furthered her commitment to improving access to primary healthcare and palliative care for people facing homelessness and poverty. Sonia’s ground-breaking work has earned her the 2022 Outstanding Leadership Award in Entrepreneurship, the 2021 Australian Health Minister’s Nursing Trailblazer Award and nominated for Australian of the Year in 2020 and 2022.
Sonia is a board member of Nurses in Charge Inc and the Regional Director of Australasia and Asia, and the Chair of Australia’s first national Street Heath Faculty with the Australian College of Nursing. Sonia is an Honorary Associate Professor with the University of the Sunshine Coast, contributing to undergraduate and postgraduate health curriculum through equity advocacy.
Sonia aims to amplify her influence through evidencebased research, identifying policy gaps, and engaging in advocacy on a national and global scale, bringing health equity and access to vulnerable populations.
RHEANNWYNN SNEESBY MACN
CHILD PROTECTION CNC - SYDNEY LOCAL HEALTH DISTRICT, ACN CHILDREN AND YOUNG PEOPLE FACULTY CHAIR
Rheannwynn has extensive child protection (CP) experience and postgraduate qualifications in Child & Family Health Nursing. Her postgraduate work focused on CP, violence against women, health inequality and policy.
As NSW’s first CP Clinical Nurse Consultant Rheannwynn developed transformative child maltreatment processes in acute health settings. The Safer Kids Project (SKiP) has resulted in enhanced detection and response to child maltreatment in ED. Improvements to children’s health and wellbeing has occurred as a result of this. Rheannwynn has multiple awards and involvements at international conferences and expert panels. She is progressing multiple publications regarding SKiP and ED CP practice.
Rheannwynn is passionate about the contribution the nursing profession can make to a public health approach to child maltreatment. This includes ensuring that a cultural safety framework is used by nurses to reduce the over-representation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children and their families in the system. As Co-Chair of the ACN’s Nurses and Violence Taskforce – CP Sub-Committee, Rheannwynn co-authored ‘The role of nurses in a public health response to child abuse and neglect’ and contributed to the ‘Coercive Control’ Position Statement. As Chair-incumbent, Rheannwynn is committed to enhancing the wellbeing of Australian children, adolescents and young people.
Keynote speakers
FRIDAY
NATHAN SAUNDERS FACN
DIRECTOR OF FLEET HEALTH RAN, ACN MILITARY FACULTY CHAIR
ACN Board – Q&A Panel Discussion
ADJUNCT PROFESSOR DAVID PLUNKETT FACN GAICD MBA RN PRESIDENT, ACN
Nathan Saunders began nursing in 1997 while undertaking his undergraduate nursing qualification at the University of Southern Queensland. He was appointed to the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) in 2002 as a Nursing Officer after completing several years in rural and remote healthcare in north and western Queensland.
In his 22 years with the Navy he has deployed on many occasions across the world both at sea and ashore working with multinational forces in land and maritime activities.
Nathan has worked extensively in health management and leadership positions across his career including many governance and policy positions, strategic workforce management roles, and as Commanding Officer Joint Health Unit-Victoria and Tasmania.
He was promoted to the rank of Captain in the Navy upon appointment as the Director of Fleet Health in January 2024. Highlights include his time as a Commanding Officer, being the first Nursing Officer posted to the Navy’s Submarine and Underwater Medicine Unit, and as the Health Engagement/Medical Security Cooperation Officer for Coalition Joint Task Force—Operation INHERENT RESOLVE in Iraq.
His professional passions relate to leadership, governance and safety. He is a proud father to four teenage boys, all of whom share his penchant for being outdoors.
Adjunct Professor David Plunkett FACN GAICD, MBA, RN is Chief Executive Eastern Health Melbourne Victoria, where he operationalises the strategic plan, quality and financial plan for the current and future financial years of the health service.
David has been an Executive for Eastern Health in Melbourne for a number of years where he provides professional leadership to the nurses and midwives within Eastern Health.
PROFESSOR GEORGINA WILLETTS FACN BOARD DIRECTOR, ACN
Professor Georgina Willetts has over 30 years nursing experience and more than a decade of experience in leading nursing and midwifery reform within the healthcare industry, moving to academia in 2011. Georgina is currently Professor, Nursing and Practice Development Institute Health and Wellbeing at Federation University. Georgina has been an active member of ACN and the Royal College of Nursing for more than 15 years. Georgina is also Chair of Academic Council.
ACN Board – Q&A Panel Discussion
PROFESSOR DONNA L WATERS FACN
VICE PRESIDENT, ACN
Donna is currently Deputy Executive Dean (Projects) for the Faculty of Medicine and Health at the University of Sydney. This Faculty consists of seven cognate Schools of Health, including the Susan Wakil School of Nursing and Midwifery (formerly the Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery). Donna is passionate about children and youth health and has recently completed a tenyear term as a Board Member of the Sydney Children’s Hospital Network. She also served as Chair of the Network Safety and Quality Committee. Donna also serves as Deputy Chair of Academic Council.
KATH STEIN FACN
BOARD DIRECTOR, ACN
Kath joined the Air Force (RAAF) in March 1991 through the Undergraduate Scheme. Following her graduation from University she consolidated her clinical training in the Graduate Program at Fremantle Hospital. In the years that have followed she has served in health facilities including Number 3 RAAF Hospital, Health Services Flights Pearce and Tindal with operational experience on exercises and deployments. She was privileged to Command Joint Health Unit Northern New South Wales and is the current Director of Defence Force Nursing.
ADJUNCT PROFESSOR
CHRIS RAFTERY FACN
BOARD DIRECTOR, ACN
Adjunct Professor Chris Raftery FACN is a wellrespected published and endorsed nurse practitioner, and distinguished and dynamic nursing leader who has been part of the profession for over two decades. He is Deputy Chair of the Queensland Clinical Senate and a strong advocate for nursing in Queensland and nationally. With additional strengths in innovation, technology and health economics, his contribution and strategic influence in shaping and advancing the nursing profession nationally, continues to maximise our individual and collective opportunities now and into the future.
HEATHER KEIGHLEY FACN
BOARD DIRECTOR, ACN
Heather is a respected and professionally connected nurse leader within the NT and nationally with expertise in health workforce, clinical governance, and leadership. She strongly advocates for rural and remote nursing, midwifery, health workforce, and primary healthcare. As the Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer from 2016-2018 Heather coordinated the NTG review of remote nurse safety and implemented the review recommendations to keep remote Territory nurses safe at work.
ACN Board – Q&A Panel Discussion
ADJUNCT PROFESSOR SUE HAWES FACN BOARD DIRECTOR, ACN
Sue Hawes has worked as a registered nurse for nearly 40 years and in many different roles across NSW, Queensland, South Australia and the Northern Territory. For the past 20 years she has held senior leadership and management positions influencing policy and practice and driving change that enables nurses to work at the top of their scope of practice.
Sue is currently the CEO of Diabetes Australia (QLD) and was previously the Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer of the NT.
ROSS LEWIN INDEPENDENT DIRECTOR
Ross is a Chartered Accountant with over 35 years of experience in investment banking and corporate advice. Ross has provided insightful strategic recommendations in his current and previous roles and conducted mandates in capital raising, mergers and acquisitions, divestment, and shareholder and bank negotiations. Ross is currently Chair of FARI Committee.
MICHAEL RYAN INDEPENDENT DIRECTOR
Michael is a practising solicitor with over 35 years of experience as a partner in leading Australian and international law firms. He specialises in corporate and commercial law representing clients across many industries including health. He regularly advises boards of directors of small, medium, and large companies including listed companies on their duties, conflicts, and governance. He works closely with boards to support them through complex or difficult periods or transactions. Michael also serves on the FARI Committee.
PROGRAM
DAY 1 – WEDNESDAY, 14 AUGUST 2024
DAY 1 – WEDNESDAY, 14 AUGUST 2024
Location Auditorium B & C
8:45-9:00am Welcome to Country Presented by Minjil
9:00-9:05am Welcome and Introduction Karen Cook FACN, Master of Ceremonies
9:05-9:10am Ministerial Address Hon Ged Kearney MP, Assistant Minister for Health and Aged Care The Assistant Minister for Indigenous Health
9:10-9:15am Welcome Address Adjunct Professor David Plunkett FACN, President, Australian College of Nursing
9:15-9:45am Opening Address – Nurses as agents of change and sustainability for the future
Professor Dame Anne Marie Rafferty DBE FACN (Hon), Professor of Nursing Policy and former Dean of the Florence Nightingale Faculty of Nursing and Midwifery and Palliative Care at King’s College London
9:45-10:05am Reimagining our Nursing future
Presenter: Professor Alison McMillan MACN, Commonwealth Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer
10:05–10:20am Access to health care, thin markets and underserved populations
Presenter: Professor Sabina Knight AM FACN
Director Queensland Centre for Rural and Remote Health, James Cook University
10:20-10:30am Corporate Partner Address Linda Kingston, Member Education Manager
Nurse-parent partnerships take ACCTion: a mixed methods study
Presenter: Prof Marilyn Cruickshank FACN
Supporting aged care residents who access Voluntary Assisted Dying
Presenters: Helee Park & Melissa McDonald MACN
1:00-2:00pmLunch with Exhibitors
Location Auditorium B & C
2:00-3:30pm The age-old debate: “Nursing history is holding the profession back” ACN Next Generation Faculty vs ACN History Faculty
Facilitated by: Jean Kittson, Moderator
3:30-4:00pmAfternoon Tea with Exhibitors
Location Auditorium B & C
4:00-4:15pm 2024 Health Minister’s Trailblazer Award Announcement Video message Hon Mark Butler MP Federal Minister for Health And Aged Care
4:15-5:00pm Oration and Investiture of Fellows Ceremony
Orator: Professor Mary Chiarella AM FACN
5.00-6:00pm Networking Drinks Reception
Proudly Sponsored by
Join the ACN Affiliate Network and elevate your organisation’s nursing standards. Access premium resources, professional development opportunities, and connect with a prestigious network of healthcare leaders.
Why Become an ACN Affiliate?
Exclusive Resources: Enhance nursing standards with top-tier research and educational materials.
Professional Growth: Offer your staff unparalleled development through ACN’s expert-led workshops and seminars.
Networking Opportunities: Connect with influential healthcare organisations and leaders.
Advocacy: Be part of shaping the future of nursing in Australia.
AFFILIATE PROGRAM
with an ACN Af liate membership!
Benefits for Affiliates:
•Access to Nursing Leadership Development Days
•Discounts on ACN leadership short courses, ACN CPD courses, advertising in ACN publications, and ACN Endorsement services
•Career Hub position postings
•Complimentary National Nursing Forum Registrations
•VIP Invitations to ACN networking events
•Discounted Afÿliate Membership Rate for all nurse employees
•Opportunity to display your logo on the ACN Afÿliate webpage +more!
Interested in becoming an ACN Affiliate? Our Affiliation team will be delighted to assist you in choosing the best affiliation package to suit your organisation’s needs.
PROGRAM DAY 2 – THURSDAY, 15 AUGUST 2024
PROGRAM DAY 2 – THURSDAY, 15 AUGUST 2024
Location Auditorium B & C
7:00-7:45am Rise and Shine Breakfast - Engage with us
Presenters: Karen Grace ACN National Director Professional Practice MACN & Kath Lynch ACN Manager Professional Engagement MACN
8:00-8:45am Poster Presentations and Voting Exhibition Area
8:50-9:00am Welcome to Day Two Karen Cook FACN, Master of Ceremonies
9:00-9:10am Opening Address Brittany Louise Lauga MP, Queensland Assistant Minister for Health and Regional Health Infrastructure
9:10-9:30am Foundations of Rural Health Care: Nurse is often the only one Presenter: Adjunct Professor Shelley Nowlan FACN, Deputy National Rural Health Commissioner
9:30-9:50am Building the nursing workforce of the future
Presenter: Frances Rice MACN, Senior Nursing Advisor to the Commonwealth Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer
9:50-10:10am Leading with resistance and resolve: Reclaiming personhood in a post-humanist world
Presenter: Professor Brendan McCormack MACN, Head of The Susan Wakil School of Nursing and Midwifery (inc. Sydney Nursing School) & Dean, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney
10:10-10:30am Walking in two worlds – Celebrating 20 years of community-controlled dialysis on country
Presenter: Sarah Brown, CEO Purple House
10:30-11:00amMorning Tea with Exhibitors
Stream QUALITY & SAFETY Auditorium A
11:00-11:20am Hybrid education increases nurses’ skills in management of deteriorating patients
Presenter: Suzie Noye MACN and Mick Breen MACN
11:20-11:40am Barriers and facilitators to optimising nurse and midwifery leadership time
Presenter: Adj/Prof Philippa Blencowe MACN
11:40am-12:00pm An educational evaluation of a preceptorship program for registered nurses
Presenter: Sam Miller MACN
12:00-12:20pm Sleep better – Think better Work safe
Presenter: Dr Lauren Booker
Auditorium D
Regenerating and reinvigorating gerontological nursing as a career choice
Presenter: Stephanie Munk
Culturally focused wellness screening to improve access to health services
Presenter: Yashni Kander
PREVAIL: Sustaining the Australian neonatal nursing workforce using collective agency
Presenter: Patricia Lowe MACN
Remote expert consultation: An exemplar of a nurse-led innovation
Presenter: Assoc. Prof Suzanne Kapp MACN
& M3
Addressing social determinants of health for sustainable outcomes in homelessness
Presenter: Dee Loader
Racially and ethnically minoritised women nurses: Advancing in healthcare leadership
Presenter: Mihirika Pincha Baduge MACN
CLEAN – Community nurses love environmental actions of no waste
Presenter: Catherine Brennan MACN
Nurses reinvigorating reconciliation for healing healthcare relationships following the referendum
Presenter: A/Prof Holly Northam OAM MACN
Room M6, M7 & M8
Resident-centred care for displaced populations in complex disasters
Presenter: Angela Sheedy MACN
Shining the light on community nursing Efficient sustainable solutions
Presenters: Jo Butler MACN & Shayne Larymore
Enhancing Mental Health Education and Nursing Placements in Regional Communities
Presenter: Lucy Osborn FACN
Delirium Excellence: Developing a delirium education program for nurses
Presenter: Samantha Finn MACN
12:20-1:30pmLunch with Exhibitors
1:30-1:50pm HIRAID’M improves the quality of emergency nursing in Rural Australia
Presenter: Belinda Kennedy
1:50-2:10pm Nursing numeracy educators: The teaching and assessment of medication calculations
Presenter: Christine Minty Walker
2:10-2:30pm Nursing documentation –breaking the habits
Presenter: Noriko Koizumi MACN
2:30-2:50pm Comprehensive person centred nursing orientation
Presenters: Dr Therese Riley & Lynette Higgs
2:50-3:30pmAfternoon Tea with Exhibitors
Robotics and the future of nursing and midwifery
Presenter: Dr Wendy Smyth OAM MACN
ComRRS-North:
A novel take on hospital avoidance
Presenter: Meredith Prestwood & Susan Nunn
Responding to the need for a flexible workforce model
Presenter: Adj Prof Kate Gillan FACN
Ramsay Nursing and Midwifery Academy Graduate Program
Presenters: Rachel Gale MACN & Dr Bernadette Eather FACN
Enhancing Nurse Safety and Patient Experience in Emergency Departments
Presenter: Assoc. Prof Samantha Jakimowicz FACN
Implementation of a postnatal program in Northwest Tasmania
Presenter: Elizabeth Fegan MACN
The forgotten Few: John’s story
Presenter: Sharon Williams MACN
Preceptoring in the Community
Presenter: Cherie Clarke MACN
Nurses and Caring: A Collective Narrative
Presenter: Dr Tanya Park MACN
Leveraging legislation to improve reproductive health outcomes
Presenter: Emily Russell MACN
Moral injury in nursing; Creating sustainable nurses for our future
Presenter: Gabi Macaulay
Chronic disease management and support needs among older Vietnam-born Australians
Presenter: Dr Minh Nguyen
CONCURRENT ACN FACULTY SESSIONS
Location Auditorium A Auditorium D Meeting Room M2 & M3Meeting Room M6, M7 & M8
3:30-5:00pm RURAL AND REMOTE NURSING FACULTY
Rural and Remote Nurses rock
Tracy Kidd FACN
END OF LIFE CARE FACULTY
Self-compassion and self-care: Contemplative workshop
A/Prof Jason Mills FACN, Dr Caroline Phelan MACN & Aroha Lucas MACN
6:30-11:30pm Gala Dinner proudly sponsored by
Sponsor address Will Egan, CEO Ausmed
REGULATION FACULTY
Scope of practice: The iceberg
Kate Rowan-Robinson MACN
ADVANCED PRACTICE FACULTY
Advanced Practice: Moving Forward
Jo Mapes FACN
PROGRAM DAY 3 – FRIDAY, 16 AUGUST 2024
PROGRAM DAY 3 – FRIDAY, 16 AUGUST 2024
8:45-8:55am Welcome to Day Three Karen Cook FACN, Master of Ceremonies
8:55-9:10am Ministerial Address Senator the Hon. Anne Ruston, Shadow Minister for Health and Aged care
9:10-9:30am Nursing a profession, passion or privilege?
Crafting the narrative – How do we reignite the spark within ourselves to ignite passion in the Next Generation
Presenter: Dr Bernadette Eather FACN, Chief Nurse & Clinical Services Director and Head of Clinical Governance for Ramsay Australia
9:30-9:50am Equity empowered: A kindness – driven health revolution
Presenter: Adjunct Associate Professor Sonia Martin MACN, Founder OneBridge, ACN Street Health Faculty Chair
9:50-10:10am Child Safety is not negotiable: The nursing profession’s role in promoting a better future
Presenter: Rheannwynn Sneesby MACN, Child Protection Clinical Nurse Consultant Sydney Local Health District, ACN Children and Young People Faculty Chair
10:10-10:30am Covert Innovation: Musings of a quiet achiever
Presenter: Nathan Saunders FACN, Director of Fleet Health RAN, ACN Military Faculty Chair
10:30-11:00amMorning Tea with Exhibitors
11:00-11:20am Reducing prolonged fasting times by using “sip till send”
Presenter: Kristian Sanchez MACN
11:20-11:40am The current nursing crisis: Are novice nurses suffering in silence?
Presenter: Tammy Sooveere MACN
11:40am-12:00pm Consent and the mature minor
Presenter: Kate Rowan Robinson MACN
12:00-12:20pm Mercy Ships: enhancing nursing practice through international collaboration
Presenter: Dr Sonja Dawson MACN
Using digital solutions to increase nurses’ implementation of best practice
Presenter: Jessica Goldsmith MACN
Development and evaluation of the leadership excellence in practice program
Presenter: Dr Mitchell Dwyer & Kylie Chilcott MACN
Simulation: Transforming outlier patient care with clinical and nonclinical professionals
Presenter: Trudy Cole MACN
Palliative care workforce planning through partnerships
Presenter: Carol Barbeler MACN
Do we need green space interaction in nursing?
Presenter: A/Prof Rebekkah Middleton MACN
Educating nurses to deliver telehealth and improve access to care
Presenter: Julia Charalambous MACN
Women’s challenges and experiences with gestational breast cancer
Presenter: Sara Hurren MACN
Not just a nurse: Reinvigorating the nursing profession through sustainable leadership
Presenter: Clinical A/Prof Wendy Zernike MACN
Health services, communities, and disasters: what happens at the interface
Presenter: Chantel Sando
Enhancing community acute care: The role of rapid response nurse
Presenter: Morgan Davie MACN
Older persons with chronic lung disease: Experiences with community-based exercise
Presenter: A/Prof Rebekkah Middleton MACN
Improving personcentred care through culturally safe collaborative practice
Presenters: Saz Newbery MACN & Margaret McCallum
12:20-1:30pmLunch with Exhibitors
1:30-1.45pm Positioning nursing for a responsive and innovative digital future
1:45-2:30pm Poster prizes and Lucky Door winner announcements
Closing Remarks and NNF 2025 location announcement
ACN Interim CEO Emeritus Professor Leanne Boyd FACN
2:30-2:35pm Sponsor Address
2:40-3:15pm Farewell Drinks & Afternoon Tea
Proudly Sponsored by
Dr Tanya Park MACN, College of Healthcare Sciences, Nursing & Midwifery James Cook University
Through the ACN Foundation, you can support the legacy and future of Australian nurses Join us in donating today to the Bullwinkel Project and help shape the future of nursing excellence.
The Bullwinkel Scholars Program was created in memory of Lieutenant Colonel Vivian Bullwinkel, the sole survivor, and the 21 nurses who perished during the Bangka Island massacre in 1942. The ACN Foundation has created 22 scholarships in honour of these heroic and dedicated nurses, preserving their memory and empowering future generations who continue the proud legacy of what it means to be an Australian nurse. Through your tax-deductible donation, you will help Scholars receive professional and academic support in nursing leadership. These funds will also provide study travel opportunities, allowing Scholars to broaden their skills and knowledge. Together, we can strengthen the nursing profession and build a stronger healthcare system for all Australians.
Abstracts – concurrent sessions
Abstracts are printed here as submitted to ACN
DAY 1 WEDNESDAY 14 AUGUST 2024
CONCURRENT SESSION ONE
QUALITY AND SAFETY (01)
Auditorium A 11:30am – 12:50pm
LEADING THE WAY: SPECIALIST PALLIATIVE CARE NURSING WITHIN HOMECARE
Home nursing and care organisations are key contributors to the provision of community-based palliative care. To achieve high-quality palliative care, generalist care staff must be adequately trained and supported. However, the literature and our experience tell us that home care nurses often face challenges in meeting the needs of their palliative clients and may lack confidence and knowledge around palliative care.
Main body:
To address this, and to enhance a generalist approach to palliative care, a quality improvement project over 15-months was implemented and evaluated. Unique to this approach was that all activities were managed and supported by a palliative care specialist (nurse practitioner) embedded within the organisation. The role of the nurse practitioner was to drive evidence-informed care, policy and guidelines, build staff capacity and provide expert support and consultation as needed. Additionally, Grade 3, Registered Nurse Care Managers, were identified as having a pivotal role in guiding and supporting staff and were the focus of the project activities and outcomes.
Evaluation of the impact that this approach can have, as well as enablers and barriers to generalist palliative care in the home, was explored through focus groups with participating nursing care managers. Findings were synthesised into three overarching themes highlighting 1) the value of tailored education to increase staff knowledge and confidence, 2) the importance of clear communication and mutual respect in successful
generalist-specialist partnerships, and 3) the unique nature of the home care setting, which is complex, relationship-based and diverse.
Conclusion:
Embedding nurses with specialist palliative care training within generalist organisations can drive and champion tailored evidence-informed palliative care provision, that is translated into context for all members of the workforce, appropriate to scope. Investment in home care to provide a general palliative approach would be beneficial given the unique challenges of this mobile workforce.
VITAL SIGNS MOST IMPORTANT TO NURSES: A SCOPING REVIEW
DR NANTANIT VAN GULIK1,2, PENELOPE CASEY1,2, DR OLUMUYIWA OMONAIYE1,2, DR JOSHUA ALLEN3, PROFESSOR JUDY CURREY1, PROFESSOR JULIE CONSIDINE1,2
1 Deakin University, Geelong, Australia,
2 Centre for Quality and Patient Safety ResearchEastern Health Partnership, Box Hill, Australia,
3 The University of Melbourne, Parkville, Australia
Introduction:
Nurses’ measurement and interpretation of vital sign assessment are critical to recognising and responding to clinical deterioration in hospital patients. However, why some vital signs are more or less likely to be documented or result in rapid response systems (RRS) activations is unclear. The aim of this scoping review was to explore the published research related to nurses’ documentation and use of vital signs in recognising and responding to deteriorating patients.
QUALITY AND SAFETY (01)
Auditorium A 11:30am – 12:50pm
Method:
This scoping review was conducted according to the methodological framework and reported using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses Extensions for Scoping Reviews (PRISMA-ScR). The synthesis approach was guided by Synthesis Without Meta-Analysis (SWiM) reporting guidelines and a narrative synthesis method.
Results:
Of 3880 potentially eligible publications, 32 were included. There were 26 studies of nurses’ vital sign documentation: 21 adult and 5 paediatric. The most and least frequently documented vital signs were blood pressure and respiratory rate respectively. Seven studies focused on vital signs and RRS or failure to activate the RRS. Heart rate was the most frequent vital sign used to trigger the RRS, whereas respiratory rate and conscious state were the least frequent. Heart rate abnormalities were least likely and abnormal oxygen saturation the most likely to be associated with failure to activate the RRS.
Conclusion:
Despite high reliance on using vital signs to recognise clinical deterioration and activate a response to clinical deterioration, nurses’ documentation, and use of vital signs to activate RRS is poorly understood. A deeper understanding of nurses’ decisions to assess (or not assess) specific vital signs, and investigation of the importance nurses place (or not) on specific vital sign parameters is warranted.
PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS: REGULATING BEHAVIOURS IN NURSINGINTENTIONS VERSUS OUTCOMES
ADJUNCT PROFESSOR SALLY ROBERTSON FACN, ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR KATHIE ARDZEJEWSKA, EMERITUS PROFESSOR MARGARET MCMILLAN
1 University of Notre Dame, Australia, Sydney, Australia
Purpose:
A comprehensive review of the literature has indicated the need for greater research into the application of the Registered nurse standards for practice. The purpose of this study was to examine the Standards in relation to their intentions and implications for the recipients of care.
Methods:
Case study methodology combining Bourdieu’s Field Theory and Theory of Practice as a philosophical lens and Interpretive Description (ID) provided a framework for data collection, analysis, and reporting. Purposive sampling identified key informants and interviews revealed the perspectives of senior nursing leaders, all of whom have capital in nursing and were familiar with regulations, guidelines, and practises. Workshops were conducted with nurses in education settings and in clinical contexts examining the use of the Standards in practice. Data collection and analysis occurred iteratively to allow for exploration of emergent themes.
Results:
The main themes identified intentions related to professionalisation and patient safety with implementation plans (or lack thereof) having implications for understanding and operationalisation of the Standards in education and workplaces. The sub themes of visibility and making the Standards explicit, governance, embodiment, assessment, scaffolding and the role of leadership, showed some disconnect between intentions and outcomes. The extent to which individuals can conceptualise nursing practice in different contexts also impacts the extent to which they can apply them in practice.
Abstracts – concurrent sessions
Abstracts are printed here as submitted to ACN
DAY 1 WEDNESDAY 14 AUGUST 2024
CONCURRENT SESSION ONE
QUALITY AND SAFETY (01)
Auditorium A 11:30am – 12:50pm
Conclusion:
This study has implications for informed policy development and translation of policy into implementation plans and strategies. Further work is needed if the Standards are to have more meaning for nurses when they transition from undergraduate studies to the workforce. Given the Standards are intended to regulate behaviours within the nursing profession, greater scaffolding in education and practice is needed if the Standards are to become embodied within the habitus of nursing in a range of contexts of practice.
PREPARING SAFE PRACTITIONERS: NURSING AND MEDICAL STUDENTS VIEWS OF INTERPROFESSIONAL SIMULATION
DR CAROL CREVACORE MACN (ASSOCIATE)1, DR OLIVIA GALLAGHER2, DR HUGH DAVIES1, DR AMANDA COLE1, DR EVELYN KANG3, DR KATE JUTSUM4
1 Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, Australia,
2 Fiona Stanley Hospital, Murdoch, Australia,
3 Griffith University, Gold Coast, Australia,
4 University of Western Australia, PERTH, Australia,
5 Curtin University, Bentley, Australia
Introduction:
Professional accrediting bodies for nursing and medicine require interprofessional education (IPE) to be included in pre-registration programs, which aligns with the World Health Organization’s recommendations for IPE. Failure of nurses and doctors to communicate effectively is associated with poor teamwork and decreased patient safety. However, opportunities for pre-registration nurses and medical doctors to engage in IPE can be challenging due to differences
in educational pedagogies, scale and scheduling difficulties. This presentation will share findings from nursing and medical students who engaged in an IPE simulation in their respective roles of registered nurse or intern who were required to respond to a variety of clinical events that depicted a busy medical/surgical ward.
Aim:
To explore the views and attitudes of nursing and medical students before and after participation in a simulated ward-based interprofessional activity.
Methods:
A pre-test, post-test design with the inclusion of four open-ended questions following the IPE simulation provided a qualitative understanding of the views and attitudes of participants.
Results:
A total of 245 free-text responses were received and underwent content analysis. Inferences drawn from the coding of words were organised into ten categories and grouped into three subject themes. ‘Transitioning to professional practice’, ‘Interprofessional’ and ‘Student learning satisfaction’.
Conclusion:
Findings from this study showed the program was well received by participants and reinforced the importance of providing opportunities for IPE in nursing and medical training programs. We have presented an example of an IPE program that promotes mutual respect and understanding between nursing and medical students. By simulating a ward-based interprofessional activity it allowed students to learn how to collaborate through hands-on experience of the roles and responsibilities each bring when managing a group of patients.
INNOVATION (01)
Auditorium D 11:30am – 12:50pm
ADVANCING THE NATIONAL IMPLEMENTATION OF DESIGNATED REGISTERED NURSE PRESCRIBING
A/PROF AMANDA FOX MACN1,2,3, DR SUZANNE WILLIAMS1, DR CARLA THAMM3, DISTINGUISHED PROFESSOR PATSY YATES1,2, ADJUNCT PROFESSOR DEBRA THOMS1, PROFESSOR FRANCES LIN3, PROFESSOR RAYMOND CHAN4
1 Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia,
2 Centre for Healthcare Transformation - QUT, Brisbane, Australia,
3 Caring Futures Institute, Adelaide, Australia,
4 Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
Background:
The Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia have developed a Nursing Standard of Practice to support designated Registered Nurse (RN) prescribing under supervision of an authorised prescriber. There are more than 303,000 RNs in Australia however, most do not have prescribing rights. A range of nurse prescribing models have been adopted globally, leading to improved patient outcomes and increased nurse work satisfaction. Implementing new nursing roles in Australia have historically faced extensive challenges. This expanded scope of practice will have significant impact for patients but also for frontline nurses, authorised prescribers, health service managers and policy makers.
Design:
This program of research explores the context, barriers and enablers to designated RN prescribing using a range of research methods. The aim of this program is to develop contextually appropriate recommendations and strategies for implementation of designated RN prescribing across Australia.
Findings:
An integrative review provides global perspectives of prescribing under supervision. Highlighting the expansion of this practice and varied approach to nurse prescribing internationally. The Australian context was explored with RNs (n=4,424) and nurse practitioners (n=229) from all jurisdictions, geographical locations and healthcare settings. Findings indicates strong desire by RNs (82%, n=3,645) to expand their scope of practice to include prescribing. Nurse practitioners agree (90%, n=205) that RN prescribing will optimise use of RN knowledge however, to be successfully adopted nationally, there are challenges and barriers that must be overcome. Early stakeholder engagement at a systems-thinking level has provided insights to support this initiative.
Conclusion:
RN prescribing, if implemented effectively, is an opportunity for the nursing profession to improve systems of care and access to medicines while scaffolding succession planning for advanced practice nursing roles. Recommendations and strategies have been generated by this program of research and next steps to enable implementation of designated RN prescribing will be presented.
