H
May 2017
Aged Care Special Feature + Catching older people at risk of falls post-discharge + How to discuss end-of-life care with Indigenous Australians + Union keeps fighting for registered nurses in aged care + Purple House nurse named Nurse of the Year
CARING FOR THE CRITICALLY ILL CHILD: WORKSHOP ROYAL CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL MELBOURNE, JULY 17-18
For more information or to book tickets visit bit.do/criticalchild HealthTimes - May 2017 | Page 15
HT-705-00391 1PG FULL COLOUR CMYK PDF
I was just getting ready to eat my lunch when I got the call. The good news was that my manager had safely arrived for the pharmacy expo. The bad news was, the promotional flyers hadn’t. But I was all over it. I called my Officeworks Business Specialist and gave him the lowdown. Luckily, I had the flyer artwork on file, so he helped me arrange a reprint at an interstate Officeworks store using the Print & Copy service. All my boss had to do was pick them up on his way to the expo. He had plenty of time to set up our company stand and text me a photo of how good it looked. I’ve never seen a bigger grin on his face.
Get all over it. Visit officeworks.com.au/business-solutions
Printed for 29/05/2017.
OWO2670_MB_Luggage_HealthTimes_180x125.indd 1
Page 02| www.HealthTimes.com.au
OWO2670
22/05/2017 2:46 PM
HT-705-00869 1PG FULL COLOUR CMYK PDF
Call Caroline Bamford 0415 592 261 Premium apartments within easy access to the Austin, Mercy and Warringal Private Hospital to walk 100m delberg ei the H tion, and ta s n to trai walk 250m n and Austi ospital yH Merc
p yields u Rental % 7 . 4 to tee Guaran Rental le b availa pply) (T&Cs a
Conveniently located within walking distance to the Austin, Mercy & Warringal Private Hospital, MontVue’s elevated view point and unique positioning includes a short walk to bustling Burgundy Street, local restaurants, cafes and amenities along with access to parklands. An easy commute thanks to a highly-connected transport system meshes with relaxing surrounds, making the boldly-designed MontVue the winning choice for investment or living in this sought after location.
MONTVUE.COM.AU For Further Details Contact: CAROLINE BAMFORD - 0415 592 261 FARHAD ZAIWALA - 0431 436 887
HealthTimes - May 2017 | Page 03
HT-705-00629-01 PG FULL COLOUR CMYK PDF
May 2017 We hope you enjoy perusing the range of opportunities included in this Issue. If you are interested in pursuing any of these opportunities, 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
Advertiser list Australian Catholic University Benalla Health Bendigo Health CCM Recruitment International Geneva Health
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
HIMAA Kayhill Property Group Mallee District Aboriginal Health Service Medacs Healthcare Australia Northern Sydney Local Health District
Published by Seabreeze Communications Pty Ltd trading as HealthTimes. ABN 29 071 328 053.
Oceania University of Medicine
Š 2017 Seabreeze Communications Pty Ltd.
Pulse Staffing
All right 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.
Quick and Easy Finance
Officeworks
SkinScience Australia Smart Salary University of Derby
Next Publication: Regional & Remote Health Publication Date:
Monday 26th of June 2017
Artwork Deadline:
Monday 19th of June 2017
Page 04 www.HealthTimes.com.au
HT-705-00510-01 1PG FULL COLOUR CMYK PDF
Need money QUICKLY? TM
Funds on demand, the ‘Quick & Easy’ way Quick and Easy Finance specialises in secured and unsecured short term personal loans over 3 to 36 months.* A short-term loan means your debt is paid off sooner, and with loans that range from $500 to $20,000* you can afford to pay for the things you’ve always wanted. PLUS, by repaying your loan with Payroll Deduction and by using your unencumbered1 vehicle as security, you can enjoy a discounted installment on your loan. HOW SOON CAN I RECEIVE THE FUNDS?
Within 2 to 4 days from the moment we receive your completed application form and supporting documents* funds can be deposited directly into your bank account, and then you may spend the funds however you choose.
WHAT CAN I USE THE LOAN FOR?
Anything you want! Guilt-free shopping; gift purchases; a holiday of a lifetime; home renovations; a new car; repairs or new tyres; dental or medical expenses; new furniture and whitegoods; upgrade to a new wide screen TV… in fact, it’s your loan – so use the funds however you choose! FEES & EARLY SETTLEMENT?
Unlike most other companies, Quick and Easy Finance DOES NOT CHARGE ANY FEES OR PENALTIES if you choose to settle your loan early. So you are free to pay out your loan whenever you want. There is simply no better way to solve all your cash flow needs than a short-term personal loan from Quick and Easy Finance – it’s your cash on demand, the Quick & easy way™
wrightcreative.com.au 3916-CONNCAH
PERSONAL LOANS FROM $500- $20,000
Visit our website www.qef.com.au
*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
HealthTimes - May 2017 | Page 05
HT-705-00887-02 1/2PG FULL COLOUR CMYK PDF
Physiotherapists treat more iHunch pain New Zealand’s peak physiotherapy organisation has urged people using smart phones, tablets and laptops for extended periods of time to avoid ‘iHunch’ with good posture and regular movement. Physiotherapists and chiropractors in the nation are reporting increasing numbers of teenagers and adults seeking treatment for severe neck and upper back pain, labelled ‘iHunch’, ‘tech neck’ and ‘text neck’, as people spend more time with their shoulders hunched over their handheld and mobile devices. Physiotherapy New Zealand said while there’s little research examining the impact of handheld devices on the body, technology alone is not to blame. “We believe that this is about more than just
technology use. Poor posture, a sedentary lifestyle and limited physical activity/exercise are not good for our health and can contribute to neck and back issues,” it said in a statement. “Whenever you are in a fixed position for too long, your muscles are under stress. It could be sitting at a desk for six hours straight, working on a production line or using your cellphone for extended periods. “It is not about ditching technology but about making sure people and particularly children are educated about not putting the body into fixed postures for extended periods and encouraging them to break up their day with movement/physical activity.”
