Health Times May 2019

May 2019

Aged Care special feature + Speech Pathology should be regularly offered in aged care facilities + Tackling loneliness in older Australians and aged care + Improving workplace culture in maternity health care + Nursing in Saudi Arabia - An Australian couple’s journey

SUBSCRIBE FOR FREE Visit HealthTimes.com.au/subscribe Or email contact@healthtimes.com.au

HT-710-0051001 1PG FULL COLOUR CMYK PDF HT-705-00510-02 HT-708-00510-01 HT-703-00510-01 HT-706-00510-01 HT-802-01396-02

Own your car?

Borrow up to $20,000 against its value

• It must be a late model vehicle* • It must be registered in your name; if registered in your partner’s name, you can apply jointly • You must repay your loan through Payroll Deduction or Salary Sacrifice (and enjoy potential tax benefits) • You must be government-employed or work in a related industry (education, health care)

Even if you still owe a small amount on your car we can pay it off for you, and use the vehicle as security.

Let’s talk. We’ll show you how we make it quick and easy to get yourself up to $20,000 using your vehicle as an asset.* It’s a great way to use the value of your car to get the finance you need with terms from 3 to 36 months.

Call us today or visit our website www.qef.com.au to see how we live up to our name: Quick and Easy Finance.

Visit our website www.qef.com.au

*Age of vehicle determines the amount client is eligible to borrow; Terms and Conditions Apply. ABN 18 132 485 066.

A National Credit Act compliant company. 1: A motor vehicle which is paid off, registered in your name and not encumbered (i.e. not currently used as security on any loan with another financial institution). Australian Credit Licence No. 388143

Page 02 | HealthTimes.com.au

wrightcreative.com.au 3916-NCAH-CAR-FC

If you own a car that is registered in your name (or your partner’s) you can borrow* up to $20,000 against its value.

Home Caring Franchise Ad Health Times Feb19.indd 1

5/02/2019 1:46 pm

HealthTimes - May 2019 | Page 03

May 2019 We hope you enjoy perusing the range of opportunities included in this issue.

If you are interested in pursuing any of these opportuities, please contact the advertiser directly via the contact details provided. If you have any queries about our publication or would like to receive our publication, please email us at contact@healthtimes.com.au DISTRIBUTION 46,300

The HealthTimes magazine is the most widely distributed national nursing and allied health publication in Australia.

For all advertising and production enquiries please contact us by telephone on 1300 306 582, email contact@healthtimes.com.au or visit www.healthtimes.com.au

Advertiser list Aspen Medical Australian College of Nursing Australian Volunteers International Avondale CCM Recruitment International Dr Mikhail Education at Sea Family Planning NSW Flinders Univeristy Global Care Staff Home Caring Australia Kineo

Published by Seabreeze Communications Pty Ltd trading as HealthTimes.

ABN 29 071 328 053

Oceania University of Medicine Quick and Easy Finance Royal Flying Doctor Sevice

Š 2019 Seabreeze Communications Pty Ltd.

Smart Salary

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be copied or reproduced by any means without the prior written permission of the publisher. Compliance with the Trade Practices Act 1974 of advertisements contained in this publication is the responsibility of those who submit the advertisement for publication.

Stratton Finance The University of Sydney Western Sydney University

Next Publication: Regional & Remote Health Publication Date:

Monday 24th of June 2019

Artwork Deadline:

Monday 17th of June 2019

Page 04 | HealthTimes.com.au

GRADUATE CERTIFICATE COURSES

Study online, anywhere, anytime FEE-HELP

An ACN Graduate Certicate gets you a step closer to becoming an expert practitioner in your chosen clinical specialty, helping you work towards a higher grade position.

is available for al l of our graduate certificate cour ses*

Choose from 18 specialty areas, including our new courses – Cosmetic Nursing, Dermatology Nursing and Palliative Care.

Applications are open for July 2019 intake.

