The Lamp October 2007

lamp the

magazine of the NSW Nurses’ Association

Print Post Approved: PP241437/00033

volume 64 no.9 October 2007

WE’RE STANDING BY AGED CARE NURSES

First State Super has something for everyone Our options are simple-to-understand, competitively priced and what our members want.

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Important note: This communication contains general information only and does not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation or needs.

It is therefore important, before deciding whether to become a member of First State Super (or, if you are already a member, to continue your membership) that you consider the First State Super Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) having regard to your own situation. The PDS is available by visiting our website or by calling us. The information contained in this document is current as at July 2007. Prepared by FSS Trustee Corporation ACN 118 202 672, AFSL 293340, RSE L0002127, the trustee of First State Superannuation Scheme RSE R1005134.

www.firststatesuper.com.au 2 THE LAMP OCTOBER 2007

EVERYONE 07/07

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ABOUT THE LAMP

C O N T E N T S

Contacts NSW NURSES’ ASSOCIATION For all membership enquiries and assistance, including Lamp subscriptions and change of address, contact our Sydney office.

SYDNEY OFFICE 43 Australia Street Camperdown NSW 2050 PO Box 40 Camperdown NSW 1450 (all correspondence) T 8595 1234 (metro) 1300 367 962 (non-metro) F 9550 3667 E gensec@nswnurses.asn.au W www.nswnurses.asn.au HUNTER OFFICE 120 Tudor Street Hamilton NSW 2303 ILLAWARRA OFFICE L1, 63 Market Street Wollongong NSW 2500

Cover story

lamp the

magazine of the NSW Nurses’ Association

volume 64 no.9 October 2007

We're standing by aged care nurses 14 Print Post Approved: PP241437/00033

WE’RE STANDING BY AGED CARE NURSES

Cover Still from the NSWNA TV campaign

NSWNA COMMUNICATIONS MANAGER Noel Hester T 8595 2153 NSWNA COMMUNICATIONS ASSISTANT Russell Burns T 8595 1219 For all Lamp editorial enquiries, letters and diary dates: Editorial Enquiries T 8595 1234 E lamp@nswnurses.asn.au M PO Box 40 Camperdown NSW 1450

News in brief

Special people

THE LAMP PRODUCED BY Lodestar Communications T 9698 4511

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32 Golden anniversary for Jan Ryan 33 Team building for a tough job 35 Giving refugees a healthy start

PRESS RELEASES Send your press releases to: T 9550 3667 E gensec@nswnurses.asn.au

Labor to ‘harmonise’ OH&S laws Worldwide backing for London care workers Arrested for opposing privatisation Scholarship for arthritis research Child and family nurses honoured Doctors for auction Women’s health diary out now Three cheers for Crowley Close the Gap

NSWNA education program 13 What’s on in November ’07

Aged care 14 We're standing by aged care nurses 17 Our campaign reflects community concerns 19 Research paints a diabolical portrait of aged care 20 Major employers on board 21 Protection for Nambucca Valley Care nurses

Agenda 22 Rudd promises to end health blame game 23 Super clinics to bolster community health, take pressure off hospitals 24 Hospital based training plan under fire

Lifestyle 36 Member’s tips 39 Movie review 43 Book me

Obituaries 40 Many were touched by her kindness: Marilyn Mills 41 Leading nurse steered hospital through major changes: Margaret Cooper Booth AM

Regular columns 5

Editorial

by Brett Holmes 6 Your letters to The Lamp 31 Ask Judith 45 Our nursing crossword 46 Diary dates

Competition 37 Win a relaxing escape to the picturesque Southern Highlands

Industrial issues

Giveaways

27 Spotlight ditches ‘confusing’ AWAs 29 IR shorts

39 20 double passes to see Death at a Funeral, 25 double passes to 4 months, 3 weeks & 2 days and 15 double passes to A Mighty Heart

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THE LAMP EDITORIAL COMMITTEE Brett Holmes, NSWNA General Secretary Judith Kiejda, NSWNA Assistant General Secretary Coral Levett, NSWNA President John Lyons, Coonabarabran District Hospital Jonathan Farry, RPA Hospital Mark Kearin, Wyong Hospital Roz Norman, Tamworth Base Hospital Stephen Metcalfe, Lismore Base Hospital Therese Riley, St George Hospital ADVERTISING Patricia Purcell T 8595 2139 or 0416 259 845 F 9550 3667 E ppurcell@nswnurses.asn.au RECORDS AND INFORMATION CENTRE - LIBRARY To find old articles in The Lamp, or to borrow from the NSWNA library’s nursing and health collection, contact: Jeannette Bromfield, RIC Coordinator T 8595 2175 E gensec@nswnurses.asn.au THE LAMP ISSN: 0047-3936 General disclaimer The Lamp is the official magazine of the NSWNA. Views expressed in articles are contributors’ own and not necessarily those of the NSWNA. Statements of fact are believed to be true, but no legal responsibility is accepted for them. All material appearing in The Lamp is covered by copyright and may not be reproduced without prior written permission. The NSWNA takes no responsibility for the advertising appearing herein and it does not necessarily endorse any products advertised.

Privacy Privacy statement: The NSWNA collects personal information from members in order to perform our role of representing their industrial and professional interests. We place great emphasis on maintaining and enhancing the privacy and security of your personal information. Personal information is protected under law and can only be released to someone else where the law requires or where you give permission. If you have concerns about your personal information please contact the NSWNA office. If you are still not satisfied that your privacy is being maintained you can contact the Privacy Commission.

