In The Loop St John of God South East Melbourne Hospitals March 2021
Covid-19 Vaccines
Berwick caregiver clinic open for a limited time only
The Spotlight is On Environmental Services
Berwick | Frankston | Pinelodge Clinic | Langmore Centre
Hospitality | Compassion | Respect | Justice | Excellence
St John of God Day What is it all about?
Vaccines The Berwick vaccine clinic is open now.
For a limited time only. The Covid-19 vaccine clinic is now open and running from Berwick for caregivers across all South East Melbourne hospitals. To date, there have been over 500 caregivers and VMOs vaccinated at the clinic, located within the hospital’s ground floor consulting suites. You may have noticed the AstraZeneca vaccine in the news over the past few days and the COO, Monash Health - our partner in the vaccine clinic- has responded with some sound advice (excerpt):
are not uncommon, with one case per 1,000 people occurring in the general population each year. The rate of blood clots in people who have received the vaccine does not appear to be higher than that.
“The second thing you may have heard about in yesterday’s media is that a small number of countries paused vaccination with the Oxford AstraZeneca vaccine as a precautionary measure, after reports of blood clots following administration of the vaccine.
Vaccination programs with the AstraZeneca vaccine are continuing in other countries, including in Australia, the United Kingdom and France.
The TGA has advised that no link between blood clots and the Oxford AstraZeneca vaccine has been confirmed and that they have received no reports of blood clots following the use of the vaccine in Australia.
The TGA and health authorities are closely monitoring for any and all unusual events associated with both vaccines currently being used in Australia, and as Australia’s Chief Medical Officer Paul Kelly has said, there is no evidence the Oxford AstraZeneca vaccination has caused blood clots.”
Extensive international experience also does not indicate an increased risk of blood clots associated with the vaccine. Blood clots can occur naturally and
The clinic is available, at no cost, to all caregivers and VMOs.
It’s no joke. First dose caregiver vaccines end on April 1. Who: All South East Melbourne caregivers and VMOs Where: St John of God Berwick Hospital consulting suites function room on the ground floor Clinic hours: Monday to Friday, 7:30am to 6:00pm and on Saturdays between 10am and 2pm. How:
The free AstraZeneca vaccine is administered in two doses, with the first dose available at the vaccine clinic until the 1st of April. The second dose will available to caregivers and VMO’s around the end of May.
Booking:
To make an appointment, call the booking hotline on 8784 5584. Some walk-in appointments may be available depending on how busy the clinic is, but we recommend you make an appointment to avoid missing out. Please talk to you manager about your plans as we want to stagger vaccinations for each department. Please bring your Medicare Card.
CONSTRUCTION UPDATE: The Langmore Centre A word from our Clinical Redevelopment Manager Right: : Evan Rundell, Clinical Redevelopment Manger
The Langmore Centre redevelopment is currently in the ‘pre-tender’ phase of the project as we progress towards commencement of construction in late May. The past month has seen input from the external consultant team with ongoing improvements to the overall design and functionality of the facility. Acoustic testing was undertaken in February to measure the level of acoustic transmission between various existing areas, with recommendations leading to slight improvements to wall structure in some areas to attain acoustic privacy. Further recommendations have also been made regarding the door hardware planned for the Langmore Centre after consulting caregivers and consumers at Pinelodge. Dormakaba brought their display of harm minimisation levers and handles for caregivers to use and provide feedback, which has been delivered to the architect to ensure Langmore has addressed any safety and occupational concerns relating to the door hardware throughout the facility. Lastly we’ve been working on the monumental task of cleaning up the hospital and removing all of the existing equipment before the builder starts construction. This means moving all of the old hospital beds, chairs, desks, TVs, phones, bins, and even some of the theatre equipment. A number of items which are still in reasonable condition will be placed into storage, but many items are being donated and even recycled. I’ve been working closely with Chris Bourke from head office, our Environmental Sustainability Coordinator, in
an effort to reduce landfill and recycle or donate as much as we can. We’ve been working with Anthea Ramos as the director of International Health for SJGHC in sending a number of items to Timor with assistance from Rotary International, including our hospital beds, mattresses, beside lockers, overbed tables, and some chairs. The plan for removing these items will take place in a month or so with all equipment being moved into a container for shipment. We’ve also had interest from a number of other organisations and recycling specialists, especially with the removal of e-waste and some of our unwanted furniture and compactus units, which were taken by Canterbury Office Supplies. There are still a number of other items including chairs, lounges, TVs and tables, so we will be holding a ‘SJGHC Garage Sale’ on the week of April 12 for any caregivers who may be interested in a TV or some furniture for a gold coin donation to charity. We’ll send some more information out closer to the date but we’d prefer our unwanted items go to some of our caregivers, than into landfill so keep an eye out for our flyers. I look forward to updating you again next month.