For the full article visit Healthtimes.com.au HT-705-CTR-00625 FULL COLOUR CMYKPDF PDF HT-701-CTR-00625 1/2PG 1/2PG FULL COLOUR CMYK
Are you interested in a career in healthcare but not on the clinical frontline? A career in clinical coding may be what you are looking for. Clinical Coders are one of two occupations that make up most of the health information management profession. Clinical Coders convert clinical information from patients’ medical records into alphanumeric codes according to a health classification system. These codes form part of a data collection which is used for research, funding and healthcare planning. The 22274VIC Certificate IV in Clinical Classification will prepare you for entry into a career in clinical coding. Coursework and Assessments: Online, distance education Duration: 850 hours over a 2 year enrolment period Fee: $5,600 payable in 4 instalments of $1,400 over the 2 years Intakes: March and July
RTO ID: 91660 dv001
Page 06 www.HealthTimes.com.au
For more information about the course: Phone: 02 9887 5898 Email: education@himaa.org.au Web: http://www.himaa2.org.au/education/
HT-705-00876 1PG FULL COLOUR CMYK PDF Our vision: Generations Of Vibrant, healthy And Strong Aboriginal Communities
Why join MDAS? • • • • • • •
Professional working environment Strong emphasis on training & personal development Be part of an expanding and dynamic Early Years team Attractive remuneration & salary packaging Fabulous weather on the banks of the Murray river Great quality restaurants and cafes Easy access to Melbourne
MATERNAL AND CHILD HEALTH NURSE Health Services Part Time (up to 0.8 negotiable) Location Swan Hill About the role: The Maternal and Child Health Nurse will be responsible for providing a culturally sensitive and effective Maternal and Child Health Service. It is a high quality service that meets the MCHN professional standards of practice and is supported by policy guidelines established my MDAS.
Key Skills we are looking for: • • •
Qualified Maternal Child Health Nurse, experience desirable Certified Nurse immuniser qualification desirable Knowledge of the current Universal and Enhanced Maternal and Child Health Service Guidelines
•
Awareness and appreciation of Aboriginal culture and the ability and sensitivity to refer to relevant Elders when requiring community and cultural information and support
•
Highly effective verbal and written communication skills
•
Ability to liaise with internal and external professionals as required
Closing date: 5pm Monday 26th June 2017 How to apply For full details including a position description and details on how to apply, please refer to our ‘People and Jobs’ section of our website: www.mdas.org.au
Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander People are Strongly encouraged to apply. HealthTimes - May 2017 | Page 07
Purple House nurse named Nurse of the Year
S
arah Brown is the 2017 Nurse of the Year. The remote area nurse, who reshaped ‘on country’ dialysis services for Aboriginal people in central Australia, has been awarded the top honour at the 2017 HESTA Australian Nursing and Midwifery Awards. A non-Indigenous nurse who was born in England and grew up in Queensland, Ms Brown helped establish the Alice Springsbased Western Desert Dialysis, known as Purple House. Purple House provides renal dialysis six days a week, social support and allied health services, but it’s also a place that patients can call their own - and make bush medicine, cook damper and kangaroo tails on a camp fire, and organise hunting trips. “Recognition like this is great for us and for what we are trying to achieve - we’re communitycontrolled, and we raise money ourselves and we’re always looking for the right sort of nurses who want to come and work for us and have some fun,” Ms Brown said. “Things like this are not only lovely personally but really fabulous for the whole organisation and our story - which is really about Aboriginal people working really hard against the odds to make life better for their family members and their communities.” The Aboriginal community-controlled venture has 24 dialysis machines at 11 places, from Wanarn and Warburton in Western
Page 08| www.HealthTimes.com.au
Australia to Yirrkala in Arnhem Land. It also has a mobile dialysis unit, the Purple Truck, which rolls out to visit other remote communities. Ms Brown said the prize money will help fund the creation of a new dialysis service at Ernabella in South Australia for the Pukatja community. The service also plans to open the doors of a dialysis unit at Ampilatwatja, in the Utopia region of the Northern Territory, early next year. Other award winners include Rebecca Rich, of Perth Clinic in Western Australia, who was named Outstanding Graduate, while The Mater (Sydney) Preadmission Midwife A p p o i n t m e n t Program at The Mater Hospital won the award for Team Excellence. Ms Rich was recognised for her commitment to achieving patient-centred care in mental health nursing, and now plans to use the prize money to visit hospitals around Australia to research treatment for mental health and personality disorders. “I plan to visit hospitals that treat personality disorders, find out how they’ve been successful and bring this back to the Perth Clinic to help us improve,” she said The Mater was awarded for developing and implementing an holistic multidisciplinary care program to women in the third trimester of their pregnancies. The program provides women with a
range of health settings. HESTA CEO Debby Blakey said this year’s winners exemplify the best qualities of their professions, and demonstrate the outstanding impact nurses and midwives have in achieving new standards of health care in Australia. “These winners stood out from an exceptional group of finalists for their outstanding leadership and innovation, in implementing new services and practices that provide enhanced health care outcomes and the highest standard of care to patients across Australia,” she said. The winners, who each receive $10,000 for further education or team development, were selected from 12 finalists across Australia.