Don’t miss out! * Excludes Nursing (Bridging and Re-entry)

www.acn.edu.au/htmaypostgraduate2019

HealthTimes - May 2019 | Page 05

END OF FINANCIAL YEAR

S A L E Quoted prices include: Finance

Rego

CTP

Fuel

Maintenance

Insurance

Salary package your next car and you could save thousands Toyota Yaris Ascent Auto

$

248* PER FORTNIGHT

INC. $122 OF RUNNING COSTS

Honda CR-V Vi FWD

$

386* PER FORTNIGHT

INC. $154 OF RUNNING COSTS

Hyundai i30 Active Hatch Auto PD2 2.0i

$

333* PER FORTNIGHT

INC. $142 OF RUNNING COSTS

Subaru Forester 2.5i S5 Aauto

$

404* PER FORTNIGHT

INC. $150 OF RUNNING COSTS

Mazda CX-5 Maxx KF Series Auto FWD

$

363* PER FORTNIGHT

INC. $142 OF RUNNING COSTS

Looking for a different car?

Request a quote on a car you love to see how much you could save!

Find out how much you could save with a novated car lease.

1300 221 971 | smartnurses.com.au *Based on the following assumptions: living in NSW 2560, salary: $70,000 gross p.a., travelling 15,000 kms p.a., lease term: 60 months, using the Employee Contribution Method for FBT purposes. Images shown may not be the exact car that the calculations have been based on. All figures quoted include budgets for finance, fuel, servicing, tyres, maintenance, Vero by Suncorp comprehensive motor insurance, Hydro Platinum Pack and re-registration over the period of the lease. Also includes, for Nissan and Audi models only, 2 year Platinum Warranty insurance. Vehicle residual, as set by Australian Taxation Office, payable at the end of lease term. The exact residual amount will be specified in your vehicle quote. Vehicle pricing is correct at the time of distribution but may be subject to change based on availability.

Page 06 | HealthTimes.com.au

Are you a registered nurse or midwife looking to specialise?

Advance your career with our

MASTER OF CHILD AND FAMILY HEALTH (KARITANE) AT WESTERN Also available as Graduate Diploma and Graduate Certificate

westernsydney.edu.au/Karitane

HealthTimes - May 2019 | Page 07

Completing medical school was a tough assignment, but with OUM’s unique curriculum and continued support, I graduated as a culturally, worldly, more rounded doctor.”

Dr Paris-James Pearce

RN to MD

Make the dream of becoming a doctor a reality, earn your MD at Oceania University of Medicine. n Attractive fee structure for our Graduate Entry Program. n Over 200 students currently enrolled and over 50 graduates in Australia, New Zealand, Samoa and USA. n Home-based Pre-Clinical Study under top international medical school scholars, using world leading Pre-Clinical, 24/7 online delivery techniques. n Clinical Rotations can be performed locally, Interstate or Internationally. n Receive personalised attention from an Academic Advisor. n OUM Graduates are eligible to sit the AMC exam or NZREX.

Applications are now open for courses starting in January and July - No age restrictions

OCEANIA UNIVERSITY OF MEDICINE INTERNATIONALLY ACCREDITED For information visit www.RN2MD.org or 1300 665 343

Earn your next CPD points in the Baltic Sea onboard Norwegian Cruise Line’s Norwegian Getaway “Unlock the Mysteries of the Baltics and Wound Management” Departs Copenhagen | June 16-June 25 2019

LIMITED PLACESE! TO

N BOOK ONLI R U SECURE YO W PLACE NO

Visit educationatsea.com.au or phone 02 6674 2577 TOD - Education at Sea - Health Times Ad - July 2018 - FINAL.indd 1

Page 08 | HealthTimes.com.au

12/7/18 3:03 pm

Pain Management Research Institute RO Y A L N O R T H S H O R E H O S P I TA L

Specialising in Clinical Pain Management Formal Degree Program - Online Graduate Certificate, Graduate Diploma and Masters Online degree course available to students worldwide. Content based on the International Association for the Study of Pain (IASP) core curriculum for interdisciplinary pain management. Study commences in March & July each year (enrolments close end Jan & June respectively).

Continuing Education Opportunities Putting Cognitive Behavioural Skills into Practice This training program consists of 7 online webinars, plus skills practice between sessions. It aims to develop cognitive behavioural therapy skills so you can help patients to manage their chronic pain. (see website for dates)

Dealing with Emotionally-Challenging Patient Encounters This workshop will help you learn how to respond to patients’ emotions, and importantly, how to manage your own emotional responses to patient behaviour.