Evan Rundell
St John of God Frankston Rehabilitation Hospital
St John of God Berwick Hospital St John of God Pinelodge Clinic
Feedback and story ideas are welcome: marketing.berwick@sjog.org.au
St John of God Langmore Centre
In The Loop is a monthly publication which brings together stories and news from the St John of God South East Melbourne Hospitals, keeping caregivers in the loop.
Honouring our female caregivers
International Women’s Day This year’s International Women’s Day (IWD) theme was “Choose to Challenge”. According to IWD, “A challenged world is an alert world. Individually, we’re all responsible for our own thoughts and actions—all day, every day. We can all choose to challenge and call out gender bias and inequality. We can all choose to seek out and celebrate women’s achievements. Collectively, we can all help create an inclusive world.” At SJG SEM hospitals we chose to ask a variety of our female caregivers three questions aimed at highlighting the important female role models we’ve had in our lives and the impact they had in shaping us. Interestingly, many of our participants chose to highlight the significant impact their mothers have had on their lives—which goes to show—you don’t need to be a celebrity, CEO or successful multi-millionaire to be a role model and make a difference in someone’s life. All day, every day we have the opportunity to rise each other up and “seek out and celebrate women’s achievements ...
1. Which female role models had a positive impact on your life— what’s one lesson that they taught you? 2. How have you managed to balance your career and personal life? 3. What advice would you give to your 16-year-old self?
Joanne Masters | Business Development
Vickie Aiton | Executive Assistant -
1. My wonderful mother was always up for a challenge and trying something new whether it be food, travel or a change of career. So hence I was same. Many of the senior nurses that I met at Royal Melbourne Hospital where I trained showed me there are so many opportunities and also how there is no one right way. You just have to make it your way. Working in nursing you see so many senior roles held by women, I forget that so many other career choices do not see this. Having Lisa Norman as a my manager for 11 years and a colleague for a lot longer has been a wonderful experience and as a role model I have learnt so much from her.
1. My best friend. That we don’t have to raise our children the way we were raised and finding a good balance of loving our children, being firm but fair and to make sure they grow up knowing they are loved unconditionally. My mum—that you can have a career and a family at the same time and not have to choose between the two. One of my professional development coaches—no one is perfect, you are constantly evolving at any stage of your life and if you don’t like something about yourself you can accept it and do something to change it.
Manager - Berwick
2. Sometimes it is challenging, but ensuring the next holiday is always planned is essential. “Letting go” some of the work angst on my walk home from work was always my aim so when I walked into my home I was present there. By the way, doesn’t always work. 3. Don’t take yourself so seriously!
Nella Listro | Patient Services Manager -
Pinelodge
1. Olivia Newton-John: Her perservance and compassion in what she does—to never give up.
Photo not available
2 To balance both I have a great family who are there for me no matter what and my grandchildren who always take me to another place of pure joy.
3. As a 16-year-old follow on with further education and not think too seriously about life but enjoy every moment.
Frankston
2. With the support of my family (husband, parents, in laws and extended members) all helping out with looking after both of my sons while they were growing up so I could work. Dropping them off and picking them up from kinder and school. Looking after them on weekends so I can spend some quality time with my husband or go away on a girls’ weekend. Both sets of grandparents have been really supportive and taking the boys on holidays during the school break, spending quality time with them, making some fantastic memories and also giving mum and dad some much needed time together. With the support of my managers and team members here at SJG Frankston—I was able to work part time and during school hours when my boys were at primary school. If they were sick or needed me to drop something off or even attend a special assembly, event or concert it was never too much trouble and I had the flexibility to work around these events or swap a shift or take a day off. 3. You are beautiful inside and out. Be yourself and don’t pretend to be someone you are not. Don’t put so much pressure on yourself and don’t be a people pleaser. Be strong and say what you are thinking and how you are feeling.
Lisa Marchetti | NUM - Berwick
Linda McDermid | Senior Pastoral
Practitioner - Pinelodge
1. Female role model—my mum, who is no longer alive. She taught me to give thanks/be grateful in all circumstances.This doesn’t mean we ignore our painful emotions, but remember to put everything in perspective. Photo not available
1. I suppose the female role models who have had a positive impact on my working life in particular are probably my managers over the years or someone working in a senior role. I’ve watched how they handle certain tricky situations and have adopted this practice into my working life.
2. Balance—something I heard a psychologist say…we all need three things for a balanced life—meaning and purpose, learning, and play. Play is the one we often forget, and for me, the one I really notice when it’s missing.
2. Balancing work and family life is harder for women than men – being organised is key but also knowing which to prioritise – missing out on milestones with children is sometimes more important
3. Advice—listen to your mum. She does know what she’s talking about.
3. Advice to my 16-year-old self—have faith and belief in yourself, confidence will come and you’ll find a career that will be enriching and rewarding.