EFFECTIVE LEADERSHIP IN ACTION: FROM POSTGRADUATE EDUCATION TO SUSTAINED PRACTICES
1 University Of Wollongong, West Wollongong, Australia, 2 South East Sydney Local Health District, Kogarah, Australia
Abstracts – concurrent sessions
Abstracts are printed here as submitted to ACN
DAY 1 WEDNESDAY 14 AUGUST 2024
CONCURRENT SESSION ONE
INNOVATION (01)
Auditorium D 11:30am – 12:50pm
Roles and titles do not make a leader, rather behaviours reflect leadership qualities that can be used to influence others. These behaviours can be learned and developed through formal leadership programs and supportive organisational culture. Formal postgraduate leadership education is advocated for healthcare leaders, as it links theory, practice, and reflection, to foster skill development. Despite its potential benefits, formal postgraduate leadership education has been challenged as having translational gaps between the educational delivery and subsequent application of leadership principles and behaviours in clinical practice.
In response to local needs, a School of Nursing in a regional Australian university partnered with a Local Health District to deliver a 12-month leadership program, the Effective Leadership (in Health) Program. This interdisciplinary program has been operating for 15 years and enables shared learning, networking, diversity in expertise and opinion, and harnessing leadership potential across health disciplines. A co-facilitated model is used with an academic lead and skilled facilitators from the Local Health District.
This presentation will share findings from a mixed method study that explored how postgraduate leadership education is translated in practice and how these practices and behaviours are sustained following completion of the Effective Leadership Program. The research identified that lessons learnt from formal innovative leadership education are retained over time by healthcare providers. This is important for nursing staff and other healthcare providers who are leading teams and overseeing care delivery, ensuring consistent impact over time of enacted leadership behaviours and practices. Such transformational leadership can enhance nurses and other disciplines commitment to innovative and person-centred approaches.
EMBRACING INNOVATION: NURSE SENSITIVE MODELS, METHODS AND IMPLEMENTATION MECHANISMS
A/PROF CRAIG LOCKWOOD MACN1
1 JBI, School of Public Health, University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
Introduction:
Innovation is all around us, yet often, cutting-edge technology and programs are launched only to get overshadowed by the next innovation or crisis. This pattern raises a persistent question: how do we effectively harness transformative practices and sustainably embed them with nursing practice? The crux of this endeavour lies in Implementation Science, a programmatic approach for implementing and evaluating sustainable change processes.
Body:
Drawing upon published examples from JBI an international collaborative for best practice; this presentation illustrates how implementation theories, models, and frameworks contribute to methods and mechanisms of action for integrating nurse-led innovation within the routine organisation and delivery of nursing care, addressing three pivotal challenges: 1) health system sustainability, 2) evolving evidence and 3) clinical uncertainties.
Open systems (hospitals, primary and community practices) face sustainability issues, exacerbating nursing skill and workforce shortages. To counteract these challenges, closed-loop processes for evidencebased practice via quality improvement collaboratives and strengthened clinical leadership are crucial for demonstrating sustainable, high-quality nursing practice. Published case examples will be used to illustrate how evidence-based resources facilitate the seamless integration of research findings in routine care. It highlights how targeted education, skills
INNOVATION (01)
Auditorium D 11:30am – 12:50pm
transfer, and the provision of high quality, evolving evidence-responsive resources empower proactive nursing, resolve clinical uncertainties and minimises inappropriate variations in practice that could potentially harm patients.
Conclusions:
Sustainable mechanisms of action are crucial to foster nurse-led culture within organisations, although evidence-based examples are scarce. This talk introduces methods-based approaches that foster, scale-up, and integrate innovative nursing practices. It emphasises innovation through evidenceinformed refinement; demonstrates the link between transformative nurse-led practices and enhanced organisation and delivery of clinical care.
SHAPING THE FUTURE: IMPLEMENTING A GLOBAL NURSING NETWORK RARE DISEASES
TESSIE ABBOTT FACN1, SUE BAKER
1 Perth Children’s Hospital , Perth, Australia
Introduction:
With more than 300 million people living with a rare or undiagnosed disease (PLWRUD) worldwide and given that nurses are the largest medical workforce and a key care provider for PLWRUD, it is essential that nurses have a global platform from which to strategically influence policy and advocate for PLWRUD. In 2023 the Global Nursing Network for Rare Diseases (GNNRD) was established following a co-design process involving a two-day Roundtable with participation by 33 nurses from 25 countries. The aim was to develop a global community of practice that would foster sustainable, equitable and scalable worldwide collaboration, communication, innovation, and impact.
Body:
Typically, when building a nursing network, the approach would be to start locally, and then expand nationally or globally. However, because of the ‘rarity’ a global approach was essential. Global RUD leaders from eight countries together with 11 nurse leaders were enlisted to drive and oversight the Network implementation.
Significant foundational work has been undertaken to progress the GNNRD. A website and networking platform have enabled the GNNRD to build a membership and collaboration via a clinical forum, access upcoming opportunities and education resources. The GNNRD has rapidly gained momentum, growing to 250 members from 37 countries to date without active marketing. Several countries have approached the GNNRD seeking support to develop national and regional nursing networks. Therefore, the next step is hosting the second annual meeting in May 2024 where the first Strategic Framework will be endorsed, and the function and structure of national and regional networks will be developed.
Conclusion:
The development of this Network is an opportunity to shape the future of RUD across all nurses – providing much needed focus on this area of nursing practice, opportunities for nurses to network and lead the innovation and advancement of care and services to PLWRUD.
Abstracts – concurrent sessions
Abstracts are printed here as submitted to ACN
DAY 1 WEDNESDAY 14 AUGUST 2024
CONCURRENT SESSION ONE
SOCIAL IMPACT (01)
Meeting Room M2 & M3 11:30am – 12:50pm
GROWING THE FUTURE ABORIGINAL AND TORRES STRAIT ISLANDER WORKFORCE
LYNETTE HIGGS1, DR THERESE RILEY1, RODNEY DALEY2
1 Sydney Hospital and Sydney Eye Hospital, Sydney, Australia,
2 South Eastern Sydney Local Health District, Sydney, Australia
Introduction:
Sydney Hospital and Sydney Eye Hospital (SSEH) is committed to improving the physical, cultural, spiritual, and family wellbeing of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples (NSW Aboriginal Health Plan 20132023). Building an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander healthcare workforce is central to addressing the hospital’s commitment (SSEH Aboriginal Health Plan 2023-2025). SSEH developed an innovative Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples’ workforce strategy to establish and foster early partnerships with high schools to attract and create healthcare career pathways with and for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander high school students.
Increasing SSEH Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander workforce strengthens staffs’ ability to provide a culturally safe healthcare environment for consumers and staff and creates opportunities for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students to undertake a recognised qualification in nursing.
Main Body:
In 2022, SSEH created Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander School-Based Apprenticeship Trainee (SBAT) positions for Year 11 students interested in undertaking a Certificate III in Health Services Assistance over a two-year period. These positions were funded with support of an Elsa Dixon Aboriginal Employment Grant. To date, five Year 11 high school students who identify as an Indigenous person have commenced the SBAT program in February 2023 and 2024 respectively.
The SBAT students simultaneously complete Technical and Further Education (TAFE) studies and clinical hours at work, whilst balancing high school studies and other commitments. Aboriginal mentorship is provided throughout, and numerous progress touch points are conducted with key stakeholders to ensure success.
Conclusion:
Implementing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander School-Based Apprenticeship Trainee positions offers an opportunity to enter a valuable beginning career in health care.This initiative has the potential to positively impact social change, creating a voice for change, self-determination, and improved life outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
ASSIST WITH MENTAL HEALTH
JENNIFER HARLAND MACN1
1 Australian College Of Nursing, Canberra, Australia
The ASSIST with Mental Health resource represents a significant advancement in the field of mental health care, specifically designed to empower nurses in their critical roles. Developed by the University of Adelaide, this resource aims to enhance screening and brief intervention approaches for substance use disorders within specialist mental health settings.
Background and purpose:
Mental health and substance use disorders share a complex relationship. Nurses, as frontline healthcare providers, play a pivotal role in identifying and addressing these intertwined issues. The ASSIST with Mental Health resource was created to equip nurses with evidence-based tools, enabling them to effectively screen, assess, and intervene in substance-related concerns among their patients.
SOCIAL IMPACT (01)
Meeting Room M2 & M3 11:30am – 12:50pm
Key Components:
1. The ASSIST Instrument: Derived from the Alcohol, Smoking, and Substance Involvement Screening Test (ASSIST), this resource provides a standardised assessment tool. It assists nurses in identifying risky substance use patterns, allowing for targeted interventions.
2. Motivational Interviewing Techniques: The resource integrates principles of motivational interviewing, emphasising collaborative conversations with patients. Nurses learn to engage individuals, explore ambivalence, and facilitate positive behaviour change.
3. Brief Interventions: Linked to the ASSIST, these interventions are tailored to individual needs. Nurses receive guidance on delivering effective brief interventions, promoting harm reduction and healthier choices.
Conclusion:
The ASSIST with Mental Health resource represents a vital tool for nurses working in specialist mental health settings. By integrating evidence-based screening and brief intervention strategies, it equips nurses to address substance use disorders effectively.
As a co-developer of the ASSIST with Mental Health resource, the presenter will provide an overview of the resource and how it can be implemented into clinical practice. It will show how the resource contributes to improved patient outcomes and underscores the critical role of nurses in mental health care.
The National Nursing Forum’s theme, “Regenerate, Reinvigorate, Reclaim Sustainable Solutions for Our Future,” highlights the urgent need for transformative changes in healthcare delivery through continuous learning and evidence-based practices. In rural, regional and remote (RRR) healthcare settings, workforce and resource limitations often lead patients to seek treatment in metropolitan areas, creating disparities in care. Nurses can play a crucial role in elevating the standards of care in RRR settings by facilitating access to advanced treatments and novel therapies through active participation in clinical trials.
Clinical trials, however, face underrepresentation in RRR populations, particularly among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. The Australian Teletrial Program addresses this issue as a supportive initiative, offering resources and guidance to establish an interconnected clinical trials system using the teletrial model. Teletrials is a proven model that uses Telehealth and other digital telecommunication technology to connect regional and rural clinical trial site clusters.
Through active participation in clinical trials, nurses can significantly contribute to closing healthcare gaps in RRR areas, offering patients optimal care options closer to home, supported by their communities, thereby reducing the burden of travel and cost. Additionally, clinical trials provide alternative solutions for patients at the end of their treatment journey, with senior physicians ensuring their safety throughout the trial.
Abstracts – concurrent sessions
Abstracts are printed here as submitted to ACN
DAY 1 WEDNESDAY 14 AUGUST 2024
CONCURRENT SESSION ONE
SOCIAL IMPACT (01)
Meeting Room M2 & M3 11:30am – 12:50pm
This presentation at the National Nursing Forum challenges nurses to be agents of change, advocating for accessible and high-quality health care for their patients. It encourages nurses to initiate change by questioning where to begin, garnering support and ensuring equitable care regardless of geographic location. Practical steps will be given to outline how to begin the journey of embedding clinical trials into routine nursing practice. By empowering nurses to participate in transformative health delivery in RRR settings. We can ensure patients have access to cutting-edge treatments, improving healthcare outcomes and reducing disparities.
COOKING CLASSES FOR HOLISTIC WELLBEING
JESSICA MERRETT1, KAREN ATLEY1, ZOE SELBY1, DR RAJNA OGRIN1
1 Bolton Clarke, Forest Hill, Australia
Introduction:
Twenty per cent of Australians live with a disability, nearly 1 in 3 experience loneliness and many do not consume adequate vegetables and consume excessive takeaway foods, increasing risk of poor health outcomes. This nurse-led project aimed to improve health outcomes for individuals living with a disability in the South Eastern Melbourne Local Government Area by fostering social engagement, collaborative learning, improving food, nutrition knowledge and cooking skills.
Methods:
Nurses undertook a holistic assessment of adults with a disability in South Eastern Melbourne LGA, including health status, physical function, and social wellbeing. Findings were combined with the LGA Health and Wellbeing Strategy 2015-2025, identifying domains of: healthy eating and food security; mental wellbeing and social isolation.
Nurses then surveyed the target population to ascertain their interest in a cooking session focusing on easy, cost effective and nutritious food preparation. A high expression of interest was elicited, and the program was developed by nurses, in consultation with an experienced chef who had prior experience providing community cooking classes, focusing on easy, cost effective and nutritious food preparation.
Results:
Two “Cook, Eat, Chat” sessions were held, including 18 adult participants (8 male and 10 female). 17 participants had a chronic health condition with multiple co-morbidities, 7 had Type 2 diabetes and 11 a mental health diagnosis.
Participants expressed enjoyment and satisfaction from engaging with the classes, stating they “liked the interaction with others” and “enjoyed getting out of the house and meeting new people”. Meaningful interactions occurred between participants, with plans to engage outside of the program.
Conclusion:
“Cook, Eat, Chat” provided an opportunity for individuals with a disability to engage with others and provided access to nutrition education. Sessions will continue monthly and include nutrition education, label reading and healthy budget-friendly grocery shopping to promote wellbeing.
COMMUNITY (01)
Meeting Room M6, M7 & M8 11:30am – 12:50pm
THE LITTLE TOWN THAT COULD –KILKIVAN’S FIGHT FOR AGEING-IN-PLACE
DR
GORDANA DERMODY1, SUZANNE VOLEJNIKOVAWENGER MACN1, ROSIE FITZGERALD2, DR JOHN ROSENBERG1, DR DANIEL WADSWORTH3
1 University Of The Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Australia,
2 Kilkivan & District Community Care Association Inc., Kilkivan, Australia,
3 University of the Sunshine Coast & Manna Institute, Australia
Introduction:
Like ‘the little engine that could’, the town of Kilkivan, near Gympie Queensland, is climbing a hill – made up of fragmented and ad hoc approaches to services for ageing-in-place. But this town is not giving up and has formed its own community-care organisation and is partnering with the nearby university to address local needs.
Body:
Sustainable solutions for rural ageing-in-place require community-driven initiatives, and the development of partnerships with local and regional organisations, and universities.
The small rural town of Kilkivan championed local voices forming the Kilkivan District Community Care Association (KDCCA). KDCCA established the ‘Rise and Shine’ initiative forming partnerships and using innovative approaches to address local needs. These include the ‘KilkiVAN’ transport service, agedcare packages in the community staffed by local people who know the community and liaising with a nurse practitioner. In addition, KDCCA has formed a partnership with the University of the Sunshine Coast’s (UniSC) Healthy Ageing Hub in Gympie, a nearby regional town to enable the ‘Old’s Cool – Health Matters’ initiative which addresses local access to healthcare issues, provides targeted health assessments and referrals through pop-up health
clinics, involving supervised student nurses exposing them to rural settings. Further, the multidisciplinary ‘Regional Ageing Well’ (RAW) and ‘Regional Older Adults Mental Health’ (ROAM) studies are currently being conducted in partnership with UniSC, KDCAA and the Kilkivan community to provide valuable perspectives of rural older adults around dementia prevention and mental health.
Conclusion:
Sustainable ageing-in-place innovations can only be achieved in partnership and collaboration with rural communities. Universities, local and regional organisations, council members and nurses, and other healthcare professionals are optimally placed to listen, understand the gaps, and advocate and partner with these communities in achieving their rightful dream to age-in-place in the rural community where they have spent their lives.
Abstracts – concurrent sessions
Abstracts are printed here as submitted to ACN
DAY 1 WEDNESDAY 14 AUGUST 2024
CONCURRENT SESSION ONE
COMMUNITY (01)
Meeting Room M6, M7 & M8 11:30am – 12:50pm
PREVENTION PROGRAMS OF RHD IN INDIGENOUS COMMUNITIES: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW
YUMENG (EMMA) CAI1, DR LORI DELANEY1, DR DEBBY LYNCH1, DR CATHERINE KILGOUR1, JACQUELINE CUNNINGHAME1,2, PROFESSOR MAREE TOOMBS3, PROFESSOR AMANDA ULLMAN1,4, MARI TAKASHIMA1,2, KARINA MAXWELL1, KATE THOMPSON1,5, JANE MOORE1, LORELLE HOLLAND1,2,5
1 School of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, Faculty of Health and Behavioural Sciences, The University of Queensland, St Lucia, Australia,
2 Child Health Research Centre, Faculty of Medicine, The University of Queensland, South Brisbane, Australia,
3 School of Population Health, The University of New South Wales, Sydney, NSW, Australia, Sydney, Australia,
4 Queensland Children’s Hospital, Children’s Health Queensland Hospital and Health Service, South Brisbane, Australia,
5 UQ Poche Centre for Indigenous Health, Toowong, Australia
Introduction:
Australia has one of the highest incidences of acute rheumatic fever (ARF) and rheumatic heart disease (RHD) in the world with a disproportionate disease burden on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. This disparity is driven by racialised health provision and political systems that fail to address social determinants of health. The RHD Endgame Strategy provides a blueprint to eradicate the disease by 2031, which calls for urgent cross-sectorial and government action. This systematic review explored the effectiveness and cultural responsiveness of prevention programs to prevent, reduce and control RHD; improve quality of life; prioritise community engagement and empowerment.
Methods:
The systematic review was registered with Open Science Framework in January 2024 and complies with the PRISMA Statement. A systematic search commenced in January 2024 to identify relevant articles from PubMed, Embase, and CINAHL. Pertinent grey literature was retrieved from Australian Indigenous websites and Google Scholar. Articles met inclusion criteria if they evaluated prevention programs, targeted ARF/RHD, and centred Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities in Australia.
Results:
Eleven peer-reviewed articles met the inclusion criteria. Prevention programs varied in their effectiveness and cultural responsiveness to reduce ARF and RHD. Research engagement with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities addressed ways to improve screening strategies to identify ARF, adherence to penicillin prophylaxis, community-led education and training, environmental health, and community-centred traditional language to convey culturally responsive health messaging to reduce ARF and RHD.
Conclusions:
The limited amount of evidence retrieved suggests that further research is urgently needed in the provision of effective and culturally responsive prevention programs to reduce ARF and RHD. Studies that centred Indigenous-led and community-based prevention programs that valued self-determination, community agency and autonomy to advance holistic health and wellbeing for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples offer promise in the elimination of ARF and RHD.
COMMUNITY (01)
Meeting Room M6, M7 & M8 11:30am – 12:50pm
NURSE-PARENT PARTNERSHIPS TAKE
ACCTION: A MIXED-METHODS STUDY
PROFESSOR MARILYN CRUICKSHANK FACN1, DR LAUREL MIMMO2,3, A/PROFESSOR MELANIE GREENWOOD4, PROFESSOR CLINT DOUGLAS5
1 UTS, Ultimo, Australia,
2 Sydney Children’s Hospitals Network, Sydney, Australia,
3 Macquarie University, Epping, Australia,
4 University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia,
5 Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
Introduction:
Unrecognised clinical deterioration in hospitalised children is uncommon. However, outcomes from missed deterioration in children are catastrophic: only 15-40% children survive in-hospital cardiopulmonary arrest, of these 25% will have neurological impairment. Our mixed-methods program of research explores how nurses may utilise parental input in clinical assessment of the hospitalised child to inform early detection of pending deterioration.
Methods:
Three studies were conducted across two tertiary children’s hospitals in Sydney, Australia.1) a scoping review of relevant databases searched using keywords and concepts related to our research question. PRISMA-ScR guidelines informed the review and quality appraisal used the Quality Assessment with Diverse Studies; 2) a retrospective chart review of inpatient medical records admitted in February 2020 (pre-COVID pandemic) of documented quantitative physical observation and vital sign data, analysed using descriptive statistics; and 3) observations of nurses completing and documenting patient vital signs and physical assessments analysed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis. Research ethics approval was obtained.
Results:
The scoping review found 19 papers that met inclusion criteria and themes generated. A key theme was the use non-measurable signs and parental input that informed nursing assessment of the deteriorating child. The chart review identified 449 inpatient records which were interrogated for physical assessment data. This found that while documentation of vital sign data was inconsistent, missed deterioration was rare. The number of competing and conflicting policies that nurses were required to follow in the care of their paediatric patients was unexpected. Inconsistencies in nursing physiological assessment, documentation and conflicting policy requirements were reflected in third study, which involved 50 observations of nurses conducting and documenting physiological assessments of inpatient children.
Conclusions:
These findings informed the Assessing Children for Clinical Triggers Together (ACCTT) Framework, a structure for nurses and parents for timely recognition and response to clinical deterioration in children.
SUPPORTING AGED CARE RESIDENTS WHO ACCESS VOLUNTARY ASSISTED DYING
HELEE PARK , MELISSA MCDONALD
1
Regis Aged Care, Australia
Introduction:
Voluntary Assisted Dying (VAD) has garnered significant attention among aged care workers due to the sensitivity of the experience, confidentiality issues and an uncertain coexistence with palliative care. The private nature of VAD necessitates a unique approach in aged care settings due to conflation with euthanasia
Abstracts – concurrent sessions
Abstracts are printed here as submitted to ACN
DAY 1 WEDNESDAY 14 AUGUST 2024
CONCURRENT SESSION ONE
COMMUNITY (01)
Meeting Room M6, M7 & M8 11:30am – 12:50pm
and the concerns of representatives when the person has dementia. This situation highlights the need for aged care employees to receive clear communication and education regarding the impact of the related legislation.
Main Body:
Recognising VAD as a legitimate end-of-life option that allows residents to exercise their choice to die, a clear position statement was developed by our aged care organisation within our VAD policy. Our position statement and policy provides specific guidance to our teams, addresses misconceptions about VAD, and provides information to help alleviate uncertainty and the sometimes overwhelming feelings experienced by our employees. Our approach is informed by State specific legislation which necessitated productive connections with local VAD support teams. Integration of guidance through organisational processes, effective management of confidentiality risks, response and escalation protocols, and everyday practice has been crucial to our approach to VAD. During the last three years, 22 of our residents have been supported through the VAD process. Feedback from residents, their families and employees involved in the VAD process has been positive.
Conclusion:
Supporting aged care residents to make end-oflife decisions is a privilege and a responsibility. This presentation will provide an overview of how to compassionately support VAD, navigate the risks and ensure a safe and supportive environment for those involved.
Abstracts – concurrent sessions
Abstracts are printed here as submitted to ACN
DAY 2 THURSDAY 15 AUGUST 2024
CONCURRENT SESSION TWO
QUALITY AND SAFETY (02)
Auditorium A 11:00am – 12:20pm
HYBRID EDUCATION INCREASES NURSES SKILLS IN MANAGEMENT OF DETERIORATING PATIENTS
SUZIE NOYE MACN1, MICK BREEN1
1 Epworth, Waurn Ponds, Australia
Introduction:
The purpose of this study was to implement and evaluate the impact of a hybrid education program that included online learning and simulation-based training to improve nurses’ knowledge, confidence and skills in management of the deteriorating patient.
Methods:
A mixed methods study design was used. The program included an online learning module covering rapid patient assessment, crisis resource management and basic life support (BLS) theory. Participants subsequently attended a 4 hour practical session with simulations of deteriorating patients, practical BLS assessment and clinical debrief.
Participants completed the “Rapid response system (RRS) staff knowledge and satisfaction survey” before and after program participation and were surveyed 6-8 weeks later regarding their experiences managing deteriorating patients. Change in evaluation scores were tested using Paired T-Tests. Administrative datasets were accessed to compare RRS activation rates using process control charts over time.
Results:
A total of 45 nurses participated in evaluative surveys across the three data collection time-points. There was a statistically significant increase in all selfreported indicators between pre- and post-intervention (all p-values < .05). The magnitude of effects were moderate-to-large for items measuring certainty in maintaining situational awareness, listening attentively,
navigating the hospital hierarchy, and following hospital policy (approximate d, 0,8). Large effects (d > 0.8) were found for certainty of advocating for the patient, performing a rapid assessment, performing effective airway assessment, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, and making an inter-professional plan based on shared decisions. There was a trend for an increase in the number of RRS escalations over the follow-up time-period, although this did not reach statistical significance.
Conclusion:
This study demonstrated that a hybrid education program is effective in increasing nurses’ knowledge and confidence, increasing early escalation, and improving management of the deteriorating patient. Additionally, some differences were noted in rates of rapid response calls on the medical ward.
BARRIERS AND FACILITATORS TO OPTIMISING NURSE AND MIDWIFERY LEADERSHIP TIME
ADJUNCT PROFESSOR PHILIPPA BLENCOWE MACN1, PROFESSOR JULIE CONSIDINE 2, ADJUNCT ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR JORDANA SCHLEIFF1, NAIDA LUMSDEN1, PROFESSOR JUDY CURREY2
1 Eastern Health, Box Hill, Australia, 2 Deakin University, Melbourne, Australia
Introduction:
Effective nurse and midwife leadership has clear benefits for patients, staff and organisations; and is critical to a skilled nursing workforce, and safety and quality of patient care. This study aimed to examine the enablers and barriers to nurse and midwife managers using their allocated leadership time.
Abstracts – concurrent sessions
Abstracts are printed here as submitted to ACN
DAY 2 THURSDAY 15 AUGUST 2024
CONCURRENT SESSION TWO
QUALITY AND SAFETY (02)
Auditorium A 11:00am – 12:20pm
Method:
In this exploratory descriptive study, all nurse and midwife managers at Eastern Health were invited to complete an online survey, developed using the Behaviour Change Wheel and Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF). Survey items were considered enablers if they were positively worded and received greater or equal to 70% agreement with a statement. Items were considered barriers if they were positively worded and received less than 70% agreement with a statement. Negatively worded questions were reversescored.
Results:
A total of 55 nurse and midwife managers responded to the survey (response rate = 62.5%). Median years of experience was 20.5 years in nursing and 12.0 in midwifery; median years of management experience in their current area was 5.5 (nurse managers) and 2.5 (midwifery managers) years. Results showed 17 enablers and 19 barriers to optimising nurse and midwife managers’ use of leadership time. Two items were classified as both an enabler and barrier. The TDF domains of knowledge; intentions; goals; optimism; and reinforcement were all clear enablers. Domains of memory, attention and decision; behaviour regulation; social influences; and emotions were all clear barriers. The TDF domains of environment and resources; beliefs about capabilities; beliefs about consequences; and social and professional role and identity were both enablers and barriers.
Conclusions:
Behaviour change theory is useful for identifying enablers and barriers of nurse and midwife manager leadership time. The next stage in this work is developing a theory-informed implementation plan to optimise nurse and midwife managers’ use of their allocated leadership time.
AN EDUCATIONAL EVALUATION OF A PRECEPTORSHIP PROGRAM FOR REGISTERED NURSES
SAM MILLER MACN1, STEFFANI DEL DIN1, VICTORIA EAGGER1, JACINTA LASKY1, SHIRLEY BURKE1, JUDY REEVES1
1 Alfred Health, Melbourne, Australia
Background and Aims:
The current Australian nursing workforce is challenged in meeting the vacancy demands. As a result, a greater number of graduate nurses are being employed by health services to increase the nursing workforce. These graduate nurses require education, support and clinical supervision from skilled registered nurses (RNs) to safely transition from novice practitioners to competent team members. The aim of this study was to evaluate a blended preceptorship education program implemented by a metropolitan heath service to up-skill RNs with foundational clinical support skills to support novice nurses in clinical practice.
Methods:
RNs were encouraged to undertake a short online learning package introducing the concepts of adult learning and contextualising the roles of the learner and preceptor. RNs were enrolled centrally to attend a 90 minute face to face education session. Sessions were run twice per day in double staffing time. Sessions were interactive and covered the concepts of teaching a clinical skill and providing effective feedback. Participants self-rated their confidence pre and post workshop using an anonymous online survey in the following areas: Giving feedback, understanding teaching methods, teaching a clinical skill and using questioning to identify a learning need.
QUALITY AND SAFETY (02)
Auditorium A 11:00am – 12:20pm
Results:
668 RNs were invited to complete the course. 503 RNs (75.3%) completed the course over a six-week period. 621 RNs (93%) have completed the online package, 882 RNs (132%) have completed the face to face workshop. Participants reported an increase in confidence of all outcome measures: Preceptor role (59.9%), providing feedback (78.9%), understanding teaching methods (80.9%), teaching a clinical skill (54.1%), using questioning to identify learning needs (60.0%).
Conclusion:
This study reviewed the impact of a blended preceptor education program across a large metropolitan nursing workforce. Our data shows an effective improvement in all self reported learning outcomes following completion of the education program.
SLEEP BETTER- THINK BETTER- WORK SAFE
DR LAUREN BOOKER1, PROFESSOR JANE MILLS, DR JO SPONG, A/PROFESSOR MELISSA DEACONCROUCH, PROFESSOR MELANIE BISH, PROFESSOR TIMOTHY SKINNER
1 La Trobe University, Victoria, Australia,
2 Institute for breathing and sleep, Austin Health, Heidelberg, Australia
Introduction:
Disruption of sleep from shift work can put healthcare workers and their patients at risk of workplace accidents and medical errors. Improvements in shift work management is needed to help mitigate the risk of sleep impairment and reduce fatigue of healthcare workers such as nurses to reduce occupational health and safety risks.
Methods:
Using qualitative study designs nurses who were responsible for creating the ward rosters and employees who were currently working shift work were interviewed. Thematic analysis was then undertaken.
Results:
Most nurses responsible for rostering of staff were unaware of shift work and fatigue safety guidelines and had not received any formal training from their organisation before taking on the role. Self-rostering, where staff submitted preferences, was the most common rostering practice, however, some rostering staff felt obligated to fulfill these requests, even if they felt they were unsafe. Employees however thought that this created better lifestyle, flexibility and financial rewards but admitted that fatigue and sleep deprivation undermined these benefits. There were also concerns of long-term health consequences of shift work and delivery of care to patients.
Conclusion:
Healthcare organisations need to develop ‘best practice’ guidelines to direct staff on how to create safe shift work rosters. While self-rostering resulted in staff having more freedom and flexibility, staff may preference shifts out of necessity, not necessarily what is safest to minimise fatigue and increase safety in the workplace. Greater consideration of the impact of fatigue due to shift schedules is required to ensure that the layers of clinical governance in healthcare organisations are minimised occupation health and safety risks for employees delivering patient care. Future research is needed to explore how to equip healthcare shift workers with the skills to successfully manage their schedules, mitigate the negative impacts and improve safety of themselves and their patients.
Abstracts – concurrent sessions
Abstracts are printed here as submitted to ACN
DAY 2 THURSDAY 15 AUGUST 2024
CONCURRENT SESSION TWO
INNOVATION (02)
Auditorium D 11:00am – 12:20pm
REGENERATING AND REINVIGORATING GERONTOLOGICAL NURSING AS A
CAREER CHOICE
PROFESSOR JENNIFER WELLER-NEWTON1, PROFESSOR KASIA BAIL1, PROFESSOR VICTORIA TRAYNOR 2, PROFESSOR KAREN STRICKLAND3, PROFESSOR TRACEY MORONEY4, STEPHANIE MUNK1
1 University of Canberra, Canberra, Australia,
2 University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia,
3 Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, Australia,
4 Curtin University, Bentley, Australia
Introduction:
Nurses specialising in older person nursing do not just work in aged care: older people are also the predominant users of acute care and community services (Slatyer, 2021). To maximise the comprehension of complex older person nursing and promote satisfaction with the quality of nursing care aged care placements for nursing students need the translation and supervision of gerontological nurses with clinical acument, technical nursing skills, interdisciplinary liaison skills, along with mentoring and teaching skills. Aged care placements for nursing students need the translation and supervision of gerontological nurses with clinical acumen, technical nursing skills, interdisciplinary liaison skills, along with mentoring and teaching skills. A partnership between four universities seeks to achieve this and in doing so transforming care and enriching lives.