(Sep 2019)

Descending the Analgesic Ladder - Opioid De-Prescribing for Chronic Pain This one day landmark forum brings together local and international experts to address the complex challenges of de-prescribing opioids. Ideal for health clinicians working with patients who have been on chronic opioid therapy for chronic pain. (Nov 2019)

CME and PD credits available For dates & further information visit: sydney.edu.au/medicine/pmri/education

T: +61 2 9463 1516 E: paineducation@sydney.edu.au

HealthTimes - May 2019 | Page 09

Volunteer overseas The Australian Government supports hundreds of Australians to volunteer overseas every year 26 developing countries

Return airfares and visas covered

1-24 month assignments

Living and accommodation allowances

Diverse skills and experience needed

Training, support and disability access

Nursing, midwifery and allied health professionals can apply for a fully-supported volunteer experience

Find out more: australianvolunteers.com 1800 331 292

Page 10 | HealthTimes.com.au

Take a break on us Your organisation may be eligible for Australian Government-funded support to help alleviate the pressure of finding a temporary replacement when you or your colleagues go on leave.

You will be given all the support needed to recruit, screen and place highly experienced health professionals that can hit the ground running from the moment they arrive.

Request a locum

www.rurallap.com.au

HealthTimes - May 2019 | Page 11

Page 12 | HealthTimes.com.au

Making a jump from Nurse to Leader

N

ot all nurses and midwives begin their career with thoughts of becoming a leader.

However, becoming a Unit Manager or higher, is a step on the clinical ladder that an increasing number hope to achieve.

The question facing most aspiring leaders is how do they make the career jump from being a high performing health professional to leading and managing a group of nurses and ancillary staff? How do they develop the managerial traits that can help boost morale, encourage teamwork, and keep staff engaged?

Being well-versed in clinical leadership requires competencies beyond those associated with excellence in clinical practice, yet few receive the training and support necessary to ensure they have the effective leadership skills expected to foster their own team and working environment based on excellence and safety.

How do you make the jump?

Most training to this point has been heavily focused on clinical skills not necessarily the strong leadership skills critical in leaders facing the challenges of today’s healthcare environment.

Traditionally many opportunities to enhance your nursing/midwifery management experiences were gained on the job. However, with the advancement in technology there are now complimentary means of expediting your progress into those senior positions.

The good news is that it has never been easier to access courses on any subject under the sun, including leadership. Many organisation’s Learning and Development Platforms already contain a few leadership topics that will give you the building blocks to help you on your journey to becoming the next Unit Manager.

If not, there are organisations and not for profits like Kineo; leaders in online clinical and leadership training, for individuals and organisations to access that training quickly and relatively inexpensively. It’s well demonstrated that those who do invest in this type of training are leading the way in developing strong and capable leaders for today and the future.

Picking the right training Good online leadership training will demonstrate new ways of thinking about finding solutions and promote a lead by example mentality. It helps to reveal each nurse, midwife and allied health professional their own inherent abilities.

It also follows that if you invest in your learning, particularly if you opt for online leadership development courses, you are demonstrating the right behaviours all leaders need. Independence and the capacity to rely on one’s own judgement is a crucial quality in leaders, but it’s also useful as you will feel more in control and engaged.

Kineo currently supports over a million health professionals develop the clinical, leadership and compliance training required in today’s demanding and changing health care system. To continue its support of the organisations, nurses and midwives, they have put together a special introductory pack of leadership training to help make the jump from nurse to leader.

Kineo is also providing opportunities for hospitals, other health services to offer their full clinical and leadership training at affordable rates.

To invest in your future as a nurse leader, visit: au.kineo.com/healthtimes

HealthTimes - May 2019 | Page 13

What’s on at Family Planning NSW in 2019 Professional development calendar

Family Planning NSW is a leader in providing reproductive and sexual health education to over 1200 professionals annually in health, community and education sectors across NSW. Our clinical education courses equip doctors, nurses and midwives to provide clinical advice and management of reproductive and sexual health to clients.

Many of our programs comprise online learning, workshops, simulated practise and/or clinical practice components to provide hands on learning experience.

Cervical Screening Program Update Webinars 5 Jun, 7 Aug, 4 Sept, 6 Nov Evening Seminar and Case Discussion on Reproductive and Sexual Health 12 Jun (Dubbo) IUD Case Discussion Evening 8 Aug (Ashfield) Refresher Day for Doctors 31 Aug (Ashfield) FPAA National Certificate in Sexual & Reproductive Health for Doctors - Face-to-face Course includes online learning, five day workshop and clinical placement.

Workshop dates for course: 9 to 13 Sept (Ashfield) FPAA National Certificate in Reproductive & Sexual Health for Doctors - Distance Mode Course includes a two day workshop, online learning, assessment and clinical placements.