Mandy Fidanza | NUM - Berwick I have been nursing now for over 35 years from when I started my career after leaving high school in the early eighties, working in many different hospitals across Melbourne, in many disciplines including working as a school nurse and as a human growth and development teacher and now my journey has led me to my current role as NUM of our Medical/Oncology/Palliative Unit here at Berwick. During my high school days girls were stereotyped usually into female dominated professions such as teaching, nursing, the clerical field, retail or hairdressing and we received many mixed messages on what gender equality was! Initially I thought my career would be in teaching but was steered away from that option as I suffered a speech impediment and had a teacher in Year 10 who thought I would amount to only working in retail. How that teacher underestimated my inner fire and perseverance to succeed! That ultimately shaped my pathway through school leading me to my nursing career, a decision I have never regretted and a job that I have loved from the first minute I walked into a hospital, until this day. 1. Role models are important because they help us become the person we want to be and Inspire us to make a difference. I have a few different role models and people that I admire because each of their stories have really inspired me to keep reaching goals. But the two that stand out and resonate with me are: My biggest role model I would say is my mother. A woman who nurtured me, empowered me, and encouraged me always to pursue my passions, to see what others saw as negatives in me and to turn them into positives. My mother dedicated her life to not only raising four girls to be the people we are today but fostered many children and eventually adopted my younger two siblings both of who have disabilities. She has shown me that taking the time to help others and to listen will help you have a better understanding of people in general, be more accepting of others in need regardless of race, religion, gender or disability. This takes great compassion, a value I hold close to my heart that embodies everything nursing is. Another role model is Helen Kellar, she too overcame significant obstacles, whilst I had a speech impediment she had her blindness and was driven to succeed also regardless of her disability and had a deep compassion for others too.
Emily Taylor | Executive Assistant - Pinelodge 1. I have learnt that you never stop learning, growing and changing. I have learnt this from all the powerful females out there, speaking out and pushing for change and equality in the world. I always try to embrace the new and challenges that come from life and in the last 3 years, this has truly been tested within our family unit. All women need to think beyond today and for the future you are creating for all women in this world. 2. Work to live not live to work. My husband and I (no family in the state) have always worked well to juggle the home work balance as a team. 3. Be who you are, not who they want to you to be. It’s ok if people don’t like you, you can’t please everyone. Save more money than you spend. And most importantly, stop plucking you eyebrows so thin!!!
2. As a woman, every day we seamlessly multitask. We accomplish and fulfil many roles—wife, mother, nanna, daughter, sister, boss, leader, mentor, colleague, friend, counsellor, teacher, advocate, carer, nurturer— the list goes on. Yes, it’s been a balancing act but I have been fortunate to have been surrounded by people, parents and a dedicated partner, who has helped me with that juggling act and helped me get to where I am today. Both of us worked opposite shifts, to ensure we both had work-life balance with our four boys, to both help with their after-school activities, their sports and education but also for both of us to have fulfilment in our careers. Nursing affords, many women to be able to have a good career, as nursing encompasses many different paths, with flexibility of shifts so that many women can find the option that best suits their interests and that of their personal life. 3. I don’t think I would change the way my path has led me. I still would say: That I am unique—believe in yourself. That I am deserving of every chance and to take every opportunity, to open every door to pursue my dream and yes, while there will be challenges and I may fall but it’s about picking myself up, learning from mistakes and not giving up. But I would add: That I am a strong, confident, capable woman and that you can do and achieve whatever you want and that gender should never be a limitation.
Trish Clayton | Patient Liaison Officer - Berwick 1. My sister has had the biggest influence on my life, she taught me to believe in myself at times when I doubted I could do something, fear was always holding be back. 2. My family has always come first however I have always known that I had to keep up with changes in the workforce to be able to keep working once they were adults, this meant that at times I have worked a lot harder which means my family sometimes had to come second, I am glad I made that decision as my kids are now independent and hard working adults. 3. Be confident! If you think you CAN’T, you probably CAN. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes, they are what makes us better, use FEAR as a tool to improve yourself.
Susan Hart | ECT Co-ordinator - Pinelodge
Imelda Galant | NUM - Frankston
1. As a young girl I loved tennis, I actually lived for it! Evonne Goolagong was my idol. It wasn’t so much her ability to succeed that made her someone I looked up to, but more so the way in which I saw a woman who I viewed as unpretentious and respectful to herself and those around her. Photo not available In context, as a young teenager I was unsure of where I fitted into the world, what I wanted to do or be. So Evonne, to me, gave me strength to believe if I worked on pushing back my negative self-worth and focused on, as I saw it then, ‘behaving’ like she did—that I would be ok. On reflection, having Evonne at the time as a role model for me, especially when I felt vulnerable, taught me that I could believe in me, and that being respectful of others, even if that meant sitting in an uncomfortable space mentally at times, was okay. And I was…I am. When I think about role models I should acknowledge the strong women in my family, but younger me never appreciated this till I was older and I am sure this is true for many.