For more articles visit healthtimes.com.au
HT-705-00879-01 1.5 2PG FULL COLOUR CMYK
free 45-minute appointment with a specially trained midwife to discuss the women’s expectations and concerns around their pregnancy, birth and early parenting, which also includes screening for depression and anxiety, domestic violence screening, and assistance with other concerns. Antenatal midwife coordinator Sarah Tooke said the prize money will be used to continue to run the program, fund research, and improve services. “We want to provide ongoing training for staff, conduct formal research to self-evaluate and we would like to fund a translator to help with linguistically diverse patients.” Now in its 11th year, the annual awards recognise the outstanding contribution of graduates, individuals and teams for their professionalism, innovation and care across a
HT-705-CTR-00815 1/2PG FULL COLOUR CMYK PDF
Be in to WIN a $100 Voucher* when you get a job through Geneva this June or July
Register with Geneva Healthcare now to move to your next Permanent or Contract job in Australia, New Zealand, or the Middle East, and be in to WIN a $100 Myer voucher when you accept a job in June or July 2017. *T&Cs apply.
Be in to win
$100
brendonj@genevahealth.com Register at www.genevahealth.com/JOB HealthTimes - May 2017 | Page 09
HT-705-00886 1PG FULL COLOUR CMYK PDF
CARING FOR THE CRITICALLY ILL CHILD: WORKSHOP ROYAL CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL MELBOURNE – JULY 17 & 18, 2017 For more information and to book tickets, go to http://bit.do/criticalchild Enquiries: Contact HealthTimes 1300 306 582 contact@healthtimes.com.au
Focusing on the clinical skills that are required and essential for the recognition and emergency management of the seriously ill infant and young child. .
Designed for medical officer, nurses, paramedics and allied health professionals in all medical fields. Course Accreditations: •
RACGP (Category 1 – 40 points)
•
ACRRM (30 PRDP Points)
•
Eligible for the Rural Procedural Grants Program
Price - $450 (early bird - $399 – ends soon) Tickets strictly limited
Page 10 www.HealthTimes.com.au
HT-705-00863 1PG FULL COLOUR CMYK PDF
Imagine the possibilities… Take up the opportunity to become a valued member of a dedicated team, which provides excellent person centred care to the community. Our organisation offers a work environment that encourages innovation and excellence. We support staff to achieve best practice outcomes for our community by ensuring that all staff has access to an innovative education program. If you believe that you have the skills and experience to be a charismatic leader we invite you to apply for the following position:
Midwives Position Status: Permanent Hours Available - EFT Negotiable Classification: Registered Nurse/Registered Midwife Grade 2 and CNS (YS9) The Registered Midwife will be responsible for, providing high quality midwifery care to women and their significant others in accordance with the organisation’s policies, procedures, clinical practice guidelines, standards and values. Benalla Health provides structured shift times to support this service. Benalla Health is experiencing a growth in antenatal bookings. We are committed to offering our employees: • • • • • • •
Work/Life balance options; Accommodation Assistance; Relocation Expenses negotiable Access to a team of experienced professionals including a midwifery educator; A supportive learning environment; Access to professional development; and Salary Packaging incl. Remote Area Housing for eligible staff.
For more information please contact: Kim Woosnam, Nurse Unit Manager Acute/Midwifery on 03 5761 4222.
Applications Close: Wednesday 14th June 2017 at 5.00pm. Suitable Applicants will be interviewed upon application. Application Process: To apply and for full details, please log-on to: www.benallahealth.org.au/benalla/careers
HealthTimes - May 2017 | Page 11
How to discuss end-of-life care with Indigenous Australians
N
ew resources about end-of-life care for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people will assist nurses and other health professionals begin the conversation in a culturally-safe way. The Dying to Talk resources, developed as part of a collaboration between the Congress of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Nurses and Midwives (CATSINaM) and Palliative Care Australia (PCA), has been designed to assist nurses and their patients discuss end-of-life - a special time in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander culture. While all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have different end-of-life wishes, many prefer to return to country at the end of their lives. CATSINaM CEO Janine Mohamed says the resource aims to ensure Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people can die with dignity and respect. “Like many people, I have my own endof-life experience. For my mum, she wasn’t even told that she was now on a palliative care regime,” Ms Mohamed says. “I think some very big barriers around misconceptions of Aboriginal people and missed steps can really affect the care that a person receives and their ability to be involved in the decision-making. “I think this in itself gives a step by step approach to being able to ensure that those steps aren’t missed, that people’s voices are privileged in their end-of-life, that people are
Page 12| www.HealthTimes.com.au
treated respectfully, and, ultimately, die with respect.” Ms Mohamed says the guide will help Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people to consider and voice their end-of-life care wishes. “We know that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people have a reluctance to engage in end-of-life health care and palliative care endof-life services,” she says. “That’s mainly due to past experiences of culturally inappropriate care that has caused psychological distress and unnecessary suffering for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients, and their families and carers, at a time that’s very vulnerable - where the clients themselves are probably feeling depressed and vulnerable with their diagnoses. “But it’s also a culturally and spiritually significant time for many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as well, and if that’s not respected that only perpetuates the reluctance to engage.” The resources feature a downloadable step by step Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Discussion Starter from the Dying to Talk website, which encourages patients to think about themselves and their family, consider their health care, prepare for talking about end-of-life care with family, friends or health professionals, and to review their discussion. It also outlines a range of other planning activities, such as a preparing an advance care
our members are comments made by health professionals, such as - Aboriginal people don’t feel pain the same way…and that my way is the right way,” she says. “These are both barriers to not only the care that Aboriginal people receive but them engaging in the services ever again.” Ms Mohamed says she hopes the resources will not only bridge the gap in conversation but build better relationships between health professionals and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities. “So that community-based local approaches to end-of-life care, which are generally preferred, will then become a part of the health care system,” she says. “It’s beginning conversations with individuals but we hope that individual nurses will think further beyond this resource and think about whole of services approaches to end-of-life care, as well as their own individual ongoing training, such as thinking about doing cultural safety training as well.”