This Commonwealth funded project aims to improve the care of older people by:
1. Focusing on supporting lear ning of later year nursing students.
2. Facilitated lear ning in practice by speciality trained clinical facilitators
3. Improving awareness and understanding of the role of the registered nurse in aged care
Methods:
A mixed method design incorporating participant pre and post survey and interviews. Entry to practice nursing students across the four universities were invited to participate, and the project was promoted to Health and Aged Care providers to host an aged care nursing clinical placement. Clinical facilitators (CF) have been specifically recruited, employed and supported by the university and undertaken training in Gerontological Nursing Competencies and Murra Mullangari Cultural safety program.
Results:
Data is still being collected, and preliminary results will be presented at the forum
Conclusions:
This project recognises that ‘older people are everywhere’. Expanding the skills sets of existing facilitators will boost recognition of gerontological nursing complexity, supporting students in their reflective practice to increase their identification of complex older person nursing needs can happen in any setting. Through an enhanced placement experience, where students are well supported it is envisaged that they will actively consider gerontological nursing as a career pathway.
INNOVATION (02)
Auditorium D 11:00am – 12:20pm
CULTURALLY FOCUSED WELLNESS SCREENING TO IMPROVE ACCESS TO HEALTH SERVICES
YASHNI KANDER1, PATRICIA KENNEDY, GEOFFREY BINGE
1 Queensland Health, RBWH, Brisbane, Australia
Introduction:
The disparity in life expectancy between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and non-Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians highlights the urgent need for culturally sensitive healthcare interventions. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients often face barriers in accessing tertiary and quaternary health services, leading to higher fail-to-attend rates and delayed treatments. This project aimed to address these challenges by implementing a culturally appropriate preprocedure wellness check for planned admissions.
Methods:
A co-designed, culturally adapted pre-procedure wellness check was piloted in the surgery and perioperative department. The intervention involved an Indigenous Hospital Liaison Officer and Nurse Navigator conducting pre-surgery wellness checks using a ‘yarning’ approach, which emphasises rapportbuilding and holistic care. The study spanned six months, during which 505 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients were contacted and assessed for their social and emotional wellness. Data on patient-initiated cancellations, failure to attend rates, and patient feedback on the pre-surgery preparation process were collected and analysed.
Results:
The pilot program demonstrated a significant reduction in fail-to-attend rates. Additionally, in surgical department there was a 45% decrease in patientinitiated cancellations and a 33% reduction in failure to attend rates in. Of the patients contacted, 52% expressed confusion regarding surgery preparation,
21% requested additional information about their procedure, 14% had medical issues potentially leading to cancellations, and 5% were unwilling to attend surgery. The intervention facilitated early identification and resolution of these issues.
Conclusion:
The culturally adapted pre-procedure wellness check significantly improved attendance rates for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients having planned procedures. This approach, which respects and incorporates perspectives on holistic health care, demonstrates the potential for culturally sensitive interventions to enhance healthcare access and outcomes for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. Future research should focus on replicating this model across various medical specialties to further reduce healthcare disparities.
PREVAIL: SUSTAINING THE AUSTRALIAN NEONATAL NURSING WORKFORCE USING COLLECTIVE AGENCY
PATRICIA LOWE MACN1, DR SAMANTHA JAKIMOWICZ 2, DISTINGUISHED PROFESSOR TRACY LEVETT-JONES3
1 Australian College of Nursing, Parramatta, Australia, 2 Charles Sturt University, Bathurst, Australia, 3University of Technology Sydney, Broadway, Australia
Introduction:
Due to the multi-faceted nature of their caring role, neonatal nurses are susceptible to an impaired professional quality of life.
Aim:
This study aimed to produce a substantive nursing theory explaining professional quality of life within the neonatal care clinical context.
Abstracts – concurrent sessions
Abstracts are printed here as submitted to ACN
DAY 2 THURSDAY 15 AUGUST 2024
CONCURRENT SESSION TWO
INNOVATION (02)
Auditorium D 11:00am – 12:20pm
Methods:
An integrative review of peer-reviewed articles identified that neonatal nurses of varying ages, experience levels, and cultures report burnout and secondary traumatic stress, with a higher prevalence among experienced clinicians. These findings informed a two-phase study using an equal status mixed method constructivist grounded theory methodology with an explanatory sequential design (QUANT>QUAL).
Results:
The Australian neonatal nurses surveyed in Phase 1 demonstrated more significant fatigue than satisfaction, with clinicians reporting a diminished professional quality of life compared to non-clinicians. During Phase 2 (focus groups and interviews), the nurse participants clarified that inadequate funding, system deficiencies, and bureaucratic impediments undermined their professional fulfillment. This data informed the development of a substantive nursing theory entitled Safe Passage: A Tripartite Progressive Agency Theory. This theory underscores evidence-based ways to embody nurses with an increased sense of personal and professional agency and methods to optimise resource allocation by allocating a monetary value to neonatal health outcomes.
Conclusions:
This study concluded by presenting seven actionorientated recommendations designed to guide stakeholders on the micro, meso, and macro strategies needed to improve neonatal nurses’ professional quality of life and facilitate evidence-based neonatal care provision. The recommendations are grouped under seven headings: politicising, researching, educating, valuing, advocating, incentivising, and legislatingpresented as the PREVAIL mnemonic - to recruit, refresh, and retain the neonatal nursing workforce and aid health service reform by reducing fragmentation and inefficiency. These findings are relevant to nurses and midwives globally and will inform future policy, practice, and nursing curriculum development.
REMOTE EXPERT CONSULTATION: AN EXEMPLAR OF A NURSE-LED INNOVATION
ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR SUZANNE KAPP MACN1, CARLA BONDINI2, MELISSA MCDONALD2, AKRITI PANT2, PROF MARIE GERDTZ1
1 The University of Melbourne, Department of Nursing, Melbourne, Australia,
2 Regis Aged Care, Camberwell, Australia
Introduction:
Remote approaches to care play a critical role in ensuring that consumers receive health care when and where they need it. The benefit may be substantial when delivered by expert wound nurses for pressure injury (PI) prevention and management in residential aged care, given that the condition affects up to 25% of residents and is largely preventable. The aim of our research was to develop and evaluate the implementability of a remote expert wound nurse consultation intervention for aged care residents who had or who were at risk of PIs.
Method:
The intervention was systematically designed and involved residents, family members, nurses and personal care workers regularly meeting with a remote expert wound nurse via videoconferencing over a 12 week period for assessment and care advice. A feasibility study was conducted in an Australian residential aged care service to inform a pilot RCT and future research to establish the clinical and cost effectiveness of the intervention.
INNOVATION (02)
Auditorium D 11:00am – 12:20pm
Results:
Residents at risk of PIs (n=16) and who had PIs (n=24) were recruited from three Homes in Victoria, Australia. The sample received a total of 132 remote consultations during their 12 week intervention period. Organisational support was high, nurse engagement was variable, family member attendance at consultations was adhoc, and information technology issues were on occasion problematic. Fidelity of the expert wound nurse care plan implementation by home nurses was high. A wound imaging system was successfully utilised to quantify wound healing. 94% of residents (all except one) remained PI free and 76% of residents who had PIs healed.
Conclusion:
This presentation will use our project exemplar to highlight the innovative role of remote approaches to expert nursing care, how implementation research supports translation of evidence into practice, and why feasibility studies are essential to the future sustainability and scalability of nurse-led interventions.
SOCIAL IMPACT (02)
Meeting Room M2 & M3 11:00am – 12:20pm
ADDRESSING SOCIAL DETERMINANTS OF HEALTH FOR SUSTAINABLE OUTCOMES IN HOMELESSNESS
KELINA ATTARD1, DEE LOADER1, DR RAJNA OGRIN1
1 Bolton Clarke, Forest Hill, Australia
Introduction:
On any given night, 122,494 people in Australia experience homelessness (1). Extreme health inequities exist in both morbidity and mortality in people experiencing homelessness (2). Up to 30-55% of health outcomes are a result of social determinants of health (SDH) (3). People experiencing homelessness are impacted by multiple, complex SDH such as a lack of housing, income, access to health services, food security, violence, discrimination, and social exclusion. We describe a nurse-led, assertive outreach response to provide primary health care to this marginalised population living in metropolitan Melbourne.
Main Body:
Bolton Clarke Homeless Persons Program (HPP) has been in operation for 45 years. HPP aims to improve the health of people experiencing homelessness with both program and individual client strategies. Highly trained nurses are supported to deliver care following key principles, including a rights-based approach to access health care of a high standard and equal to other community members. Nurses are uniquely positioned to address the SDH, using strong advocacy skills and cross-disciplinary approaches. One important aspect is increasing inclusion of people experiencing homelessness in mainstream services to enable quality and sustainable care (4).
Conclusion:
This presentation will share how nurses can address the SDH through individual and structural advocacy, enabling access to health care, housing and other community services through assertive outreach, holistic nursing assessment, development of referral pathways, supported referrals and collaboration with other sectors.
Abstracts – concurrent sessions
Abstracts are printed here as submitted to ACN
DAY 2 THURSDAY 15 AUGUST 2024
CONCURRENT SESSION TWO
SOCIAL IMPACT (02)
Meeting Room M2 & M3 11:00am – 12:20pm
References
1. Australian Bureau of Statistics. Estimating Homelessness: Census Canberra: Australian Government; 2021 [cited 2024 Feb 9]. Available from: https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/people/ housing/estimating-homelessness-census/latestrelease#cite-window1.
2. Aldridge RW, Story A, Hwang SW, et al. Lancet 2018;391:241–50.
3. World Health Organization. Social determinants of health. WHO; 2024 [cited 2024 Feb 8]. Available from: https://www.who.int/health-topics/socialdeterminants-of-health#tab=tab_1
4. Luchenski S, McGuire N, Aldridge RW, et al. Lancet 2018;391:266-80.
RACIALLY AND ETHNICALLY MINORITISED WOMEN NURSES: ADVANCING IN HEALTHCARE LEADERSHIP
MIHIRIKA PINCHA BADUGE MACN1,2,3, DR BELINDA GARTH1,3, PROFESSOR LEANNE BOYD3, IFE ADESINA1,3,4, PROFESSOR HELENA TEEDE1,3,5
1 Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation, Monash University, Clayton, Australia,
2 Intensive Care, Monash Health, Clayton, Australia,
3 Monash University, Clayton, Australia,
4 Eastern Health Clinical School, Box hill, Australia,
5 Endocrine and Diabetes Units, Monash Health, Clayton, Australia
Introduction:
Nursing accounts for a significant proportion of the global health workforce, and women represent the majority of the nursing profession, yet, women nurses are underrepresented in healthcare leadership. This disparity is further compounded for women nurses from culturally and racially minoritised (REM)
backgrounds, including migrants. This systematic review aims to explore the barriers and organisationallevel interventions for women in nursing from REM and migration backgrounds to advance in healthcare leadership.
Methods:
Six databases were comprehensively searched and peer-reviewed papers from 1, January 2000 to 17, October 2023 were included. Key search terms were women, AND nurses OR midwives, AND leadership. Search was limited to the English language. Seventeen papers met the inclusion criteria and were included. Template analysis was performed to identify the barriers and organisational-level interventions that support the advancement of women nurses from REM backgrounds.
Results:
Identified barriers and organisational-level interventions have been aggregated under five main categories identified by Mousa et al (2021); organisational processes and policies; organisational culture, awareness and engagement; mentorship and networking; support tools; and leadership training and development. Racially and ethnically marginalised and migrant women nurses experience barriers concerning recruitment, biased promotions, limited access to support systems and resources, discriminatory actions from co-workers, supervisors, patients, and families. Additionally, higher expectations and accent created further barriers for career progression.
Overall, policy reforms, creating organisational culture that fosters inclusion and diversity, providing mentorship, educational opportunities and having organisational interventions to increase representation of REM women nurses at all levels emerged as organisational level interventions.
SOCIAL IMPACT (02)
Meeting Room M2 & M3 11:00am – 12:20pm
Conclusions:
Women nurses from REM backgrounds encounter notable disadvantages throughout the recruitment, promotion, and retention processes within healthcare leadership roles, primarily stemming from bias, inadequate support mechanisms, and instances of discrimination. To tackle these issues, policy reforms and the development of organisational cultures that support diversity and inclusiveness are essential.
CLEAN - COMMUNITY NURSES LOVE ENVIRONMENTAL ACTIONS OF NO WASTE
1 Northern Sydney Home Nursing Service, Sydney, Australia,
2 Northern Sydney Local Health District, St Leonards, Australia
The CLEAN project inspiration arose from the observations of Clinical Nurse Educators in a community nursing organisation. The project took the group on a journey to reduce clinical product wastage and learn more about the carbon footprint of their community nursing practice.
Anecdotally, community nurses over-stock their cars and patient homes with clinical products and these begin to serve as mini storerooms, in part due to being away from a hospital or health centre when delivering patient care.
Failure to rotate stock, accumulation of ‘out of date’ and damaged stock from sun and heat exposure, are some of the outcomes of current practice with a potential impact on patient care alongside wastage.
Previous initiatives had not leveraged the planetary health impact of current practice and this focus was fresh and innovative with an aim to capture and sustain staff commitment, from a new perspective.
The CLEAN project was conducted through participation in the Applied Safety and Quality Program, a Clinical Excellence Commission/Northern Sydney Local Health District partnership in 2023.
An Improvement Science methodology was used to give structure to the project - explore the problem, brainstorm contributing factors, identify and initiate change ideas. Possible solutions were tested using a ‘Plan, Do, Study, Act’ (PDSA) cycle to evaluate.
Early indications are a reduction in clinical product wastage, improved communication between community nurses around patient needs, greater awareness around heat in cars and clinical product storage requirements and wider acceptance of a ‘take only what you need’ ethos espoused in Indigenous dreaming stories.
The CLEAN project is at the stage of wider roll-out across one centre of Northern Sydney Home Nursing Service with anticipation of continued positive impact on reducing clinical product wastage and improvements in the planetary health impact of community nursing practice as we steer towards net zero in health care.
NURSES REINVIGORATING RECONCILIATION FOR HEALING HEALTHCARE RELATIONSHIPS FOLLOWING THE REFERENDUM
DR ALI DRUMMOND1, ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR HOLLY NORTHAM OAM MACN2
1 The Congress of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Nurses and Midwives (CATSINaM), Canberra, Australia, 2 University of Canberra, Canberra, Australia
Abstracts – concurrent sessions
Abstracts are printed here as submitted to ACN
DAY 2 THURSDAY 15 AUGUST 2024
CONCURRENT SESSION TWO
SOCIAL IMPACT (02)
Meeting Room M2 & M3 11:00am – 12:20pm
Introduction:
This presentation will share information and communicate about the opportunity for nurses to engage in understanding the critical work of reconciliation required to enable equity gaps for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples to be closed. The presentation will challenge and engage participants to forge a new approach to reconciled relationships as the work of the Leaders of Nursing and Midwifery Education (LINMEN) is revealed.
Discussion:
The Congress of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Nurses and Midwives (CATSINaM) is comprised of First Nations nurses, midwives and students who live and work at the interface of the racial divide that has tragically led to the alarming health equity gap experienced by First Nations Australians. LINMEN is a passionate coalition of both First Nations and nonIndigenous nursing and midwifery educators who extend from recently graduated nurses and enrolled nurses to deans of universities. Each is extraordinary in that they understand and are courageous in stepping forward to find new ways of teaching and engaging students, patients, and their families in Australia’s healthcare system for healing. This is a nurse led initiative. The presentation will share the progress of reconciliation emerging in this group, its potential for our country and invite engagement towards the next steps of healing for our communities.
Conclusion:
Following the 2023 referendum there was widespread hurt and despondency regarding our country’s next steps forward to heal. This presentation offers hope towards an equitable future.
COMMUNITY (02)
Meeting Room M6, M7 & M8 11:00am – 12:20pm
RESIDENT-CENTERED CARE FOR DISPLACED POPULATIONS IN COMPLEX DISASTERS
ANGELA SHEEDY MACN1,
PROFESSOR DIANNE
STEPHENS, ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR LISA VERMEULEN
1 Charles Darwin University, Casuarina, Australia
With global instability and the prediction of future pandemics, new models of care are required for those temporarily displaced by complex disasters. In the COVID-19 pandemic, thousands of people entered quarantine and isolation facilities with no existing model of care. This research analysed the experiences of residents at the Centre For National Resilience (CNR), a large quarantine facility based in Northern Territory, Australia. Whilst in quarantine at CNR, people had little control over their environment and relied on the service to provide for their health and wellbeing. The project aimed to better understand residents’ priorities and concerns to develop an innovative model of care to implement in future events.
The methodological framework of translational research was implemented to conduct a complex review of domestic, international, humanitarian, and repatriated resident COVID-19 quarantine experiences. This included analysis of resident satisfaction surveys and resident-related email correspondence, correlated with a review of the service’s resident-related policies and procedures.
The combination of results from the service review, resident surveys and emails led to the identification of nine core factors required to ensure residents are comfortable and safe: information, supportive staff, entertainment, safe and healthy environment, physical health, diet/meals, mental health, infection prevention and communication. A culturally safe environment was included as a tenth factor as indirect evidence highlighted this is a vital requirement. From the service perspective, focal points to meet these requirements were identified as: medical and clinical care,
COMMUNITY (02)
Meeting Room M6, M7 & M8 11:00am – 12:20pm
infrastructure and design, government direction and legislation, infection prevention and control, external partners, staff and site management systems, work health quality and safety, intercultural competence, communication and media, and Tele/health services.
Referred to as the resident-centered model of care, the components can be used to inform services of resident health and wellbeing needs and are adaptable to complex disaster responses where people are temporarily displaced.
SHINING THE LIGHT ON COMMUNITY NURSING - EFFICIENT SUSTAINABLE SOLUTIONS
JO BUTLER MACN1, SHAYNE LARYMORE, ANDREW WHALE
1 Mid North Coast Local Health District, Macksville, Australia,
2 Northern Sydney Local Health District, North Ryde, Australia,
3 Western New South Wales Local Health District, Orange, Australia
Introduction:
This presentation aims to raise the awareness of the significant contribution community nurses make to their patients, communities, and the health service. It demonstrates how community nursing truly aligns with Health Service Plans through their ability to provide cost effective and efficient services to all members of the community including the most vulnerable, while doing this in a wide range of settings including people’s homes, clinic spaces, virtually and throughout a variety of rural and remote settings.
Main Body:
Community nursing in NSW has not had an increase in funding or FTE for almost 2 decades. As outlined outlined in the NSW Health Plan 2023-2032, 85% of the state’s budget is allocated to inpatient and acute services, 10% to Prevention and Promotion and the remaining 5% is allocated to Community Health and other settings. It is documented in the NSW Health Plan 2023 – 2032 that presently 2/3 of disease burden in NSW is due to conditions that could be managed outside the hospital setting.
Community Nursing Models of Care can raise revenue and keep people in their homes where we know they have better rates of recovery and are not at risk of hospital acquired injures such as falls, pressure injuries, medication errors and deconditioning.
This presentation will demonstrate the adaptability, efficiency and agility of community nursing through the delivery of a case study and presenting varying models of care that are currently being delivered in areas throughout NSW that have raised significant revenue.
Conclusion:
Community nursing is the one constant enabler of hospital avoidance and readmission. Models of Care are showing to be agile, cost effective, sustainable with community nurses functioning at the height of their scope therefore providing an excellent option for our future health solutions.
Abstracts – concurrent sessions
Abstracts are printed here as submitted to ACN
DAY 2 THURSDAY 15 AUGUST 2024
CONCURRENT SESSION TWO
COMMUNITY (02)
Meeting Room M6, M7 & M8 11:00am – 12:20pm
ENHANCING MENTAL HEALTH EDUCATION AND NURSING PLACEMENTS IN REGIONAL COMMUNITIES
LUCY OSBORN FACN1, PROFESSOR MICHAEL OLASOJI1, DR. BINDU JOSEPH1, AMANDA
FORD1, ALICIA MCKENNA1
1 Federation University, Australia
Introduction:
This research project, conducted by Federation University and funded by the Department of Health, aims to improve mental health education and nursing placement experiences in rural, regional and remote communities. Recognising the importance of local engagement and patient-centred care, the project focuses on enhancing the preparedness of nursing students for mental health placements and promoting awareness of mental health careers.
Methods:
The project comprises four main phases: preplacement mental health simulation, a mental health promotion workshop, the implementation of a mental health placement support coordinator role, and the development of an online preceptorship training package. These initiatives are designed to provide comprehensive education and support to nursing students, preparing them for mental health placements, supporting them with tailored care whilst on placement and fostering their interest in mental health nursing careers.
Results:
Through the implementation of these phases, the project aims to create a robust learning environment for students, increase their confidence and competence in mental health nursing, and strengthen preceptorship support for nursing staff. Additionally, the project seeks to increase awareness of mental health career
opportunities among students and promote positive engagement with the mental health sector. Combined, this project should increase recruitment in mental health nursing by creating a realistic and accessible summary of mental health education and career prospects. The data from the simulation suggests that they have had a positive impact on the students, preparation for placement, success on placement and willingness to go on mental health placements.
Conclusions:
By focusing on student engagement, communitybased health initiatives, and patient-centred care, this project strives to create lasting, positive impacts in rural, regional and remote communities. Through enhanced mental health education and placement experiences, nursing students can contribute effectively to mental health care delivery in rural areas, addressing workforce shortages and improving patient outcomes.
DELIRIUM EXCELLENCE: DEVELOPING A DELIRIUM EDUCATION PROGRAM FOR NURSES
SAMANTHA FINN MACN
1 Tasmanian Health Service- South, Hobart, Australia
Introduction:
Delirium is often under-recognised and is associated with poor health outcomes, particularly in older people. Nurses are vital in preventing, recognising, and managing delirium. The Delirium Excellence in Practice Program (EPP) is blended learning program designed to support nurses within the Tasmanian Health Service, South, to increase their knowledge in nursing management of delirium and develop the skills to function as champions in the delivery of high-quality delirium care in their area of practice.
COMMUNITY (02)
Meeting Room M6, M7 & M8 11:00am – 12:20pm
Main Body:
Recognising the knowledge and skills required for nurses to provide excellence in delirium care, the Delirium EPP was designed in 2020 and is now in its fourth iteration. During this time, 83 nurses across acute, subacute, community, and aged care settings have enrolled in the program. The program’s content is developed and presented by members of a multidisciplinary team, comprising experts in delirium care, and incorporating valuable consumer input.
The program uses a blended learning model incorporating online learning, face-to-face workshops, and a work-integrated project. The Delirium EPP has improved nurses’ capabilities in delirium assessment and the application of non-pharmacological prevention and management strategies. Work-integrated projects within the program have resulted in diverse outcomes, including environmental enhancements for individuals with delirium, the creation of diversional therapy resources, unit-based education delivery, and improvements to communication systems on units for individuals experiencing delirium.
A process of continuous evaluation has helped shape the Delirium EPP, and evidence of its effectiveness has been demonstrated using Kirkpatrick’s four levels of training evaluation. Evaluation has been further enriched by involving previous participants in subsequent years’ program designs.
Conclusion:
The Delirium EPP equips nurses with knowledge and skills for delivering exemplary delirium care. Ongoing evaluation and a collaborative approach to program development ensure its sustained impact on enhancing delirium management across diverse healthcare settings.
Postgraduate nursing at Deakin
We offer a range of postgraduate courses that cater to registered nurses wanting to take the next step in their career.
Designed flexibly for practising nurses, Deakin’s postgraduate courses can provide a pathway into senior roles in management, education or research. Our broad set of postgraduate degrees includes specialised courses at the graduate certificate or graduate diploma level in the following streams:
• cardiac nursing
• critical care nursing
• emergency nursing
• intensive care nursing
• intraoperative nursing
• mental health nursing (NEW)*
• midwifery
• perianaesthesia nursing
• perioperative nursing.
You may also choose to progress onto the Master of Advanced Clinical Nursing once you complete your graduate diploma in one of these specialty areas.* Alternatively, if you wish to pursue a more general qualification, you can study a Graduate Certificate of Advanced Nursing, Graduate Diploma of Advanced Nursing or Master of Advanced Nursing, all of which allow you to tailor electives to your career goals without the need to specialise.
Abstracts – concurrent sessions
Abstracts are printed here as submitted to ACN
DAY 2 THURSDAY 15 AUGUST 2024
CONCURRENT SESSION THREE
QUALITY AND SAFETY (03)
Auditorium A 1:30pm – 2:50pm
HIRAID®
IMPROVES THE QUALITY OF EMERGENCY NURSING IN RURAL AUSTRALIA
PROFESSOR KATE CURTIS1, BELINDA KENNEDY1, DR MARY LAM2, LOUISE CASEY3, DOROTHY HUGHES1, ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR CHRISTINA AGGAR4, PROFESSOR RAMON SHABAN1, PROFESSOR MARGARET FRY5, PROFESSOR JULIE CONSIDINE6
5 University Technology Sydney, Sydney, Australia,
6 Deakin University, Melbourne, Australia
Introduction:
The quality of emergency nursing assessment is crucial, particularly with extended wait times for medical review. HIRAID® is a clinical safety system for use with any patient presentation.
Aim:
To determine the impact of HIRAID® on nursing handover, patient experience, documentation and clinical deterioration.
Methods:
In 2021/2 HIRAID® was implemented in 23 rural EDs with 550+ nursing staff using a multimodal, behaviour change informed implementation strategy through an NHMRC partnership grant with partners including the Australian College of Nursing, CENA, NSW Health (ACI) and ACSQHC. Nursing staff completed a pre-post survey to assess clinical practice and communication. Patient experience was captured using Australian Hospital Patient Experience Question Set. Quality of documentation was assessed using a modified D-catch tool. Causal factors to patient deterioration events were assessed using the validated Human Factors Classification Framework. Appropriate tests were conducted to determine any changes before and after HIRAID® implementation using SPSS v26.0.
Results:
There were 519 (300 pre, 219 post) nurse and 1283 (626 pre 657 post) patient responses. Nurses reported significant overall improvement in quality of nursing assessment (p=0.004), handover (p=0.002), recognition (p=0.023) and escalation (p=0.007) of patient deterioration. Patient reported experience significantly improved, particularly in pain management (p<0.0001) and communication (p<0.0001).
Review of 444 medical record reviews (220 pre, 222 post) demonstrated significant improvement in the documentation quality of patient history (p<0.001), assessment (p<0.001), quantity of red flags (p<0.001) and interventions (p=0.002) documented in initial ED patient assessment. Assessment of factors associated with clinical deterioration within 72 hours of admission via ED for 1,115 (561 pre, 554 post) patients demonstrated a significant reduction patient deterioration related to ED nursing care (p=0.029), communication (p=0.025) and treatment delays (p=0.001).
Conclusions:
Implementation of HIRAID® resulted in significantly improved clinical handover, patient experience, documentation and reduced incidence of patient deterioration related to emergency nursing care.
NURSING NUMERACY EDUCATORS: THE TEACHING AND ASSESSMENT OF MEDICATION CALCULATIONS
CHRISTINE MINTY-WALKER1, PROFESSOR NATHAN. J. WILSON, ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR LEANNE RYLANDS, SENIOR LECTURER JIM PETTIGREW, SENIOR LECTURER LEANNE HUNT
1 Western Sydney University, Hawkesbury, Australia
Abstracts – concurrent sessions
Abstracts are printed here as submitted to ACN
DAY 2 THURSDAY 15 AUGUST 2024
CONCURRENT SESSION THREE
QUALITY AND SAFETY (03)
Auditorium A 1:30pm – 2:50pm
Introduction:
Proficiency in numeracy skills is critical for patient safety, however, the accuracy rate of calculations by undergraduate and registered nurses is low. This issue is alarming for the education of undergraduate nurses, the nursing profession, and the quality of nursing care. A scoping review on undergraduate numeracy teaching revealed a heterogeneous blend of learning approaches. Furthermore, approaches best suited to improve numerical calculation abilities of nurses remains unclear. In the Australian context, there are no accreditation standards referring to numeracy. Therefore, it is important to discover how nurse education leaders’ deliver and assess numeracy.
Purpose:
To explore the range of approaches implemented for teaching and assessing numeracy and medication calculations from the perspective of Australian nurse education leaders within undergraduate nursing programs.
Methods:
This research is the qualitative component of an overarching exploratory sequential mixed methods study. Data were collected from 17 nurse education leaders who engaged in semi-structured interviews. Data were analysed using Braun & Clarke’s thematic analysis.
Results:
The absence of a distinct accreditation standard in relation to numeracy, led to the existence of an array of pedagogical approaches to teaching and assessing numeracy. Academics were considered good clinicians but not maths teachers. It was assumed students would have proficiency in numeracy skills on entering university, but this was not the case. Support was required for struggling students to pass high stakes assessments, which were delivered in various formats, often under conditions incongruent to the clinical setting.
Conclusions:
This research aims to inform the development of a standardised conceptual teaching framework for tertiary education. Furthermore, to prompt consideration into how undergraduate nurses are assessed on numeracy and medication calculations with the aim for a national standard or benchmark with an independent external assessment of numeracy, thereby improving the quality of numeracy education and ensuring safer patient outcomes.
NURSING DOCUMENTATION – BREAKING THE HABITS
NORIKO KOIZUMI MACN1, LAURA WELLHAM2
1 Northern Sydney and Central Coast Local Health District, Gosford, Australia,
2 Central Coast Local Health District, Gosford, Australia
Introduction:
The global shift towards the digitalisation of health records has significantly impacted clinical practice and accessibility to patients’ vital health data. Central Coast Local Health District (CCLHD) has transitioned to digital healthcare records (DHR) over the last 15 years and will transition to the state-wide Single Digital Patient Record (SDPR) platform. Recognising the integral role of documentation in nursing practice, particularly in ensuring legal compliance, transparency, and continuity of patient care, we embarked on the ‘Documenting for Patient Safety’ project. This endeavour evaluated current nursing documentation practices, pinpointed areas for improvement, and offered recommendations for the future digital health record transition.
Method:
The project involved a retrospective review and audit of nursing progress notes and entries within the purposebuilt DHR. Additionally, existing policies, procedures, and training materials from NSW Health and other local health districts were reviewed.
QUALITY AND SAFETY (03)
Auditorium A 1:30pm – 2:50pm
Results:
The review identified significant variations in documentation content and style, alongside instances of omitting or duplication of clinical information in DHR. Inconsistent utilisation of DHR functionalities resulted in gaps in information continuity and visibility, particularly concerning crucial aspects such as decision-making processes and monitoring deteriorating patients. The knowledge gap among nurses and the complexity of DHR functionalities are identified as contributing factors. Moreover, a lack of clear guidance and policies in DHRbased nursing documentation was evident.
Conclusion:
The rapid evolution of digital health technology necessitates ongoing training and opportunities for reflective practice among nursing professionals. Addressing the gaps is imperative to ensure reliable health informatics data and optimise nursing care for individual patients. Building on insights gained from this project, CCLHD has published guidelines and is undertaking additional initiatives to enhance digital health literacy among nurses. Further research into the complexity of nursing documentation and its contributing factors is crucial for advancing nursingcentric DHR and shaping the future of nursing practice.
COMPREHENSIVE PERSON-CENTRED NURSING ORIENTATION
DR THERESE RILEY1, LYNETTE HIGGS1, CHRIS SARGEANT1
1 Sydney Hospital and Sydney Eye Hospital, Sydney, Australia
Introduction:
The global healthcare movement of person-centredness has influenced the way nursing practice is considered, delivered, and reflected upon. Hospital-site specific orientation programs offer an opportunity for nurses to engage in person-centred discussions and reflection
utilising a patient journey from admission to discharge. The Sydney and Sydney Eye Hospital (SSEH) nurse orientation program incorporates content underpinned by principles of quality, safe, compassionate, and best practice care throughout the journey.