1. My mother and all her sisters—the lessons they taught me on how to make a great meal! We always had big family gatherings, so good food was always the centre of my life, up until today! I was thrown in and always helping with preparing for family and weddings as they were the local cooks! This led me to go on and study patisserie! From that, I learnt from an early age...time management skills! GET THE FOOD OUT ON TIME!
2. As for work life balance this is always a work in progress. Both my husband and I do shift work which has had its good points as the kids have grown up having one of us around most of the time. I have been working for nearly 40 years and my one bit of advice that I have literally just started doing (which I should practice more) would be to acknowledge when you need to put your hand up and say “I need help”…even if it is to get the kids to do a load of washing or the dishes, or your colleagues to make you have your lunchbreak which is always something us nurses need to do. I know it sounds corny…but do be kind to yourself. 3. So if I was to reflect back and give my 16-year-old self some advice it would be to “not waste a good worry”. By this I mean don’t over think things, see them for what they are and to acknowledge you can’t be responsible for how others behave. Believe in you.
Melissa Armsden | Patient Liaison Officer -
Berwick
1. The female role models who have made an impact on my life are the ones who lift other women up—the strong women who give guidance and support to those without requiring anything in return and they have taught me the same. 2. I am a single mum of three children working during the day, sometimes six days a week, and then I take all three children to their training & sports after school & on weekends. I have learnt to break tasks down so I don’t get overwhelmed and run down. To keep myself grounded I enjoy going for nature walks which resets me for the new week ahead. 3. I would tell my 16-year-old self to make smart choices with money while young to set yourself up for your later years. Choose a career that will reward you, stay at home longer to save money, have more patience and love yourself—put yourself first and fight for yourself.
2 I make time during my off days and holidays to relax, socialise with my girlfriends, go on familyholidays (I love cruising!) When I am at work, my focus is just that. I dont mix the two. Im very much for career development for myself, so I’ve spent a lot of my time learning and keeping up to date with opportunities for improvement. 3. I would say to my 16-year-old self. “ You can do anything that you want, stay positive and with God, all things are possible!”
Amie Malcolm | Senior Occupational Therapist & Clinical Lead in Movement Disorders - Frankston
1. My mum has had a huge impact on my life. She has been a fantastic role model in living a life of joy. No matter what life throws her way, she is resilient and pours into the relationships around her. Also, my grade 4 teacher, Mrs Foxton, taught me that maths didn’t have to be hard. The whole class memorised the mathematics timestables that year. This was a turning point for me academically and gave me confidence to pursue a maths/science pathway. 2 My husband and I parent as a team. When our kids were little, we took turns to be the stay-at-home parent. He has been my biggest supporter to enable me to flourish in my career. Now we have three teenagers, it is ensuring I have emotional energy to be available for our kids. Pursuing my own exercise goals and friendships is crucial for work/life balance as well. 3. Live life to the full. Nurture the relationships that bring joy and life to you.
Marie DuCane | Environmental Service Manager
& Supply - Frankston
1. Personal Life: Five generations of women in my family from my nana down to my granddaughter (who are now teaching how to play the guitar) who are strong and independent. 2. This was a struggle in the early years with young children being a sole parent but with the support of family and colleagues I was able find a balance. 3. Don’t rush to grow up. Enjoy your teen years and stay at school.
St John of God Day What is it all about?
To understand what St John of God Day is, we must first take the time to stop and reflect on the life and story of the man, Saint John of God, whose actions inspired our founding Sisters, and continue to inspire us today. John Cidade was born in Portugal on March 8, 1495. After being removed from his family at the mere age of eight, John was transported across the border to Spain where he lived with a large estate owner who trained him to be a Shepherd. When he reached adulthood he left to join the Spanish army in the war against France. In his forties John decided to settle in Granada where he opened a book stall near the Elvira Gate. Known as the Patron Saint of Librarians because of his strong connections to books, John was one of the first to hear that the celebrated theologian, John of Avila was coming to preach outside the city. Delivering a sermon on the blessedness of the poor, the hungry and the sorrowful (a foreign concept at the time), John of Avila’s words forced John to break down and he began punishing himself by rolling on the ground and asking people to humiliate him—which they did for three days. After tearing most of his clothes off and leaving himself wearing only a shirt and a pair of trousers, John was taken by two men to the Royal Hospital for the mentally unwell. John was subjected to regular whippings and drenchings in cold water—a common therapy for the warders at the time. Upon hearing of the effect his sermon had on John, John of Avila sent one of his followers to give hima message to use his time to prepare himself for his return to the world. Soon after John left the hospital and began work among the poor. He established a house where he wisely tended to the needs of the sick poor. He went beyond the practises of the day to improve the health and wellbeing of those in his care. He washed his hands between patients. Changed linen between
patients. He treated those who were sick or vulnerable with compassion. Instead of standing with a begging bowl, John went from house to house soliciting medical supplies and encouraging people to help. As he walked the streets he would be heard calling out: “Brothers and sisters do yourself some good by doing some good for others.” By day John attended to the needs of his patients and the hospital. John identified with the people he served—he saw himself as one of them. John worked from a position of simplicity, rather than strength. The resources he had to draw on were care, respect, kindness and faith. John cared for those he could, and called on the people of Granada with greater resources to help those that he couldn’t. John helped others to be compassionate too. John treated everyone he met with dignity and respect, and he enjoyed what he did. John’s humour and laughter were as familiar to the people of Granada as his acts of compassion and kindness.