Workshop dates for course: 15 & 16 Nov (Ashfield) Reproductive and Sexual Health Clinical Accreditation Program for Nurses Course includes online learning, day workshop and clinical placement Workshop dates for course: 5 & 6 Sep (Newcastle) Reproductive and Sexual Health Professional Development Day for Nurses and Midwives 13 Sept (Newcastle) Doctors Short Course in Reproductive and Sexual Health Check website for course dates

Please check our website for full course details, course fees and to register your place. www.fpnsw.org.au. All dates correct at the time of printing.

Page 14 | HealthTimes.com.au

Flight Nurses

All Bases - Expression Of Interest

Combine your Nursing experience with state of the art equipment and aircraft to deliver aero medical and primary health care services to every corner of our state.

As part of our team you will experience nursing at its extreme across some of Western Australia’s most remote and remarkable locations.

With RFDS Bases situated in Broome, Port Hedland, Meekatharra, Kalgoorlie and Perth (Jandakot) the opportunities for adventure are endless You must have - Nursing Registration - Midwifery qualiications and - Post graduate qualiication or at least 3 years critical care experience.

You will become part of a dedicated group of people who make a real difference.

Offering competitive remuneration including subsidised accommodation, district allowance and salary packaging options, this is a unique oportunity to join Australia’s most trusted charity.

Part-time FIFO options available.

For further information or a conndential discussion contact Paul Ingram on 08 9417 6327 To register your interest, please submit a CV and Coverletter at ww www.rfdswajobs.com.au & enter ref code: 4509440

HealthTimes - May 2019 | Page 15

Whether it’s work or play. Own it.

If you need finance, whether it’s for business or personal use, Stratton can arrange the loan you need for the asset you want.

Secured car loans

Page 16 | HealthTimes.com.au

Personal loans

Commercial loans

At Stratton Finance, we pride ourselves on making a process that could be overwhelming and confusing, easy and effortless. At every stage you’ll be guided by your very own personal consultant who’ll do whatever they can to get a deal that’s right for you.

Finance made simple stratton.com.au/healthtimes or call 1300 475 848

HealthTimes - May 2019 | Page 17

Speech Pathology should routinely be offered at aged care facilities

W

hile many consider speech pathology to be a child-centric allied health service, the elderly may also benefit greatly from the service, despite accessibility being limited, particularly those living in aged care facilities.

“Speech Pathology is commonly used for the elderly as well as children, although the goals targeted in therapy may often differ somewhat,” says Certified Practising Speech Pathologist Rebecca Ivanyi.

“Speech Pathologists are employed in a range of sectors, such as hospitals and community health settings, to support the elderly by promoting social participation, independence in daily tasks and overall quality of life.”

Generally speaking, Speech Pathology is the assessment, diagnosis and treatment of communication difficulties and disorders. This can include difficulties with speech sounds, language, swallowing, voice, stuttering, social skills, literacy and more.

There are a range of conditions that are treated by Speech Pathologists, including developmental delays, learning disabilities, intellectual disability, language delays, speech sound disorders, voice disorders, swallowing difficulties and more.

Among the elderly, one of the most common conditions Speech Pathologists will treat in therapy is ‘dysphagia’.

Dysphagia involves a disruption in the swallowing process that impacts on a person’s

Page 18 | HealthTimes.com.au

ability to safely eat and drink, often arising as a result of a stroke or other type of Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI).

“It is the Speech Pathologist’s role to assess the nature and severity of the swallowing difficulty and make recommendations as to the type of diet on which the affected person should then be placed.

“If an affected person’s diet has not been amended based on the swallowing difficulties they are experiencing, they are at risk of aspiration, which is where food or liquid enters the airway or lungs.

“This can lead to further complications such as pneumonia, which poses particular risks for the elderly.”

Another common disability arising as a result of a stroke is ‘aphasia’, a neurological impairment which can affect the production and comprehension of language as well as the ability to read and write.

“Speech Pathologists may employ an impairment-based philosophy, the aim being to repair what is broken by completing exercises such as word-finding activities, comprehension and every day problem-solving tasks.

“Additionally, communicationbased therapies may be used to enhance communication and provide strategies to caregivers in order to encourage support and participation.

“An example of this is ‘supported conversation’ which aims to enhance the

communicative confidence of the relevant individual by using scaffolds, such as written keywords, hand drawings and detailed pictures.