A review of the nursing orientation program in November 2023 led to the development of a revised program incorporating the six elements of the Comprehensive Care Framework, aligning to the National Safety and Quality Care Standards. Implementation of the program commenced in 2024.
Main Body:
The revised nursing orientation program contained critical elements of safe work practices; policies/ procedures; patient assessment and effective communication including correct documentation, handover, and escalation protocols with the addition of reflection and analysis of a multidisciplinary approach. Case studies of fictitious realistic patient profiles were developed to reflect the most frequent patient case mix load and presentation to hospital.
Elements of the Comprehensive Care Framework were integrated across all aspects of the patient journey and subsequently reflected in all sessions. Using a patient journey aims to guide critical decision-making regarding nurse assessment, care planning, delivery, and evaluation of care. To date, thirty nurses have attended nursing orientation. The revised program evaluation is underway and will be reported.
Conclusion:
Integration of the Comprehensive Care Framework has enabled a greater understanding of the patient and their journey as a continuum with a heightened awareness of multidisciplinary team member roles. This person-centred approach stimulates ongoing critical reflection and discussion providing clarity of roles, responsibilities, and goals for care. Learning has been enhanced through this process supporting ongoing critical reflection of practice utilising a program that is contemporary and evidence based.
Abstracts – concurrent sessions
Abstracts are printed here as submitted to ACN
DAY 2 THURSDAY 15 AUGUST 2024
CONCURRENT SESSION THREE
INNOVATION (03)
Auditorium D 1:30pm – 2:50pm
ROBOTICS AND THE FUTURE OF NURSING AND MIDWIFERY
DR WENDY SMYTH OAM MACN1, CHRISTINE MCINTOSH1, ANNE ELVIN1, PROFESSOR CATE NAGLE 2
1 Townsville Hospital And Health Service, Townsville, Australia,
2 James Cook U, Townsville, Australia
Introduction/Purpose:
It is timely for nurses and midwives to be active participants in the inevitable expansion of robots into health care. This study aimed to examine nurses’ and midwives’ attitudes towards the use of robots in healthcare settings.
Methods:
A cross-sectional survey asking nurses and midwives to rate how useful a robot would be to 17 specific tasks, and to nominate three advantages and three disadvantages of robots in health care, was devised. The questionnaire was circulated through professional organisations and networks between mid-September 2018 and early February 2019.
Findings:
Three-quarters of the 234 respondents were registered nurses, and just over half had more than 20 years’ postregistration experience. Respondents worked across a full range of nursing/midwifery areas; almost 80% had postgraduate qualifications. Tasks that more than 50% respondents rated robots as useful were: recognising clinical deterioration (n=143, 61.4%); bladder catheter insertion (n=141, 60.3%), nasogastric insertion and feeds (n=128, 54.7%), and assessment of a patient’s/ woman’s condition (n=127, 54.5%). Concerning advantages of robots, the responses were grouped into the following themes: Better use of nurses’/ midwives’ professional expertise; Faith in technology; Improvement of patients’ experience. Concerning disadvantages, the responses were grouped into the
following themes: Limitations associated with the technology; Robots lack essential human qualities; Impact of robots on nurses/midwives, nursing/ midwifery, health care and the wider community.
Conclusion:
Whilst opportunities where robots would free nurses and midwives to act to their full scope were identified, fears of job losses and concerns that robots are unable to demonstrate empathy and compassion inherent in their professions, were also prominent.
It is necessary to implement strategies to foster their active engagement in directing future use of robots in health care, including input into the design of robots through to discussions and policymaking as to how robots can best support nurses’ and midwives’ professional roles.
COMRRS-NORTH: A NOVEL TAKE ON HOSPITAL AVOIDANCE
MEREDITH PRESTWOOD1, SUSAN NUNN1
1 Tasmanian Health Service, Launceston, Australia
The ever-increasing demands on our hospital systems plus an ageing population in Tasmania requires us to think about different and innovative ways to support and deliver care safely. This has led to the development of a nurse practitioner-led innovative hospital avoidance program being delivered in Tasmania. Following a successful pilot in 2016 in the North the program was rolled out statewide. General practitioners refer their patients to the Community Rapid Response Service (ComRRS). The ComRRS team works collaboratively with the treating GP to deliver patient-centred care in their own home for acute illnesses that would have otherwise been sent to the emergency department (ED) for management. This service also offers invaluable support to the Residential Aged Care Facilities to prevent unnecessary transfers to hospital.
INNOVATION (03)
Auditorium D 1:30pm – 2:50pm
Patients are admitted to the service with an acute episode for up to 7 days but can be admitted up to 6 weeks if required. ComRRS North sees up to 120 patients per month – it is a seven day a week service, 0730 till 2130 365 days per year with GP Assist support overnight. Patient satisfaction has been high. Staff satisfaction has also been high with minimal staff movements in the northern team since its inception. The team are highly skilled clinicians who enjoy the diverse and challenging work.
This innovative model is now thinking to the future, in 2023 a nurse practitioner candidate was appointed ensuring that the service will be able to continue with nurse practitioner oversight. An OT has joined the team and soon a physio will join the service to extend the support that we can provide our patients in the community. This is truly a patient-centred innovative holistic care model helping to reduce demand on our hospitals and keep people in the safety of their own homes.
RESPONDING TO THE NEED FOR A FLEXIBLE WORKFORCE MODEL
ADJUNCT PROFESSOR KATE GILLAN1
1 Epworth Healthcare, Richmond, Australia
Background:
As the nursing and midwifery workforce changes, our industry is experiencing a greater desire for workforce flexibility along with a greater expectation of professional development support. Indeed, as the acute sector supports a more complex clientele, building the capability and capacity of its nursing and midwifery workforce is more important than ever.
Method:
At Epworth Healthcare, we have addressed these concurrent priorities with two innovative transformation processes.
The first is the Brookes Academy for Nursing & Midwifery at Epworth (the Academy), a unique investment supporting nurses and midwives to discover, learn and grow throughout their careers, through professional pathways in clinical, leadership, education and research and innovation.
The second process is creating a Central Resource Unit (CRU), which provides nurses and midwives the opportunity to work in casual, permanent or in short term appointments, across our seven locations and the many specialties they service and support.
Our CRU has many streams, one of the most popular being the discover and explore program, allowing early years nurses and midwives to align their clinical exposure to the professional development support provided through the Academy.
Already we are seeing these innovations creating a highly valued attractor and retainer of nursing and midwifery workforce. This focus aligns very well with this year’s International Council of Nurses theme for International Nurses Day; to invest more heavily in our nurses and midwives for the benefit of our entire community.
A dashboard of measures provides evidence of the benefits including decreased agency usage and improved permanent EFT vacancy.
Conclusion:
With these two innovations, the results are realised in a collective, strategic and efficient manner, providing strong financial returns.
But most importantly, we are retaining nurses and midwives in larger numbers and their engagement scores are increasing – and that’s good for our staff and our patients.
Abstracts – concurrent sessions
Abstracts
DAY 2 THURSDAY 15 AUGUST 2024
CONCURRENT SESSION THREE
INNOVATION (03)
Auditorium D 1:30pm – 2:50pm
RAMSAY NURSING AND MIDWIFERY ACADEMY GRADUATE PROGRAM
RACHEL
GALE
MACN1, HANNAH CHILTON, DR BERNADETTE EATHER FACN
1 Ramsay Health Care, Sydney , Australia
Introduction:
COVID-19 has presented challenges to the healthcare systems globally, affecting the nursing workforce in Australia. With reduced number of nurses, the surge in patient volumes and condition complexity has provided a confronting introduction for graduates. Ramsay have created a program that provides a strong foundational year, and an additional development year allowing them to consolidate, specialise and extend their confidence and capabilities within the organisation.
Pathways were designed based on feedback and strategy; Ramsay is appealing to the Gen Z’s holistic workplace expectations. Creating a graduate workforce who are equipped with clinical capability, and resilience has been key to the stabilisation and sustainability of the workforce.
Aim:
Pathways have been designed to meet the needs of 1000 graduates across 74 facilities. Pathways have been developed to provide programs in consultation with clinical teams to ensure a supportive and engaged workplace environment.
• Research
• Consolidation of Clinical Practice
• EN to RN Transition
• Nursing Specialisation
• Graduate Midwifery
• Scholarship
• Allied Health
• Pharmacy
• Oncology 2024
• Aged Care 2024
Method:
1000 Graduates nationally engage in a structured foundational graduate year where they are provided with 5 study days in addition to local education support and development. Graduates then attend a scheduled pathways discussion with their local education manager to select one of the listed pathways for their development year.
Result:
Streams have been funded by Ramsay and their industry partners.
Conclusion:
In the past 12 months, 980 graduates had the opportunity to pursue their chosen area of interest. This has assisted with retention, workforce shortages and provided our graduates, regardless of their designation the opportunity to work in speciality areas.
SOCIAL IMPACT (03)
Meeting Room M2 & M3 1:30pm – 2:50pm
ENHANCING NURSE SAFETY AND PATIENT EXPERIENCE IN EMERGENCY DEPARTMENTS
ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR SAMANTHA JAKIMOWICZ1, ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR RACHEL ROSSITER1, JODIE BRABIN1, DR SHARON LAVER1, ROSEMARY PHILLIPS1
1 Healthscope-POWP, Randwick, Australia,
2 Western Sydney University, Liverpool, Australia
Background:
Nurses constitute the backbone of emergency departments (EDs), ensuring the delivery of safe and effective care amidst the dynamic and often chaotic environment. This study explores the critical intersection of patient safety and nurse wellbeing within ED settings, emphasising the pivotal role of nurse safety in maintaining high-quality healthcare delivery.
Against the backdrop of pressured health systems, increased patient numbers, extended wait times and escalating violence and aggression towards healthcare workers, including nurses, various interventions have been implemented in an attempt to ensure staff safety and quality patient care. One such intervention is the implementation of Patient Experience Officer positions fulfilling a non-clinical role in the ED waiting room to proactively communicate and keep patients and carers comfortable and informed of the processes of ED.
Method:
This study evaluated the implementation of the Patient Experience Officer role across 51 hospital sites by a state health service in Australia. Realist evaluation was used to identify how the role worked, for whom and in what contexts, to deliver outcomes. Quantitative and qualitative data were analysed using an approach that integrated contextual and mechanistic findings.
Results:
Over 1,000 nurses, clinicians and healthcare workers responded to the survey and 85 interviews were conducted. The evaluation found that the Patient
Experience Officer role contributed to reduced incidents of aggression and violence, improved patient and staff experience and wellbeing as well as positively impacting patient outcomes.
Conclusion:
By prioritising nurse safety as a cornerstone of highquality care delivery, EDs can cultivate a culture of mutual respect, trust and collaboration, ultimately fostering optimal working conditions and promoting retention within the nursing workforce. This study advocates for continued investment in evidence-based strategies aimed at safeguarding nurse safety, ensuring sustainability and wellbeing in ED environments in the face of escalating healthcare challenges.
IMPLEMENTATION OF A POSTNATAL PROGRAM IN NORTHWEST TASMANIA
1 St Lukes, Hobart, Australia
Tasmania is a state divided, geographically and socioeconomically into three regions- the North, the North West, and the South. The North West is predominantly deemed “regional/rural”, with significant health inequity, limited access to primary and tertiary health care and a fragile health ecosystem, compared to the other regions.
In 2021, due to concerns raised from the service providers and community, the Tasmanian Department of Health (DoH) commissioned an independent review into the quality, safety, and management of maternity services in the North West. The review observed a lack of integration; inadequate clinical governance; duplicated leadership structures; poor workplace culture; organisational silos and interprofessional conflicts. These concerns had the potential to lead to adverse clinical outcomes and many clinicians raised concerns with the review team about their capacity to deliver safe care. The recommendation, accepted by the
ELIZABETH FEGAN MACN1
Abstracts – concurrent sessions
Abstracts are printed here as submitted to ACN
DAY 2 THURSDAY 15 AUGUST 2024
CONCURRENT SESSION THREE
SOCIAL IMPACT (03)
Meeting Room M2 & M3 1:30pm – 2:50pm
DoH, is that maternity services should be consolidated into a single governance structure in the public sector, under the overarching governance of the Tasmanian Health Service which commenced December 2023.
While this may have been a solution to addressing care standards in a timely manner, the change has also resulted in healthcare inequity, by removing women’s autonomy to choose health care in a public or private setting in the North West of Tasmania.
St Lukes responded to the situation to support new parents seeking a private hospital birthing experience by expanding the North Postnatal Program, adapted to the North West Tasmanian health ecosystem. Aiming to address health inequity in the region, St Lukes implemented a Postnatal Program utilising local midwives, lactation consultants and allied health professionals to support women during an exciting but vulnerable time in their lives. The Postnatal Program has had significant uptake, positive feedback from both medical practitioners and members quantified through correspondence with the members upon completion of the program.
NURSES & CARING: A COLLECTIVE NARRATIVE
DR TANYA PARK MACN1, DR TIM BARLOTT2, EDUAN BREEDT2, LINDSAY KOMAR 2, MEGAN SOMMERFELD2, NICOLE TAILBY2
1 James Cook University, Cairns, Australia, 2 University of Alberta, Edmonton, Canada
In no other field has there been as much confusion, misdirection and discrimination against those with an illness. Mental illness, even today, it is all too often considered a crime to be punished, a sin to be expiated, a possessing demon to be exorcised, a disgrace to be
hushed up, a personality weakness to be deplored or a welfare problem to be handled as cheaply as possible (Canadian Mental Health Association, 1963).
This statement from the 1963 report ‘More for the Mind’, a review of psychiatric services in Canada, sadly, could be applicable today. People with a mental illness continue to be marginalised, discriminated against, and seen as societal burdens. Is this is a failing of health care systems, or simply an inability to care?
Using a collective narrative approach, we explored stories of care with people who have a chronic mental illness and registered nurses. Collective narrative is an affirmative, trauma-informed approach that uses storytelling to illuminate people’s lived experience and generate hope regarding the topic of concern. For this presentation, we will share the findings from the nurses’ stories of care and caring.
An act of kindness by a stranger, a friend holding your hand, someone sitting with us when we’re afraid – these are examples of how we might experience care. The nurses interviewed described stories of caring as; the right gift, hope for change, the restriction of systems and showing up, being there, just there. These stories highlighted the relational and reciprocal nature of caring for nurses. Nurses described innovative ways of finding opportunistic moments to engage in acts of caring, sharing time with people despite system restrictions. Through these acts there is hope for a more caring future where we routinely ask patients what makes you feel cared for?
SOCIAL IMPACT (03)
Meeting Room M2 & M3 1:30pm – 2:50pm
LEVERAGING LEGISLATION TO IMPROVE REPRODUCTIVE HEALTH OUTCOMES
EMILY RUSSELL1, UNA SCHUMACHER1, SHELLEY NOWLAN1
1 Office of the Chief Nursing Officer, Queensland, Herston, Australia
There is a high unmet need for effective contraception in Australia, with one-quarter of women having experienced an unintended pregnancy. Barriers to accessing contraceptives include a deficit of suitably trained health practitioners, high costs, misinformation, and a geographically dispersed population.
Long-Acting Reversible Contraception (LARC) is an umbrella term that comprises hormonal Intrauterine Devices (IUDs), non-hormonal copper IUDs and hormonal sub-dermal implants. LARC are estimated to be over 99.5% effective and can almost eradicate contraceptive failure. However, only 11% of women aged 15-44 years were using a LARC method in 2018.
The Senate Community Affairs Reference Committee report on the inquiry into universal access to reproductive health care, ending the postcode lottery: Addressing barriers to sexual, maternity, and reproductive healthcare in Australia, identifies the importance of enabling registered nurses (RNs) and midwives to work to their full scope of practice to address barriers to consumers accessing contraceptives, including LARC.
In Queensland, the authority to deal with medicines is conferred under the Medicines and Poisons Act 2019 (MPA) and the Medicines and Poisons (Medicines) Regulation 2021 (MPMR). Extended Practice Authorities (EPAs) are legislative instruments under the MPA which provide additional authorisations to deal with medicines as stated in the MPMR. In 2023 and 2024, the Queensland Office of the Chief Nursing and Midwifery Officer progressed amendments to the EPAs, authorising RNs working in sexual and reproductive health services and midwives working under a respective EPA to initiate and administer LARC without a prescription.
This initiative has introduced a legislated expanded scope of practice for Queensland’s midwives and sexual and reproductive health nurses and improved equitable access to effective contraception in all locations of the state. It is anticipated to also improve wellbeing due to a reduction in unintended pregnancies which can place significant physical, social, and financial strain on women and their families.
Graduate certificates in nursing
Take your nursing career to the next level
Build your specialist skills in less than a year, while you work. Designed for registered nurses, these courses will enhance your knowledge and empower you to make a real difference in your community.
Find the right graduate certificate for you
• Graduate Certificate in Nursing (Aged Care)
• Graduate Certificate in Nursing (Clinical Education)
• Graduate Certificate in Nursing (Leadership and Management)
• Graduate Certificate in Nursing (Rural and Remote Nursing)
Study part-time in just eight to 10 months. Start in February or July.
We know that flexibility is key. That’s why our courses are delivered 100 per cent online and part-time – so you can upgrade your career through study while juggling your existing commitments.
Want to become a midwife?
The Graduate Diploma of Midwifery enables you to work and study concurrently as a student midwife – while becoming a qualified midwife eligible for registration with the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA). And we’re excited to offer additional Commonwealth supported places (CSP) from 2024 onward to meet growing demand for exceptional midwifery education. Complete in just 12-18 months of part time study.
Learn more
Study with experts
Learn with leaders in rural and regional health education. Charles Sturt has led the way in nursing education for more than 40 years. Our expert academics are known for their research excellence in key nursing areas, including regional and remote communities, and improving health outcomes. So you’ll be supported while you enhance your critical thinking, decision-making and research skills.
We’re Australia’s most experienced online university
More than half our students complete their courses online – that’s over 26,000 people balancing work, life and study, around the country and across the globe.
“The Charles Sturt rural and remote nursing program was developed with very experienced rural nurses from Western NSW Local Health District. The university listened to our feedback to make sure each unit in the program applied to rural and remote advanced clinical nursing practice.”
Liz Shaw, Manager Rural Generalist Nurse Education Program
Abstracts – concurrent sessions
Abstracts are printed here as submitted to ACN
DAY 2 THURSDAY 15 AUGUST 2024
CONCURRENT SESSION THREE
COMMUNITY (03)
Meeting Room M6, M7 & M8 1:30pm – 2:50pm
THE FORGOTTEN REW: JOHN’S STORY
SHARON WILLIAMS MACN1
1 Hunter ACAT, Kurri Kurri, Australia
Introduction:
What happens when a person is not able to recognise or report health inequities? How do they engage in their own health and cross the divide? From one referral for an ACAT assessment, the progression and support for one older person relied heavily on the engagement of multiple providers to ensure sustainable health solutions and build a much-needed bridge to equity.
Body:
Working in the community comes with its own challenges and initiatives, amidst the ability to apply positive impacts that are truly sustainable in a homebased environment.
In exploring the theme of positive impacts for community-based programs, stories of nurse/patient interactions that encompass therapeutic advocacy and patient-centred care may be told from every field of practice.
This is a simple story about John. He is one of the forgotten few. He had not been seen, heard, or given choices in his health pathway. He lived in abject poverty, squalor and near starvation. How does person-centred care reach John?
The resolute engagement and therapeutic principles of the health community is that no one is left without support. John was seen. He was not forgotten. John was heard. He was not silent. John was given dignity and choice. John was offered sustainable solutions that involved him in his care decisions and made a positive impact in his life. From John’s story, lessons were learnt about listening before applying health or self-values that appear positive but are not valued as important to the person.
PRECEPTORING IN THE COMMUNITY
CHERIE CLARKE MACN1
1 Northen Sydney Home Nursing Service, North Ryde, Australia
The Northern Sydney Home Nursing Service (NSHNS) Preceptor program has been operational for 9 years with regular updating of content and strategies to create supported entry into community nursing and to aid the sustainability of a nursing workforce in this specialty area. NSHNS Clinical Nurse Educators are responsible for the Preceptor program for all new nurses in community nursing.
The Preceptor program has had positive success in shaping our community nursing workforce via the role modelling our Preceptors display to new starters and in the retention of staff.
The Preceptor program incorporates a 12-week calendar which includes 4 clinical days with the Clinical Nurse Educator, with a gradual increase in clinical hours. Protected time to meet with the preceptor, office days to attend to education, as well as adding applicable education days. A palliative care welcome pack has also been developed to introduce them to palliative care nursing.
The Preceptor program is agile enough to respond to feedback from past participants, can be individualised to cater for particular new starter needs and is flexible to accommodate the busyness of a workplace.
Following audit data received in late 2023, we have introduced Preceptor specific Community On Road Education (CORE) days, with the aim of increasing support to these role models, aligning our standards across the program and ensuring preceptors can have dedicated CNE attention.
Abstracts – concurrent sessions
Abstracts are printed here as submitted to ACN
DAY 2 THURSDAY 15 AUGUST 2024
CONCURRENT SESSION THREE
COMMUNITY (03)
Meeting Room M6, M7 & M8 1:30pm – 2:50pm
The program is recognised across the Northern Sydney Local Health District and has influenced the creation of a district-wide Preceptor program with its comprehensive inclusions and ability to influence the future of nursing locally. The opportunity to showcase our program as sustainable to the future of nursing is our premise.
MORAL INJURY IN NURSING: CREATING SUSTAINABLE NURSES FOR OUR FUTURE
GABI MACAULAY
1 UTS Sydney, Sydney, Australia
The term moral injury originated in the military and has emerged more recently into the world-wide healthcare environment rhetoric. Moral injury can be defined as “Profound psychological distress that results from actions or lack of them which violates a person’s moral or ethical code. “ (1) Evidence-based research is now clearly showing that moral distress and its emerging associated narrative is gaining traction throughout medical and academic circles.
As nurses we need to be on the front foot at every level. We are the heartbeat of humanity healing and must learn how to recognise and rebuild ourselves and colleagues during these new heightened work environments.
In the same way we would not be sloppy about a physical diagnosis nor ought we be casual with a mental or moral well-being diagnosis. During the pandemic Australia lost over 20,000 nurses and most have simply been self-labelled as burnt out, suffering from PTSD or other vague reasons.
This paper will look at how to understand the concept of moral injury, it’s diagnosis, recognising its toll in ourselves and colleagues at the frontline and drawing together towards healing and recovery ourselves.
Let’s chose to equip nurses with education about moral injury and recognise it is a healthy response to an unhealthy situation.
Introducing tools such as moral resilience, rebounding, re-integration and self-esteem, understanding and implementing hot and cold effective debriefs with skill will retain a better, kinder, more sustainable, compassionate team at the frontline of our health care.
This paper will bring the lived experienced of moral injury and the importance of sustainable recovery into action.
Let us regenerate, reinvigorate and reclaim sustainable nurses for our future.
1. Williamson, Murphy (2020) “Experiences of Moral Injury in frontline workers.”
COMMUNITY (03)
Meeting Room M6, M7 & M8 1:30pm – 2:50pm
CHRONIC DISEASE MANAGEMENT AND SUPPORT NEEDS AMONG OLDER VIETNAM-BORN AUSTRALIANS
DR MINH NGUYEN1, PROFESSOR LISA WHITEHEAD1, ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR ROSEMARY SAUNDERS1, DR GORDANA DERMODY2
1 School Of Nursing and Midwifery Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, Australia,
2 School of Health, University of the Sunshine Coast, 90 Sippy Downs Dr, Australia
Introduction:
Understanding the context and needs arising from individuals is crucial to ensure that all individuals have the resources they need to effectively manage their chronic disease. The Vietnamese community in Australia stands as the second-largest migrant community following the United States of America. Despite this significant demographic presence, there is a notable lack of comprehensive research focused on understanding the management of chronic conditions and support needs within this population.
Aim:
To explore the context in which Vietnam-born older adults living in Australia manage chronic disease, and to explore the perception of support needs while living with chronic disease.
Methods:
The study design was qualitative focused ethnography in alignment with the interpretive research paradigm and guided by Leininger’s theory of Culture Care. Data were collected by both participant observation and in-depth interviews during a seven-month period in Western Australia. Data were analysed through three phases: description, thematic analysis, and interpretation.
Results:
Twelve participants were included in the study. Two themes emerged from the data analysis: Navigating the journey of chronic disease management and When in Rome do as the Romans do. Chronic disease self-management predominantly occurred within the family and community context, with Vietnamese ethnic communities playing a crucial role in supporting individuals in this endeavor. Perception of supportive needs among the participants was shaped by the stigma associated with migrant background which did not align seamlessly with their challenges in managing chronic condition.
Conclusion:
The community and family played important roles in supporting older Vietnam-born adults to manage their chronic disease. Nurses in the primary healthcare system can enhance support for older Vietnam-born individuals managing their chronic disease by creating culturally appropriate health educational materials, conducting home visits and outreach programs, and collaborating with family and community to develop sustainable chronic disease self-management support initiatives.
Abstracts – concurrent sessions
Abstracts are printed here as submitted to ACN
DAY 3 FRIDAY 16 AUGUST 2024
CONCURRENT SESSION FOUR
QUALITY
AND SAFETY (04)
Auditorium A 11:00am – 12:20pm
REDUCING PROLONGED FASTING TIMES BY USING “SIP TILL SEND”
MR KRISTIAN SANCHEZ MACN
1 CALHN, Adelaide, Australia
Introduction:
Despite changes to anaesthetic guidelines, prolonged preoperative fasting continues to be commonplace at our hospital and has several detrimental effects to patients. The largest barrier to reducing fasting times appears to be knowing exactly when a patient is going to the operating theatre.
Aims:
This quality improvement project aimed to reduce fasting times at the Royal Adelaide Hospital by introducing a new innovative approach to preoperative management called Sip Til send (STS). This project required strong support to be successful as it was going against a national guideline and changing 70 years of established practice. The aim was also to increase staff knowledge on the evidence of fasting and the harm of prolonged fasting.
Methods:
A validated change management process was undertaken, and methods used were audits, staff surveys, a communications strategy, education plan, stakeholder engagement, change champions and a working party. The project had over 115 STS champions and required staff from different professions and clinical areas to work together to change practice.
Results:
The results of pre implementation surveys and audits indicated that there was a problem with preoperative fasting management and that staff knowledge was poor/limited. Implementation of ‘Sip Til Send’ did reduce fasting times by over 7.5 hours.
Conclusion:
This project adds further evidence that large organisational change is possible when a structured model is used and that Sip Til Send can significantly reduce fasting times. Further audits are required to determine whether this change in practice has been sustained. It is important that we continue to gather data, monitor safety, and encourage others to adopt this more liberal approach to preoperative fasting as this will be required for a change to national guidelines. A STS National Network has been established and this work recently featured in the ANZCA Summer Bulletin.
THE CURRENT NURSING CRISIS: ARE NOVICE NURSES SUFFERING IN SILENCE?
TAMMY SOOVEERE MACN1
Princess Alexandra Hospital, Woolloongabba, Australia
Heavy workloads, staff shortages, and decreased retention are pervasive across the nursing profession in Australia and abroad. To ensure that novice practitioners develop into safe, competent, and confident nurses, it is imperative that the culture around them is supportive, empathetic, and geared towards education. In addition, the current climate of burnout and care fatigue is compromising nursing culture and its ability to nurture and nourish the next generation of nurses.
This presentation highlights the challenges and impacts of the current nursing climate on the development of the novice nurse, and it aspires to regenerate and reform nursing culture to ensure novice nurses continue to thrive, and not merely survive. It also showcases the lived experience of the novice nurse as they attempt to navigate heavy cognitive loads whilst facing challenges in accessing much-needed bedside education and dedicated training opportunities.
QUALITY AND SAFETY (04)
Auditorium A 11:00am – 12:20pm
This piece outlines effective personal coping tools for the novice nurse, namely, cultivating professional support networks, valuing work/life balance, and adopting a reflective approach to inform future practice.
Potential systemic strategies and solutions that are crucial for the continued development of the junior nursing cohort will also be presented. It will emphasise the importance of protected education time and dedicated opportunities to access established multi-modality education. Furthermore, it champions transforming the current clinical educator model, advocating for mentorship programs and after-hours access to education support.
Equipping novice nurses with the tools to address these challenges is vital. Likewise, innovating education delivery will create a sustainable solution to foster safe, confident novice nurses for years to come.
CONSENT AND THE MATURE MINOR
KATE ROWAN-ROBINSON MACN1
Introduction:
Mature minor consent to health care, known as Gillick competence, is a legal concept poorly understood and applied in healthcare settings. The intersection between legislation, regulation, policy and clinical practice is complex, with most information available directed at legal professionals. The lack of clear and succinct information about the management of Gillick competence can lead to confusion about how to manage the health care and privacy of a mature minor who may have capacity to consent to health care. This presentation will seek to offer nurses a framework under which they can assess a minor for Gillick competence, and highlight the legal, regulatory, policy and clinical resources they may use to inform their assessment and decision-making.
Main Body:
This presentation will explore the intersecting themes of Gillick competence, including:
• Legislation and case law
• Professional practice
• Competing considerations when assessing Gillick competence; privacy, human rights
Intersecting themes will be explored and practically applied to highlight the complexities of Gillick competence, and provide structured guidance to nurses delivering health care to mature minors.
Conclusion:
Assessment for Gillick competence is complex with little information available to nurses on how to assess a mature minor for their capacity to consent to health care. Nurses will be provided with a range of legal and professional resources to practically inform their assessment of Gillick competence, and guide their clinical decision making when providing health care to mature minors.
MERCY SHIPS: ENHANCING NURSING PRACTICE THROUGH INTERNATIONAL COLLABORATION
DR SONJA DAWSON MACN1
1 Mercy Ships, Caloundra, Australia
Mercy Ships, an international development organisation, stands as a beacon of hope, providing specialised free health care to underserved populations in low-middle income countries across Africa. This presentation outlines the innovative way nurses and others deliver healing and transformation to individuals and communities facing significant barriers to access and affordability of health care.
Abstracts – concurrent sessions
Abstracts are printed here as submitted to ACN
DAY 3 FRIDAY 16 AUGUST 2024
CONCURRENT SESSION FOUR
QUALITY AND SAFETY (04)
Auditorium A 11:00am – 12:20pm
With its focus on surgical intervention, Mercy Ships currently operates two hospital ships equipped with sophisticated medical facilities, staffed by skilled professionals from around the world. These floating hospitals dock in port cities for up to ten months at a time, serving to meet the health care needs of those who have been marginalised and often excluded from society.
Central to the success of Mercy Ships over the past 45 years is its holistic approach to healthcare delivery. Beyond surgical intervention, the organisation invests in capacity building and sustainable healthcare infrastructure development. Through partnership with governments and existing healthcare institutions in host nations, exchange of knowledge allows for local nurses and others to be more effectively empowered to address their healthcare challenges, long after the ship has departed.
Drawing on experience from 30 years involvement with this organisation, including a recent visit to the newest, purpose built vessel; the Global Mercy, this presentation will inspire listeners while highlighting the profound impact Mercy Ships has had on some of the lives of individuals and communities served, and describes the professional impact on those nurses who have volunteered.
Mercy Ships exemplifies the transformative potential of humanitarian initiatives in bridging healthcare disparities and improving health outcomes in low-middle income countries. By providing lifesaving and life changing surgical procedures, along with education, training, and community empowerment, Mercy Ships paves the way for sustainable healthcare development and a transformed future for all connecting with this work.