How do we celebrate it? Each year on March 8 (the day John was born and also the day he died) we take the time to reflect on the life and legacy of John of God. Like him, we care for patients and clients with compassion and seek to respond to the needs of some of the most vulnerable people in the community. Just as John did, we honour the dignity of the people we serve and treat them with respect as we welcome them into places of safety and care. The 2021 theme for St John of God Day ‘Love is the light that shines in the darkness’ is a fresh take on hope and compassion. Each year on (or around) March 8 we share in a paella lunch and celebrate the caregivers who go above and beyond in living the St John of God Health Care Value of Compassion while contributing to the wellbeing and care of patients, visitors and fellow caregivers alike. This year Kaye Flight from Pinelodge, Margaret Coe from Berwick and Lorin Randall from Frankston all received the 2021 St John of God Day Award. Congratulations to all.
In The Loop
SCOOP Family donates $21,000 to buy subclinical lymphedema tool
Valarie Brown thought St John of God Berwick Hospital did such a wonderful job caring for her mother when she passed away many years ago at the Gibb Street location that she vowed to leave money to the hospital when she, herself, would eventually pass. Honouring her wishes, Valerie Brown’s brother—Ken Dorning and sisters—Lynette Smith and Janice New (three of eight siblings still alive), recently donated the $21,000 Valerie left in her will to the hospital after she passed away last year. Valerie’s generosity will see the Oncology Unit purchase a Sozo machine which claims to reduce the progression of lymphedema by 95 per cent along with demonstrating an 81 per cent better result for managing chronic lymphodema symptoms. Lymphodema is a leading post-surgical complication for many cancer patients and one of the most feared consequences of cancer survivorship. Lymphodema causes swelling in the arms or legs due to a lymphatic blockage—something that can often occur when lymph nodes are removed or damaged due to cancer
treatment. Early detection of lymphedema at the subclinical level before any swelling is visible is critical in preventing the progression of lymphedema. In the past, the onset of this condition was too difficult to detect using standard measurement techniques. By the time patients experience lymphedema symptoms, it may be too late to reverse the condition. However with the SOZO machine and its L-Dex technology, a precise snapshot of a patient’s fluid status can be taken in less than 30 seconds. As discovered, early detection of fluid accumulation coupled with standard, at-home compression treatment has been shown to reduce lymphedema progression by 95 per cent. Given lymphedema reduces a patient’s quality of life, this technology will not only go a long way toward helping our patients manage the condition, it will in some cases, prevent it altogether. Treatment of cancer is particularly close to the heart of Valarie’s family with her brother-in-law (Lynette’s husband) currently under the care of our Oncology unit.
Your blood is needed NOW! The Australian Red Cross Lifeblood has issued an immediate appeal for 22,000 extra people to donate blood or plasma in the next fortnight. All blood and plasma types are needed, but in particular O-, A-, A+ and B- blood types are all running low. Bookings can be made online.
Bunjilwarra Progress
Denis Byrne, Group Manager Mission Integration and Gillian Coyle, Volunteer & Community Engagement Coordinator, visited Bunjilwarra as part of our ongoing relationship with the drug and alcohol residential service for Aboriginal youth. St John of God SEM’s $30k Collaboration Agreement has provided resources to fund a full evaluation and impact assessment of the service with a view to enable Bunjilwarra to explore more sustainable government funding and investigate how its model of care can be replicated to expand these much needed services. Bunjilwarra is the only service of its kind to assist young people aged 16–25 that blends Aboriginal healing philosophy with traditional methods of clinical care. The visit was an opportunity to have a verbal progress update on the Collaboration Agreement which helps us meet our obligations under the SJGHC Reconciliation Action Plan.