Have your say! Leave a comment on this or other articles by visiting healthtimes.com.au
HealthTimes - May 2017 | Page 13
HT-705-00878-03 2PG FULL COLOUR CMYK
plan, organising a legal will, registering as an organ and tissue donor, planning for social media accounts, and planning a funeral. Developed with the support of Indigenous Allied Health Australia and the Australian Indigenous Doctors’ Association, the resources also include a set of cards that can be used as a tool to start the conversations. The resources will be distributed across the nation to Aboriginal Medical Services and Aboriginal Health Services. Ms Mohamed says many Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people prefer to consult extensively with family about end-of-life care, and the resources will better prepare them to tackle the discussions. “I think it’s an opportunity for the health care provider to also see the pace at which the client is working and why they are working at that pace, to ensure that there are no missed steps,” she says. “Often, it’s a rushed process from our perspective, and decisions are made for the client, not with the client. “It’s important the client is empowered in this very important decision-making time.” “There is no cookie-cutter approach. We are individuals and I think that’s one of the pitfalls we fall into thinking - that all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are all the same but we are not a homogenous culture.” Ms Mohamed says health practitioners’ misconceptions about Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people can significantly affect the care of their Indigenous patients. “Some of the things that we’ve heard from
HT-705-00510-02 1PG FULL COLOUR CMYK PDF HT-703-00510-01
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 14| www.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.
HT-705-CTR-00628 1PG FULL COLOUR CMYK PDF HT-704-CTR-00628
Home... As the leading provider of nursing staff across Australia for over 15 years, we have a variety of fantastic permanent, temporary and contract roles available in metro and rural areas across Australia, for midwives and nurses specialising in: – Aged care – Theatres – General medical and surgical – Mental health – ICU – Emergency – Paediatrics
...or away There’s huge demand for nurses in London and the UK. At Pulse we pride ourselves on delivering an efficient and personalised recruitment process tailor made for your move. Pulse workers benefit from: – OSCE reimbursement scheme* – Assistance with NI number application no need to go for an interview – Assistance with setting up bank account – Assistant in nursing opportunities while you are waiting for your pin – Consultant in Sydney who is on call to help get you ready for your move – Free mandatory training
We are here to support your next move.
02 9965 9400
www.pulsejobs.com/HealthTimes
People Perfectly Placed
*Terms and conditions apply
P3194 Pulse Nursing Health Times full page ad.indd 1
13/04/2017 09:41
HealthTimes - May 2017 | Page 15
HT-705-00878 1PG FULL COLOUR CMYK PDF
Telehealth boost for rural and remote psychology services
A
new Medicare rebate for online videoconferencing consultations with psychologists will provide people living in rural and remote areas of Australia with the same psychological access as those living in the nation’s major cities. The Federal Government has unveiled a new telehealth initiative, which will be funded in the upcoming Federal Budget at a cost of $9 million over four years between 2017-18 and 2020-21. From November 1, people living in rural and regional Australia will be able to claim a Medicare rebate for up to seven of the 10 rebatable mental health sessions for telehealth consults. The telehealth boost will enable patients to remain in their own homes, reducing the time and costs of transportation to larger regional centres or cities for sessions with their psychologist. Australian Psychological Society (APS) president Anthony Cichello said the move will provide greater equity of access to evidence-based psychological care for Australians living in small country towns, remote and very remote Australia. “The number of people with mental health and behavioural problems, and high psychological distress is roughly the same regardless of where people live in Australia,” he said. “But people living in rural and remote regions have far greater difficulty accessing effective psychological treatment than those living in cities.” Mr Cichello said the announcement will also
Page 16| www.HealthTimes.com.au
bolster the existing psychology workforce in rural and remote Australia. “It will substantially assist the current workforce to meet the needs of people living outside urban regions, and attract more psychologists to work in regional Australia.” A joint announcement from Federal Health Minister Greg Hunt and Minister for Regional Communities Fiona Nash states the demand for psychological services in rural and regional parts of the country is growing but a key barrier to accessing services is the lack of local mental health professionals. The Medicare rebatable psychological services via telehealth will be available for patients living in Modified Monash Model regions four to seven, which cover smaller country towns and remote and very remote locations. “This will ensure that the services go to areas with the biggest access challenges, not to larger regional centres that are more likely to have resident psychologists and other health professionals,” the Ministers said in a statement. “We know that people living in rural and regional areas often have reduced access to health care. “They have to travel greater distances to receive medical services, experience higher rates of ill health, and demonstrate higher death, illness and health and disease risk factors than people living in major cities.”
HT-705-CTR-00800 1PG FULL COLOUR CMYK PDF
I WANT THE POWER TO IMPROVE PEOPLE’S WELLBEING Ready for your next challenge? ACU’s biomedical science and applied public health students develop practical, in-demand skills to promote health, prevent disease, and make a lasting impact through their work.