“This may be aimed towards people who tend to know more than they are able to say and are often challenged in being able to express their feelings and opinions.”

Speech Pathology can also assist with conditions including language and swallowing difficulties relating to dementia, as well as voice difficulties emanating from Parkinson’s disease.

“Speech Pathologists will work with patients to diagnose, treat and manage these difficulties and provide strategies to improve these conditions.”

Just as is the case with children, the elderly are able to access Speech Pathology either through the private or public system, however cost is a significant barrier for many, particularly residents of aged care facilities.

By contrast, public Speech Pathology services are significantly more affordable, however there may be a significant wait involved in accessing services, which may not be a viable option for the person depending on the severity and nature of their condition.

“Aged care residents may be referred to Speech Pathology, however patients are typically prioritised based on potential immediate harm.

“Therefore, it is more likely that an aged care resident will be seen by a Speech Pathologist for a swallowing assessment to amend their diet if they are experiencing frequent coughing/ choking episodes - particularly while eating and drinking - than it will be for a resident to receive therapy for a communication disorder such as

aphasia.

“Government services are limited and therefore the access to Speech Pathology is not as easily available. Some facilities may employ private practices to employ Speech Pathologists on a referral basis.”

Ms Ivanyi believes Speech Pathologists should be routinely employed at aged care facilities.

“This would provide the elderly with appropriate strategies and communication modalities to adequately express themselves, and therefore reduce the risk of being mistreated, neglected or abused.

“Improved access to Speech Pathology services for the elderly would allow for more treatment and management rather than just assessment and recommendations.

“This would aid in setting up an effective communication system for those that require alternative modes of communication, such as low or high-tech communication devices, training of family members, caretakers and staff members as well as ongoing support as the patient’s needs change over time.

“I would like to see Speech Pathologists being routinely employed by aged care facilities in order to support the elderly in the longterm, rather than only providing short-term recommendations and strategies.”

HealthTimes - May 2019 | Page 19

Nursing in Saudi Arabia – An Australian couple’s journey

S

audi Arabia is not the first place nurses head to with their career, but for Bernard & Sarah Robben, it was the experience of a lifetime. After completing 4 years in Australian Emergency Departments, the couple signed a 1 year contract with the King Faisal Specialist Hospital & moved to Jeddah, Saudi Arabia in January 2018.

“There was a lot of negativity coming from people who had never been there & could only comment on what they’d heard in the media.

[But], the Saudi people are very accommodating. They are helpful and kind & they love Aussies. The patients are from all walks of life & there are a wide variety of medical conditions that are not seen in Australia,” said Bernard.

The biggest surprise for the couple – “Our social life and the friends we made!

One of the best pieces of advice we received from our recruiter, Raquel at CCM, was to never pass up an opportunity if invited somewhere. By the first weekend we were camping out in the desert with a group of people.

“There are many activities you can get involved in like kiteboarding, desert camping, hiking & bike riding. Plus, the Red Sea is one of the best spots in the world to dive. We would often go on day boat trips out to the reef or two night boat trips out to the islands.”

For Sarah, “the cultural aspect took a little while to get used to. Females have to dress

Page 20 | HealthTimes.com.au

in abayas most of the time when in public.

I didn’t think this was too bad. I would even go out to dinner in pyjamas because nobody could see what was under the abaya.

“Through living there & talking to the locals we learnt that for some Saudi women, life can be extremely difficult. Having said that, as an expat, I never felt uncomfortable at any time. Bernard & I felt safer in Saudi walking home than we did in Australia.”

Moving countries is a big transition but the couple found the hospital very helpful through airport meet & greets, free accommodation & preceptorships.

The pair certainly faced challenges, and didn’t always agree with the way things were done, but “this taught us how to be patient & also how to be assertive to push things along.”

“Our goals were to travel, experience a new culture, learn a new language & save some money. We met all these & more. We had the time of our lives & met friends from all over the world. The whole experience has opened our eyes.”

The King Faisal Specialist Hospital will be in Australia & New Zealand 10 – 16th of June to hold information sessions & interviews.

For details contact CCM Recruitment at info@ccmrecruitment.com.au or 1800 818 844.