Subscriptions Free to all Association members. Ex-members can subscribe to the magazine at a reduced rate of $44.

LAMP$90, OCTOBER Individuals $60,THE Institutions Overseas2007 $100.3

The biggest risk with the Federal IR laws, is thinking you’ll always be protected.

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4 THE LAMP OCTOBER 2007

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E D I T O R I A L

BY BRETT HOLMES GENERAL SECRETARY

Real chance for health reform g Labor’s new health plan tackles the intractable problems in our health system and gives the Commonwealth a chance to bring about essential reform – putting an end to health being used as a political football.

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s a foundation member of the Australian Health Care Reform Alliance, the NSWNA has always been committed to progressive health reform.

A key goal of this diverse group of health stakeholders has been to get state governments working cooperatively with the federal government in order to improve the health system.

For too long there has been a blame game and cost-shifting between state and federal governments which has left frontline staff, including nurses, trying to explain the irrational and the inexplicable anomalies in health delivery to patients and family.

Along with prominent health academics, policy experts and practitioners such as Professor John Dwyer, John Menadue and Professor Stephen Leeder, the NSWNA has been advocating health reform for many years.

After this long period of policy paralysis we see the ALP’s new policy (see page 22) as a breath of fresh air.

Finally we have a political party with the courage to tackle the intractable problems in health and to invest the surpluses from a booming economy in an essential social service. It is what the Australian community has been crying out for.

This can be contrasted with John Howard’s announcement to deliver hospitalbased training for enrolled nurses within 25

major public and private hospitals. This is not a plan for the future. It’s a distraction. It doesn’t even begin to deal with the consequences of the neglect of nurse education by his government during the past 11 years.

Labor has been prepared to look at the hard realities about health and has come up with a plan that initially enables cooperation between the state governments and the commonwealth a chance to bring about essential reform. But if this approach fails it is backed up with the ultimate measure of accountability – a takeover by the federal government of our public hospital system.

We should do everything within our power to ensure a federal takeover is not necessary.

flipside of that coin is that it will make easier the necessary state/federal government cooperation to fix our public health system.

It could, thankfully, see the end of health being used as a political football along party political lines.

This union has been saying for some years there is no fix to the problems of our public health system without nurses. Labor is proposing a new National Health and Hospitals Reform Commission to develop a blueprint for a better health system. They have promised nurses a place at the table in this Commission.

It is essential nurses have this voice and are listened to in the development of a long-term health reform plan for the nation.

We should acknowledge that Labor is the only political party that has previously committed to having a nurse at a senior commonwealth level to advise the federal government and the health department. They have made this commitment again at our own annual conference.

As a stakeholder in this reform process we will be unequivocal in our advocacy that the health workforce is critical to any long-term solution and improved workplace conditions are essential in order to recruit and retain nurses who are the backbone of the health system.

We’ve put aged care on the national agenda Over the past month you may have noticed a TV advertising campaign in defence of nurses’ rights – particularly in aged care.

The NSWNA has undertaken this campaign with other branches of the ANF in Queensland, Victoria, South Australia, Tasmania and the Northern Territory. Together, we are standing up for aged care nurses nationally and defending our health and aged care systems.

The campaign aims to highlight the wage gap between aged care nurses and public hospital nurses and the consequences of the federal government’s IR laws on nurses in aged care and the threat they pose to all nurses.n

‘This federal election provides the voting public with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to fix our public health system.’

This federal election provides the voting public with a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to fix our public health system. While some nurses have understandable reservations about wall-to-wall governments of the same persuasion across the country, the

THE LAMP OCTOBER 2007 5

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L E T T E R S

LETTER of the month Josie Byrne

Terry Bellamy

Appreciating hard-fought conditions

Thank you, Kathy Taylor

As an RN working in the public system I am proud to call myself a union member and I'm offended by the recent letter, published in The Lamp, by Mr Quinn, Nurse Manager, Tweed Hospital, Ballina NSW. I am thankful to the NSWNA for the favourable working conditions I enjoy, especially as a working mum!

Although my award is currently protected under the State system, I am motivated to resist Mr Howard’s WorkChoices for a number of reasons. Firstly, I fear that while my working conditions are safe now, if Mr Howard is re-elected then his laws are here to stay. Should the state government change in the future, my rights at work may be under threat.

I also disagree with WorkChoices for altruistic reasons. It was evident from Mr Quinn’s contribution that he has done pretty well for himself on the back of the NSWNA’s award negotiations. No doubt, Mr Quinn, you readily accepted the recent 4% pay rise for pubic hospital nurses won by the NSWNA. But society is bigger than one individual – it’s not just about you or I. Nurses historically have always stood together for the continual improvement of working conditions, as these inevitably impact on what is most important – our patients’ care.

My colleagues who work in aged care, whose award is under the federal system, and my colleagues in the private sector are already feeling the pinch of these laws. Already they are having to negotiate their own individual contracts and compromise on such rights as penalty rates, annual leave and reasonable workloads. Already these nurses are paid less than I am. These nurses work extremely hard and I believe this reflects how the federal government undervalues their paramount work.

I get worried as my grandparents and parents are increasingly dependent on the health care system. What impact on care will lower wages for nurses have on them?