Pinelodge achieves Accreditation From March 2-3, the team at St John of God Pinelodge were successful in achieving its Accreditation against the National Standards and National Mental Health Standards. It was a great achievement for Pinelodge with all actions met and no recommendations made. Despite the extra layer of complexity caused by COVID-19 in 2020, caregivers continued to work relentlessly leading up to the Accreditation. It was a jam-packed two days, with caregivers eager to showcase their achievements and improvements to patient care. The surveyors were full of praise for the comprehensive care provided by the caregivers, noting “caregivers provided care with pride and a strong commitment to patientcentred care”. This was endorsed by the patients, who told surveyors they felt the caregivers “see them” and made them “feel safe”. In addition, surveyors were impressed with the Telehealth service provided in response to COVID-19, the dedicated, passionate and transparency of caregivers, and the excellent level of consumer engagement. St John of God Pinelodge Clinic’s Hospital Management Committee is extremely proud of their team and looking forward to an exciting 2021 ahead.
Dorothy Platt Cancer Care Scholarship Fund launched Designed to enable eligible caregivers access to financial support for personal and professional development, the Dorothy Platt Cancer Care Scholarship Fund, has been launched in response to a large, ongoing donation made to Berwick’s Day Oncology Unit. Named after Dorothy Platt, a former cancer patient at SJGBH, the scholarship reflects the intent of the Mission, Vision and Values of St John of God Health Care and is aligned in its purpose to the previous and discontinued—Sisters of St John of God Staff Fellowship Fund established in 2002. The scholarship fund provides an additional layer of educational support directed towards those caregivers working in the field of cancer care, as well as enhances SJGHC’s overall commitment to broaden caregiver’s skills, knowledge, expertise and competence. Open to all caregivers in the field of cancer care, including palliative care of cancer patients—nurses, pastoral practitioners and other support staff can apply through Lisa Marchetti, Oncology NUM. Applications are then considered and approved by the HMC. Recipients of the award can also count hours of study or professional development towards the NMBA and CPD requirements. Funding is generally approved to cover 50 per cent of the total cost of each scholarship awarded, but will not exceed $5000 overall and cannot be accessed by caregivers more than once a year. To be eligible to apply, caregivers must be permanent full-time or part-time employees for a minimum of 12 months prior to applying. Applicants must also have completed 100 per cent of their mandatory training at the time of submission. Scholarship funding will be considered for tertiary, short course and online study, conference/ educational/academic event attendance, R&D participation and in-house professional development training. For more information, contact Lisa Marchetti on 8784 5568 or via email at lisa.marchetti@sjog.org.au.
Forgotten frontliners in the spotlight:
Environmental Services March marks the one-year anniversary of COVID forcing Victorians (along with the rest of Australia) into its first lockdown of 2020. Over the past 12 months we’ve heard a lot of heartwarming and equally heartbreaking stories surrounding the trail of devastation COVID has left in its wake. And with that we’ve praised our doctors and nurses for the selfless and difficult job they do to keep us safe, despite the risk they, themselves, face when they go to work each day. What we often don’t hear about, however, are the other frontline workers who brave the same threats to do their best at keeping the beast contained. This month we’d like to throw the unsung heroes of SJGHC into the spotlight and talk about our Environmental Services teams across Berwick, Frankston and Pinelodge who not only step up to the plate when a pandemic hits, but face unique challenges every day when it comes to dealing with contagions, frustrated patients and the unpredictable behaviour of the mentally ill. “Because I LOVE it!” responded Marie Duclane emphatically when questioned why she would put herself in harm’s way to do her job. “Because it’s a challenge and you succeed at keeping people safe— that’s what’s rewarding and that’s what keeps you coming back,” she explained. For Marie, who manages Frankston’s Supply and Enviromental Services team, the inherent risk, the extra cleaning, the donning and doffing of PPE, longer hours and the sheer maintenance of ordering and storing extra equipment and supplies since the pandemic hit, was simply part of her job. “We just go about our day-to-day business,” she says. “And we don’t expect pats on the back for it.” That said, the Environmental Services team wear many hats over our three hospitals and as pointed out by Gaynor Donaldson and Maree Airdree who manage Berwick’s team, the caregivers who do this job do more than the practical tasks associated with keeping a hospital environment to the highest of sanitary standards. “Often patients talk to us more about themselves than the people caring for them. We learn about their families, their ailments, their life histories,” said Gaynor, reflecting on the fact that it was heartbreaking being part of the COVID response team. “Some of the patients lost their partners who were taken to other hospitals while they were in our care...I hope we never have to do that again.”