INNOVATION (04)
Auditorium D 11:00am – 12:20pm
USING DIGITAL SOLUTIONS TO INCREASE NURSES IMPLEMENTATION OF BEST PRACTICE
JESSICA GOLDSMITH MACN1, ALANA KEATING1, PROF ANA HUTCHINSON2
1 Epworth Healthcare, Melbourne, Australia, 2 Deakin University Centre for Quality and Patient Safety Research, Burwood, Australia
Introduction:
The purpose of this study was to improve the accessibility and implementation of best practice evidence to everyday nursing skills within the Neuroscience and Orthopaedic units. This was achieved by the development and implementation of online resources hosted within an Epworth Learning and Education Hub.
Method:
A mixed methods before and after design was used to evaluate the impact of our digital innovation on uptake of best practice for nurses.
This digital innovation included establishment of a platform that housed locally created video content that aligned with organisational policies and protocols This also supported nurses to rapidly learn and apply best practice at the front-line. In addition, this hub linked within organisational eLearn courses streamlining access and supporting further professional development. The areas that were evaluated in the first iteration were Drain Tube Management and Removal, Enteral Feeding, and Central Venous Access Devices.
To promote staff uptake and use, QR codes with direct linkage to the learning hub were posted on participating wards.
INNOVATION (04)
Auditorium D 11:00am – 12:20pm
These resources were first made available to nurses working on the Neuroscience and Orthopaedic Units. Following implementation, nurses were surveyed about: satisfaction, accessibility, uptake and confidence when performing key procedures. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise survey outcomes for three groups: Graduate/Novice, Intermediate/Senior, and Nurse Leaders.
Results:
Preliminary findings: 83% of Graduate/Novice nurses found: the Hub was highly accessible, 87% use was time effective, 93% increased their knowledge and confidence, and 100% had changed their practice. Intermediate/Senior nurses responded: 96% easily accessible, 94% time effective, 89% changed practice, and 93% that it increased their knowledge and confidence when completing and demonstrating these key nursing procedures.
Conclusion:
Development of the Epworth Learning and Education Hub has transformed uptake and accessibility of organisational policies and procedures and successfully engaged nurses in applying current best practice at the front-line.
DEVELOPMENT AND EVALUATION OF THE LEADERSHIP EXCELLENCE IN PRACTICE PROGRAM
KYLIE CHILCOTT MACN1, DR MITCHELL DWYER 2 , JENNIFER CODEE 2, KYLIE SIH2, SAMANTHA FINN2, A/PROF PIETER VAN DAM3
1 Tasmanian School of Medicine, University Of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia,
2 Centre for Education & Research, Nursing & Midwifery, Hobart, Australia,
3 School of Nursing, University of Tasmania, Hobart, Australia
Background:
Effective nursing leadership is associated with numerous positive outcomes for patients, staff, and organisations. ‘Pathway to Excellence’ (PTE) is a proven approach healthcare organisations can take to improve their capacity in six key standards. In order to provide its staff education relating to Standard 2 (leadership), the Tasmanian Health Service created the Leadership Excellence in Practice Program (L-EPP). As part of the L-EPP, focussed learning experiences pertaining to leadership development are provided over a 3-month period.
Aim:
To describe the development of the L-EPP, and to evaluate the L-EPP from the perspective of the initial cohort of participants who completed the Program.
Methods:
Quantitative and qualitative data obtained from the first two cohorts to complete the L-EPP were analysed separately and presented using Kirkpatrick’s Four Levels of Training Evaluation model.
Findings:
Most participants regarded the content of the program to be relevant, while a smaller number felt that the duration of some sessions was excessive. Participants described ‘learning to see’ areas of improvement in their workplaces and reported stronger collaboration with their colleagues. Numerous significant improvements in participants’ leadership capabilities were reported by the participants themselves, with peers and managers also observing improvements, albeit to a lesser extent.
Discussion:
The L-EPP was very well-received by its participants, and there is evidence that taking part in the course has resulted in learning and changed behaviours.
Abstracts – concurrent sessions
Abstracts are printed here as submitted to ACN
DAY 3 FRIDAY 16 AUGUST 2024
CONCURRENT SESSION FOUR
INNOVATION (04)
Auditorium D 11:00am – 12:20pm
Conclusion:
The L-EPP has been successful in building its participants’ leadership capabilities, which will aid the organisation’s efforts to build leadership capability and obtain PTE status.
SIMULATION: TRANSFORMING OUTLIER PATIENT CARE WITH CLINICAL AND NONCLINICAL PROFESSIONALS
TRUDY COLE MACN1
1 NT Health, Tiwi, Australia
Introduction:
Mental health outliers are common in acute care settings in response to increasing pressure and demands for inpatient mental health services, especially in the Northern Territory (NT) Top End Region (TER) health service. Clinical Learning Education and Research Service (CLEaRS), in conjunction with mental health education, developed simulation workshops to support outlier areas clinical and non-clinical staff in recognising mental health deterioration.
Main body:
Surging mental health presentations requiring admission are placing unprecedented demand on acute inpatient beds resulting in patients being cared for in acute outlier areas. Clinical and non-clinical professionals (nurses, midwives, security and patient care attendants (PCAs)) are responsible for the care of mental health outlier patients. Clinical and non-clinical staff in outlier areas generally are not specialists in caring for mental health patients; therefore, it was recognised that more education was required to support staff in these areas.
CLEaRS in conjunction with the mental health team initiated the Mental Health Deterioration Simulation Workshop for outlier areas at Royal Darwin Hospital
(RDH). The workshop utilised simulation to improve recognition of mental health deterioration and improve communication between nurses, midwives, security personnel (contracted or employed) and PCAs from outlier areas. The immersive learning workshop contributes towards clinical and non-clinical staff transformative practices in relation to deteriorating mental health patient, mental health forms, aggression management, effective communication and the chain of communications when escalating mental health deterioration. This workshop will be further developed to enable micro credentialing in mental health post graduate qualifications.
Conclusion:
Mental health outliers commonly occur in acute care settings throughout NT Health. Recognising the need to educate clinical and non-clinical staff from these areas and using simulation based learning has led to the development and initiation of the Mental Health Deterioration Simulation Workshop.
PALLIATIVE CARE WORKFORCE PLANNING THROUGH PARTNERSHIPS
CAROL BARBELER MACN1, ANNY BYRNE1, KELLY ROGERSON2
1 Gippsland Region Palliative Care Consortium, Warragul, Australia,
2 Palliative Care South East, Narre Warren , Australia
Challenges remain in rural and regional areas concerning the establishment and sustainability of a proficient nursing workforce capable of delivering quality palliative and end of life care. The Gippsland palliative care workforce is built on small teams of specialist trained palliative care professionals supporting generalist practitioners to provide community and inpatient palliative care. Recruiting
INNOVATION (04)
Auditorium D 11:00am – 12:20pm
nurses with specialised palliative care knowledge is ongoing, complemented by steps to empower and support generalist nurses to ‘grow our own’ specialist palliative care nursing workforce.
An important tool in this strategy has been development of the Gippsland Region Palliative Care Consortium (GRPCC) Palliative Care Skills Matrix (PCSM). Informed by the Benner Framework, the PCSM is a baseline selfassessment undertaken by individual nurses, assessing their confidence and capability in palliative care skills and knowledge. The GRPCC PCSM provides a tool for nurses to identify practice gaps and provides feedback at individual, departmental and organisational level. The PCSM informs responsive education to build workforce capacity both organisationally and regionally.
Support for nurses who have undertaken the PCSM is through the GRPCC Professional Development Opportunities Booklet. The booklet identifies self-directed palliative care specific professional development opportunities, and is mapped to national palliative care and healthcare standards.
PCSM regional data identified limited numbers of nurses pursuing post graduate palliative care qualifications. This prompted the development of the ‘Transition to Specialty Palliative Care Practice’ (TSP) course. This unique hybrid course, developed in collaboration with Palliative Care South East and The Australian College of Nursing, is a supportive bridge for nurses who wish to pursue post-graduate study, but have not yet progressed this aspiration. TSP has expanded to Victorian regional areas with more than 100 nurses undertaking the course since its pilot in 2021.
SOCIAL IMPACT (04)
Meeting Room M2 & M3 11:00am – 12:20pm
DO WE NEED GREEN SPACE INTERACTION IN NURSING?
A/PROF. REBEKKAH MIDDLETON MACN1, PROF. THOMAS ASTELL-BURT2
1 University Of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia, 2 University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
How we engage in and with nature is of growing interest in relation to our health and wellbeing. For nurses with stressful workloads that are contributing to fatigue, psychological burden, insomnia, and decreased coping strategies, interactions with nature or green space are essential as it has been demonstrated to facilitate better environments and outcomes for nurses. Evidence of the impact of nature is limited. However, from work that has been done, it seems that nature, or green space, creates better environments and outcomes for nurses. It has been identified that even a simple plant in a room can have a significant impact on stress and anxiety. Taking short breaks outdoors, or at a minimum ensuring green views, lowers stress. Access may include contact with an outdoor or sensory garden, with such connection demonstrating improved productivity and decreased clinical errors. Where higher levels of natural vegetation occur in workplaces, lower levels of staff sick leave are noted.
A key consideration is therefore how to enable nurses to spend more time in green spaces during breaks, amidst workload and environmental systems. To make this a feasible option, healthcare organisations need to provide support systems to counter the sense of being overwhelmed and halted with responsibility that so many nurses report. Healthcare systems must invest in green spaces and ensure the workforce is able to use green spaces regularly. There is growing interest and investment in greening healthcare facilities, with the value of interactions with nature being prioritised by the World Health Organization. Therefore, healthcare organisations should be considering overt and practical ways to ensure nurses, and other healthcare providers, are exposed to nature to contribute towards healthier environments.
Abstracts – concurrent sessions
Abstracts are printed here as submitted to ACN
DAY 3 FRIDAY 16 AUGUST 2024
CONCURRENT SESSION FOUR
SOCIAL IMPACT (04)
Meeting Room M2 & M3 11:00am – 12:20pm
EDUCATING NURSES TO DELIVER TELEHEALTH AND IMPROVE ACCESS TO CARE
JULIA CHARALAMBOUS MACN1, DR JANE CURRIE, DR OLIVIA HOLLINGDRAKE
1 Queensland University of Technology, Brisbane, Australia
Introduction:
Telehealth can eliminate geographical boundaries to health care, encourage regular patient engagement, and reduce costs for health services and patients, whilst producing outcomes comparable to face-to-face service delivery. Use of telehealth accelerated during the COVID-19 pandemic and is now a mainstay of many models of care.
Aim:
To explore nurse practitioner’s telehealth educational preparation and their impact on access to care.
Methods:
A scoping review of primary studies focusing on nurse practitioners engaging in telehealth services in Australia, New Zealand, United States, Canada, United Kingdom, and Ireland, published between 2010 to 2022. Findings were analysed using the Levesque et al., (2013) Access to Care framework and the Patterns, Advances, Gaps, Evidence for Practice and Research Recommendations framework.
Results:
Forty-two studies were included. Studies (n= 28) relating to access to care focused on appropriateness/ability to engage (n= 14), affordability/ability to pay (n= 1), and availability/ability to reach (n= 13). High levels of telehealth satisfaction were reported, including reduced travel time and costs, and appointment flexibility. Telehealth satisfaction reduced when a perceived need for physical assessment, or privacy concerns were present. Service providers reported decreased emergency presentations, fewer missed appointments and improved consumer engagement. Fourteen studies
related to nurse practitioner education, using a range of approaches such as didactic education modules, simulations and clinical experiences, all published within the past three years.
Conclusion:
Nurse practitioner-led telehealth improves access to care. High levels of satisfaction indicate patients accept nurse practitioner-led telehealth. Impacts to healthcare service use and patient engagement support the viability of nurse practitioner-led telehealth. The recent increase in education studies reflects the rapid uptake of telehealth care. Whilst focused on nurse practitioners, there may be synergies to registered nurses’ education. This research is valuable for nurse practitioners using telehealth, nurse educators, and policy decision makers.
WOMEN’S CHALLENGES AND EXPERIENCES WITH GESTATIONAL BREAST CANCER
SARA HURREN MACN1, PROFESSOR CATE NAGLE3, DR MARIE MCAULIFFE1, DR KAREN YATES1
1 James Cook University - College of Health Care Sciences, Cairns, Australia,
2 Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service, Cairns, Au,
3 Townsville Institute of Health Research and Innovation, Townsville Hospital and Health Service, Townsville, Australia
Information:
Gestational breast cancer (GBC) is defined as breast cancer diagnosed during pregnancy or in the 12 months postpartum. GBC has an enormous impact on the lives of women and their families. The incidence of GBC occurs in about 1:3000 pregnancies. The management of GBC is complex and requires a wide range of multidisciplinary specialist teams to deliver safe and effective treatment for women with GBC.
SOCIAL IMPACT (04)
Meeting Room M2 & M3 11:00am – 12:20pm
Methods:
This study used a qualitative exploratory design to explore the experiences of women diagnosed with GBC and to explore how they described their interactions with the healthcare system. Women diagnosed with GBC from across Australia were interviewed between November 2021 and June 2022. Transcripts of the audio-recorded, semi-structured phone interviews were analysed using the six steps in Braun and Clarke’s (2006) methodological framework.
Results:
Six women participated in the interviews. Three central themes were generated. Firstly: Reactions, the responses women experienced following being given a GBC diagnosis were described as terrifying, overwhelming, lonely, concerned for their baby, distressed, and feeling fortunate at the same time. Secondly: Treatment, women expressed their unique circumstances and difficulties in comprehending being pregnant, the different treatment modalities, information and being unprepared for the side effects of treatment. Thirdly: Control, the importance of being able to take charge of their circumstances, and decision-making were important, especially as options were frequently restricted due to the urgency to commence treatment.
Conclusion:
The experiences of women with GBC were complex and multifaceted. At a time of conflicting emotions for women with GBC. Having available resources, and effective communication from nurses, midwives and the multidisciplinary team may play in significant role in enhancing the ability of women with GBC to negotiate the complexities they face.
NOT JUST A NURSE: REINVIGORATING THE NURSING PROFESSION THROUGH SUSTAINABLE LEADERSHIP
This presentation delves into the often-overlooked realm of nursing leadership and its potential for profound social impact. While nurses are widely recognised for their crucial role in health care, the leadership dimension within the nursing profession is not as well-appreciated for its societal influence. The discussion revolves around the theme of ‘Not Just a Nurse’ and emphasises the need to reinvigorate the nursing profession through sustainable leadership practices.
The presentation begins exploring the concept of nursing excellence and highlights instances where nurses have demonstrated exceptional leadership during the challenges posed by the recent pandemic. It underscores the capacity of nurses to lead effectively in times of crisis, emphasising their pivotal role in shaping healthcare outcomes.
The importance of finding meaning in nursing is a central theme, drawing on personal experiences to illustrate how having a passion for what you do, a problem to be solved and a sense of purpose can significantly contribute to driving social change and creating resilience against burnout and leaving the profession. The presentation encourages leaders to reflect on the profound impact of instilling a sense of purpose within nursing teams, thereby contributing to the creation and maintenance of robust nursing workforces.
The speaker shares defining moments from her own nursing journey, aiming to inspire pride in the nursing profession. By recounting her path to leadership and her experience working in a developing country, the presentation reinforces the idea that every nurse plays a crucial role and should take pride in their contributions to health care. It is what drives her to stay and continually contribute to the profession.
The discussion concludes by addressing the imperative of sustainability for the nursing profession into the future. It calls for a collective commitment to nurturing and preserving the nursing workforce into the future.
Abstracts – concurrent sessions
Abstracts are printed here as submitted to ACN
DAY 3 FRIDAY 16 AUGUST 2024
CONCURRENT SESSION FOUR
COMMUNITY (04)
Meeting Room M6, M7 & M8 11:00am – 12:20pm
HEALTH SERVICES, COMMUNITIES, AND DISASTERS: WHAT HAPPENS AT THE INTERFACE?
CHANTEL SANDO, ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR ADELE BALDWIN, PROFESSOR PAULINE CALLEJA, DR AMYLOUISE BYRNE
1 Central Queensland University (CQUniversity), Cairns, Australia
Reduced resources, support and geographical isolation increases complexity for providers of health care in rural areas, that is magnified by unique community characteristics. There is no single community profile that adequately describes each rural and remote region in Far North Queensland (FNQ). Disaster management in health services in these regions is compounded by the lack of access to support services, emergency response teams beyond that of the local emergency response, and the lack of access to resources. The convergence of increasing incidents of disasters, increasing populations outside of metropolitan areas, and poorer health outcomes for residents in rural areas, highlights the need for healthcare organisations to recognise, support and value systems to support organisational learning and local knowledge.
In the event of a disaster, rural communities may view the healthcare organisation or hospital as the primary organisation with the capability and resources to assist, respond or aid community recovery. In contrast, region specific disaster policies and practices are not well articulated nor executed despite the assumption that disaster and emergency preparedness, response and recovery are core business for healthcare organisations regardless of location. Understanding the unique healthcare needs of the area requires genuine knowledge acquisition and the application of new insights from lessons learned. To better understand the current knowledge about how health services identify, and embed local disaster knowledge and experiences into preparing health services to support their communities when disaster strikes, an integrative
literature review was undertaken. This presentation will explain the findings of the review, exposing the gaps in current knowledge, and discuss the future research in this space.
ENHANCING COMMUNITY ACUTE CARE: THE ROLE OF RAPID RESPONSE NURSE
MORGAN
DAVIE1, DANNIELLE SCHWARZ
1 Amplar Home Health, Fullarton, Australia
Delivering acute care in the community requires a blend of logistical, administrative, and clinical skills to ensure timely and high-quality treatment comparable to inpatient care. At Amplar Home Health, we observed an increase in patients needing urgent in-home nursing due to heightened demand at SA emergency departments, putting a strain on community resources and leading to an increase in referral declines. To address this, we introduced the Rapid Response Nurse (RRN) role.
Traditionally, case coordinators would receive and manage service requests from our referring sources. This often led to time delays and limitations in scheduling visits. The introduction of the RRN role has revolutionised this process, with a community registered nurse solely focusing on managing urgent same-day referrals. The RRN is responsible for timely coordination of visits, comprehensive patient assessments, and the development of patient-centered care plans tailored to the community environment. Additionally, the RRN facilitates early identification of additional referral opportunities, such as allied health services or transition to long-term community care programs.
The impact of the RRN role has been significant, leading to a reduction in declined visits, strengthening relationships with referrers, and resulting in a substantial increase in visit referrals with a 100% acceptance rate. The RRN role has also boosted the job satisfaction of community staff, giving them a renewed sense of
COMMUNITY (04)
Meeting Room M6, M7 & M8 11:00am – 12:20pm
autonomy. Patient outcomes have shown marked improvement, with satisfaction rates reaching 100% and 98% in included programs, respectively. Additionally, there has been a notable decrease in length of stay and an increased transition to longer-term community care, indicating improved continuity of care and patient wellbeing.
Building on this success, the RRN model will expand to all serviced regions in South Australia and explore its applicability in other programs across Australia, highlighting its potential to transform care delivery and enhance patient outcomes nationwide.
OLDER PERSONS WITH CHRONIC LUNG DISEASE EXPERIENCES WITH COMMUNITY-BASED EXERCISE
A/PROF. REBEKKAH MIDDLETON MACN1, PROFESSOR CALEB FERGUSON1, DR CHRISTINE METUSELA1, KELLY MARRIOTT-STATHAM1, PROFESSOR PATRICIA DAVIDSON1
1 University Of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia
Globally, advanced ageing and associated multimorbidity are key contributors to increased health system burden and socio-economic cost. Chronic lung disease represents a growing burden internationally, with the World Health Organization stating 4.1 million deaths occur annually. In Australia, one in every three people are affected by chronic lung disease, most are aged over 70 years, contributing to eight percent of the total burden of disease.
When chronic lung disease is diagnosed by a respiratory specialist, over 90 percent of people are referred to a pulmonary rehabilitation exercise and education program. Within these programs, nurses and allied health professionals equip individuals with the skills needed to exercise safely and manage breathlessness,
reducing the frequency of acute exacerbations, and thereby helping people effectively self-manage, remain well and avoid hospitalisation.
This presentation discusses research that explored the experience of older people with chronic lung disease involved in a peer support community-based exercise maintenance program in Australia, ‘Lungs in Action’ designed to maintain health and wellbeing benefits. Using qualitative group interviews, the experiences of older people living with chronic lung disease in the ‘Lungs in Action’ program were explored to gather insight into cultural and sociability norms.
Three themes emerged from the data: motivation, authentic social engagement, and sustainable achievement. This study highlights the importance of programs in facilitating shared experience of living with lung diseases, through peer support that offered emotional and social connection, fitness, friendship and fun. These are important factors to instil confidence, aide the development of self-efficacy and may contribute to improved outcomes. The results of this study have important implications for nurses in supporting and providing education to people with chronic lung disease, advocating the need to prioritise community-based peer support programs as a critical component of rehabilitation and ongoing maintenance for individuals living with chronic lung disease.
Abstracts – concurrent sessions
Abstracts are printed here as submitted to ACN
DAY 3 FRIDAY 16 AUGUST 2024
CONCURRENT SESSION FOUR
COMMUNITY (04)
Meeting Room M6, M7 & M8 11:00am – 12:20pm
IMPROVING PERSON-CENTRED CARE THROUGH CULTURALLY SAFE COLLABORATIVE PRACTICE
SAZ NEWBERY MACN, MARGARET MCCALLUM
1 Nursing And Midwifery Board Of Australia,
Introduction:
In collaboration with the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Practice Board of Australia (ATSIHPBA), the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (NMBA) agreed to a joint project to explore reported issues and develop strategies to better inform and educate nurses and midwives about the role of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Practitioners.
Main body:
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples need access to culturally safe, preventative health care and treatment services to get the most out of their health care. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Practitioners bring both clinical skills and the ability to respond to the social and cultural needs of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander families and communities. Anecdotal advice suggests nurses and midwives working with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Practitioners are unclear of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Practitioners role.
A guidance document was commenced to influence a position impact on the provision of person-centred, collaborative, culturally safe care.
To ensure local engagement, focus groups were held in targeted rural, remote and metro communities around the country, where the practitioners (nurses, midwives and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Practitioners) were known to work together. The focus groups allowed the practitioners to provide their firsthand experiences of working with, or working as, an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Practitioner in a safe environment. The discussions also identified where lack of collaboration was impacting on the delivery of care to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
Conclusion:
Join this presentation on the development of the Guidance document: What nurses and midwives need to know about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Health Practitioners to discover the findings and recommendations and hear about the communication strategies planned to support the positive impact of collaborative, person-centred and culturally safe practice.
Poster presentation and judging
Delegates to view posters and meet the authors. Authors to be available at their poster to answer any questions.
DAY 2 THURSDAY 15 AUGUST 2024
Exhibition hall 8:00am - 8:45am
QUALITY AND SAFETY STREAM
EXPLORING PATIENT AGITATION IN INTENSIVE CARE UNITS: A CONCEPT ANALYSIS
DR ANNE METTE ADAMS MACN, PROFESSOR DIANE CHAMBERLAIN, PROFESSOR METTE GRØNKJÆR, DR CHARLOTTE BRUN THORUP, DR MATTHEW MAIDEN, MS CHERIE WAITE, DR HILAQ DAFNY, PROFESSOR TIFFANY CONROY
1 Flinders University, College of Nursing and Health Sciences, Caring Futures Institute, Bedford part, Australia
Introduction:
Patient agitation in the intensive care unit (ICU) is a widespread concern, presenting significant challenges related to the delivery of quality care and ensuring the safety of patients, staff, and family members. This study aimed to undertake a concept analysis of patient agitation to enhance our limited understanding of the behaviours and to better understand how the behaviours can be prevented, minimised or managed.
Method:
This study employed Walker and Avant’s eight-step concept analysis approach to better understand patient agitation. A search was conducted across multiple databases, resulting in the inclusion and analysis of 36 papers. The focus was on uncovering definitions, attributes, antecedents, and consequences of patient agitation in the ICU.
Results:
Patient agitation was described as a psychomotor disturbance characterised by a marked increase in motor activities and emotional tension, accompanied by some or all of the following: a loss of control of action, confusion, resistance or interruption of care, aggression, and change of vital signs. Early antecedents encompass critical illness, drugs, and pathophysiological processes, with multiple triggering antecedents including staff behaviours, environmental stressors, patients’ personal history, coping skills, and previous experiences. Consequences of agitation range from worsening
or prolonging critical illness to the increased use of physical restraints and medication. Due to the complex nature of agitation, it is clear that clinicians must consider multiple strategies and not rely on medication alone.
Conclusion:
This analysis highlights the negative impacts of patient agitation in the ICU and emphasises the importance of multifaceted strategies to prevent, minimise, and manage the behaviours. While this analysis sheds light on the complex nature of patient agitation in the ICU, a comprehensive understanding is still evolving. Drawing on social and biological theories from outside the critical care context can be helpful in enhancing our limited understanding.
IMPLEMENTATION OF PROACTIVE PATIENT ROUNDING IN SOUTH-WESTERNSYDNEY LOCAL HEALTH DISTRICTS
ABDELRAHMAN AL-ANATI1, DR LUKE MOLLOY1, CONSTANCE LAFLEUR 2, GEORGINA WATTS2, HIND ELMIR 2, PROFESSOR STEVE FROST1,2
1 School of Nursing, Faculty of Science, Medicine and Health, University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia, 2 South Western Sydney Local Health District, Australia
Introduction:
Failures in patient care at the Mid Staffordshire National Health Service (NHS) Trust highlighted nurses’ vital role in ensuring good quality and safe patient care. The United Kingdom’s response was the widespread introduction of Intentional Rounding IR - or Proactive Patient Rounding PPR as known in SWSLHD- in all NHS hospitals. PPR has not been extensively described in the Australian acute care setting, and the experience following the implementation at SWSLHD has not been explored or reported. Therefore, this project aims to address these gaps by conducting a project of four stages. I will present the results of Stage One and Stage Two in this presentation.
Poster presentation and judging
Delegates to view posters and meet the authors. Authors to be available at their poster to answer any questions.
DAY 2 THURSDAY 15 AUGUST 2024
Exhibition hall 8:00am - 8:45am
QUALITY AND SAFETY STREAM
Aims:
1. To synthesize existing literature describing the impact of PPR on patient outcomes amongst hospitalised adults.
2. Describing the current characteristics of PPR in the acute hospital wards across the SWSLHD.
Methods:
1. A Scoping Review was performed.
2. A cross-sectional multisite study was undertaken across five LHD hospitals.
Results:
1. There appears to be significant variation in the rounding models and the aspects of care provided, and the current evidence for its effectiveness is based on poorly designed studies.
2. A mix of RN, EN, and AIN staff shared the PPR’s responsibility. PPR is mainly delivered hourly or during the second hour at night, depending on patient conditions and risks. There was inconsistency in PPR’s documentation, delegation, and escalation process. Respondents perceived the most benefits of PPR in reducing falls, pressure injuries, call bell usage, and patient and staff satisfaction.
Conclusions:
1. There is weak evidence of the effectiveness of PPR on patient outcomes because of the methodological limitations in many studies.
2. There is a variation of PPR models and aspects of care across different clinical areas.
WHAT IS THE WOMAN’S ROLE IN MIDWIFERY STUDENT CLINICAL ASSESSMENT?
RITA BALL1,2, PROFESSOR CATE NAGLE 2,3, DOCTOR
MARIE MCAULIFFE 2, ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR
KENDALL GEORGE 2,4, DOCTOR JANELLE JAMES2
1 Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service, Cairns, Australia,
2 College of Healthcare Sciences, James Cook University, Townsville, Australia,
3 Centre for Quality and Patient Safety Research, Deakin University, Melbourne, Australia,
4 Townsville Hospital and Health Service, Townsville, Australia
Background:
Woman-centred care (WCC) is a central philosophy of midwifery practice and a core element in midwifery curricula. Research has shown that midwifery student assessment tools have been validated to assess competency to provide WCC however, the role of the woman in the clinical assessment of the student is less well understood.
Aim:
To collate and report the evidence on the role of the woman in midwifery student clinical assessment.
Methods:
A scoping review was conducted using the framework of Arksey & O’Malley (2005). Articles where sourced from MEDLINE, CINAHL, EMCARE and SCOPUS using concepts of woman-centred care, midwifery students and clinical assessment.
Findings:
A total of 2,540 articles was identified, and screened by title and abstract. A full text review was conducted resulting in seven (7) included articles. Descriptive quantitative analysis and qualitative analysis guided by Braun and Clarke 2022 was conducted.
QUALITY AND SAFETY STREAM
The concepts of woman-centred care (WCC) were well explored, particularly in terms of the continuity of care experience. Although the benefits of the CoC experience for students were highlighted, there was no evidence of feedback from the woman on their experience. When women did provide feedback, it was mostly in retrospect, using criteria-led evaluations (online survey, questionnaire), and not at the point of clinical care.
Discussion:
A consistent finding from these studies was the lack of evidence of the involvement of the woman and her agency in providing feedback during midwifery student clinical assessment. Education providers have unconsciously prioritised the student experience and assessment of competence where much of the attention is directed to the outcomes of the student’s learning needs to meet curricula requirements.
Conclusion:
Re-orientating midwifery student clinical assessment that enables the woman to provide feedback would give the woman a ‘voice’ to articulate and validate her experience.
NO TURNING BACK: MAKING THE MOST OF ELECTRONIC MEDICAL RECORDS
MARINA BOGIATZIS MACN1, DR WENDY SMYTH1, PROFESSOR CATE NAGLE 2
1 Townsville University Hospital, Douglas, Australia,
2 James Cook University, Townsville, Australia
Introduction/purpose:
Nurses are best placed to identify and suggest solutions to digital healthcare challenges, to improve outcomes for patients and their families who encounter the electronic medical record (EMR). This study aimed to gain a deeper understanding of nurses’ and patients’ experiences of the EMR and mobile workstations.
Methods:
A multi-method qualitative study was undertaken in the coronary care unit and cardiac ward of a northern Queensland hospital. The first phase was nonparticipant observations of a convenience sample of 12 cardiac nurses’ practices of using the EMR and mobile workstations. Subsequently, 10 nurses and 10 patients were interviewed to explore the impact of computers on the quality and safety of patient care.
Results:
All 1220 minutes of observations were conducted on weekdays; observation periods ranged from one to three hours’ duration. During the times observed, nurses spent approximately one-third of their time using the computer. Barriers to safe and quality care linked to the use of the EMR and the mobile workstations included: potential manual handling concerns associated with the ward infrastructure; inefficient work practices related to technology limitations; and a focus on computer-centred care. Nurses and patients agreed that accessible information in the EMR improved communication between health professionals, leading to life saving experiences for patients and an appreciation for modern technology.
Conclusions:
Nurses were observed to modify their practices to compensate for challenges within the EMR and workstations. Overall, nurses were more confident with and positive about the technology than found in a previous survey of their attitudes. Patients were confident that the EMRs were effective and accepting that computers are here to stay. Nurses could learn from colleagues who are adept at involving patients while documenting care provided. Fixed wall computers at each patient bay may overcome issues of clutter and manual handling of the mobile workstations.
Poster presentation and judging
Delegates to view posters and meet the authors. Authors to be available at their poster to answer any questions.
DAY 2 THURSDAY 15 AUGUST 2024
Exhibition hall 8:00am - 8:45am
QUALITY AND SAFETY STREAM
NURSES AND MIDWIVES RISE TO CHALLENGES OF ELECTRONIC MEDICAL RECORD
MARINA BOGIATZIS MACN1, DR WENDY SMYTH1, LAURA IRVING1, JUDY MORTON1, SARI HOLLAND1, PROFESSOR CATE NAGLE 2
1 Townsville University Hospital, Douglas, Australia, 2 James Cook University, Townsville, Australia
Introduction/purpose:
In many countries including Australia, digitised health systems are becoming standard across health facilities. This study aimed to identify nurses’ and midwives’ opinions of the impact of electronic medical records (EMRs) and computers on their practice and relationships with patients in a regional tertiary-level hospital.