This election is about how we value our society. Mr Quinn mentions his three ‘beautiful children’. I am glad he is not

Thank you, Julie Venamore, for your article about Kathy Taylor.

I have copied this, page 43 of The Lamp, and placed many copies around John Hunter Hospital and the Royal Newcastle Centre here in the Hunter. Kathy was just four days younger than me. However, she may have been four decades wiser.

The knowledge and information Kathy Taylor gave me, along with the enthusiasm she possessed altered my perception and values on life, my career and helped me help others.

As either Secretary or President of Royal Newcastle Branch for about 15 years, I recall helping my fellowship of nurses with quotes that reflected, stated and copied words of fact, wisdom and truth from Kathy Taylor. She gave me strength, confidence and the ability to help other nurses.

Terry Bellamy RN & President, Royal Newcastle Hospital.

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concerned for their working futures. I hope they do not read about penalty rates, pay for overtime, maternity leave etc in their history books. I want these conditions to be part of their working lives.

Since I began my nursing career in 1997, I have enjoyed a 47% pay rise (thanks to the NSWNA), I have appreciated my right to good penalty rates for working evening shifts, night duty, weekends and public holidays. At least when I have had to spend Christmas day away from my family, I have been compensated for this. Since having children, I have realised how lucky I am when I compare my 14 weeks’ paid maternity leave to friends in private enterprise who are lucky to get any! I am also lucky to be able to return to work on a part-time basis and not be made to come back to work full-time and leave my kids in expensive childcare. It is the NSWNA I thank for negotiating time for breast-feeding.

I am very concerned for my future as a working mum and I know others don’t have such rosy working conditions as me any more. I also fear for the working future of my own children, my colleagues and those having to negotiate their own employment contracts who may not have had the opportunity of education or who have English as a second language. We’ve been the lucky country because unions have made it lucky for all of us – not a select few.

Josie Byrne, RN, Ryde Community Mental Health Centre Josie Byrne won the prize for this month’s letter of the month, a $50 David Jones voucher.

LETTER of the month The letter judged the best each month will be awarded a $50 DJ’s voucher, courtesy Medicraft, Australia’s largest manufacturer of hospital beds and furniture. For more information on Medicraft products, visit www.medicraft.com.au or call 9569 0255.

Big-hearted and easy targets I am new to the nursing trade, aged 41. I am a second-year AiN. I truly love my work, nursing the aged and frail in high care. No matter how hard Johnny Howard makes it for the ‘good old’ AiNs, they soldier on – their blood, sweat and tears are all part of a very hard day’s work on the floor.

All I can say is, Oh, my God, I didn’t think nurses were so far down the “Oh, we'll get them later” ladder. Why? They know we don’t do it for the money. It comes from our hearts.

What easy targets nurses are and what a great reason to get to us later. They will always be there, they care. So God bless all our AiNs, wherever you all are: in the public, community or private sectors.

Together united – we’ll never be defeated. Keep up the push for us.

Sue Martin AIN, Richmond Community Nursing Home

Got something to say?

Send your letters to: Editorial Enquiries email lamp@nswnurses.asn.au fax 9550 3667 mail PO Box 40 Camperdown NSW 1450 Please include a photograph along with your name, address, phone and membership number. Letters may be edited for clarity and space.

Sandra Hodge

We are the lucky ones It’s a hard world and sometimes we think we have it tough but your two articles on ‘Special People’ last month put a different light on things we have to endure.

There was a young man who has come from a war-torn country, has lost his mum, his dad and has no older brothers. He is now living in a small unit with 10 other relatives and helping raise four younger siblings. His academic achievements are outstanding. He intends to do a double degree in Maths and Law! What an unbelievable workload!

Then another story featured a nurse practitioner who has devoted himself to children and adults dying of cancer. He deserves more than a medal.

Sometimes it just makes me sit back and think when I hear about unreasonable workloads and how hard we have it at work. Are we the unreasonable ones?

How lucky are we to be well enough to get up every day and to be able to go to work.

How lucky am I to walk in an operating theatre where I am not faced with innocent people being blown up by bombs and children wounded by bullets.

How lucky am I that I earn enough money to buy my children surfboards and computers and to help support my daughter through uni and to get paid when I am on holidays.

Is the bag we carry really that heavy compared to some?

Sandra Hodge, RN, Coffs Harbour Base Hospital

Thank you for your care Nursing is about caring. Nurses don’t always realise how significantly they touch people during their working day.

I have been blessed to be on the other side of that care in more ways than one. I was recently diagnosed with a serious illness and needed our health services. The care and thoughtfulness

shown to me was first-rate, across all aspects of the health services.

The support, love and care that all my colleagues have given has humbled me greatly. Past and present workmates have sent letters, cards, gifts, phone calls and wonderful words of encouragement.

We often complain about pressures and workloads of nursing, of not being valued in the health team. However, this has shown me just how valued we are, from all members within our team and for the patients we care for.

The comradeship that we share is unique and the friendships we develop are life-lasting.

A friend shared with me these words of Albert Einstein: ‘We stand on the shoulders of giants and at times hold up the sky.’ Believe me, I know it feels like we do hold the sky up often. However, we also hold the sky up together.

Sometimes we allow many to stand on our shoulders to help us hold the sky up, but other times we are honoured enough to stand on their shoulders and the sky is held up perfectly.

To all nurses – thank you – for the experience, your laughs and love, the care and time you endeavour to make for all but especially to my workmates and friends from the Manning Base, Bowral and Cootamundra Health Services.