CRICOS registered provider: 00004G
As a double degree, a Bachelor of Biomedical Science and Applied Public Health opens up many career opportunities for graduates in research, as well as in a range of health, science, and community service sectors.
MIDYEAR APPLICATIONS NOW OPEN yourfuture.acu.edu.au
HealthTimes - May 2017 | Page 17
Catching older people at risk of falls post-discharge
A
home-based intervention that catches older people returning home after a hospitalisation for a fall could reduce their potential risk of future falls. The RDNS Institute aims to further examine the use of a home-based intervention, including an individualised balance exercise program, medication review and education, after a soon-to-be published pilot study showed promising results. Dr Claudia Meyer, a Research Fellow at the RDNS Institute with a background in clinical physiotherapy, says a gap exists for older people transitioning to home after hospitalisation for a fall - when care is often, and understandably, focused on the person’s injury or illness as a priority over their heightened falls risk. Dr Meyer says the study found older people returning home either failed to receive any information about falls prevention or were possibly unable to recall whether they received falls prevention information while in hospital. “That’s quite striking because they’re in hospital as a result of a fall but it was almost like the fall didn’t matter,” she says. “So, for example, somebody had a fall, they were transported to hospital in an ambulance, they did some tests on the person and found she had had, coincidentally, a silent heart attack – but not the cause of the fall. “But then they addressed that problem as the priority, which is totally understandable, but the fact that she had fallen - first - wasn’t considered as part of the equation.” Statistics show falls account for 70 per cent of hospitalisations resulting in injury to people aged 65 years and older, and 87 per cent for people aged 85 years and older.
Page 18| www.HealthTimes.com.au
Dr Meyer says a person living with dementia has a 50 to 80 per cent chance of having a fall, a person with Parkinson’s disease has up to an 80 to 90 per cent chance of a fall, and a stroke survivor has a 60 per cent chance of experiencing a fall, over the course of one year. Falls also result in substantial injuries for five to 10 per cent of older people, with 92 per cent of hip fractures attributed to falls.
Dr Meyer says older people face an increased risk of falls post-discharge - up to 40 per cent fall within six months of discharge, while 34 per cent fall within three months of discharge from aged care inpatient rehabilitation. “Also from a psychological point of view, there’s a potential to develop a fear of falling, so people who have this fear of falling can get into a spiral where they reduce or stop activity because they are essentially afraid of moving. “That potentially leads to muscle weakness and functional decline, which can predispose them to more falls - so this fear of falling can be quite a vicious cycle.” The RDNS pilot study aimed to improve the health-related quality of life of participants, reduce rate and risk of falls, improve balance and physical function, and review medications to identify and potentially change medications known to increase the risk of falls. It also aimed to increase knowledge about participants’ individual risk factors and implement management strategies, and develop hospital discharge strategies targeted to older people hospitalised for falls. Ten people aged over 65, who had been
being discharged from hospital are assessed for falls risk. “Often they are not even assessed for falls risk and that should be considered part of routine assessments,” she says. “From there, the big gap is actually putting some strategies in place and that requires a coordinated service and follow up.” Dr Meyer, who has researched falls prevention in older adults with diabetes and those living with dementia, says it’s important to give older people choice in deciding which falls prevention risk factors they would like to address. She says a long list of recommendations can be overwhelming for older people while targeting one or a few risk factors, that they want to tackle, may be more effective. “As a physiotherapist, I can come in and insist on exercise but that might be what they don’t want to do they might hate exercising or they’d rather address another risk factor instead,” Dr Meyer says. “And by addressing any of the risk factors they are reducing their overall risk. “It’s about giving people choices in falls prevention but also making them aware it’s not the end of the road - there’s lot of things that can be done, there’s lots of strategies, and it’s about convincing them that those strategies may be helpful.”
For more articles visit HealthTimes.com.au HealthTimes - May 2017 | Page 19
HT-705-00879-02 2PG FULL COLOUR CMYK
discharged home from an acute or rehabilitative hospital in Melbourne, and were an existing or new RDNS client, participated in the six-month study. Five participants were randomly assigned to receive the home-based intervention, comprising exercise such as balance and strength exercises over four sessions with an exercise physiologist, education, and a Home Medicines Review with a pharmacist, while five participants received usual RDNS care. After six months, half of the participants who were initially deemed frail, at a high or intermediate level, had returned to a level of intermediate or non-frailty. The study resulted in an overall improvement in participants’ quality of life, reduced falls risk, a slight increase in fear of falling, and a substantial increase in physical activity levels. “We had very low numbers in the study so it was difficult to get any kind of real conclusions out of it but what we did work out was that when people come back home - that is actually the perfect time to talk to them about falls, rather than in the hospital setting,” Dr Meyer says. “That’s because it’s just too busy in the hospital - it’s too overwhelming for them. “We’re hoping to extend that project at some point, and work with our liaison nurses, and catch people when they first come back home, when it’s still on their mind, before they get back into their normal routine and begin to not worry about falls any more.” Dr Meyer says it’s important older people