RESIDENTIAL CARE OFFICERS IMMEDIATE START

Salary range between $55,000 - $65,000

Essential Requirements:

Current First Aid Certificate Full Driving License NSW Working with Children's check National Police Check Certificate 3 or 4 in Disabilities Minimum 1 year experience as a Support Worker Please forward your resume to: employment@globalcarestaff.com or contact us on: 1800 009 292

ELDAC is funded by the Australian Government Department of Health

HealthTimes - May 2019 | Page 21

Tackling loneliness in older Australians and aged care

L

oneliness is a sign that we need to form more meaningful connections with others, and as we age, it’s not uncommon for relationships to decline due to the loss of loved ones to advancing age or illness.

A recent investigation into loneliness, The Australian loneliness Report, reveals that 1 in 4 Australians feel lonely three or more days a week, and nearly 55 per cent of the population feel that they lack companionship sometimes.

Clinical Psychotherapist Natajsa Wagner provides counselling services to one of Queensland’s largest aged care providers and has a professional interest in loneliness and the impact it has on emotional health and physical wellbeing.

“We know that the number one predictor of our human happiness is the quality of our relationships.

By ‘quality’ we are looking at the feelings of connectedness, belonging, value, safety and support.

“If we have limited relationships and opportunities for connection, our emotional and physical health suffers. We experience social pain as through loneliness and disconnection.

“We know that social pain registers the same as physical pain in our brains. So we can’t underestimate the toll that loneliness is having on people,” said Ms Wagner.

Page 22 | HealthTimes.com.au

Loneliness results in: • Increased social isolation • Decreased happiness • Higher rates of suicide and depression • Increased anti-social behaviour • A decline in physical and psychological health Older adults who are isolated and alone have limited ability to engage in conversations and activities with others and can suffer from a lack of meaningful and supportive communication, explained Ms Wagner.

“This lack of opportunity to tell their own stories means that the ability to validate their lives, recognise themselves as they currently are and make sense of their stage of life is impacted.

“They can experience loneliness, loss of previous conversation partners, social groups and support systems. There is often a sense of feeling out of place and feeling confused about one’s identity.”

However, elders can be supported to reconnect with themselves, others and their community in a range of ways said, Ms Wagner.

“Some of the work I do with older clients includes individual counselling or group counselling which allows people to improve their emotional health and wellbeing, develop a deeper capacity for creative innovation and also deepen their meaning and connection.”

Initiatives that enable older adults to engage more in their community, such as programs that seek to bring people from different age groups together, as well as social activities and group activities, are important in aged care.

“These initiatives can support those in aged care to feel and develop a sense of control and autonomy as well as increasing feelings of acceptance and respect.

“Some of the benefits also include improved communication and understanding of relationships,” said Ms Wagner.

Joy Fairhall, a positive psychology and wellbeing expert, supports those grieving the loss of a loved one and people diagnosed with a life-impacting chronic illness.

“I have seen firsthand the impact loneliness has on, not only mental health but also the physical effects.

“Those grieving the loss of a life partner can be especially lonely after the loss of a confidant.

“Loneliness can also impact those diagnosed with chronic illness, as patients tend to feel isolated and lost, even when surrounded by family, friends and supporting medical teams,” said Ms Fairhall.

Befriending may improve loneliness in aged care The National Ageing Research Institute (NARI) is conducting research into understanding the impact of befriending people living in residential care and delivering training to staff and volunteers working in aged care.

Professor Colleen Doyle, who is leading the NHMRC-funded project, told The Aged Care Institute: “Befriending involves having a conversation with a person about everyday topics and events in a friendly way without discussing health problems or emotions.”

According to Professor Doyle, about half of people living in residential aged care facilities may have significant symptoms of depression.

“This may be because of individual physical health factors, high prevalence of grief and loss among the residents, and the social environment.

Many residents are socially isolated even though they are in communal living, and social isolation is a contributor to depression,” said Professor Doyle.

NARI reports that no studies have been carried out to test the effectiveness of befriending or non-directive emotional and social support for relieving depression symptoms experienced by older adults living in residential aged care facilities despite some evidence for its efficacy in other settings.

The literature provides some evidence for befriending in alleviating depression, anxiety, social isolation and loneliness as well as improving quality of life and wellbeing, but few studies have been conducted for older adults living in residential care.

The befriending research will include a cluster randomised controlled trial of befriending compared with treatment as usual to improve depression, anxiety, social support and loneliness among residents.

Two sizeable aged care providers with 3,620 residents will participate in the trial with volunteers trained using Beyond Blue resources and a manual for befriending developed by researchers.