Deb Fitzpatrick, RN, Cootamundra Hospital.

Keep up the good work I am proud of our Union and everything it does for all nurses, even those who are not members.

A report just released today shows workers in the hospitality industry have effectively lost wages worth between 12 to 30% of their wages and other benefits have also been lost to them.

The ads the government is running say that no one can be forced to sign away wages and benefits – ‘That’s the law’ states the ads. They are delusional if they think an employee can stand up to demands in individual contracts by just saying NO! Many people have no doubt found that no signing means no job. I support my union 100%. Thank you all.

LJ Loutides, RN

Nicole Corry

Supporting colleague with MS Staff at Armidale Rural Referral Hospital recently held a fundraiser morning tea to help one of their colleagues, Nicole Corry, who has been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.

Nicole Corry is an RN at Armidale, currently working in patient transport.

Nicole has worked at Armidale for over 20 years and has held various nursing and admin. positions in the hospital. She is very well-respected and has extensive experience. She has been actively involved in policy making and recruitment at Armidale over many years.

Nicole was granted a travel scholarship by the MS Society and is planning to take a trip to Tasmania with her partner Phil while she can still walk. Nicole has always been very positive and encouraged other sufferers to have a similar outlook.

Friends of Nicole organised the morning tea to raise some spending money for her trip. There were lots of home-made goodies and a raffle and over $600 was raised. Nicole was very appreciative of everyone’s support.

Nicole has also been an active and productive member of the Association and has been both Branch President and Secretary of the Armidale Branch. Nicole’s legacy and continued support for the Association has been an inspiration to all Branch members.

Unfortunately, Nicole will have to retire from nursing in the near future and she will be sorely missed by all the staff at Armidale.

Joan Coleman, EEN Branch Secretary, Armidale & New England Hospital.

EVERY LETTER PUBLISHED

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For locations, visit abcshop.com.au THE LAMP OCTOBER 2007 7

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N E W S I INN BBRRI IEEFF

LABOR TO

Worldwide backing for ‘HARMONISE’ London care workers OH&S LAWS abor has promised to establish a national independent occupational health and safety commission if it wins the federal election.

Shadow Industrial Relations Minister, Julia Gillard, said OH&S had become the ‘poor cousin’ of the IR debate in Australia.

Gillard pledged that Labor would create an independent institution with expertise in national and state-based OH&S matters.

‘The body should have a strong data collection function, so we can begin to understand the big picture of workplace risk, injury and costs.

This will help us develop a pathway to a national system,’ said Gillard.

Labor aims to harmonise key OH&S laws and regulations within five years, so that there are easily identifiable common standards. Labor will also offer financial incentives to state and territory governments that implement the laws.

Gillard said this move to harmonise laws would not strip states of their rights or responsibilities but would provide a more comprehensive OH&S system.

She said that if the Liberal government is re-elected, Australians will face ‘an OH&S system which is more complex, fragmented and uncertain, for both employers and employees.’

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Julia Gillard

8 THE LAMP OCTOBER 2007

Aged care workers at the Fremantle Trust picket line.

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nternational support is flooding in for aged care workers in London battling to stop their pay being cut by almost a third.

Around 200 workers, mostly women, have held a series of strikes after being told that their contracts would be ripped up and rewritten.

The workers, who look after vulnerable residents in old people’s homes in the north London borough of Barnet, were assured their terms of employment would be maintained when the not-forprofit Fremantle Trust took control of Barnet Council’s care homes five years ago.

However, this year the workers were told to sign new contracts or be sacked.

Under the new contract, wages and pensions have been slashed by up to 30%, hours increased and sick pay and holiday entitlement reduced.

Their union, UNISON, launched a call for international support via the internet.

In the first week, 8,100 messages were sent to Fremantle’s management, including almost 700 from Australia.

The messages were sent through a London-based online network called LabourStart, which mobilises backing for workers’ actions around the world. LabourStart set up a standard email which readers could send to Fremantle’s management.

Fremantle Trust reacted swiftly to the online campaign, threatening LabourStart with legal action and sacking the UNISON delegate.

When LabourStart ignored the threats, Fremantle contacted LabourStart’s internet service provider and demanded that they shut down the campaign or else face a lawsuit themselves.

The internet service provider told LabourStart to close down the campaign or else the entire LabourStart site would be shut down.

LabourStart took the campaign off its website but instantly revived the campaign in nine languages on a different server, in a different country, with a new name: We will not be silenced.

To send a message of protest to Fremantle, go to: www.wewillnotbesilenced.org:80/ n

Karen Willcocks receiving her award from Liverpool Catholic Club President, Tony Atkins.

ARRESTED FOR

OPPOSING PRIVATISATION orldwide protests have helped obtain the release from jail of eight executive members of the nurses’ union in the Central American nation of El Salvador.

The Public Services International (PSI) union federation, which coordinated the protest campaign, said the arrests were carried out under new anti-terrorism legislation.

PSI said the nurses’ leaders were engaged not in terrorism but in legitimate union activity.

Police arrested the nurses at their hospitals and homes after they called for work stoppages to protest against privatisation of health services and the acute shortages of medicines in public health clinics.

The nurses’ union had also denounced embezzlement and misuse of funds by a senior health administration official.