HT-702-00560 FULL COLOUR CMYK CMYK PDF HT-703-00560 HT-704-00560 1PG FULL HT-705-00560 HT-701-00560 1PG 1PG FULL COLOUR COLOUR CMYK PDF PDF
Save on more moments every day with Smartsalary
More and more, people are choosing the salary packaging specialists at Smartsalary to help them make their pay packet go further, whether they’re spending a little or a lot. That’s because Smartsalary does salary packaging differently: customers are at the centre of everything they do -and they have the awards to prove it -so when people choose Smartsalary, they stay. Making set-up and management of your benefits easy Mobile apps and online tools for easy claims on the go Fast payment with funds in your bank account within 48 hours Award-winning customer service when and where you need it Exclusive discounts across a range of national retailers
Talk to Smartsalary today and find out how much you could be saving every day. 1300 221 971 | smartnurses.com.au Page 20| www.HealthTimes.com.au
704-CTR-00824 1PG FULL COLOUR CMYK PDF HT-705-CTR-00883 1PG FULL COLOUR CMYK PDF
Mental Health Nursing Opportunities Are you an experienced registered nurse interested in advancing you career in mental health nursing? Royal North Shore Hospital is part of the Northern Sydney Local Health District, located in the trendy lower north shore suburb of St Leonards. The Mental Health service at Royal North Shore Hospital currently has a range of exciting career opportunities for experienced nurses working across the Mental Health Inpatient Unit, Psychiatric Emergency Care Centre and the Emergency Department in brand new purpose built facilities. The current full time leadership vacancies include: - Clinical Nurse Consultant Level 2 - Clinical Nurse Educator - Clinical Nurse Specialist Level 2 As part of your position Northern Sydney Local Health District offers salary packaging, education support and professional development opportunities and short term accommodation (subject to availability). To find out more about these exciting career opportunities come and visit the unit and meet the staff or if you wish to apply for a position contact us today! Contact: Alison Sutton (Inpatient Services Manager) Phone: 0404 026 516 Email: Alison.Sutton@health.nsw.gov.au https://facebook.com/nslhd.mhda http://www.nslhd.health.nsw.gov.au/ We look forward to welcoming you into our friendly and supportive team!
HealthTimes - May 2017 | Page 21
HT-705-00878-02 1PG FULL COLOUR CMYK PDF
Novel app targets asthma and boosts mental health
A
unique asthma management and goals app is the latest innovative tool to assist young people with asthma improve their quality of life. The free Kiss MyAsthma app, launched on World Asthma Day, is designed to help the 11 per cent of young Australians with asthma manage the physical, social and emotional impacts of the condition. Asthma Australia funded the app, which was developed by a team of researchers, clinicians and app developers led by the University of Sydney and the Woolcock Institute of Medical Research. The app is believed to be the first asthma app co-designed with a group of young people with asthma, right from the beginning of the design process. It’s also the first app to address the selfmanagement and psychological issues linked to asthma. Kiss MyAsthma enables young people with asthma to outline their asthma management and goals. It sends notifications from a cast of monster characters that provide friendly reminders and opportunities to adjust their goals to keep them on-track. The app also features symptom and mood tracking, emergency support, diarises asthma attacks, and enables young people to share their tracked data with health practitioners. It comes after a 2014 survey of more than 500 people aged 12 to 25 with asthma found 63 per cent had poorly controlled asthma, 52 per cent were likely to experience mental health is-
Page 22| www.HealthTimes.com.au
sues, while 56 per cent revealed asthma affected their enjoyment of life. Research conducted as part of the app development process, recently published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research, highlighted the importance of mental health support for young people with asthma. Associate Professor Lorraine Smith, a research psychologist at the University of Sydney and lead investigator on the app project, said workshop activities with the co-designers highlighted the importance of mental health issues and broader psychological issues for young people living with asthma. “The guiding principle that we had for this project was that we wanted to develop an app for young people that was developed by young people from the very beginning of the design process, and not from the perspective of a whole bunch of researchers, who think they know better and usually they don’t,” she said. “Through those workshops, we got to know what was important for them, what a typical day looked like, what their challenges were in their life, what role asthma played in their life.” Researchers applied psychological principles, including autonomy, relatedness and competence, to the information gathered at the workshops to help create a range of features within the app.
For the full article visit healthtimes.com.au
HT-705-00884 1PG FULL COLOUR CMYK PDF
DID YOU KNOW? Bendigo Health is currently recruiting Midwives & Theatre Nurses in our brand new world class facility. Each year our maternity services welcome more than 1,300 babies. We have nursing opportunities for all people in the theatre space.
“
“
DON’T TAKE OUR WORD FOR IT
The new Bendigo Hospital is an amazing place to work with the latest technology. There are many opportunities and a supportive team environment combined with a great work-life balance.