Despite having to double up on cleaning all the high touch services, triple bagging everything, ordering extra supplies from bins, to scrubs to stockpiling toilet paper— which Gaynor and Maree admitted they strategically kept under lock and key—the Environmental Services team did not employ any more staff to combat the increased workload. “We had three girls step up,” said Maree, who affectionately referred to Janelle Green, Justine Carroll and Sonya Robinson, who volunteered to clean the COVID wards, as the “Dirty Girls”. “They increased their days. They stayed longer. It was all hands on deck,” adds Gaynor, remarking that while Janelle, Justine and Sonya willingly tackled COVID, the rest of the team stepped up to fill the void. So again, the question on everyone’s lips is ... why? “We got a lot out of it,” says Maree. “But overall we were quite confident in the DHS proccedures and processes, and the hospital had and did everything needed to keep us safe.” Marie from the Frankston team concurred. “Kerry Planke (Infection Control Coordinator) was fantastic—anything we needed, she was there to help.” Marie also pointed out that although they were nervous about working with COVID, the opportunity to come together as a hospital-wide team was a positive outcome of the overall experience. “Everyone, all the caregivers in all the departments came together. No
one entered the ward without another caregiver making sure they were appropriately covered. Everyone looked after each other. The nurses, Enviro, Catering, no matter who you were or where you came from we’d all rely on each other for help—’How are we looking?’ ‘Are we all covered?’” On a normal week, it might take a few days for there to be a complete turnover of every room in a ward. When SJGBH was called to COIVD action last year, the Enviro team had 45 minutes to get the entire ward clean in order to accept COVID patients. There were 20 rooms that required a ‘terminal’ clean and every Enviro team member from every hospital floor ‘downed tools’ and made a bee line for level four. Gaynor and Maree are really proud of what they accommplished that day and in the days to follow but what they see as their biggest accomplishment is not only being able to successfully prevent COVID from crossing the COVID-positive side of the hospital to the COVID-negative side, but the fact that they did not lose any caregivers from exhaustion, fear or dissatisfaction in the process. “We kept our phone lines open always,” said Gaynor. “We were working from here, we were working from home. We just did not want anything to go Justine Carroll and Janelle Green complete in their PPE ready to risk their own lives to do their jobs
sour for our staff. They did a fantastic job and they still are.” Gaynor is referring to the permanent changes in place now and the fact that the preparation of the Gibb St hospital was an ongoing Enviro responsibility. “We had to make sure the place was ready in case the government calls on us again. You know, even just having to go over to run the taps.” Although Marie was awarded a 2020 SEM CEO Award for her role in managing the COVID crisis, Marie maintains that it’s her team that deserves the accolades. “It not jut me. It’s them being committed. I 100 per cent have a great team to work with.” Those sentiments were echoed by Maree and Gaynor who believe they have a very rewarding but oftentimes, emotional job to do. And while they don’t believe that they should be singled out over any other caregiver at SEM hospitals, they do realise that they play a pivotal role in the smooth and successful operation of a hospital facility. “We do consider ourselves very important. Without cleaners you wouldn’t have a hospital. Maybe our team doesn’t know that but we certainly know how important they are to all of us.” Justine Carroll and Sonya Robinson snap a photo of themselves after they’ve doffed their PPE gear at the end of a long and difficult shift.
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Caregiver Corner Caregiver profile: In 2016, after being a hairdresser, salon owner and a tafe college teacher for much of her working life, Lidia walked the ancient pilgram route; The Camino de Santiago (All 898kms of it!). It was on that walk that Lidia reflected on her own life journery and decided she was approaching a new stage in life. In a response to an inner calling, Lidia began volunteering at SJOG while undertaking theology studies and participating in Berwick’s Immersion Pastoral Program. Lidia now juggles her time as a newly appointed pastoral care worker, her studies and caring for her two adult children and her dogs. What did you want to be when you grew up? I wanted to be a pharmacist but my mum died when I was young so that affected my plan. What’s your favourite thing to do on a weekend? I love to garden and hike but I find my greatest enjoyment is to have coffee and meals with my daughters and husband, as well as, catch ups with friends. Do you play an instrument? If not, what would you like to learn to play? My father used to gather me and my six brothers and sisters around to play music. I used to love the flute and would one day really like to learn how to play it properly.
Are you an introvert or an extrovert? I’m a bit of both! Familiarity with people brings out the extrovert in me. The COVID lockdown helped me to extend this side of me to our neighbours on our street. We’d check on each other throughout this period which really enrinched the relationships in our neighbourhood. It’s something I’ll continue to work on. Do you have any phobias? Spiders! What has been your favourite holiday? I’m really passionate about history. My most memorable holiday was travelling on a pilgrimage to the Holy Land and Petra. It brought alive the stories of the Bible, the heritage of ancient cultures and the historical Jesus. It was breathtaking. If you could pick anywhere else in the world to go, where would it be? My destination wish list includes Turkey, Galapagos Islands, Antarctica, and Russia. What’s your favourite season? Autumn. I enjoy early morning walks in the brisk air of Bright where I often visit. The changing colours of nature and the shedding of trees is a very contemplative practice that I find deeply spiritual. Have you ever met anyone famous? I met Cathy Freeman outside the Olympic stadium in Barcelona and
got to wish her luck on her first Olympic games. What show are you currently bingewatching? Homeland. I had to watch all eight seasons until it was done. What skill do you think you could improve on? I’d love to get better at making desserts and painting. If you could change one thing about your life, what would it be? Life has had challenges, shifts and new beginnings and I’m grateful for these experiences which have allowed me to grow and become a better person. I would not change anything. Who do you look up to at work? . Jose who I work with in Pastoral Care has been a valuable mentor— providing guidance, honest feedback and advice. I admire his ability to connect with patients using compassion, dignity and a sense of humour. He’s a binding presence for the team. Are you a morning person or nightowl? When the sun’s up, I’m up. I like to get a few chores and exercise done early. What was your first paying job? Growing up in the country my first job at age 14 was to collect and sell eggs to the neighbours.