The El Salvador nurses’ union, which only recently managed to obtain legal registration, has become a thorn in the side of politicians seeking to privatise public health services

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SCHOLARSHIP FOR ARTHRITIS RESEARCH rthritis NSW is offering scholarship funding totalling $20,000 for allied health professionals undertaking or planning research related to arthritis and musculoskeletal conditions.

Applications for the annual Bruce Williams Memorial Scholarship close on 1 November 2007.

Arthritis NSW is a nongovernment charity that seeks to improve the quality of life of those affected by arthritis. The scholarship acknowledges the contributions of Bruce Williams, a sufferer of severe rheumatoid arthritis who started Arthritis Australia in 1967.

For more information go to http://www.arthritisnsw.org.au/ healthpros/williams.html Email info@arthritisnsw.org.au or phone 1800 011 041.

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Child and family nurses honoured

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ydney South West Area Health Service (SSWAHS) has held an awards ceremony to honour hardworking nurses in the field of child and family health.

Now in their second year, these peernominated awards acknowledge nurses who stand out as role models within SSWAHS. Clinical Nurse Specialist Karen Willcocks was the deserving winner of Child and Family Nurse of the Year. Karen, who has worked with Karitane since 2003, was seconded to work with Juvenile Justice in February this year as part of a two-year project developed by Karitane and Juvenile Justice representatives and funded by the Attorney-General’s Department.

‘The project involves working with adolescent mothers in custody at a detention centre for young women aged 10-18,’ said Karen.

‘I support visits, help with parenting when children visit their mothers and teach life skills to all the girls.

‘The role is challenging but I love what I do. I feel I can offer some hope to these girls by showing them that there

is an alternative lifestyle to the one they currently face,’ she said.

Karen also coordinates a family partnership training course for people working in child and family health. ‘The

‘The role is challenging but I love what I do. I feel I can offer some hope to these girls by showing them that there is an alternative lifestyle to the one they currently face.’

10-week course is for all professions involved in this area, including fellow nurses and even doctors and allied health staff,’ Karen said.

CNS Susan Portors and RN Maureen Neems were runners-up for the top prize. Other NSWNA members were also recognised for their dedication and commitment to child and family nursing at the awards ceremony held at the Liverpool Catholic Club.n THE LAMP OCTOBER 2007 9

Drawn 30 Decem b 2007 er

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DIRECT DEBIT & WIN A SIX-NIGHT TRIP FOR TWO TO BEAUTIFUL & PRISTINE

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Fly into the vibrant cities of Hobart or Launceston, then wander the stunning coastline surrounding Freycinet Lodge in the East, travel deep into World Heritage wilderness from Strahan Village in the West, and climb stunning glacier-carved mountain peaks before returning to Cradle Mountain Chateau in the state’s heart. The prize also includes flights to and from Sydney for two and 7-day car hire courtesy of Thrifty Rent-A-Car. 10 THE LAMP OCTOBER 2007

Here’s how you can win c cancel your payroll deductions and start paying your fees

through direct debit and you will go in the lucky draw and/or c convince your colleagues to convert from payroll deductions to

direct debit and you, and each of your colleagues who switch to direct debit, will go in the lucky draw and/or c sign up a new member using the direct debit method of

paying their fees and you, and the new member, will go in the lucky draw.

Membership Application forms or Direct Debit forms can be downloaded from our website www.nswnurses.asn.au Alternatively call the NSWNA on 8595 1234 (metro area) or 1300 367 962 (non-metro area) for more information.

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N E W S I INN BBRRI IEEFF

Doctors for auction g The shortage of doctors in NSW emergency departments is forcing hospitals to bid for increasingly expensive casual doctors.

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he shortage of emergency doctors is so bad, hospitals are bidding against each other for their services, reports the Sydney Morning Herald.

The shortage of permanent doctors in NSW emergency departments has got worse since a taskforce recommended action to fill vacancies two years ago. Meanwhile EDs are being forced to bid against each other for increasingly expensive casual doctors.

These are the findings of a Sydney Morning Herald investigation of the crisis published last month.

The Herald said NSW Health estimates it costs $35.2 million more a year for locums than it would for permanent staff, but refuses to fund more permanent senior specialists.

‘Rates for locums generally vary from $90 to $180 an hour depending on experience and the type of shift, but can reach $250 for a senior doctor required at the last minute in a regional area or on a public holiday, or when the hospitals bidding against each other push up the price,’ it reported.

The Herald quoted the vice-president of the Australasian College for Emergency Medicine, Sally McCarthy, as saying the

use of locums was at ‘phenomenally high levels’ and NSW Health did not support more permanent positions.

‘But the health service is happy to compete against other hospitals for locums, bidding up the price,’ Dr McCarthy said.

‘Everybody has known about it for some time and nothing has been done.’

Emergency department staffing in NSW ‘is in crisis … however NSW Health refuses to acknowledge this,’ she told the Herald.

The Herald obtained an email from one large NSW locum agency that described 26 NSW hospitals as being at crisis point, 21 of them public hospitals, with some unable to fill shifts for senior emergency doctors the next day.

‘When the Herald contacted heads of emergency departments, they were highly emotional – one even tearful – and some called out of hours or while on holiday to express their frustration and desperation.

They all refused to go on the record,

fearing repercussions from NSW Health.

‘Doctors say patient care is at risk because emergency departments are forced to rely on often inexperienced locums with a “nine-to-five mentality” to plug gaps in the system.’