“We are hoping that if the program is successful, it can be translated to the wider aged care sector to enable volunteers to more effectively support residents,” said Professor Doyle.

HealthTimes - May 2019 | Page 23

Great jobs for health professionals (you won’t find anywhere else)

Registered Nurses Various. Manage a care team to ensure the highest quality of resident support.

Director of Nursing VIC. Exceptional opportunity in one of Victorias highest performing public health services.

Behaviour Support Specialist VIC. Newly created specialist role provides support for young people who are disadvantaged and at risk.

Drug and Alcohol Clinician NSW. Join a multi-disciplinary team based in the community. Attractive salary + super + more!

These and hundreds more great job opportunities at

HealthTimes.com.au Page 24 | HealthTimes.com.au

HealthTimes - May 2019 | Page 25

Improving workplace culture in maternity health care

A

toxic workplace negatively impacts the health and wellbeing of staff, but in a maternity health care setting, it also has the potential to impact on the experience of birthing women and babies.

The move to engage a consultant at Canberra Hospital to improve workplace culture in maternity services is evidence that public health decision-makers are taking workplace culture seriously.

A recent government contract revealed that the consultant would be tasked with helping to ease tensions between midwives and doctors with a focus on creating respectful and professional working relationships.

A Canberra Health Services spokesperson told Canberra News: “These issues are not unique to Canberra Health Services and are experienced by other organisations, including maternity services in other hospitals.

“Work undertaken as part of the plan will strengthen positive workplace behaviours with our maternity services workforce and assist staff in continuing to develop strong working relationships with each other in a supportive environment,” the spokesperson said.

Further, a recent Independent Review into Workplace Culture within ACT Public Health Service revealed a need to improve workplace culture significantly. In fact, the review discovered that inappropriate behaviours, bullying and harassment are occurring in the workplace.

In a survey of staff across ACT’s Public Health System, it was revealed 61 per cent of respondents had witnessed bullying over the past twelve months, 35 per cent had experienced bullying personally, and 12 per cent of staff had endured physical harm, sexual harassment or abuse at work. Of this 12 per cent, almost

Page 26 | HealthTimes.com.au

half (46 per cent) indicated it was inflicted by someone they worked with.

Unfortunately, the majority (three in four) who experienced bullying or were subjected to harm did not submit a formal complaint, and only 22 per cent of staff had confidence in the way grievances were resolved once reported.

Trish Everett, a workplace culture expert, said how people deal with their anger can determine how they cope with a toxic workplace or colleague.

“It’s natural to feel anger, and it’s an important and powerful emotion when it comes to dealing with this type of workplace, said Ms Everett.

“Anger isn’t there just to challenge our selfmastery, although when out of check it can be great for that.

“What our anger is trying to tell us is usually that one of our boundaries has been crossed.

And when I say boundaries, I mean, crossed a line that isn’t ok with us.

When our anger alert has sounded, we have an opportunity to do two things.

“The first is to question our boundary or line in the sand. So, whatever boundary has been crossed, ask: • Is this boundary reasonable?

• What does this boundary protect/ support/enable?

• Am I willing to compromise this boundary?

“Once you are clear on that, the next step is to look at how are you going to defend that boundary.

“A bit of anger can come in handy as it helps you to speak up, but it’s important to choose constructive communication over gossip.

“It’s frustrating to be in a toxic environment,

but blowing off steam is like adding fuel to the fire,” said Ms Everett.

Instead of discussing a litany of problems that adds to the toxicity, ask: • What can I do to make this better?

• What are the positives I can see in this?

• Where are they coming from?

In the workplace, it’s essential to start the reconciliation process, which has three stages: 1. Understand the different viewpoints and what each group needs 2. Create a safe dialogue with a combined vision and action plan to move forward in a morally respectful way.

3. Build in processes so that all involved can heal starting with a strong circle of safety, a blame-free workplace culture and a strong support system.

People and Culture Consultant Kateena Mills, a former human resource team member in cancer care, said the high-stress health care sector could sometimes get the better of people “People handle stress in different ways, and it can manifest in people’s behaviours as aggression or disinterest.

“Unfortunately, you can’t control other people’s attitudes and behaviours, but you can control your own and how you respond.

“It’s not a quick fix, and it takes selfawareness and self-control to step back and think before fuelling the toxicity with an immediate reaction,” said Ms Mills.