Back pats
Rochelle Park said: 5 stars (Pinelodge) We have a close family member who is currently being supported at Pinelodge and the program is making a world of difference for our loved one. We have finally found a team of professionals listening and taking action. We couldn’t thank the Pinelodge team enough. Kelly Mueller said: 5 stars (Berwick) Staff at SJOG very polite & professional. Especially the nurses :) Ray Y said: 5 stars (Berwick) I had surgery at SJOG Berwick on 25 Feb 2021 and was discharged on 26 Feb 2021. Thanks to admin staff, theater staff, anesthetist, urologist Associate Professor Philip McCahy and Ward 4E staff. Your care, competence
and professionalism was very much appreciated. You all take great pride in what you do as did I throughout my working life. Sohail Malik said: 5 stars (Berwick) In recent experience—best student male nurse came across ever. Matured-aged. Very loveley and caring In nature. Miranda Bayliss said: 5 stars (Berwick) I had surgery at Berwick St John of God back in September the nurses and admin staff were wonderful and extremely compassionate. Thank you. The care was next level compared to the care I’ve received at other private hospitals.
Values in Action Awards: By Rhonda O’Connor, Director of Mission Integration, South East Melbourne Hospitals Since 2017, SJGHC has been acknowledging caregivers who demonstrate exemplary service or work practices in line with our organisation’s mission and values. Caregivers who go above and beyond in demonstrating the SJOG’s values of hospitality, compassion, respect, justice and excellence are nominated by patients or fellow caregivers for a Values in Action award.
Value of Excellence
Value of Hospitality
Natalie Angelopoulos Ward Clerk Frankston As nominated by a caregiver for the following actions:
Jacky Murray - EN Frankston As nominated by a caregiver for the following actions:
“Natalie is a very hard working caregiver. She gives 100 per cent plus and her work is of a top class standard. Natalie is meticulous in everything she does. From the moment Natalie starts her shift, she is productive and completes all her tasks and sometimes is pressed to take a break! Natalie is the most reliable ward clerk that I have ever worked with and possesses excellent time management abilities and is able to multi-skill at a moment’s notice. Natalie normally relieves across both wards when required. A very organised and meticulous person and what I admire most is her attention to detail in her work and strong work ethic.”
“Jacky is a quiet achiever. Always working to go the extra mile when the ward is short-staffed by taking on extra shifts. Jacky performs her work in a respectable manner and works well with fellow caregivers in a team environment. Jacky consistently demonstrates the value of Hospitality in all aspects of her work.”
Frankston is leading the charge in volunteering fellow caregivers for VIA Awards. But stay tuned Berwick and Pinelodge! A new way to submit nominations is set to be unveiled in coming weeks.
What does have to say? SEM Out of 729 patients surveyed 84% ranked SEM hospitals favourably (1 Feb - 1 March 2021)
SEM Accumulative NPS Score (at time of printing)
79.6 Berwick
Patient feedback
“The love, care and support we received from every single person who crossed our path. The two main midwifes Deb and Kim were so beyond amazing, I couldn’t have done my birth without them and I will remember them for the rest of my life.”
Pinelodge
Patient feedback
“The support provide by the nursing staff and the psychiatrists was exceptional. I felt comfortable on my first day. The nurses and doctors took time out to see me and explain everything and made sure I was taken through the ward and shown where everything was. It was well organised and I felt at ease being my first time admission into a mental health hospital. It wasn’t scary. My psychiatrist was great and patient with me. I can’t express enough how the nurses were so great and always gave their time even though they were busy and I also liked we all had meals together. It was a way to meet people. I liked everything and would definitely recommend Pinelodge. My experience was absolutely amazing and I will never forget it. I also met a lot of great people who I will never forget. Thank you all Pinelodge for making me well again.”
Frankston Patient feedback
“I was made to feel welcome. Not one but all the nurses made me feel very comfortable. The menu was amazing. I certainly would not hesitate to recommend St John Of God to anyone. Thank you all for making my stay so pleasant. Care of nursing staff, doctor and physio, everyone was fantastic. As a repeat patient, you guys never disappoint. Thank you. The care and patience was very helpful and no questions were treated as silly, but all help and needs treated with kindness.”
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