The overreliance on locums – costing $35.2 million more a year than permanent staff – has spread beyond regional areas to main metropolitan teaching hospitals such as Royal North Shore and Concord, the director of the University of Sydney's Workplace Research Centre, John Buchanan, told the Herald.

Dr Buchanan is a member of the Greater Metropolitan Clinical Taskforce Locum Issues Group, which made recommendations to the government to fix the crisis in mid-2005.

‘That's what's extraordinary: that you're now relying on locums in the teaching hospitals, and when we did our report a few years ago that was unthinkable,’ said Dr Buchanan.

The former chairman of the taskforce, Kerry Goulston, told the Herald that ‘bugger all has happened’ since its report to the government.

‘It is more the lack of action that's angered people because everybody has known about it for some time and nothing has been done,’ Professor Goulston said.

The State Government blamed the doctor shortage on the Federal Government, saying it was not funding enough university places.n THE LAMP OCTOBER 2007 11

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N E W S I INN BBRRI IEEFF

WOMEN’S HEALTH

DIARY OUT NOW he 2008 Australian Women’s Health Diary will mark the tenth anniversary of this unique and important publication, which is an initiative of the Breast Cancer Australia Institute.

Sales of the diary have so far raised $3.6 million for breast cancer research. With the 2008 edition now on sale nationally, the institute hopes to reach the $4 million dollar mark.

In addition to proceeds going to breast cancer research, the diary is also full of important female health information, making it an empowering resource for women throughout Australia.

This 10th anniversary edition of the diary is a great Christmas gift idea.

You can get the Australian Women’s Health Diary at newsagents, selected supermarkets, selected Commonwealth Bank branches, online at www.bcia.org.au or by telephoning 1800 423 444.

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NOTICE

The ANF Federal Office Financial Report for the year ended 30 June 2007 is now available at www.anf.org.au Members without internet access may obtain a hard copy of the report by applying in writing to: Finance Manager Australian Nursing Federation Level 1, 365 Queen Street Melbourne Victoria 3000 12 THE LAMP OCTOBER 2007

Three cheers for Crowley

The Crowley aged care facility team with the award and (below) the apartments at Crowley – one of the reasons for the awards.

S

taff at the Crowley aged care facility recently won two accolades in a local awards presentation. The North Coast facility was the deserving winner in the Community Service Category and the overall Ballina Business of the Year.

Crowley offers innovative independent living in conjunction with high-quality residential care and community care. Apartments offer resortstyle accommodation and various features including 24-hour assist buttons and wheelchair access to bathrooms.

Crowley has a strong and active NSWNA Branch that has obviously

worked hard to achieve such great levels of care. Michael Penhey, CEO of Crowley, is also proud that staff have been recognised for outstanding service.

‘Aged care is gaining the recognition it deserves for being progressive and

Crowley has a strong and active NSWNA branch that has worked hard to achieve such great levels of care. awards like this show other industries how aged care is continuing to improve services to meet the different care requirements of our clients and residents,’ he said.n

Close the Gap

n

cation progr u d e a am swn

WHAT’S ON IN NOVEMBER ‘07

s Basic Foot Care for RNs & ENs 8 - 9 November, Westmead, 2 days VETAB-accredited course. Provides nurses with the competence to provide basic foot care.

Members $203 • Non-members $350 Branch Officials $175 s Legal & Professional Issues for Nurses 9 November, Camperdown, ½ day Topics covered include the Nurses and Midwives Act 1991, potential liability, documentation, role of disciplinary tribunals including the NMB, writing statements.

Members $39.50 • Non-members $85 Branch Officials $28

Illustration by Adam Hill

s The Reality of Working Shift work 15 & 29 November Camperdown, 2 x 2-hour sessions Why is working shift work so hard to manage? This seminar will look at the latest research on shift work and the findings of the Nurses Health Studies.

Members $39.50 • Non-members $85 Branch Officials $28

D

espite a booming economy, Indigenous Australians still face thirdworld health problems and continued poor access to health services.

The Indigenous health crisis has led the Australian Nursing Federation (ANF) to join with more than 40 organisations in the Close the Gap coalition, which is committed to achieving health equality for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people within 25 years.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people die approximately 17 years earlier than other Australians and suffer an infant mortality rate three times that of nonIndigenous Australians.

Many of the diseases and poor health conditions faced by Indigenous

Australians are preventable. Many are also closely related to socio-economic factors including overcrowded houses, limited access to medical care, poor sanitation and poor nutrition.

The Close the Gap coalition is calling for an additional $460 million dollars annually to be spent addressing this health crisis – a tiny fraction of the current health budget.

By providing adequate health care and infrastructure, the ANF and the Close the Gap coalition believe Australia can turn this crisis around within a generation.

For more information or to pledge your support for the achievement of Indigenous health equality within 25 years, go to www.oxfam.org.au/ closethegapn

For registration and more information: go to www.nswnurses.asn.au or ring Carolyn Kulling on 1300 367 962.

c

NOTICE

The Australian Nursing Federation NSW Branch audited Financial Report for the year ended 30 June 2007 will be available on the Members’ page at www.nswnurses. asn.au on Monday 15 October 2007.

Members without internet access may obtain a hard copy of the report by applying in writing to:

Brett Holmes, Branch Secretary Australian Nursing Federation – NSW Branch 43 Australia Street Camperdown NSW 2050 OCTOBER 2007 13 THE LAMP

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A G E D C A R E

We’re already paid less as aged care nurses, but when the new IR laws put us even further behind… I had to decide …between staying…or moving on.