Methods:
A cross-sectional survey design was used. An anonymous questionnaire was devised and distributed in electronic and paper formats to 200 nurses and midwives across a northern Queensland hospital’s cardiac and maternity services. Quantitative data were analysed descriptively; free text responses were analysed thematically.
Results:
Nurses (n=31) and midwives (n=49) responded. Nurses agreed EMRs improved documentation (77%) and safety of nursing care (71%) and reduced the likelihood of drug errors (58%). Conversely, midwives disagreed that EMRs improved documentation (50%) and safety (63%) or reduced the likelihood of drug errors (57%). Generally, midwives were more critical of the impact of EMRs on their practice than nurses. Both nurses (42%) and midwives (88%) disagreed that EMRs improved the quality of nursing/midwifery care. Thematic analyses revealed three themes: computers affect my productivity; computers affect my relationship with the patient/woman; and the EMR increases my frustration and stress levels.
Conclusions:
Even though the documentation demands of each clinical area are vastly different, both respondent groups agreed that the accessibility of EMRs to all healthcare staff was advantageous. The identified positive and negative effects of the EMR platform and computers reinforce the results of previous national and international studies on the effect on nurses’ and midwives’ productivity, relationships, and well-being. The current hybrid system of electronic and paper documentation increased documentation. Actions, informed by input from nurses and midwives, need to be implemented to improve integration across the EMR platform to improve efficiencies, encourage teamwork, enhance clinical and safety outcomes, and facilitate patients/women participating in their care.
FACTORS IMPACTING NURSES’ RECOGNITION/RESPONSE TO PAEDIATRIC DETERIORATION IN NON-URBAN HOSPITALS
LUCINDA BROWN MACN1, PROFESSOR PAULINE CALLEJA1,2,3, ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR ELISABETH FORSTER3, DR DANIELLE LE LAGADEC1
1 Central Queensland University, Cairns, Australia,
2 James Cook University, Townsville, Australia,
3 Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia
Aim:
This presentation will report the preliminary findings of the first phase of a national study exploring factors impacting nurses’ recognition and response to paediatric deterioration in non-urban hospitals.
Background:
The early detection and management of paediatric deterioration is a critical challenge faced by healthcare professionals globally, with significant implications for patient safety and outcomes. While extensive research exists on this subject in metropolitan healthcare
QUALITY AND SAFETY STREAM
settings, there is a notable gap in understanding these processes in rural and remote hospitals. This disparity is compounded by the unique geographical and resource challenges these settings face, potentially limiting the applicability of metropolitan-based findings and interventions to rural contexts.
Method:
This is a multi-phase mixed methods study. Phase one is an online survey distributed via social media Australia-wide.
Results:
Preliminary findings have identified several factors that impact nurses’ recognition of paediatric deterioration. A third of the participants identified a lack of confidence and concern about their ability to perform in-depth physical assessments on children, and limited knowledge of interpreting paediatric vital signs. Some participants identified they did not have the knowledge of paediatric development that enabled them to recognise deterioration in this population.
When responding to deterioration in children, preliminary themes include; ward culture, nurses’ confidence in the interpretation of their assessment, being busy, skill mix of the nurses on the shift, and the doctor’s response and availability.
Implications for practice:
The insights gained from this study are anticipated to contribute to developing interventions and best practices guidelines able to be tailored to the specific context of rural healthcare settings. By focusing on the critical role of nurses in non-urban environments, paediatric outcomes may be improved through contextually tailored and specific quality and safety standards.
DELIRIUM AND COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT: WHY IT’S CHALLENGING TO PROVIDE CARE
MARGARET CAHILL MACN1, LAURA BETH WHITE 2 , DR ALISON CRASWELL 3 , DR. AMANDA FOX4, PROFESSOR ALISON MUDGE5
1 Eat Walk Engage program Qld Health, Herston, Australia,
2 The Prince Charles Hospital, Chermside, Australia,
3 University of Sunshine Coast, Sippy Downs, Australia,
4 Queensland University of Technology, Kelvin Grove, Australia,
5 Metro North health Service, Herston, Australia
With an ageing population, the proportion of adults with cognitive impairment (CI) (including delirium) is increasing and recognition must be given to the unique care needs of this population. People with CI require additional support to complete basic activities of daily living (ADL) and preventive cares. This assistance is core work for nurses, in collaboration with multidisciplinary teams.
A cross-sectional audit was conducted to determine the prevalence of delirium and cognitive impairment in adult inpatients and their care needs in a major health service, consisting of seven inpatient facilities for a population of approximately 900,000 people.
Delirium and cognitive impairment prevalence was assessed on a single day for all adults using the 4AT, a validated measure where score 0 indicates normal cognition, 1-3 indicates probable CI and 4 or more indicates probable delirium. Need for assistance or supervision in ADLs, continence, and risks for pressure injuries, falls and malnutrition were recorded from the daily nursing care plan.
Across 68 wards in 7 facilities, 1145 adults were screened, of whom 167 (14.5%) had delirium and 315 (27.5%) other CI, i.e. 482 (42.0%) had CI overall. Nursing specials were present for 30 (18.0%) participants with delirium, 14 (4.4%) with other CI and 1
Poster presentation and judging
Delegates to view posters and meet the authors. Authors to be available at their poster to answer any questions.
DAY 2 THURSDAY 15 AUGUST 2024
Exhibition hall 8:00am - 8:45am
QUALITY AND SAFETY STREAM
(0.2%) without CI (p<0.001). Care plans were available for 1112 adults. Need for ADL support was significantly higher e.g. supervision or assistance with eating was required for 72 (44%) patients with delirium, 88 (28%) with CI and 81 (13%) without CI, p<0.001. Incontinence was more common (85 [52%] vs 92 [30%] vs 90 [14%], p<0.001) and significantly more patients with delirium and CI had high falls risk, pressure injury risk and malnutrition risk.
This study highlights the very real challenges nurses face providing high quality care for people with delirium and CI, to meet their fundamental care needs.
INPATIENTS’ EXPERIENCES OF FALLS: A QUALITATIVE META-SYNTHESIS.
KATHERINE CHERRY1, DR REBECCA JARDEN1,2, SIMONE BURGESS1, JESSICA WALTERS1, EMMA SPARHAM1, DR NAOMI BROCKENSHIRE 2, KATE GRIEVE1, MINA NICHOLS-BOYD1, NONIE RICKARD1, BERNADETTE TWOMEY1
1 Austin Health, Heidelberg, Australia,
2 University of Melbourne, Carlton, Australia
Purpose:
Inpatient falls are a costly global safety and quality problem for individuals, organisations, and communities. Despite decades of research, inpatient falls remain intractable. The purpose was to identify and synthesise published qualitative research reporting inpatient experiences of a fall to determine novel insights and understandings of this longstanding complex problem.
Methods:
Online databases were searched to systematically identify published research reporting inpatient experiences of a fall. The included studies were inductively analysed and interpreted then reported as a meta-synthesis.
Results:
Four new themes of inpatients’ experiences of a fall were constructed. Themes one, two and three related to the antecedents of their fall, and theme four related to the consequences. Theme one, ‘My foot didn’t come with me: Physiological and anatomical changes’, encompassed patients’ experiences of medical conditions, medication, and anatomical changes. These aspects contributed to alterations in balance and strength, and misconceptions of capability in activities of daily (inpatient) living. Theme two, ‘I was in a hurry: Help-seeking’, encompassed patients’ experiences striving for independence whilst balancing power and control, minimising their own needs over care of others’, and unavailability of support. Theme three, ‘I couldn’t find the call light: Environment and equipment’, encompassed patients’ experiences of not being able to reach or use equipment, and environment changes. Theme four, ‘It was my fault too: Blame and confidence’, encompassed patients’ expressions of blame after their fall, blame directed at both themselves and/or others, and impacts on confidence and fear in mobilising.
Conclusions:
Inpatient falls are embedded in a complexity of individual, relational, and environmental factors, yet there are potential ways forward both informed and led by the patient voice. Strength-based approaches to address the tenuous balance between independence and support may be one opportunity to explore as a next step in complementing the existing multifaceted intervention.
QUALITY AND SAFETY STREAM
SELF-HARM: WHAT IS REALLY HAPPENING ON THE FRONTLINE?
NATALIE CONLEY1, DR. TANYA PARK1, CHRIS ROUEN1
1 James Cook University, Cairns, Australia
In Far North Queensland (FNQ) there is a higher health burden associated with self-harm compared to the rest of the nation despite having similar challenges associated with remoteness in many Australian states. A self-harm event is the single most important risk factor for future suicide, with FNQ having a high rate of suicide among young people. Emergency healthcare professionals, particularly accident and emergency (A&E) nurses, are often the initial provider of treatment and care to persons who self-harm.
Research since the mid 1970’s continues to highlight the need for educational preparation for nursing across all disciplines, this is an ongoing issue with 2022/2023 research identifying the same problems across nursing associated with feeling unprepared, emotionally drained and stigma. Given that the experiences of nurses influence clinical practice and outcomes for persons who self-harm, an understanding of why previous research in this area is consistently producing the same results is needed.
This project is taking a sequential explanatory mixed method approach across two phases: a quantitative internet-based survey based on established instruments followed by a semi-structured interview approach to facilitate deeper understanding of the experiences of nurses in FNQ.
This project is envisaged as a ‘proof of concept’ to both conduct an exploratory investigation into nurses’ experiences and perceptions to test the methodological approach to inform the development of a larger research project. This larger research project will expand the scope of the project to include additional clinical contexts across Queensland more broadly. This will inform a fit-for-purpose education intervention to improve the experiences of nurses and contribute to meeting the National Commission on Safety and Quality
Healthcare Standard 5.31: predicting, preventing, and managing self-harm and suicide.
The experience of giving and receiving care associated with self-harm in needs further attention to ascertain why previous recommendations appear to not be working.
WORKPLACE VIOLENCE TOWARDS NURSING STUDENTS DURING PLACEMENTS: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW
DR HILA DAFNY1
1 Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
Introduction:
Nursing Students are vulnerable to workplace violence (WPV) as they have limited experience and skills to challenge abusive behaviour. Nursing students reported experiencing WPV mainly from colleagues, staff, teachers, doctors and supervisors, which resulted in leaving nursing practice, impacting students’ progression and healthcare systems.
Purpose:
To systematically identify, appraise and synthesise qualitative studies investigating nursing students’ experiences of workplace violence while on clinical placement. This review findings will guide the development of targeted programs and policies to address WPV against students.
Methods:
A qualitative systematic review of existing literature was conducted through a comprehensive database search of eight databases MEDLINE, CINAHL, Web of Science, Scopus, Embase, Cochrane Central and ProQuest. Furthermore, reference lists of included studies were searched to identify further research. English language qualitative primary studies of any study design were searched from inception to 6th June 2022 and included if they met the inclusion criteria. According to PRISMA, a double review process was utilised from screening
Poster presentation and judging
Delegates to view posters and meet the authors. Authors to be available at their poster to answer any questions.
DAY 2 THURSDAY 15 AUGUST 2024
Exhibition hall 8:00am - 8:45am
QUALITY AND SAFETY STREAM
until data synthesis was reported. JBI critical appraisal tools were used to assess the studies and data extraction and screened for credibility and confidence in findings.
Results:
A total of 18 studies met the inclusion criteria, and the studies were conducted in nine countries. Five main themes relating to nursing students’ experiences of WPV during clinical placement were identified, including: ‘Types of workplace violence’, ‘Perpetrators’, ‘Causes’, ‘Consequences’ and ‘Management of workplace violence’.
Conclusions:
This qualitative systematic review provides new and significant knowledge in understanding the phenomenon of WPV experienced by nursing students while on clinical placement, highlights the unwillingness of students to reach out to instructors or clinical placement leaders in many situations and identifies avenues of support and awareness that are crucial to empower and enabling students to seek support.
MARKING, THE STUDENT NURSE EXPERIENCE
MIRANDA DALY MACN1, DR PAUL GLEW1, DR DIANA JEFFERIES1, PROFESSOR BRONWYN EVERETT2
1 University of Western Sydney, School of Nursing and Midwifery, Richmond, Australia,
2 University of Wollongong, School of Nursing, Wollongong, Australia
Focus:
“OMG, how did I get this mark?” The student perspective on marking.
Background:
In 1889, marking variability was observed at Oxford University, remarkably, not much has changed since (Rowntree, 1996). Marking, a crucial facet of assessment, involves students as the recipients of
assessment evaluations. The objective of this research is centered on marking, with a focus on enhancing the process, minimising variability, and promoting improved student learning and standards.
Description:
Exploring assessment marking experiences of nursing students in an undergraduate program.
Method:
Sequential mixed methods were used. Phase 1 comprised a survey underpinned by assessment and marking literature regarding academic marking practices. Phase 2 consisted of paired interviews with pairs of staff and student pairs, phase 3 involved focus groups comprising students and nursing academics, these participants focusing on ‘best’ marking practice. Whilst each phase focused on the positives of marking, participants revealed lived experiences, including inconsistencies with marking standards.
Results/findings:
Marking criteria are often ambiguous (Bloxham et al., 2011), students felt markers looked for different aspects (Valentine et al., 2021). Assessment questions sometimes unclear and marker variability can occur. Word counts requirements varied with some essays not achievable, particularly for English as a second language students. Informative timely feedback vital (Carless & Boud, 2018). Supports deemed critical (Medland, 2016). Referencing confusion and marker variations can occur (Singh et al., 2020). Value of providing examples for the assessment early (Brookhart, 1999). Focus on standards and quality.
Contribution:
Findings revealed a need for accuracy and consistency in teaching and marking so that the mark obtained is justified reflecting student performance. Questioning why we are assessing, what it is we want students to learn, can engage students in learning and create genuine interest in assessments, this is relevant for students as learners and for their future career.
QUALITY AND SAFETY STREAM
BUILDING A SUSTAINABLE MODEL FOR SURGICAL NURSING TRAINING
KATRINA DEL ROSARIO1
1 Monash Health, Cranbourne West, Australia
Background:
The Surgical Recovery and Reform Program (SRRP) was part of the Victorian government strategy to increase surgical capacity and address the surgical care deferred by the COVID-19 pandemic. A sustainable education program was created to upskill nurses in caring for surgical patients at Monash Health. A growth workforce model was utilised to ensure professional development across our nursing cohort.
Main Body:
SRRP funding was used to develop and implement an education curriculum to maximise capacity of our nursing workforce to care for surgical patients. The curriculum utilised the Benner’s Novice to Expert Model to incorporate existing knowledge and capability of learners, and to provide a targeted approach for development in surgical nursing expertise. The program included two newly developed courses which included both e-learn and face to face workshops. Surgical Nursing A (SN-A), was aimed at novice nurses, new to surgical nursing. Completion of SN-A aimed to progress learners from a novice/advanced beginner level to competent. Surgical Nursing B (SN-B) targeted nurses already working in a surgical specialty, and aimed to upskill learners from advanced beginner/competent to proficient/expert. Both courses were designed and delivered by industry experts to ensure interactional learning and exposure to latest evidence-based practice.
Pre- and post-capability surveys were used to allow for baseline comparison, completion tracking and evaluation of learning. The results showed a positive trend in surgical nursing capability within our workforce. As a result, the surgical nursing curriculum has been included in the Medical Surgical education portfolio. Train-the-trainer sessions were offered to allow for more facilitators to run the workshops, and the courses are continuously offered to the nursing workforce.
Conclusion:
The program enabled the development and upskill of our Surgical nursing workforce and this program has since been implemented as core learning within our medical-surgical units across Monash Health.
NAVIGATING THE LEGAL LANDSCAPE: ADDRESSING LEGAL ISSUES IN NURSING PRACTICE
KRISTI GILBERT MACN1
1 Unity LNC - Legal Nurse Consulting, Kyneton, Australia
Introduction:
As healthcare professionals, nurses bear the responsibility of ensuring the wellbeing of their patients and safeguarding them from harm. Navigating the myriad of legal considerations in nursing is imperative to mitigate risks and liabilities, both for oneself and one’s patients.
Body:
Negligence remains a significant concern in nursing practice, posing potential risks to patient safety and wellbeing. Examining negligence and its influencing factors including legislative frameworks, documentation standards, and the imperative to maintain consistent standards of care can improve safe patient outcomes.
Legislation plays a pivotal role in shaping nursing practice, establishing guidelines and regulations that govern the profession’s scope of practice and standards of care. Understanding and adhering to these legal requirements are essential for nurses to mitigate the risk of negligence claims and uphold the highest standards of patient care.
Effective documentation practices are fundamental in preventing and defending against negligence allegations, serving not only as a record of the care provided but also demonstrating adherence to established protocols and standards. Conversely, inadequate or inconsistent documentation can
Poster presentation and judging
Delegates to view posters and meet the authors. Authors to be available at their poster to answer any questions.
DAY 2 THURSDAY 15 AUGUST 2024
Exhibition hall 8:00am - 8:45am
QUALITY AND SAFETY STREAM
contribute to legal challenges and undermine the defence of nursing actions.
Maintaining standards of care is essential for promoting patient safety and minimising the likelihood of negligence. Nurses must remain vigilant in assessing patient needs, implementing evidence-based practices, and promptly addressing deviations from established protocols, thereby ensuring the delivery of safe, quality care.
Conclusion:
Ultimately, the overarching goal of addressing legal issues in nursing is to safeguard patient wellbeing. By staying informed about relevant legislation, adhering to documentation standards, and maintaining consistent standards of care, nurses can fulfil their ethical and legal obligations while promoting positive patient outcomes.
RESEARCHING WORKPLACE CULTURE - LESSONS LEARNED AND RECOMMENDATIONS
DR NATASHA HAWKINS MACN1, PROF JENNY SIM2, ADJ PROF SARAH JEONG3
1 School of Health (Nursing), University of New England, Armidale, Australia,
2 School for Nursing, Midwifery & Paramedicine, Australian Catholic University,
3 The School of Nursing & Midwifery, University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
This study investigated the exposure to and experiences of negative workplace behaviours of nurses and their ways of coping in regional acute care hospitals, before and after an educational intervention was implemented within the organisation.
Quantitative data was collected in 2018. Nurses (N=230) from four regional acute care hospitals were invited to complete a pre-intervention survey. Workshops were implemented at two of the hospitals, after which follow up surveys were undertaken. To provide deeper
understanding of nurses’ experiences of workplace behaviour, interviews were undertaken with 13 nurse informants.
There were 74 responses (32%) in the pre-intervention and 56 responses (24%) in the post-intervention time period. There were 111 participants who attended the educational intervention, 20% (n=22) completed the follow up survey. Participants were more likely exposed to work related bullying and they used problem-focused coping strategies and sought social support as a way of coping. The qualitative strand provided context to these results, identifying a core category as A conflicted tribe under pressure, which was comprised of five subcategories: Belonging to the tribe; ‘It’s a living hell’; Zero tolerance – ‘it’s a joke’; Conflicted priorities; and Shifting the cultural norm.
The presentation will explore lessons learned undertaking research into workplace culture and will share recommendations arising from the results, which aim to create respectful workplaces where nurses can provide safe quality patient care.
ENHANCING HEALTHCARE PROFESSIONALS’ COMPETENCE IN COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT ASSESSMENT AND MANAGEMENT
IVY HUANG1
1 Canberra Health Service, Canberra, Australia
Introduction:
Our organisation identified a high prevalence of cognitive impairment (CI) in 23 wards, accompanied by limited training access, resulting in adverse patient outcomes such as malnutrition, functional decline, and institutionalisation. To address these challenges, a 6-month CI education and training program was deployed across three hospitals. The initiative aimed at bolstering healthcare professionals’ confidence and competence in CI assessment and
QUALITY AND SAFETY STREAM
management, targeting reductions in hospital-acquired delirium, challenging behaviours, anti-psychotic use, occupational violence (OV), and overall care costs.
Methods:
The Tailored Interprofessional Training Program (TTP) utilised diverse approaches, including face-to-face (F2F) sessions, online modules, bedside coaching, and educational resources. CI policies and procedures underwent review for consistent care delivery. The Digital Health Record (DHR) system was optimised for timely assessments and comprehensive documentation. All CI resources were made available on the Hospital health hub for continuous support. The project’s impact was assessed through weekly bedside audits, DHR data on assessment completion rates, pre/post-education surveys, and monitoring of Hospital-Acquired Delirium key performance indicators (KPIs).
Results:
A total of 1867 modules were completed, involving over 1250 staff across 87 F2F sessions. Post-education surveys indicated a confidence level increase among health professionals, rising from 31.7% to 68%. All three CI assessment completion rates significantly improved, leading to enhanced CI recognition. Improved compliance with regular CI screenings contributed to the early identification of hospital-acquired delirium. While this initially led to an increase in cases, subsequent post-education measures in delirium prevention and management effectively reduced instances, meeting the organisation’s KPIs.
Conclusion:
Interprofessional CI education deepened staff understanding, positively impacting communication and reinforcing the escalation protocol among multidisciplinary teams. This led to improved patient outcomes and heightened staff satisfaction. Recommendations for future improvement involve extending training to diverse staff groups, including security, food service, and community workers. Additionally, integrating CI education into palliative care.
EXPLORING NURSE EXPERIENCE RELATED TO THE DESIGN OF OPERATING ROOMS
KASEY IRWIN1
1 The University of Adelaide, Adelaide, Australia
Introduction:
Operating Room (OR) design may contribute to adverse outcomes for patients and impact staff safety as workflows and processes are shaped by the layout of the built environment, impacting the ways in which staff provide patient care (Joseph et al. 2018; Neyens et al. 2019). This research is about understanding staff engagement and factors that influence safety when designing ORs.
Methods:
The first phase of an exploratory mixed methods sequential design, constructivist grounded theory as a qualitative framework was used. Semi-structured interviews and a focus group with 16 participants were undertaken to explore OR staff experiences of engagement in design planning and perceptions of factors impacting safety within OR spaces. Core concerns of OR staff were identified using constant comparative methods.
Results:
Four core concerns were analysed from the data; Engagement, Respect & Collaboration in OR Design, Foreseeing & Responding to Safety Concerns, Enhance OR Design Planning to Minimise Internal & External Consequences, and Ambiguous Application of Standards in OR Design Planning.
Nurses were inconsistently engaged in design planning and their voices were not heard despite being able to foresee impacts to surgical performance and the safety of both patients and staff, due to the built environment. Respect and collaboration within design planning with a focus on minimising design consequences may enhance OR design.
Poster presentation and judging
Delegates to view posters and meet the authors. Authors to be available at their poster to answer any questions.
DAY 2 THURSDAY 15 AUGUST 2024
Exhibition hall 8:00am - 8:45am
QUALITY AND SAFETY STREAM
Conclusion:
When a space is designed without the input of the end users, those utilising the space may require adjustment to their workflow and perceive the designed space as ill considered. Consideration needs to be given to including the lived experience of OR staff in design planning to address challenges due to layout for future OR designs. Understanding staff engagement may lead to better coordination and collaboration in the design of OR spaces; reclaiming the voices and needs of nurses.
THE IMPORTANCE OF LEADERSHIP IN CLINICAL HANDOVER
SHERRIE LEE MACN1
1 CQUniversity Australia, Rockhampton, Australia
Clinical handover is an essential skill used in all healthcare environments. Clinical handover is the communication of essential information and includes the transfer of professional responsibility and accountability from one healthcare provider to another. Healthcare professionals use the information provided in a clinical handover to inform the provision of safe quality health care often in multidisciplinary healthcare teams. There are over 26 million clinical handovers occurring in community settings in Australia and over 7 million in hospital. From a patient safety perspective, vital information is included in a clinical handover to ensure patient care is carried out and completed; yet there have been fewer studies that examine the barriers to an effective interdisciplinary handover between the receiving nurse and Anaesthetist. Leadership has been identified as one of the skills missing which may assist in alleviating this barrier. Thus, providing leadership with a supportive and nurturing environment, therefore, provides a platform to receive and communicate an accurate and informative clinical handover.
BEHIND THE LINES: ELEVATING STANDARDS IN TELEHEALTH CALL QUALITY
CATHERINE MURRAY MACN1
1 Healthdirect Australia, Haymarket, Australia
Introduction:
Telehealth has emerged as a vital tool for delivering essential health information and care advice to individuals across diverse and remote settings, particularly during times when in-person consultations with clinicians are challenging. In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Healthdirect launched the National Coronavirus (NCH) helpline in March 2020, offering crucial health information and guidance to the community. Subsequently, recognising the escalating demand for information on vaccines and anti-viral medication the Living with COVID (LWC) helpline was introduced in 2023, facilitating vaccination appointments and antiviral medication assessments. Throughout the operational period from March 2020 to December 2023, the NCH call agents fielded an impressive volume of calls, totalling 5 million. This extraordinary volume of calls, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, across all three helpline services (NCH, LWC and the Healthdirect/Nurse On Call helpline) and required over 1100 call agents, the majority of them registered or enrolled nurses.
Main body:
This presentation will outline the quality audit mechanisms driving ongoing improvement in call quality to ensure consumer safety and meet the evolving needs of callers and the broader community. The call quality program encompasses three key audits processes: internal call review by service providers responsible for telehealth call agent workforce management, deep dive audits by Healthdirect’s Clinical Audit and Quality team and collaborative call calibration sessions involving both service providers and Healthdirect. Customised audit tools and guidelines designed to reflect the unique call content requirements of each helpline, are used to provide a structured and consistent approach to call review.
QUALITY AND SAFETY STREAM
Conclusion:
High quality calls are crucial in ensuring consumer safety and instilling community confidence, particularly during times of heightened community anxiety. The call quality audit program drives continuous improvement across Healthdirect’s telehealth helplines, reinforcing Healthdirect’s commitment to excellence in service delivery.
BUILDING INNOVATIVE MEASURES TOWARDS ENHANCING IPC PRACTICES FOR BN STUDENTS
DR GIFT MUTSONZIWA1, DR PAUL GLEW1, MEGHA KATUWAL1
1 Western Sydney University, Australia,
Background:
New mutant viruses with pandemic potential and evolving multi-resistant organisms have challenged the healthcare systems and response measures. The COVID-19 pandemic, in particular, caused an unprecedented healthcare crisis that profoundly impacted healthcare services and communities worldwide. This exposed some of the systematic failures in health care and preparedness for action at a global scale at the same time, presenting opportunities for developing innovative measures to improve. For the naive BN students, working at the frontline during COVID-19, made the majority feel vulnerable and helpless but raised points for reflection.
Purpose:
This project aims to employ innovative measures towards improving IPC practices for BN students’ POC readiness.
Method:
The initial phase of this project conducted a systematic review of the literature, which revealed how nursing students felt vulnerable at POC due to a lack of preparedness; hence, measures to improve are imperative. The current stage of the project is focusing
on implementing measures to enhance IPC practices for BN students to prepare them for point-of-care situations.
Results and conclusion:
Simulation: IPC practices are more than theoretical activities. We are collaborating with the Director of Simulation to improve IPC practices. Glitter bug scenarios are now embedded into the simulation, starting at the year one level with the potential for spiralling into the second and third years.
Innovative means to enforce IPC practice compliance in the lab: Measures to improve compliance with Five Moments of Hand Hygiene as a collaborative effort with the teaching teams.
Collaborating with our industry partners: monitoring of IPC practice compliance for BN students at the district level in collaboration with our industry partners.
Recommendations for BN curriculum review of IPC resources: There is a need to scaffold IPC practices over the duration of their training to foster a successful transition into the new graduate program.
FOSTERING CIVILITY: A QUALITATIVE STUDY OF NURSE LEADERS
MARIANNE OTA1, PROFESSOR GEORGINA WILLETTS1, ADJUNCT PROFESSOR DANNY HILLS1, ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR LOUISA LAM1,2,3, DR JULIA GILBERT1
1 Institute of Health and Wellbeing, Federation University Australia, Mt Helen, Australia, 2 School of Nursing, Midwifery and Paramedicine, Australian Catholic University, Fitzroy, Australia, 3 School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine, Monash University, Clayton, Australia
Introduction:
Nursing is widely known as the ‘caring profession’. Civility is routinely imparted to patients and their families yet unprofessionalism can permeate daily interactions
Poster presentation and judging
Delegates to view posters and meet the authors. Authors to be available at their poster to answer any questions.
DAY 2 THURSDAY 15 AUGUST 2024
Exhibition hall 8:00am - 8:45am
QUALITY AND SAFETY STREAM
between nurses and other healthcare professionals, sometimes unknowingly. This lack of collegiality, known in the literature as workplace incivility, adversely affects the health and wellbeing of nurses, further intensifying recruitment and retention issues and ultimately compromising patient safety. Civility interventions have been proposed to address this issue, but their effectiveness remains unclear. A deeper understanding of the role of the nurse leader in implementing best practice to manage workplace incivility is thus required.
Purpose:
This research sought to explore how nurse leaders fostered civility amongst nurses in rural and regional health and aged care settings in Victoria, Australia. Nurse leaders were any nurse working in a management role who provided support to other nurses and care staff within their team. Civility relates to the act of respecting and valuing others.
Methods:
Using constructivist grounded theory, individual indepth interviews were conducted with 11 participants from rural and regional health and aged care settings in Victoria, Australia.
Results:
The three developed themes were 1) navigating worklife, 2) burdened by fear and 3) fostering civility. The experiences shared by participants not only highlighted the concerning prevalence of workplace incivility within their workplaces, but the courage required to overcome these behaviours.
Conclusion:
Fostering civility requires courage. Changing behavioural norms by addressing conflict and unprofessionalism within nursing begins with clear, empathetic face-to-face feedback. Implementing organisational policies and procedures as well as knowledge gained from education and training is key to addressing workplace incivility in a sustainable manner. In doing so, nurse leaders can promote higher standards of practice and safer outcomes for both nurses and patients.
NOT JUST A BAND-AID FIX TO A TEAM LEADER DILEMMA
TRINA PITTS1
1 Cairns And Hinterland Hospital and Health Service, Cairns, Australia
Registered nurses (RNs) and nurse unit managers (NUMs) report that RNs have been unexpectedly required to fulfil the team leader (TL) role in clinical areas within the health service, unprepared and with limited support. Some RNs report they were unexpectedly allocated the TL role within 6 months of commencing their graduate program. Currently there is disparity in preparing and supporting RNs to transition into the TL role with no formalised education and/or training. This project aims to generate solutions to better prepare and support RNs allocated to the TL role, using a collaborative solution-focused approach.
A survey conducted with RNs and NUMs revealed that emergent leave and skill mix is the leading cause for RNs being unexpectedly allocated to the TL role. Respondents reported that allocating an unprepared and unsupported TL negatively impacts patient safety and staff wellbeing. Consequences included patient procedure cancellations or delays, and unwarranted stress and anxiety among staff fulfilling the TL role.
Two solution-focused workshops were conducted with 21 RNs from across the health service. The workshops involved a brainstorming session using Bono’s Six Hat Thinking Model to generate a list of potential solutions and consider the risks and benefits of each. The participants used the Action Priority Matrix to identify high impact solutions, which are: 1) supernumerary/ supported shifts; 2) TL education pathway; 3) TL resource manual; and 4) TL specific workshop. These solutions resulted in the development of a TL Step Up Program, which will commence in May 2024.
Collaboration with RNs yielded high impact solutions that resulted in the development of a TL Step Up Program. This program will better prepare and support the RN transitioning into the TL role and minimise the related stress and anxiety. Additionally, it will contribute to improving patient experience and outcomes.