A ‘reality-based leadership’ technique created by leadership researcher Cy Wakeman,

who also has management experience in hospitals, is a useful strategy to shift people’s thinking, according to Ms Mills.

The technique asks people to consider what they can do to help.

“If you perceive someone isn’t doing their job the way you would like them to, or they aren’t speaking to their colleagues in a way you deem appropriate, what can you do to help them?

“It might be to speak with them about how their behaviour is affecting others or suggesting a more effective way of completing a task.

“This is especially important when someone comes to you to complain or whine about someone else, instead of jumping in on their vent, challenge that person to think about how they, and you, could offer assistance,” said Ms Mills.

Procedural avenues for escalating complaints of toxicity in the workplace are also important.

“If you’re not sure, speak to human resources or a manager.

Different facilities will have different processes around dealing with these kinds of issues which might range from one-onone mediation, team mediation, and informal or formal investigations into behaviour and impacts.

“It can also be helpful to create a buffer between work and home.

“It could mean listening to a podcast or your favourite music on your commute to work to reflect on the day ahead.

For the full article visit healthtimes.com.au

HealthTimes - May 2019 | Page 27

Advance your career with a Master of Nursing | A flexible, distance education program | Lead and shape the future of health care | Specialise in Clinical Teaching, Clinical Nursing or Leadership and Management

Advance your career with a Bachelor of Nursing | A highly practical degree | Choose between full-time or part-time study to suit your needs | Study on the grounds of the Sydney Adventist Hospital | Credit of up to one year

To find out more about our courses or to apply online visit avondale.edu.au/nursing phone +61 2 4980 2377 or email study@avondale.edu.au Avondale College Ltd trading as Avondale College of Higher Education CRICOS Provider No: 02731D | TEQSA: PRV12015 | ABN: 53 108 186 401

Page 28 | HealthTimes.com.au

Time to give your career a lift?

MD (Doctor of Medicine) Online and Classroom - Samoa

Immunisation for Health Practitioners Online Course

Fundamentals of Foot Ulceration Workshop Classroom - Brisbane

Master of Nursing Online with placement

Graduate Diploma of Domestic and Family Violence Practice Online Course

Introduction To Cosmetic Injectables Classroom - Melbourne

Search Postgraduate and CPD course opportunities at HealthTimes.com.au

HealthTimes - May 2019 | Page 29

BE A FOSTER CARER It’s Life Changing!

Could you open your home and heart to a child with complex needs?

We have an ongoing need for long term and short break specialist foster carers.

You can be married, de facto, single, a same-sex couple or retirees, with or without children of your own.

Experience working in the disability, health or education sectors is highly desirable, but not essential. Our foster carers receive extensive training, 24/7 support and a reimbursement to cover the cost of providing care.

Contact us to find out more.

P: 1300 592 227 E: carers@lwb.org.au BEAFOSTERCARER.COM.AU

Page 30 | HealthTimes.com.au

LWB13718

If you have a spare bedroom and time to give, we’d love to hear from you.

FOUNDATIONS OF WOUND MANAGEMENT WORKSHOP BRISBANE - ADELAIDE For more information and to book tickets go to: BRISBANE

Designed for busy nurses, this workshop provides comprehensive, easy to understand principles and tools to support evidence-based person-centred wound management practice.

http://bit.do/woundbrisbane

ADELAIDE http://bit.do/woundadelaide

A comprehensive assessment of the person and their wound is vital to direct person-centred treatment. An understanding of common wound types and their management which are seen in everyday practice are also important.

Nurses must stay abreast of the latest knowledge, tools and wound management therapies to facilitate evidence-based person-centred practice.

This comprehensive study day will provide clarity and useful

information to incorporate and succeed in the person-cenEnquiries: tred wound management delivered in the busy modern Contact HealthTimes nurses’ practice.

1300 306 582 Contact@healthtimes.com.au

PRESENTED BY

HealthTimes - May 2019 | Page 31

PRINT POST

POSTAGE PA ID AUST RA LI A

Seabreeze Communications Pty Ltd (ABN 29 071 328 053) PO Box 6744, Melbourne, VIC 3004 CHANGE OF ADDRESS:If the information on this mail label is incorrect, please email contact@healthtimes.com.au with the address that is currently shown & your correct address.

CPD Events for Nurses, Midwives and Allied Health Professionals Find us at healthtimes.com.au/events

Printed by Bendigo Modern Press – (03) 5444 9333

100015906