We're standing by aged care nurses

O

ver the past month, you may have noticed TV ads defending nurses’ rights against the federal government’s IR laws. The campaign has particularly focused on defending aged care nurses’ rights. The NSWNA has undertaken this campaign with other branches of the ANF throughout Australia.

So why are the NSWNA and ANF waging such a determined campaign to fight these laws?

According to NSWNA General Secretary Brett Holmes, the NSWNA and 14 THE LAMP OCTOBER 2007

ANF made the decision to develop a TV campaign defending aged care nurses because they are directly under attack from the federal government’s WorkChoices legislation.

‘WorkChoices is a direct threat to aged care nurses’ pay and conditions because they are already under the federal system.

‘We were not prepared to stand by and watch the pay and conditions of our colleagues in aged care decimated by these vicious laws,’ said Brett.

In the 1980s, aged care nursing wages were generally on a par with public hospital nursing rates. Since then, a

serious wage gap has arisen and the poor pay and conditions have led to an exodus of nurses from the sector.

The ANF says nurses working in aged care earn on average $250 per week less than their colleagues in other sectors.

Brett said Howard’s IR laws have the potential to widen the gap further and erode hard-won conditions such as penalty rates.

The disparity in pay between the aged care and public hospital sectors means it is difficult to attract adequate numbers of nursing staff.

There has been a steady decline in

I hated leaving… but without fair wages and working conditions… how could I stay?

It was a choice between my family’s needs… and the needs of the people I was caring for. …they were like family too.

the number of nurses working in aged care with a 21% decrease between 1995 and 2004, according to the ANF. This is despite the increase in high-level care needs and an overall increase of 23% of residents in aged care facilities.

These problems are exacerbated by another burning issue: at least 46% of registered nurses in residential aged care are over 50 years of age and are approaching retirement – higher than any other area of nursing.

‘In this environment, the federal government’s IR laws are a disaster, with the serious threat of lower pay and the

loss of conditions through AWAs and non-union agreements,’ said Brett.

But it’s not just aged care nurses who are under threat from WorkChoices.

The federal IR laws cover more than 100,000 nurses in aged care facilities, private hospitals and private practices around the country. They also cover public hospital nurses in Victoria, the ACT and the Northern Territory. The Howard government has sought advice about bringing all state government employees, including public hospital nurses, under WorkChoices.

‘This campaign is about standing

together with nurses nationally and defending our public health and aged care systems,’ Brett said.

Funds for the TV campaign come from the Nurse Power Fund, which was created to protect nurses from opportunistic or antagonistic policies from political parties at the state or federal level. The fund was established after a long and thorough debate

by NSWNA members at the branch level, at Committee of Delegates and at two Annual Conferences. NSWNA delegates voted unanimously to create the fund at the 2005 Annual Conference.n THE LAMP OCTOBER 2007 15

Think you can’t lose your penalty rates?

Aged care nurses thought the same thing.

BVcn V\ZY XVgZ cjghZh i]dj\]i ^i XdjaYcÉi ]VeeZc# I]dj\]i cd <dkZgcbZci ldjaY Vaadl ZbeadnZgh id iV`Z VlVn i]Z^g eZcVain gViZh# I]Z eVn i]Vi bVYZ je V W^\ eVgi d[ i]Z^g ^cXdbZ# I]Z eVn i]Vi ]ZaeZY eji [ddY dc i]Z iVWaZ VcY i]Z^g `^Yh i]gdj\] hX]dda# HVYan! ^i ]Vh ]VeeZcZY# BVcn V\ZY XVgZ cjghZh i]gdj\]dji 6jhigVa^V ]VkZ ]VY i]Z^g eZcVain gViZh Xji# BVcn ]VkZ WZZc [dgXZY id aZVkZ! bVcn VgZ ldgg^ZY i]Zn l^aa WZ cZmi# >[ i]Z ;ZYZgVa >G aVlh gZbV^c! ^iÉh cdl cdi V fjZhi^dc d[ ^[! Wji l]Zc! Vaa cjghZhÉ eZcVain gViZh \d je [dg \gVWh# Ndjg kdiZ XVc ]Zae egdiZXi ndjg eZcVain gViZh# I]^c` VWdji i]Vi i]^h ;ZYZgVa ZaZXi^dc# Id ÒcY dji bdgZ k^h^i djg lZWh^iZ lll#chlcjghZh#Vhc#Vj

16 THE LAMP OCTOBER 2007

s

NG A E W E DS CI A NR E B R I E F

Our campaign reflects community concerns

T

he NSWNA commissioned a comprehensive survey of 800 members of the public on attitudes to health and aged care, which revealed the community strongly backs the position the NSWNA has taken on health and aged care and raised in our TV advertising campaign.

The survey revealed a widespread understanding that nurses hold our health system together with a strong majority (78%) believing that nurses are not paid enough.

A strong majority of respondents also found it was legitimate for the NSWNA to run such a campaign and that nurses have a very credible voice speaking out about what is going on in the public health and aged care systems.

Ninety percent agreed with the central message of our campaign: that if nurses’ pay and conditions are cut then we will not be able to attract enough nurses into our health system. Eightythree per cent agree that if nurses’ pay and conditions are cut then the quality of care received by patients will drop.

The survey revealed a widespread understanding that nurses hold our health system together with a strong majority (78%) believing that nurses are not paid enough.