QUALITY AND SAFETY STREAM
NURSE UNIT MANAGER EXPERIENCE
DURING COVID-19: A QUALITATIVE DESCRIPTIVE STUDY
ELISABETH REIMER1, DR INGRID BROOKS, DR SINI JACOB
1 School of Nursing and Midwifery, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing and Health Sciences, Clayton, Australia
Introduction:
The COVID-19 pandemic added additional challenges to the already demanding nursing profession. Nurse unit managers (NUMs) hold responsibilities crucial for maintaining patient and staff safety and during the pandemic undertook competing and challenging responsibilities making their workload more complex than usual. Despite their important role, there is limited literature specifically exploring NUM experiences during a global pandemic, and very little about NUMs in the Australian context. This masters research study aimed to investigate the psychological impact, resilience and decision-making among NUMs in Melbourne who worked through the longest cumulative lockdown period in the world.
Methods:
This qualitative descriptive study used semi-structured interviews to provide rich descriptions of participant experiences. Through purposive sampling we selected nine NUMs from different clinical practice areas. Interviews were audio and videorecorded and transcribed. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.
Results:
The in-depth interviews revealed four macro themes: (1) emotional and physical toll of the pandemic, (2) prioritising and providing staff support, (3) experiencing personal and professional growth and (4) leading and managing. These macro themes and their nine subthemes indicated that NUMs encountered a steep learning curve and demonstrated an ability to adapt to the challenging circumstances through initiative in problem solving, decision making and developing strong, unified teams. Nevertheless, despite showing resilience, the psychological health of NUMs suffered during the pandemic.
Conclusion:
The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in challenges that highlight the need for healthcare organisations to implement approaches that provide psychological relief and support tailored in particular towards NUMs. These insights can arguably inform both research and practical interventions which have the potential to enhance the safety of patients, staff and NUMs in future pandemic and non-pandemic crises.
ESTABLISHING A PERSON-CENTRED CULTURE FOCUSED ON QUALITY & SAFETY
RUTH SMOOTHER1,
BRENTON CIANI
1 Prince Of Wales Hospital, Randwick, Australia
Background:
Previous studies reinforce the presence of a positive workplace and organisational culture directly impact on patient health outcomes and staff wellbeing (Al Ma’mari et al., 2020; Braithwaite et al., 2016; Daws et al., 2020). The implementation of a developed Quality Safety & Culture (QS&C) framework in a tertiary hospital encompasses a process of engaging teams in a common vision and purpose before engaging them with a unique quality cycle that improves person-centred culture.
Aims:
This study aims to explore how the implementation of this QS&C framework influenced registered nurses’ perception of ward culture and person-centred care practice in a new nursing team on a newly opened ward.
Methods:
Implementation of the QS&C framework commenced as this ward opened in May 2023.A descriptive qualitative research design will be conducted. Recruitment of eligible registered nurses working is underway. Willing participants will consent to complete a short demographic and workforce questionnaire and to attend an audio-recorded in-depth semi-structured
Poster presentation and judging
Delegates to view posters and meet the authors. Authors to be available at their poster to answer any questions.
DAY 2 THURSDAY 15 AUGUST 2024
Exhibition hall 8:00am - 8:45am
QUALITY AND SAFETY STREAM
interview. Audio-recordings will be transcribed verbatim. Braun and Clarke six steps of thematic analysis of the participant narratives will be conducted by the research team.
Results:
To date, implementation of the QS&C framework has encompassed the creation of a ward-based vision, wellbeing activities, an exercise in personality profiles and leadership team planning.
Anecdotal evidence suggest that there is a positive team culture forming, with nursing staff engaging in quality & safety processes to improve person-centred care. This is exemplified through consistent positive patient feedback, positive recent staff surveys, and minimal sick leave.
Findings from the qualitative study will be reported.
Conclusion:
Implementation of the QS&C has enabled the nursing team to formulate their ward-based and personal values, beliefs and engagement in quality and safety processes.
Qualitative study findings will provide insight into how the QS&C framework has influenced person centred practice and workplace culture.
BUILDING CAPABILITIES IN CLINICAL GOVERNANCE FOR POINT-OF-CARE WORKERS
BEVERLEY SUTTON1, LIANA MOULE1, PROFESSOR
DEBRA KIEGALDIE 2
1 Australasian Institute of Clinical Governance, Melbourne, Australia,
2 Monash University, Melbourne, Australia
Background:
Despite national standards and accreditation processes, patient safety lapses continue to plague our healthcare system. There is now recognition that everyone has a responsibility for clinical governance, not least the
practitioners at the point-of-care. Whilst models, strategies, policies and procedures exist on how to implement best practice clinical governance, there is little published literature on how to develop capabilities in clinical governance and few education programs have been reported on how to educate point-of-care workers.
Intervention:
Using a co-design approach, we developed and implemented a bespoke certificate course on clinical governance focused on three areas: Clinical Governance, Culture & Collaboration and Leadership. The course attracted all those working in health and care services including board members, executives, point-of-care managers/clinicians and non-clinical staff. It was applicable for an interprofessional audience and was delivered using flexible, blended teaching and learning methods led by a diverse team of expert facilitators.
Methods:
A post-test survey design was used. Likert scaled items and rating scales sought participant views on the online learning materials and in person workshops. Open ended questions elicited participant views about the value, relevance and usefulness of the education and how it could be improved.
Results:
635 participants participated in the Clinical Governance education. The majority were point-of-care workers with just over half of all attendees working in metropolitan settings and the remainder in regional/rural/remote or very remote environments. The course was rated highly for its usefulness, relevance, interprofessionalism and the contemporary knowledge and skills that were gained. The structure, content and process of delivery was highly regarded.
Conclusion:
Our course has demonstrated the importance of preparing point-of-care workers in clinical governance. We will share our unique course design and educational outcomes along with recommendations for the future implementation of a broader education strategy within Australasia.
QUALITY AND SAFETY STREAM
NURSES’ KNOWLEDGE OF PAIN ASSESSMENT FOR ELDERLY WITH COGNITIVE IMPAIRMENT
RHEA TECSON1, DR ROSEMARY SAUNDERS1, DR MARCUS ANG1, DR KATE CROOKES1 1 Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, Australia
Introduction:
The world is ageing. As much as one-third of people aged 65 or older are in pain. Older adults are more likely to visit the emergency department and get admitted to hospital. A significant number of older adults have cognitive impairment who are unable to communicate effectively and thus, continue to suffer from pain. Nurses have a key role in identifying pain, however, insufficient knowledge in the use of appropriate pain assessment tools presents a significant barrier to optimal pain management of older adults with cognitive impairment in hospitals.
Purpose:
This study aims to describe the knowledge of nursing staff on pain assessment for older adults with cognitive impairment in hospitals.
Method:
A cross-sectional survey design is used to describe the knowledge of nursing staff on pain assessment for older adults with cognitive impairment in hospitals. A validated modified questionnaire comprising five sections is accessed by nursing staff by means of recruitment flyers that their managers posted in their clinical area. All nursing staff including nurse practitioners, registered nurses, enrolled nurses, and assistants in nursing employed by a private healthcare provider involved in the care of older adults are recruited via convenience sampling. Descriptive statistics will be used to analyse the data, and sub-group analysis will be undertaken to determine the group differences.
Results:
Results will be presented after data collection and analysis are completed early this year.
Conclusion:
The findings of this study will provide further understanding of the knowledge of nursing staff on pain assessment for older adults with cognitive impairment in hospitals. The study may reveal the specific educational needs of nursing staff to enhance their knowledge of assessing pain in older adults with cognitive impairment and inform hospital policymakers to improve pain management practice to optimise older adult patient outcomes.
CHARACTERISTICS OF HAZARDOUS MEDICATIONS ADMINISTERED BY NURSES AND MIDWIVES IN AUSTRALIAN HOSPITALS
PHEONA VAN HUIZEN MACN1,2, PAUL WEMBRIDGE 2 , PROFESSOR PHILIP RUSSO1,3,4, PROFESSOR ELIZABETH MANIAS1,5,6, DR CLIFFORD CONNELL1,7
1 School of Nursing and Midwifery, Monash University, Clayton, Australia,
4 School of Nursing, Avondale University, Cooranbong, Australia,
5 Affiliate Professor, School of Medicine, Faculty of Health, Deakin University, Australia,
6 Honorary Professional Fellow, Department of Medicine, Royal Melbourne Hospital, The University of Melbourne,
7 Emergency Department, Monash Health, Australia
Background:
Occupational exposure of healthcare workers to hazardous medicines can be potentially harmful. Hazardous medicines can be carcinogenic, developmentally toxic, reproductively toxic, genotoxic and/or toxic to organs at low doses. These hazardous medicines can be used in many healthcare settings, but published research of occupational exposure has focused almost exclusively on cancer services.
Poster presentation and judging
Delegates to view posters and meet the authors. Authors to be available at their poster to answer any questions.
DAY 2 THURSDAY 15 AUGUST 2024
Exhibition hall 8:00am - 8:45am
QUALITY AND SAFETY STREAM
Aim:
To identify the healthcare settings where nurses and midwives are responsible for the handling of hazardous medicines.
Method:
A retrospective audit was undertaken of all medication administration events occurring over a two week period at a metropolitan health service in 2023. All medication administration events from six hospital sites were identified based on the electronic (Oracle-Cerner®) or paper (Chemotherapy Chart) medication administration records. Medications were classified as hazardous based on the Victorian Therapeutics Advisory Group Framework for Handling of Hazardous Medicines (2021).
Results:
There were 121,567 medication administration events involving 3,958 patients during the audit period. As a proportion of all medication administration events outpatient cancer services (301/695, 43.3%), birth suites (13/86, 15.1%) and the mental health (404/4,011, 10.1%) healthcare areas had the highest rate of hazardous medications administered. Of the 117 distinct hazardous medicines administered in the two-week period, the greatest number of hazardous medications were administered in the medical (1,729/6,054, 28.6%) and geriatric (1,579/6,054, 26.1%) inpatient healthcare areas. Nurses and midwives (N=1,258) were directly involved in either administering, or checking and witnessing the administration of a hazardous medication. The majority of the hazardous medications administered to patients were in an oral dosage form (5,426/6,054, 89.6%).
Conclusion:
Hazardous medications were administered in all healthcare areas. Midwives as well as nurses were at risk of occupational exposure from hazardous medications.
INNOVATION STREAM
THE RARE CARE CENTRE: INNOVATION IN ACTION
SUE
BAKER
1 Perth Children’s Hospital, Perth, Australia
Introduction:
A rare disease is defined as one that has a prevalence of less than one in 2000 people. The challenge with rare diseases is the single or small numbers of each identified disease or syndrome, and the interface with contemporary health care services and models of care. Irrespective of rarity, the ordeals experienced by children and families living with a rare or undiagnosed disease (RUD) are common, and therefore solutions can be developed that target all RUDs. This presentation will describe the impetus for the establishment of a Rare Care Centre (RCC) at the Perth Children’s Hospital, including the development and implementation of a novel cross-sector care coordination model for RUD care in Western Australia.
Body:
The RCC is a Clinical Centre of Expertise that encompasses clinical care, education, digital solutions, research, and advocacy. The cross-sector model was launched in October 2022 and more than 150 referrals have been received to date. The model of care interventions are aimed at addressing the physical and psycho-social needs of the child and family, and are delivered by an inter-agency team that includes multidisciplinary health practitioners and professionals from schools, NDIS, general practitioners, and community services. Innovative roles and programs have been implemented to educate and support families and improve care pathways.
INNOVATION STREAM
Conclusion:
The RCC is having significant impact on various aspects of RUD care locally and globally. The design and suitability of a cross-sector care coordination model for children and families living with RUD is proving a realistic and optimal approach to the coordination, navigation, and integration of services for complex and dynamic care needs. Parental experience and evaluation demonstrate that this innovative practice model is imperative to fulfil unmet needs and improve care pathways.
INTENSIVE WORKFORCE TEAMPERSON CENTERED APPROACH TO INTERNATIONAL RECRUITMENT
LYN BRETT FACN1
1 GV Health, Shepparton, Australia,
2 Chair Goulburn Murray Region ACN, Australia
Nursing workforce shortages are not a new issue. Recent events have seen this issue only increase. Limited access to overseas trained nurses entering the Australian system via migration, nurses leaving the profession and reduced numbers of graduates.
Establishment of the Intensive Workforce Team in 2023 is an innovative approach. Identifying and addressing ongoing nursing deficits. Nursing vacancy reported at 17% at the commencement of the project. The Intensive Workforce Team has a multidisciplinary approach, consisting of Manager Nursing & Midwifery Workforce, Talent Acquisition, Employment Services Advisor and Clinical Ambassador. Aims of the Intensive Workforce Team is to attract, recruit and retain skilled Registered Nurses to the regional health service.
Current practices revealed inefficiencies. Resulting in slow processes, impacting recruitment in a timely manner. Each team member has clear roles and responsibilities.
A person-centered approach to international applicants occurs through the entire journey. From application, interview, supporting relocation, orientation, and ultimately becoming a valued member of the team.
The Intensive Workforce Team supports Clinical managers with prescreening, single point application and interview, candidate care. Linking between candidate, manager, accommodation team, community connector and preceptors. Recruiting large numbers of internationally trained nurses to the regional area is a new initiative. The team assists with all facets. Including but not limited to timing of arrival in Australia, allowing time for onshore requirements, transport options from airport, schools for children, employment for partners, location of interim housing, community and work social connection.
Intensive support offer by the team has ensured continued improved timelines of international nurses commencing, an added advantage is staff report they have felt supported during the entire process. Additional outcomes are international staff contacting and applying.
At the conclusion of the project the aim would be to have the team embedded and the person-centered approach will be standard practice.
Poster presentation and judging
Delegates to view posters and meet the authors. Authors to be available at their poster to answer any questions.
DAY 2 THURSDAY 15 AUGUST 2024
Exhibition hall 8:00am - 8:45am
INNOVATION STREAM
OPTIMISING NEONATAL OUTCOMES THROUGH IMPLEMENTING EVIDENCEBASED NURSING CARE
DR MARGARET BROOM1,2,3, LAURA BRIGUGLIO1,3, PATRICIA LOWE4,5, RENEE MUIRHEAD 6,7, JEEWAN JYOTI8, DR LINDA NG10,11, DR NICOLE BLAY1, DR SHEEJA PERUMBIL PATHROSE1,12, DR SUZA TRAJKOVSKI1, KAYE SPENCE1,9, NATASHA CHETTY11, DR JANN FOSTER1,2,13
1 Canberra Health Services, Canberra, Australia,
2 School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Canberra, Australia,
3 Neonatology, Centenary Hospital for Women and Children, Australia,
4 Australian College of Nursing, NSW, Australia,
5 School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Technology, Sydney, Australia,
6 Neonatal Critical Care Unit, Mater Mothers’ Hospital, QLD, Australia,
7 School of Nursing, Midwifery and Social Work, University of Queensland, Australia,
8 Grace Centre for Newborn Intensive Grace Centre for Newborn Intensive Care, The Children’s Hospital at Westmead, NSW, Australia,
9 Australasian NIDCAP Training Centre, The Children’s Hospital, Westmead, Australia,
10 School of Nursing and Midwifery, University of Southern Queensland, Australia,
11 Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital, Brisbane, QLD, Australia,
12 NSW Centre for Evidence Based Health Care: a JBI Affiliated Group, Penrith, NSW, Australia,
13 Ingham Research Institute, Liverpool, Australia
Background:
Neonatal nurses’ practice should be grounded in highquality evidence that enhance neonatal outcomes. However, limited evidence exists regarding the unique characteristics of neonatal nursing care and its impact on short- and long-term outcomes for neonates admitted to neonatal intensive and special care units. In response to this gap, an Australian collaborative of
neonatal nurse academics and clinicians initiated the Neonatal Nurse Outcome Measures Study (NNOM) with the aim of identifying and prioritising the neonatal nursing interventions most effective in optimising neonatal care.
Method:
This project is based on implementation science process designed to systematically assess the processes, strategies, and outcomes associated with the introduction and integration of specific interventions or innovations into real-world settings.
Results:
Utilising the Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) scoping review framework, Phase one sourced systematic reviews from the Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews and JBI Evidence Synthesis. In total 428 articles were identified, leading to the inclusion of 34 reviews with multiple nursing interventions reporting 137 positive outcomes. Phase two utilised an implementation science model, identifying 20 nursing interventions with high to moderate evidence impacting neonatal morbidity and mortality. These were mapped into seven models (Respiratory, Nutrition, Developmental care, Thermoregulation, Jaundice, Pain, and Infection) aligned with national and international neonatal care standards. As part of Phase two neonatal nurse and parent representative focus groups prioritised 5 interventions to include in a neonatal nursing care bundle. Two publications from the project have been submitted publication, with the first accepted into the Journal of Clinical Nursing.
Conclusion:
The seven models and neonatal nursing care bundle provide a foundation for high-quality neonatal care. Evidence from this project can be translated in clinical practice to improve neonatal outcomes. Our team is currently in the planning stage of implementation study (Phase 3) will be undertaken in the during 2024-25.
INNOVATION STREAM
A NOVEL APP ENHANCES PATIENTCENTRED COMMUNICATION AT THE BEDSIDE
PENELOPE CASEY1,2,3, DR EVA YEUN1, RAJ LISKASER2, ADJUNCT PROFESSOR PHILIPPA BLENCOWE 2, PROFESSOR LEANNE BOYD2, PROFESSOR MOHAMED ABDELRAZEK4, ZOE WANG4, PROFESSOR JULIE CONSIDINE1,2,3
1 Deakin University, School of Nursing and Midwifery and Centre for Quality and Patient Safety Research in the Institute for Health Transformation, Geelong, Australia,
2 Eastern Health, Box Hill, Australia,
3 Centre for Quality and Patient Safety ResearchEastern Health , Box Hill, Australia,
4 Deakin University, Applied Artificial Intelligence Institute , Burwood, Australia
Introduction:
Involving patients in communications about their health care improves the experience and quality of care, and reduces miscommunication and associated harms. Digital solutions can optimise communication between patients and healthcare providers. This study aimed to explore patients’ and nurses’ perceptions of using a digital App to support patient-nurse communication and patient involvement in bedside nursing handover in an Australian acute care ward environment.
Method:
Patients and nurses used the digital App during routine care in an acute ward. Only patients who were Englishspeaking adults and clinically well were approached. Patients were surveyed prior on level of comfort regarding smartphone App use. After App use patients and nurse perceptions were sought using semistructured interviews and feedback surveys. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, then analysed thematically. Survey data were analysed using descriptive statistics.
Results:
In total 18 patient-nurses dyads participated in the study between March and May 2023. Patients (n=18)
were mostly older (median 69.5 years), female (83.3%) and frequent users of smart phones (94.4%). Nurses (n=18) were mostly younger (median 23 years) and female (94.4%). Five themes were identified across patients and nurses, which suggested that in a context where historical barriers to communication between patients and nurses persist, using the App empowered patients to engage in healthcare communications, facilitated new opportunities for patient-centred information sharing, and refocussed nurses’ awareness onto patient-centred care. Feedback indicated users found the App interface easy to navigate and the features useful.
Conclusion:
This digital App was perceived by nurses and patients to facilitate improved patient-centred communication at the bedside. This App could be integrated into existing healthcare systems following further refinements and wider scale testing, and has potential to reduce harm from miscommunication between patients and nurses, and enhance patients’ experiences of care.
PERIOPERATIVE NURSING SPACE: STAFF AND SKILL RETENTION, A NOVEL PROJECT
LINDA CHAPMAN MACN1, KAREN MAHONEY1
1 NALHN, Elizabeth Vale, Australia
Turnover rates for senior perioperative theatre nurses are challenging in areas requiring a skilled dynamic workforce. Then benefits of a consistent skilled workforce result in positive work culture, enhanced patient outcomes, service efficiencies 1. The challenges faced by the study site included increased senior nurses’ retirement (2021 to 2023), no structured education for novice nurses (in clinical specialities) and inexperienced staff in specialty areas. This quality improvement was to understand the needs of novice nurses providing opportunity to develop a supportive framework tailored to their needs.
Poster presentation and judging
Delegates to view posters and meet the authors. Authors to be available at their poster to answer any questions.
DAY 2 THURSDAY 15 AUGUST 2024
Exhibition hall 8:00am - 8:45am
INNOVATION STREAM
Methods:
Utilising a structured mentorship rotation program implemented in April 2021 - novice junior nurses rotated through specialties in three-month blocks. Perioperative Educator developed education supported strategies and learning packages. Post implementation focus groups occurred monthly. An evaluation survey undertaken at project completion.
Outcomes:
Focus groups provided a safe place to discuss, reflect on practice and report effectiveness of the program 2. 100 % of junior staff participated in the structured rotation program, reporting extra confidence in skills/ abilities across all theatre specialities and the confidence to be allocated and run a theatre list, without senior staff.
Findings reported increased departmental, organisational efficiencies, patient outcomes and positive work culture for all staff. Junior staff reporting increased resilience and felt supported by their peers and management reflected in staff retention to the area (100%). Senior/Junior staff ratio has dramatically changed with little impact to the department.
Conclusion:
Retention of skilled perioperative staff is essential for optimal patient outcomes, organisational efficiencies, and positive work culture. The implementation of a structured rotation resulted in junior staff fast tracked with development of skills and clinical proficiency and report feeling safe, supported, and valued within the area. Teamwork and relationships have advanced with staff satisfaction and retention greatly improved.
NURSE PRACTITIONER SERVICE ENHANCES PRIMARY CARE FOR AGED CARE RESIDENTS
LEIGH DARCY1
1 Hunter Primary Care, Warabrook, Australia
Consultation with the local aged care community of practice identified issues regarding access to primary care, impacting the ability to admit and provide care to residents. Nurse practitioners (NP) can support the identified gap in access to primary care, however sustainability of Aged Care NP models has been in question.
An innovative NP model of care (MOC) has been developed and implemented. Partnering with the Primary Health Network and university researchers, a pilot of the model was completed on 30 November 2023.
The MOC enables the NPs to work independently but within a team environment, which promotes collegial mentoring, sharing and development of knowledge and skills. The service provides regular outreach to each aged care home, supporting accessible and coordinated primary care. Working collaboratively with each resident’s GP, the NP provides consistent high quality clinical assessment by a person familiar with the resident’s baseline health status and goals of care. Residents and families have a consistent point of contact that can provide them with the information they require, improving communication.
The objectives of the pilot were to evaluate:
1. Implementation of the NP MOC in terms of reach and types of services provided.
2. Financial feasibility
3. Acceptability and sustainability.
The pilot has transitioned to a sustainable Aged Care Nurse Practitioner Service. Our NPs have conducted 5593 occasions of care. In addition, 97% of residents surveyed (n=100), agreed or strongly agreed that they were satisfied with the NP service.
Currently, whilst the evaluation phase continues, the NP service is expanding and planning for a pilot in a regional town is underway. Our aim is to continue to collaborate with our stakeholders to look for opportunities to build the NP workforce, thus improving access to primary care for residents and career pathways for NPs.
INNOVATION STREAM
NURSE PRACTITIONERS ROLE IN ACUTE HOSPITAL AVOIDANCE SERVICES
DANICA MATHER1
1 SA HEALTH, Adelaide, Australia
The nurse practitioner has been established in some countries for more than 30 years, with great variations in the Scope Of Practice from complete integration and acceptance into healthcare teams through to disconnected models with poor understanding of practice and how they can be utilised in the health system and more specifically to the out of hospital space.
There are the growing demands of an aging population, and these demands are reflected in the fact that one third of adults reporting they have two or more chronic conditions, resulting in repeated and potentially avoidable hospital admission and presentations.
The aim of the nurse practitioner profession is to improve access to treatment, provide cost effective care, target at risk populations, provide outreach services to rural and remote communities and provide clinical mentorship and expertise. For context and discussion, an NP is an expert clinician who has scope to manage the overall care of a patient through investigation ordering and interpretation through to the diagnosis and treatment for acute and chronic conditions.
NPs and allied health professionals can positively contribute to models that alleviate congestion and ensure patients are treated in the right place, at the right time and by the right people by taking a proactive approach rather than a reactive one. It requires all health professionals to truly respect the skills and attributes that each brings to the multidisciplinary health care model and to fully embed this practice.
THE AWARENESS AROUND THE USE OF INTRAVENOUS PARECOXIB IN THEATRE
OLGA NOVAK
MACN1,2
1 Goulburn Valley Health, Shepparton, Australia,
2 Moyola Aged Care, Tatura, Australia
This presentation will endeavour to explore the fundamental elements around the use of intravenous Parecoxib as a selective non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug - NSAID (COX-2 inhibitor) in theatre and raise awareness around not administering oral Ibuprofen as a nonselective - NSAID (COX-1 and COX-2 inhibitors) within 12 hours post procedure in the acute postoperative setting for adults.
Parecoxib is the prodrug of valdecoxib which reduces the production of inflammatory mediators by inhibiting the enzyme cyclo-oxygenase 2 (COX-2). Parecoxib is intravenously administered within theatre settings and used for the treatment and prevention of acute pain, it also successfully reduces discomfort, fever, redness and swelling from inflammation.
Pain during the postoperative phase is a significant factor delaying the surgical recovery. Furthermore, there have been a rising amount of medication errors around nonselective NSAID - Ibuprofen being prescribed in theatre and being administered in the post-anaesthesia care unit (PACU) by nurses. Most of the safety data, including clinical guidelines refer to Parecoxib via intravenous therapy as a single dose in the intraoperative surgery cases. Therefore, any subsequent dose of Ibuprofen may be given only 12 hours after oneoff dose of Parecoxib for patient safety. Additionally, this presentation will show the no-rationale for using >1 NSAID at the time, excluding low-dose aspirin and possible side effects and dangers around occurred medication errors.
Finally, it will emphasise encouraging efficient and transparent assistance and education for nurses in a postoperative environment after the use of Parecoxib in the operating room and the 12-hour restriction of Ibuprofen administration.
Poster presentation and judging
Delegates to view posters and meet the authors. Authors to be available at their poster to answer any questions.
DAY 2 THURSDAY 15 AUGUST 2024
Exhibition hall 8:00am - 8:45am
INNOVATION STREAM
ASSESSING PAIN USING AN AUTOMATED FACIAL RECOGNITION AND ANALYSIS APP
ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR ROSEMARY SAUNDERS MACN1, DR MARCUS ANG1, DR AMINEH RASHIDEH1, DR IRENE NGUNE1, DR OLIVIA GALLAGHER3, LAUREN JENNER 2
1 Centre for Research in Aged Care, School of Nursing & Midwifery, Edith Cowan University, Joondalup, Australia,
2 Research Fellow, Hollywood Private Hospital, Ramsay Health Care, Nedlands, Australia,
3 Nursing & Midwifery Research Unit South Metropolitan Health Service, WA Health, Murdoch, Australia
Australia’s population is increasingly ageing. Pain is one of the most common reasons for hospital admission in older adults and is a significant challenge in the care of hospitalised older adults, particularly those living with dementia. Pain assessment ideally involves patients’ self-report of pain but for many patients with dementia this is not possible and pain assessment becomes dependent on health professionals observing pain-related behaviours which may not be reliable. Using an innovative evidence-based technology-driven pain assessment app, PainChek® Universal, (that combines artificial intelligence, facial recognition, and smartphone technology), can provide a solution for better assessment of pain in older adults. Our research vision is to reduce the burden of unrecognised and untreated pain for older patients in hospital. To do this, we aim to use an effectiveness-implementation hybrid Type-2 design to implement and evaluate the clinical staff experiences of the feasibility and utility of using a technology driven pain assessment app on one ward in an acute hospital. The first phase has been the training of the clinical staff in the use of the app and an evaluation of the training, guided by the Kirkpatrick framework. The training was undertaken by 44 staff with 19 completing the post-training survey. Most respondents agreed that PainChek® Universal would be a positive addition to the assessment of a patient’s pain (84.2%). Satisfaction with subject content, training facilitation, and skills practice was high (greater than 90%). Post training all but one identified they were ‘confident’ to ‘extremely confident’ in using the app
but over half (52.6%) reporting they would need some support in using the application. Providing training is the first step in facilitating the use of technology for better pain assessment that can improve the safety and quality of care, clinical outcomes, patient well-being as well as lowering the costs of care.
RANDOMISED CONTROLLED TRIAL DEMONSTRATES FEASIBILITY OF VIRTUAL REALITY IN HAEMODIALYSIS
DR WENDY SMYTH OAM MACN1, JOLEEN MCARDLE1, GWENN HEINRICH1, DR VALLI MANICKAM1, PROFESSOR ICKJAI LEE3, DR JASON HOLDSWORTH3, DR OLUMUYIWA OMONAIYE4, PROFESSOR CATE NAGLE 2
1 Townsville Hospital and Health Service, Townsville, Australia,
2 James Cook University, Townsville, Australia,
3 James Cook University, Cairns, Australia,
4 Deakin University, Melbourne Burwood Campus, Australia
Introduction/purpose:
Research on using virtual reality (VR) in various healthcare settings is emerging. This study assessed the feasibility of immersive VR in a haemodialysis setting and its effects on patients’ adherence to dialysis regimens and quality of life in an Australian renal service.
Method:
A randomised cross-over controlled trial was conducted between September 2022 and March 2023. The intervention involved the use of immersive VR to view three scenarios representative of northern Queensland country. Intervention and control periods were each four weeks’ duration, with a one-week washout period. Participants were adult patients undergoing haemodialysis thrice weekly. The primary outcome was attendance at scheduled dialysis sessions between intervention and control periods. Secondary outcomes were adherence to fluid allowances and changes in
INNOVATION STREAM
quality-of-life measures. Data sources were electronic medical records, verbally administered questionnaires, and conversational interviews with participating patients. Clinicians were invited to complete a questionnaire about the feasibility of VR in this setting.
Results:
Thirty-four patients completed the trial, and 49 clinicians completed the questionnaire. There were no statistically significant differences in attendance or adherence to fluid allowances between the intervention and control periods. However, the quality-of-life and mental wellbeing improved for participants with lower selfreported measures prior to the trial’s commencement. Feedback from patients and clinicians was positive overall; no harm or adverse events occurred. Individual patients required assistance to use the headsets and access the scenarios. Nurses expressed some concerns about additional workload.
Conclusions:
Patients embraced the technology and suggested modifications to the scenarios to increase their engagement on an ongoing basis. Researchers and renal nurses found solutions to the challenges of using VR in a busy clinical setting. This study identified that it is feasible to conduct future trials with longer intervention/control periods and larger sample sizes to explore relationships between VR usage and patient outcomes.
STAFF WELLBEING IN ACUTE SURGICAL WARD ENVIRONMENTS
DR JULIE TUCKER MACN1, NATASHA WHITE 1 NALHN, Elizabeth Vale, Australia
Quality care optimises patient care and is linked to nurses’ wellbeing (1). Positive staff wellbeing is strongly connected with quality care and patient outcomes (2, 3). Delivering quality of care influenced by daily demands on the work environment, staff shortages,
complexity of care, and worsening comorbidities.
Chronic job stressors including poor staff skill mix, inexperienced staff, loss of control, autonomy over the work environment and decision-making resulting in poor satisfaction and burnout (emotional exhaustion, cynicism, negativity) impacting care (depersonalization, inefficient delivery of care) lack of professional accomplishment (4). Unhappiness and cynicism are main reasons staff attrition becoming numb to the emotional experiences in modern healthcare setting (2, 3). This study aimed to derive a deeper understanding of acute surgical nurses’ wellbeing across the Division Surgical Specialties and Anaesthetics in acute surgical wards.