ANITA GRIGG
Day Surgery Nurse
www.bendigohealth.org.au
HealthTimes - May 2017 | Page 23
HT-705-00879-03 1PG FULL COLOUR CMYK PDF
Private Union keeps fighting for registered nurses in aged care
T
he New South Wales Nurses and Midwives’ Association (NSWNMA) has vowed to continue its fight to have one registered nurse on duty at all times in the state’s residential aged care facilities. NSWNMA general secretary Brett Holmes labelled the Nationals and Liberal Party MPs’ move to recently vote down a bill, which aimed to reverse a 2014 State Government change to the Public Health Act 2010 that removed the requirement for one registered nurse to be on duty around-the-clock at facilities, as “disappointing”. “We’ll continue, whether it’s in the state or in the federal jurisdiction, to make sure that we can do everything we can to provide the highest quality of care to the people who are most vulnerable in our residential aged care services,” he said. “It’s a just battle and it’s one that the community of New South Wales should continue to support.” The Shooters Fishers and Farmers Party bill passed the state’s Upper House before it was defeated in the Lower House. Mr Holmes said registered nurses perform an essential role in overseeing and delivering high level care, and the defeat of the bill will erode the quality of care for the state’s most vulnerable people. “What this obviously means, and the irony for the government is that it picks up the bill in terms of the numbers of admissions to our public hospitals that are there unnecessarily be-
Page 24| www.HealthTimes.com.au
cause these aged care facilities choose not to have registered nurses on duty 24 hours a day,” he said. “In fact, they place them on call and there can be no registered nurses in some facilities all over a weekend. So all of that period, the assistants-in-nursing, the carers, the choices they have are simply to send these patients to the closest emergency department. “That’s an unfriendly place for an aged person. There are situations where they obviously need to be there but there are many situations where they would be far better cared for in their own home, with the registered nurse there to direct care, to make the proper assessments of them, and to ensure that their lives are not disrupted, unnecessarily.” Mr Holmes also rejected the government’s argument that the requirement to have a registered nurse on duty around-the-clock would force many small regional aged care facilities to close their doors. “We know that the Commonwealth Government squibs this as well - its legislation only says ‘sufficient numbers of suitably qualified’, and that’s a complete out for many operators,” he added. “They can choose then the level of qualification and many of them are obviously showing that they choose not to have registered nurses on duty 24 hours a day.”
522-008 423-001 419-001 417-002 416-001 418-001 420-002 421-001 424-002 422-002 503-017 509-009 502-023 514-007 501-027 512-009 507-012 1PG 508-006 505-011 506-008 504-009 524-008 516-007 518-008 520-008 601-017 601-035 604-021 00092 1/2PG FULL COLOUR CMYK PDF 603-019 HT-609-00092 PDF HT-608-CTR00092 1/2PG FULL COLOUR CMYK PDF 606-017 605-015 1/2PG FULL COLOUR CMYK PDF HT-612-00092 HT-611-00092 HT-610-00092 HT-704-00794 HPH 1/2PG FULL COLOUR CMYK PDF HT-703-00729 HT-705-00794 1/2PG COLOUR CMYK HT-702-00686 FULL PDF HT-701-00626 OUM’s innovative teaching style is fantastic and exciting. Truly foreword thinking, OUM allows the student to benefit from both local and international resources. Brandy Wehinger, RN OUM Class of 2015
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 150 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
HT-705-00885 1/2PG FULL COLOUR CMYK PDF HT-704-CTR-00613 1/2PG FULL COLOUR CMYK PDF
READY FOR A CAREER HEALTHCHECK ? Stay at the forefront of your practice
Choose a course to suit you:
Deliver impact within your chosen healthcare profession through part-time, online learning and achieve a globally recognised degree. Our online courses equip you with the skills and knowledge needed, allowing you to practice transferable skills effectively. Our range of online short courses, undergraduate and postgraduate degrees are designed to help you in your personal development, whether that’s for your CPD or as part of your training and development plan.
Try a free course taster online Whether you’re starting out, moving up or starting again WE’RE READY WHEN YOU ARE
• Nursing • Perioperative Practice • Child and Adolescent Mental Health • Dementia Care • Integrative Health and Social Care • Clinical Supervision • Cognitive Behavioural Therapies • Counselling Studies • Master of Public Health
www.derby.ac.uk/healthtimes Apply now, start September, January or May
HealthTimes - May 2017 | Page 25
HT-705-CTR-00891 1PG FULL COLOUR CMYK PDF
Abu Dhabi, UAE
Med/Surg & ICU Nurses WANTED Interviews in 2 weeks Apply today!
A world-class hospital in Abu Dhabi, is looking for Intensive Care & Acute Care nurses. This is your chance to further develop your nursing career, working in exciing & challenging clinical environments. The state of the art healthcare facility has general & specialty posiions in: Intensive care Cardiac Neurology & Neurosurgery Plasscs & Vascular Pla Gastroenterology General medical & surgical wards Living in Abu Dhabi provides great opportuniies to experience a unique culture and travel with large expat communiies. In addiion to being part of an internaional clinical team, successful nurses will receive ights, accommodaion, monthly allowances, and a generous annual leave package. Contact us for more details or to register for interviews today: dawn@ccmrecruitment.com.au raquel@ccmrecruitment.com.au AUS Free Call: 1800 818 844 NZ Free Call: 0800 700 839 Page 26 www.HealthTimes.com.au
HT-705-00629-02 1PG FULL COLOUR CMYK PDF
Great jobs for health professionals (you won’t find anywhere else)
Registered Nurses - ICU Variety of permanent, temporary and contract roles in metro and rural areas across Australia.
Director of Nursing Sydney. A fantastic opportunity to lead the nursing team at a modern two theatre complex.
Clinical Nurse Ingham. Provide clinical expertise, support and education to nursing staff.
Non Residential Withdrawal Nurse Latrobe. Support people to safely achieve withdrawal from alcohol and other drugs.
These and hundreds more great job opportunities at
HealthTimes.com.au HealthTimes - May 2017 | Page 27
HT-705-00887-01 1PG FULL COLOUR CMYK PDF
Nutrition for the modern aged care resident
W
hat does the modern aged care resident look like and want? New dietetic research shows while current dietary practices in residential aged care (RAC) mainly target managing malnutrition in older adults aged 85 and over, the emerging ageing population of baby boomers - adults aged 84 and under - are more likely to be overweight, while at least a third are likely to have diabetes. Accredited Practising Dietitian (APD) Olivia Farrer, a PhD candidate and research dietitian at Flinders University, says the preliminary findings from her yet to be published research reveal the changing health needs and expectations of aged care residents. Ms Farrer, who presented on the topic at the recent Dietitians Association of Australia (DAA) 34th National Conference, says the changing needs of residents presents new challenges around the quality and service of food for both dietitians and aged care providers. “My study found that up to a third of current RAC residents have diabetes and those older adults aged <84yrs with type 2 diabetes were more likely to be admitted to RAC in the overweight or obese weight range and maintain this weight, or even gain weight, over a typical length of stay of two years,” she says. “Whereas the oldest old (over 85yrs), were more likely to have been admitted within a healthy or underweight BMI weight range, and more likely to have lost weight over a similar
Page 28 www.HealthTimes.com.au
time period.” Ms Farrer conducted two studies - one, an audit of resident demographics and, the other, a series of focus groups with older adults both in residential aged care as well as prospective residents (baby boomers living in the community). The focus groups revealed while the older group are more likely to be passive in their experience of ageing, diet and diabetes, baby boomers want autonomy in their health management and food choices. “What I found was that there is a lot of similarity between the cohorts, but while our oldest old in RAC are reluctant to vocalise their preferences and speak more wistfully of their ideal service, the baby boomers were much more firm about their expectations for diet and diabetes management,” she says. Ms Farrer, who is also a privately practising dietitian, says the groups highlighted issues of choice and food quality. “Ultimately baby boomers want flexible diet options, whereby they can choose to have a ‘healthy’ diet more aligned with their diabetes education and self-sought dietary knowledge but also indulge without restriction when they choose to.” Both cohorts also expressed concerns over the quality and acceptability of food provided in aged care.
For the full article visit Healthtimes.com.au
HT-705-00831 HT-705-00887-031/2PG FULL COLOUR 1/2PG CMYKFULL PDF C
Musculoskeletal pain for Aboriginal patients When physiotherapist Dr Ivan Lin first began researching musculoskeletal pain among Aboriginal Australians, there was a belief in the research literature that Aboriginal people were protected from the disabling effects of low back pain. In an under-researched field, the now senior lecturer and NHMRC Early Career Research Fellow at the Western Australian Centre for Rural Health (WACRH) at the University of Western Australia, is part of a team of Indigenous and non-Indigenous researchers shining the spotlight on the issue of musculoskeletal pain in Aboriginal communities. A non-Indigenous musculoskeletal physiotherapist with the Geraldton Regional Aboriginal Medical Service, Dr Lin is also an adjunct senior lecturer with the Curtin University School of Physiotherapy and Exercise Science.
Musculoskeletal pain Musculoskeletal pain is the leading cause of disability in Australia. Statistics show 6.1 million people, or 28 per cent of the entire population, experienced arthritis or another musculoskeletal condition in 2011-12. Back pain affects about 2.8 million people or 13 per cent of Australians. Those with back problems are 2.4 times more likely to report poor health than those without the condition, and 2.6 times more likely to report very high levels of psychological distress. They are also 2.5 times more likely to experience severe and very severe pain, and 3.4 times more likely to experience difficulty completing every-day tasks.
Aesthetic Training Australia www.aesthetictrainingaustralia.com
We provide students with a programme that leads to real opportunities and excellent understanding of Aesthetic procedures. Our trainers and staff provide students with knowledge and ongoing support vital to success in this field. On successful completion of the Cosmetic Injectables Workshop each delegate will be competent in the delivery of basic techniques to treat with Botulinum Toxin and Dermal Fillers. Skin Science now offer one day workshops in Sclerotherapy and Platelet Rich Plasma therapy. Expand your clinical skills as a healthcare professional. Enjoy additional income by offering rewarding treatments that can improve clients self esteem. Upcoming workshops: Cosmetic Injectable workshops (3 Day) 31 July, 1 & 2 August 2017 11, 12 & 13 September 2017 23, 24 & 25 October 2017 4, 5 & 6 December 2017 Sclerotherapy workshop: (1Day) 9 June 2017 4 September 2017 Platelet Rich Plasma Therapy (1 Day) Mon 9 October Visit www.aesthetictrainingaustralia.com for more information, call 1300 817 524 or email info@skinscience.co
For the full article visit Healthtimes.com.au HealthTimes - May 2017 | Page 29
HT-705-00629-03 1PG FULL COLOUR CMYK PDF
Time to give your career a lift? Master of Healthcare Leadership Online course
Certificate IV in Bereavement Support Online Course
Graduate Diploma of Nutrition Classroom - Queensland
Graduate Certificate in Clinical Supervision Online course
Graduate Certificate of Nutrition Online course
Master of Nursing Online and classroom - Melbourne
Search Postgraduate and CPD course opportunities at HealthTimes.com.au
Page 30 www.HealthTimes.com.au
H HT-705-CTR-00881 1PG FULL COLOUR CMYK PDF
HealthTimes - May 2017 | Page 31
PRINT POST
POSTAGE PAID AUSTRALIA
Seabreeze Seabreeze Communications Communications Pty Pty Ltd Ltd (ABN (ABN 29 29 071 071 328 328 053) 053) PO PO Box Box 6744, 6744, Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC VIC 3004 3004
Printed byby Bendigo Modern1800 Press623 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; (03) Printed BMP - Freecall 9025444 9333
100015906
CHANGE CHANGE OF OF ADDRESS: ADDRESS: IfIf the the information information on this mail label is incorrect, please email HT-705-CTR-007021/2PG FULL COLOUR CMYK PDF contact@healthtimes.com.au contact@healthtimes.com.au with the address that is currently shown & your correct address.