Method:
Modified survey based on the Michigan Organisational Assessment Questionnaire staff within three surgical inpatient areas.
Results:
Overall, 70% of surveys were completed. Most staff in these wards were recruited to the organisation, within the last three years. Burnout was cited across all areas, with higher levels of reported burnout in area 2 (mean 3.88 – IQR 3-5). Staff have a positive perspective on patient care (score more than 4 on the scale of 5 for all questions related to patient care). Empathy for patients and meaning of work are significantly different between areas. Lower scores were given for questions related to working environment and organisation.
Conclusion:
The findings identified levels of burnout with associated impacts on empathetic care, and staff retention. ‘The importance of burnout as a variable of concern in a health setting has been significant affecting service quality, care rendered, job performance, absenteeism, turnover, morale, and psychological wellbeing. Further research required to derive a deeper understanding to improve the wellbeing for nurses in surgical wards.
Poster presentation and judging
Delegates to view posters and meet the authors. Authors to be available at their poster to answer any questions.
DAY 2 THURSDAY 15 AUGUST 2024
Exhibition hall 8:00am - 8:45am
INNOVATION STREAM
REINVIGORATING THE AGED CARE WORKPLACE EXPERIENCE TO RECLAIM NEW GRADUATES.
KERRY TURNBULL MACN1
1
Hunter Primary Care, Markwell, Australia
‘A placement in aged care? Been there, done that and never going back!’ It is well documented that firstyear university nursing students have professional experience placements (PEPs) in aged care to learn the fundamentals of nursing care in small groups, often buddied with care workers, where they rarely see a registered nurse (RN). Unfortunately, this first year PEP can result in a reluctance to return to aged care after graduation.
An opportunity arose to try a different approach. An Aged Care Community of Practice (ACCoP) vested in recruitment was enlisted to determine what was missing when new graduate nurses started working in aged care. The answer: Students needed a taste of the autonomous RN role, so they were better prepared for the workplace.
Second and third-year students were targeted in a reinvigorated model of PEP. The model incorporated: strong leadership, collaborative relationships, one student per facility, paired with the on-duty RN (RN mentor), one-on-one clinical facilitation (a separate RN to the mentor), and ‘learning guides’ based on the leadership role not found in university manuals. PEP hosts, mentors and facilitators were strongly invested in a positive outcome.
The ACCoP provided feedback and positive quotes about gerontological nursing for student recruitment brochures and about topics for the learning guides, requesting more around the leadership aspects of being an RN in aged care. Aged care RNs reviewed the learning guides to ensure relevance.
The fruits of collaboration can be seen in quotes from students: ‘I already work in aged care but never before
thought of it as a career’; ‘It’s actually a privilege to care for a dying person isn’t it’; ‘I wasn’t sure about an aged care placement, but I learnt so much!’; ‘I wasn’t planning it but now have a job in aged care on registration next month!’.
KYLIE WALTERS1, GEORGINA JOHNSTONE1, DR CARLY MEYER1, PROF JUDY
LOWTHIAN1
1 Bolton Clarke, Forest Hill, Australia
Introduction:
Despite hearing loss being highly prevalent among older adults 60+ years of age, hearing aid use remains low. Untreated hearing loss can be mistaken for mild cognitive impairment or dementia, or exacerbate symptoms of cognitive decline, as hearing loss impacts a client’s ability to communicate. Personal amplification devices are an innovative low-cost alternative to hearing aids, using digital technology to enhance speech, and therefore communication and understanding. This study aimed to explore the feasibility, usability and acceptability of using a novel personal amplification device to remove communication barriers and improve experience during nursing assessments in older community members with hearing loss.
Main body:
We conducted a quality improvement project using Plan-Do-Study-Act cycles over a 4-month period, involving Commonwealth Home Support Programme clients referred to a specialist Dementia Clinical Nurse Consultant. The device was trialled with 14 clients, including 6 existing hearing aid users. Observations included fewer requests to repeat instructions (n = 11), more focused test performance (n = 9), and less repetitive phishing or joking (n = 8). The nurse was able
INNOVATION STREAM
to consistently speak in a soft or quiet voice during assessments. Clients most frequently commented that the device blocked background noise (n = 8), was comfortable to wear (n = 6), quick (n = 5), and resulted in clear sound (n = 5). No adverse events were experienced. Despite increased time required for the consent process (approx. 2-3 mins) and fitting of the amplification device (approx. 1 minute), the overall assessment duration decreased through less repetition and increased focus. Training, practice guidelines and infection prevention are key factors for consideration in implementation.
Conclusions:
Use of personal amplification devices is feasible and acceptable for use with home-based nursing assessments. Improved communication and comfort during assessments for both clients and nurses supports the need for broader adoption.
SHAPING A ‘NEW BUILD GRADUATE NURSE’; INDUSTRY AND UNIVERSITY PARTNERSHIP.
MEGAN WISE MACN1,2, KATHARINA SPILLER1, DR LEANNE JACK 2
1 Metro South Health, Princess Alexandra Hospital, Brisbane, Australia,
2 CQUniversity, School of Nursing, Midwifery, and Social Sciences, Brisbane, Australia
Background:
Preparing a student nurse to transition to a New Graduate Nurse (NGN) requires collaboration across higher education providers and industry. This partnership usually discontinues when nursing qualifications have been attained. In 2022 a partnership between industry and university to support NGN transition to practice (TTP) was established at one acute health care facility in South East Queensland. Both the TTP and post-graduate program occur concurrently over the initial 12-months of professional practice.
Aim:
The aim of this study was to examine workplace performance of NGNs completing an industry TTP program and NGNs concurrently completing the same TTP while enrolled in an optional post-graduate program supported by a partner university.
Methods:
A quantitative evaluation design was used. The workplace performance of NGNs participating in the TTP during 2022 and 2023 was measured using the ANSAT (Australian Nursing Standards Assessment Tool) for Graduates. Performance was measured at 1-, 3-, and 9-months, with an aggregate total ANSAT score calculated. Statistical analysis to compare performance of the two groups was conducted.
Results:
Data from 156 NGNs was collected; 58 NGNs participated in both the TTP and the optional postgraduate program. Results indicated that NGNs who completed both an industry TTP and optional post graduate qualification demonstrated higher aggregate ANSAT total scores compared to those that did not undertake the extra study (p<0.027).
Conclusion:
This study provides early evidence suggesting shared investment between industry and university may enhance NGN workplace performance and transition to clinical practice. This can be achieved through identifying targeted areas of practice where NGNs are requiring additional support and structured opportunities for feedback. Investing in the quality of TTPs through continued partnerships may reduce ‘transition shock’, increase confidence, strengthen competence, and support long-term retention in the workforce.
Poster presentation and judging
Delegates to view posters and meet the authors. Authors to be available at their poster to answer any questions.
DAY 2 THURSDAY 15 AUGUST 2024
Exhibition hall 8:00am - 8:45am
SOCIAL IMPACT STREAM
POZQOL- EVALUATING AND REINVIGORATING QUALITY OF LIFE IN HIV NURSING
MELISSA
BRIFFA1, NARELLE JENSEN1, DR ELIZABETH CROCK1, DR CARLY MEYER 2, DR AHSAN SALEEM1
1 Bolton Clarke, Australia,
2 Bolton Clarke, Australia
Introduction:
Integrating the PozQoL tool within the HIV nursing assessment aligns with the Victorian HIV Plan 20222030 that 75% of people living with HIV (PLHIV) report good quality of life (QoL) alongside WHO’s Global Health Sector Strategy on HIV that emphasises QoL.
The Bolton Clarke (BC) HIV Program is integrated within the Homeless Persons Program; and provides community nursing for PLHIV in Melbourne, Victoria. The program is underpinned by the social model of health; and aims to provide services free of stigmatisation, discrimination, that is culturally safe, holistic and client centred with a focus on quality of life.
Main body:
The BC HIV team has developed a HIV Assessment tool which helps identify PLHIV’s needs through their lived experience. It incorporates the PozQol, a health-related QoL assessment tool.
PozQoL is a validated 13-question scale developed by Latrobe University for PLHIV, examining health, psychological, social, and functional domains. This tool is easy to use and suitable for a range of settings and professionals without HIV experience. PozQoL helps to identify stigma, social inclusion, mental health and challenges in managing HIV. It produces a total QoL score and informs individualised care plans from each domain to optimise client goals and QoL. Total Score Rankings are <36 Low, 37-45 Mod, 46-53 High, >54 Very High.
The PozQol tool was completed 95 times including reviews of 17 clients between 2021-2023, in which 59% of clients reported a High to Very High QoL. Clients have identified that PozQol assists them to focus on specific areas of improvement and highlights the achievements made.
Conclusion:
PozQol enables nurses to develop holistic, personcentred care plans and can enhance outcome evaluation at all stages of a client’s HIV journey. Through regular measurement and continuous evaluation, PozQoL can help PLHIV reinvigorate their goals to regenerate their health.
CELEBRATING AUSTRALIAN
NURSES WHO ARE PIONEERING THE RESPONSE TO CLIMATE CHANGE: A COMPILATION OF CASE STUDIES
JACK CORNISH MACN1, DISTINGUISHED PROFESSOR TRACY LEVETT-JONES1, LORRAINE FIELDS2, DR ALETHA WARD4, JAMES BONNAMY5, CATELYN RICHARDS7, DR NAOMI TUTTICCI6, ELAINE CORREIA MOLL1, PROFESSOR TRACEY MORONEY3
1 University of Technology, Sydney, Ultimo, Australia,
2 University of Wollongong, Wollongong, Australia,
6 Griffith University, Brisbane, Australia, 7Climate Action Nurses, Hobart, Australia
Nurses have a long-standing history of advocacy and activism. Their holistic approach to health and understanding of how climate change disproportionally affects the vulnerable gives them a unique perspective that positions them to identify creative solutions that
SOCIAL IMPACT STREAM
address climate justice issues. Despite many nurses implementing planetary health innovations, few share their trailblazing work. This is problematic for future nurses, as ‘you cannot be what you cannot see’.
This work sought to profile sustainability champions who demonstrate excellence in nurse-led planetary health initiatives. The intent was to outline their achievements and inspire others to respond to the challenges of climate change.
Narrative-based inquiry was used to explore the work of nurses who became sustainability champions. Exemplars were intentionally sourced and selected to showcase a diverse range of initiatives across clinical, organisational and academic settings. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with a focus on the ‘problem’, sustainability initiative, outcomes, challenges and recommendations.
This study identified multiple examples of effective nurse-led sustainable practice initiatives. Each had a significant impact on waste reduction, reuse and/or recycling, and resulted in positive economic benefits and reduced carbon emissions. The common features of the sustainability champions included a concern about climate change and its impact on health and healthcare provision, a personal commitment to enact change, the capacity for perseverance, and the confidence to take risks. Our study also demonstrated that while positional authority was helpful, meaningful change was possible irrespective of one’s level within an organisation. Importantly, the champions demonstrated effective leadership skills and the ability to harness the collective support of other stakeholders.
The outcomes of this study affirm the mantra ‘you cannot be what you cannot see’. By profiling the work of a group of sustainability champions, we have demonstrated how nurses have the power and potential to make a positive difference to planetary health.
GENDER DISCRIMINATION IN NURSINGIT’S A MAN’S WORLD
PATRICIA GAUCI1, PROFESSOR KATH PETERS1, DR KATE O’REILLY1, DR RAKIME ELMIR1
1 Western Sydney University, Liverpool, Australia
Introduction:
Discrimination based on gender and inequity between men and women is recognised as an important and ongoing global concern by the United Nations. Gender gaps for women in leadership representation and career progression trajectories exist in almost all occupations, including occupations dominated by women. Within the profession of nursing, research has highlighted the vertical segregation of men to the more senior positions and higher status roles. However, the majority of research on gender in the nursing workforce focuses on the difficulties men face in a woman dominated profession and the psychology of men and masculinity.
Purpose:
To explore the experiences of workplace gender discrimination for women in nursing.
Methods:
Semi-structured interviews were undertaken with Australian women registered nurses (N=10) to explore their experiences with workplace gender discrimination. Feminist perspectives and social constructionism formed the theoretical underpinning of this study. Engaging a feminist perspective means challenging the way women’s experiences are constructed under patriarchy. Therefore data were interpreted using a feminist lens recommended by Anderson and Jack (1991). Braun and Clarke (2006) six step guide was used to develop themes.
Results:
Thematic analysis revealed five overarching themes, capturing the complexity related to gender discrimination in the workplace for women. Findings from this study revealed individual, social, structural, and political concerns.
Poster presentation and judging
Delegates to view posters and meet the authors. Authors to be available at their poster to answer any questions.
DAY 2 THURSDAY 15 AUGUST 2024
Exhibition hall 8:00am - 8:45am
SOCIAL IMPACT STREAM
Conclusion:
This research highlighted that, whilst women recognise discrimination, they often diminished and justified their experiences. Women’s bifurcated consciousness means they counterpose their experiences to the patriarchal version of their lives. Consequently, self-reported measures of the experience of gender discrimination from the perception of women may not represent the entirety of women’s experiences.
EVERYDAY CARE PRACTICES OF RN CARING FOR THE DYING PATIENTS
DR AMBELORFAM MANIKAM1
1 University Of Glasgow, Singapore, Singapore
Aim:
The primary aim of this study explored the everyday care practices and experiences of registered nurses when caring for dying patients in an acute care setting in Singapore.
Methodology:
This research study took a hermeneutic phenomenology approach guided by the philosophy of Hans-Georg Gadamer. A purposive sample of 16 registered nurses from acute medical, surgical, oncology, haematology and intensive care units participated in this study. Data were collected over a period of six months using 45-minute semi-structured interviews. A data analysis method developed by Fleming, Gaidys and Robb was applied to gain an understanding of the data through the lens of Gadamer’s philosophy.
Findings:
Analysis of the 16 interviews resulted in the emergence of four overarching themes: (1) experiencing emotional labour, (2) barriers to providing optimal EOL care, (3) transforming and understanding EOL care, and (4) ways of managing care effectively.
Conclusion:
This study provided an in-depth understanding of the everyday care practices and experiences of nurse participants caring for dying patients in the context of the multicultural Singaporean society. This study also highlights the tenets of Gadamer, who promoted the exploration of knowledge from a range of vantage points. Adversities associated with caring for dying patients meant that nurse participants developed resilience, which contributed to their professional and personal growth. The findings have significant implications for EOL nursing education, nursing practice, health policy and future research on EOL care in acute care settings in Singapore. These recommendations provide a strategic focus for how to improve EOL care practices along the care continuum.
A SCOPING REVIEW OF HOSPITAL VOLUNTEER PROGRAMS FOR OLDER PATIENTS
FRANCINE OCAMPO MACN1, DR ROSEMARY SAUNDERS1
1 Centre for Research in Aged Care, School of Nursing & Midwifery, Joondalup, Australia
Introduction:
Volunteers play an important role in supporting patients in hospitals, especially older adult patients who may have increased care needs. Evidence suggests the volunteer role is varied but overall does contribute to patient wellbeing. However, the experience of volunteering with older adult patients from the perspective of volunteers, nurses, other clinicians, patients, and families is unclear. This systematic scoping review aimed to synthesise evidence related to qualitative evaluations exploring nurses, other clinicians, and stakeholders (patients, families, and volunteers) experiences of hospital-based volunteer programs for older patients.
SOCIAL IMPACT STREAM
Methods:
Nine databases were searched from January 2002 to November 2022. The review followed the 2020 Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) checklist for systematic reviews. Quality of the studies were assessed using the Joanna Briggs Institute’s (JBI) critical appraisal tools.
Results:
The fifteen studies included in the review identified differences in the objectives of the volunteer programs. Volunteer interventions were reported to improve outcomes related to nutrition, mobility, fall prevention, and delirium and dementia. The characteristics and number of the volunteers varied between the studies. The evidence demonstrated that nurses, other clinicians, patients, families, and volunteers could all see the benefits of volunteer programs for hospitalised older adults.
Conclusion:
The benefits of volunteer support for older adults in hospital to patients, nurses, family members and volunteers outweigh the challenges. As volunteers provide support to older adult patients alongside nurses, the incorporation of volunteers into care teams needs to be considered.
WORK AS A SANCTUARY: NURSES EXPERIENCING DOMESTIC AND/OR FAMILY VIOLENCE
ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR JACQUI PICH1,2, ASSOCIATE
PROFESSOR SAMANTHA JAKIMOWICZ3,2, MARIA HOBBS2
1 University Of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, Australia, 2 Australian College of Nursing, Canberra, Australia, 3 Charles Sturt University, Bathurst, Australia
Introduction:
Domestic and family violence (DFV) is a major public health and welfare issue in Australia and around the world. It affects people across all age, gender, race, religion, ethnic, cultural and socioeconomic and demographic groups, but predominantly affects women and children. It also impacts those working in health care and research has identified that 1 in 10 healthcare professionals have experienced intimate partner violence in the past 12 months, and 1 in 3 throughout their lifetime.
Purpose:
To report on nurses’ and midwives’ own experiences of DFV.
Methods:
Mixed methods research included a self-reported, cross-sectional online survey and semi-structured interviews. Four semi-structured interviews were conducted in 2022, and participants were from a range of backgrounds.
(Ethics: Bellberry Limited (ID: 2021-12-1422).
NB: this presentation will report on the interview results only.
Results:
Thematic analysis of the interview transcripts identified 3 main themes.
Poster presentation and judging
Delegates to view posters and meet the authors. Authors to be available at their poster to answer any questions.
DAY 2 THURSDAY 15 AUGUST 2024
Exhibition hall 8:00am - 8:45am
SOCIAL IMPACT STREAM
1. Hidden impact
Participants reported a hidden impact associated with DFV, one that was pervasive and impacted their psychological well-being and often had a flow on effect in to their professional nursing and/or midwifery practice.
2. Fear
A sense of fear that was pervasive, and present when participants were still in situations of DFV, when they were planning to leave and for many years after they had left the relationship.
3. Work as a sanctuary
The third theme identified was Work as a Sanctuary with participants discussing how work became a form of respite: “…Work was my respite. I wouldn’t have survived, to be honest, without my work...’
(Participant 1)
Conclusion:
RNs should be supported in their workplace. Work can be a sanctuary, when the right processes are put in to place and a culture of support is fostered, however work can pose a risk to the safety of those experiencing or fleeing DFV if the opposite is true.
PRIVATE DISCLOSURES TO REGISTERED NURSES WORKING IN RESIDENTIAL AGED CARE
KIRIAKI STEWART MACN1, DR QUNYAN XU1, PROFESSOR NICHOLAS PROCTER1
1 UniSA, Adelaide, Australia
Introduction:
Every person has secrets they do not wish to be commonly known. Highly sensitive secrets people ruminate on can negatively affect their mental health and wellbeing. People who live in residential aged care may disclose secrets to a registered nurse (RN). However, little is known of the management or impact of these private disclosures in residential aged care settings.
Purpose:
To describe the nature of private disclosures made to RNs by a person residing in residential aged care, RN management of private disclosures, and the outcome of these experiences for both resident and nurse.
Methods:
A multi-stage research project has commenced. Firstly, a scoping review investigates the nature of secrets healthcare consumers reveal to health workers, and what health workers think, observe or experience within themselves in response to private disclosures. Secondly, qualitative descriptive designed in-person interviews will explore experiences of Australian RNs who have received a private disclosure from persons living in residential aged care. Thirdly, an anonymous online survey will further examine disclosure experiences and management within this population. Finally, a narrative synthesis that develops a framework guiding nursing management of private disclosures in residential aged care will be introduced.
Results:
Results from the scoping review will be presented, including the nature of healthcare consumers secrets, contrasts in health workers’ experiences and management of private disclosures and, how stigmatising secrets increase vulnerability and result in health inequities.
Conclusions:
Persons residing in residential aged care may disclose a personal secret to RNs. There is a need for further research to promote well-being of vulnerable residents and registered nurses who live or work within residential aged care. A framework that informs and supports nursing policy and practice will significantly impact health inequities in this practice setting.
SOCIAL IMPACT STREAM
PODCAST: WELLBEING OF DIVERSE POPULATIONS’ INCLUDES INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS DURING COVID
DR SUSAN TIMPANI MACN1
1 Flinders University, Adelaide, Australia
Introduction:
A Podcast produced during COVID-19 explored the experiences of international nursing students. Knowledge garnered through their stories identifies deficiencies of support, leading to preventable trauma. Due to environmental instability, further global and national catastrophes are inevitable. To sustain the well-being of international nursing students, and subsequently, a diverse workforce, the regeneration of support structures is essential. Longstanding research has identified the educational and personal-social difficulties that students experience. The power of students’ voices prompts nurses to consider a more contemporary and sustainable approach to care.
Methods:
Podcast production provided a Ph.D. examinable artefact. Six international nursing students co-created their episode. Each participated in numerous recorded interviews to identify recurring themes. Narrative Inquiry informed analysis and interpretation. Participants reviewed the edits until satisfied the podcast episode reflected their true experience.
Results:
During periods of mass unemployment, students’ temporary migrant status prohibited them from government support. The severity of COVID-19 in home countries limited income from families. Students faced actual or potential hunger and homelessness. High rates of COVID-19 in Asia contributed to their anxiety. Asianrelated racism escalated, including within nursing. The “Go Home” government policy was impossible to meet, due to border closures, adding to a lack of belonginess. University closure contributed to social isolation and poor mental health. Online learning requires significant
adjustment. Students also experienced the same pandemic challenges as domestic students.
Conclusions:
While the Podcast describes trauma during crisis, it also reflects issues in ordinary times. Nurse education leaders must reclaim their role and responsibility in addressing students’ holistic needs. A single strategy of referral to generic Student Support is not a sustainable solution to address the complex needs of future students. Policy development, in partnership with international nursing students, and other stakeholders, is needed to address emergency preparedness, educational challenges, racism, and mental health and wellbeing.
EXPLORING THE EDUCATIONAL MOBILITY OF RURAL, REGIONAL AND REMOTE NURSES
LOUISE WELLS1, PROFESSOR JULIAN GRANT, DR SHARON LAVER
1 Charles Sturt University, Bathurst, Australia
Introduction:
An ongoing shortage of nurses in rural, regional and remote areas is disrupting all aspects of health service delivery and contributing to poorer health outcomes for people living in these communities. Improved recruitment and retention of nurses, along with an increase in advanced practice roles for nurses have been identified as important strategies for addressing this issue. Educational mobility, or the conversion one level of formal qualification to another, is a valuable strategy for the recruitment, retention and upskilling of nurses. Previous research on this topic lacks contemporary context and has mostly focused on nurses with vocational nursing qualifications completing a bachelor’s degree. The broader contextual factors that shape these experiences for all rural, regional and remote nurses, including those undertaking postgraduate study have not been explored.
Poster presentation and judging
Delegates to view posters and meet the authors. Authors to be available at their poster to answer any questions.
DAY 2 THURSDAY 15 AUGUST 2024
Exhibition hall 8:00am - 8:45am
SOCIAL IMPACT STREAM
Methods:
The first stage of this research project is a scoping review which aims to synthesise the literature in relation to the factors that shape the educational mobility of nurses living in rural, regional and remote areas. The identified gaps in the literature will inform a qualitative study that explores these factors contemporaneously. Data will include semi-structured interviews thematically analysed through an intersectional lens.
Results:
Findings from the scoping review will be presented and discussed. They include 1. The financial and personal burden caused by distance from a university campus. 2. Challenges associated with the academic expectations of tertiary study. 3. The value of academic-service partnerships, or “grow our own” initiatives.
Conclusions:
Insight into to the ways in which the unique social, cultural and environmental features of non-metropolitan communities intersect to shape the educational mobility of nurses working in these areas will inform strategies to support them to complete further study. This may lead to improved recruitment and retention of nurses and improved health outcomes for rural, regional and remote communities.
How can you create better patient outcomes and elevate workforce experience? Ask Serco.
With health and aged care services facing unprecedented pressure, innovative solutions for patient care and workforce engagement are crucial.
Serco has been trusted by governments and health service leaders to co-design and deliver solutions for these critical challenges.
Serco employs more than 2,100 Australian health professionals to provide face-to-face and virtual care. Our health teams proudly support service delivery across remote communities, regional and urban centres, correctional facilities and Defence bases.
By engaging Serco, you can be assured that we understand what it takes to deliver high quality care whenever and wherever needed.
What can we do to support you? Visit our stand and speak with our team.
Poster presentation and judging
Delegates to view posters and meet the authors. Authors to be available at their poster to answer any questions.
DAY 2 THURSDAY 15 AUGUST 2024
Exhibition hall 8:00am - 8:45am
COMMUNITY
ENHANCING ED-CCCS PATHWAY: A STRATEGIC APPROACH TO MINIMISING HOSPITAL ADMISSIONS
ARVIN JAY CUSTAN1, MARIE KENNY1, STEPHANIE GILMORE1, GAEL HOLTERS1, HANNAH SMITH1, MIRIAM MCMAHON1, ELLA YATES1
1 St Vincent’s Hospital, Darlinghurst, Australia
Introduction:
The project aims to institute a proactive Chronic and Complex Care Service (CCCS) pathway within the Emergency Department (ED), emphasising identification of clients requiring community follow-up for efficient, client-centred chronic health management. The central objective is to reduce unplanned ED visits and admissions, fostering collaboration between ED and CCCS staff to enhance client outcomes and streamline healthcare resource utilisation.
Main Body:
Chronic health nurses (CHNs) in CCCS play a vital role in providing health coaching, care navigation, and coordination to empower clients in self-managing their chronic health conditions, thus preventing unplanned ED presentations and admissions. Despite a proactive approach using the Patient Flow Portal (PFP) to screen recently discharged clients for CCCS eligibility, around 90% of identified clients were unaware, resulting in low engagement.
To bridge the gap, the project collaborated with key stakeholders, including executives, ED and CCCS managers, project officer, ED and CCCS staff, and ED clients. The project began by raising awareness amongst ED staff about CCCS with the aim of strengthening the collaborative framework between ED and CCCS in identifying eligible clients and ensuring a seamless continuum of care for those managing chronic health conditions.
This was followed by CHNs actively participating in ED ward rounds three times a week to educate eligible clients about CCCS and the benefits of continuous chronic care outside the ED setting. This client-centric strategy aims to build trust, enhance adherence to follow-up care plans, and reduce emergency situations.
Conclusion:
In the project’s early stages, significant progress has been achieved in strengthening the ED-CCCS relationship. Enhanced ED staff awareness is evident in their increased ability to identify potential CCCS clients. The success is apparent, with 5 clients enrolled in CCCS and 6 clients referred to the relevant local health district, indicating a positive stride toward enhanced and integrated client care.
ONE SPECIALTY - MANY ABILITIES: COMMUNITY NURSING IN REGIONAL VICTORIA
KRISTI GILBERT MACN1 , ERIN TORN-BROERS1
1 Central Highlands Rural Health, Kyneton, Australia
The role of community nurses in rural and regional areas of Australia has undergone significant transformation, spurred by various factors including the COVID-19 pandemic. This presentation explores the evolving landscape of community nursing in these regions, focusing on increased patient numbers, heightened acuity of cases, and the diverse array of services provided.
COMMUNITY
Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, community nurses in rural and regional Australia have experienced a surge in patient numbers. The pandemic, has led to a notable uptick in individuals seeking care within their local communities, which has placed considerable strain on community nursing resources, necessitating innovative approaches to meet the growing demand.
Moreover, community nurses are encountering patients with increased acuity levels, reflecting a broader trend towards more complex healthcare needs within country areas. The pandemic has exacerbated existing health disparities and accentuated the prevalence of chronic conditions and palliative care requirements among patients served by community nursing programs.
In response to these evolving challenges, community nurses are assuming a multifaceted role, delivering a spectrum of services tailored to meet diverse patient needs. This includes the provision of ‘Hospital in the Home’ programs, allowing patients to receive acute care within the comfort of their residences while alleviating pressure on hospital resources, and ‘Community Palliative Care’ initiatives, providing compassionate end-of-life support to individuals and their families in rural settings.
Furthermore, community nurses play pivotal roles in ‘District Nursing’, ‘Post Acute Care’, and ‘Transitional Care Programs’, facilitating seamless transitions between healthcare settings and ensuring continuity of care for patients recovering from acute presentations.
In conclusion, the changing role of community nurses in rural and regional Australia reflects a dynamic response to shifting healthcare needs, marked by increased patient volumes, heightened acuity levels, and the provision of diverse services aimed at promoting holistic and accessible care within local communities.
INNOVATION STREAM
SUSTAINING NURSING EXCELLENCE; INSIGHTS FROM THE EMERGING NURSE LEADER PROGRAM
ALICIA McKENNA A1
1 Latrobe Regional Health
Overview:
To support the long-term sustainability of the healthcare industry, including the nursing profession, we need to take the initiative to develop, regenerate and support not only ourselves but also those who lead before us and those who will lead after us. The future of nursing and the profession's significant impact on health relies on our ability to develop and sustain our workforce. The Australian College of Nursing (ACN) Institute of Leadership supports and develops nurses from student to Executive levels.
Within the Emerging Nurse Leader (ENL) Program, participants are developed and encouraged across five stages based on their years of experience in nursing. The program links like-minded people and fosters a supportive environment in which emerging leaders can build confidence and enact positive change for the future. Ingrained themes of mentorship and collaboration instil change and innovation that reach beyond the program as nurses bring back their learnings and reinvigoration into their workplaces and the wider profession. Exploring the experiences of ENLs throughout their leadership journey captures the importance of nursing leadership and showcases the importance of nurse-led solutions and innovation in overall healthcare sustainability.
Presentation objectives:
The focus of this work is to showcase the program's impact on ENLs which will assist in growing opportunities for future nurse leaders. Applying a qualitative approach, interviews conducted with members of the ENL Alumni obtain data on how the program influences future nurse leadership. The demographic includes a diverse range of program alumni from different backgrounds interviewed on the themes of innovation and sustainability in healthcare. Interviews centre on exploring the experiences of their leadership journey, nurse-led solutions, and initiatives post-program completion. Early results reveal that the ENL program and its alumni positively contribute to regenerating, reinvigorating, and reclaiming sustainable solutions for our future.
With thanks for the 2024 abstract review committee
Lyn Brett FACN – Goulburn Valley Health
Dr Ingrid Brooks FACN – Monash University
Kathryn Connor MACN – St Vincent’s Hospital, Melbourne
Joanne (Lynda) Daly FACN – Child and Adolescent Community Health
Linda Davidson FACN
Dr Elizabeth Emmanuel FACN – Southern Cross University | Gold Coast Campus
Marilyn Gendek FACN
Adjunct Professor Kate Gillan FACN – Epworth Healthcare
Fiona Coad MACN – Benalla
Sue Hughes FACN – Department of Health and Human Services Tasmania
Liz Hutchings FACN
Kitty Hutchison FACN – Princess Alexandra Hospital
Dr Tracey McDonald AM, FACN – International Council of Nursing
Associate Professor Jason Mills FACN – Flinders University
Carol Mirco FACN
Rosemary Oates FACN
Dr Joanne Ramadge FACN – Adria Care
Adj. Assoc. Jo Schlieff FACN – Eastern Health
Lorraine Stevenson FACN – Logan and Beaudesert Health Service, Metro South Health
Shape the future of nursing with ACN
Advocacy, Mentorship, Community
As a member of ACN, you will join a community of like-minded nurses dedicated to empowering and uplifting one another. Whether you’re looking to connect face-to-face with nurses in your region, collaborate with colleagues in the same specialty, or engage in virtual discussions with peers across the country, ACN membership provides countless opportunities to expand your professional network.