NSWNA IS A

People believe our health system and aged care are worse

ON HEALTH

CREDIBLE VOICE

Very few respondents believed that the health system had improved over the past five years (9%). In fact, 40% thought it had got worse, while 44% thought it had stayed the same. There was also widespread pessimism about it getting better.

There were also negative perceptions about the state of aged care. Twenty-nine per cent of people thought it had got worse over the past five years; just over a third thought it has stayed about the same, and only 10% thought it was better. Pessimism about the future of aged care was also strong.

The public gave the NSWNA the thumbs up and supported the right of nurses to take their message to the airwaves: c 71% believed it was legitimate for the NSWNA to run a political campaign; c 79% believed the NSW Nurses’ Association was the most reliable organisation to speak about the health system; c 79% said it was a good thing nurses were represented by strong unions since it gave them the ability and security to speak out when they saw problems with care received by patients.

Federal government performance in aged care rates poorly The federal government has a very poor performance rating on all aspects of the aged care system: c 67% of respondents rated the performance of the federal government as poor when it came to preparing for the growing demand on the aged care system from our ageing population in the future; c 63% ranked the federal government’s

c

performance as poor on providing adequate funding to aged care services; 63% ranked the federal government’s performance as poor for ensuring that everybody – regardless of how much money they had – could access goodquality aged care services.n

‘We simply do not get paid enough to have our pay and conditions cut. If we had our penalty rates taken away who would work the weekends? I already know of AiNs who have left to go into community health and some have even left to work in supermarkets where the pay rates are better.’

Mandy Davies, RN, Kularoo, Forster

THE LAMP OCTOBER 2007 17

Your vote can help protect your penalty rates.

I]ZgZ ]Vh cZkZg WZZc V bdgZ ^bedgiVci ;ZYZgVa ZaZXi^dc [dg cjghZh# >[ i]Z ;ZYZgVa >G aVlh gZbV^c ^c eaVXZ ndj XdjaY WZ [dgXZY dcid Vc 6L6 dg V cdc"jc^dc V\gZZbZci# Ndj XdjaY adhZ ndjg eZcVain gViZh# I]Z eVn ndj gZan dc [dg hX]dda [ZZh! i]Vi ]Zaeh [ZZY ndjg [Vb^an! i]Z eVn i]Vi bV`Zh je V W^\ eVgi d[ ndjg ^cXdbZ l^aa WZ \dcZ# I]Z W^\\Zhi b^hiV`Z ^h i]^c`^c\ ndj XVccdi Yd Vcni]^c\ VWdji ^i# Ndjg kdiZ XVc ]Zae egdiZXi ndjg eZcVain gViZh# Id ÒcY dji bdgZ k^h^i djg lZWh^iZ lll#chlcjghZh#Vhc#Vj

18 THE LAMP OCTOBER 2007

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NG A E W E DS CI A NR E B R I E F

Research paints a diabolical portrait of aged care

F

urther research commissioned by the NSWNA involving 1,062 RNs and ENs in aged care reveals a very difficult work environment, outrageous workloads and widespread pessimism about the sector among nurses.

Two-thirds reported doing regular unpaid overtime and 81.6% reported an increase in workload over the previous 12 months.

Many aged care nurses perceived the new industrial regulations as a threat to their current conditions and award.

‘Protect workers in the aged care sector from the Howard government’s new IR changes and protect their conditions,’ said one respondent.

Over 50% reported a decrease in job satisfaction over the previous 12 months.

Only 51.9% reported a definite intention

to remain in aged care nursing over the next five years. Of those intending to leave, 90.2% were aged 40 years and older.

Some respondents were expected to shoulder unimaginable responsibilities.

A number of RNs, ENs and EENs were responsible for 100 or more residents each. On the morning shift, there were 14 (3.1%) nurses who reported that they had responsibility for 100 residents or more; on the afternoon shift there were 9 (2.1%) and on the night shift there were 15 (4.6%).

A significant number questioned whether they would still be working in the sector in five years’ time.

Approximately 30% were unsure, and another 16% indicated an intention to leave aged care nursing within the next five years. Incredibly, aged care nursing is at risk of losing up to 50% of its workforce within the next five years.

Many aged care nurses perceived the new industrial regulations as a threat to their current conditions and award and had clear messages for their union about what they wanted done.

‘Protect workers in the aged care sector from the Howard government‘s new IR changes and protect their conditions.’ said one.

‘Resist the introduction of the new IR legislation with every means at your disposal,’ said another.n

HOWARD’S LOW-WAGE FUTURE FOR AGED CARE

Current NSW nurse pay rates (Base weekly rates as at 01.07.07)

CLASSIFICATION

PUBLIC PRIVATE HOSPITALS HOSPITALS

AGED CARE

(now under WorkChoices)

(federally funded and also now under WorkChoices)

$668.90

$638.78

Assistant in Nursing, 4th year

$692.20

Enrolled Nurse, 5th year

$842.50

$814.00

$766.08

Registered Nurse, 8th year

$1,232.60

$1,191.00

$1,110.36

We are really feeling the strain of increased workloads.We have more responsibilities and more clients without the staff increases to match. It is hard to attract RNs to the job.

Christine Heath, RN, RSL Veterans’ Retirement Village, Collaroy

WHAT THE

NSWNA WANTS

IN AGED CARE This federal election, nurses want a commitment from all political parties that they will improve the level of care delivered to elderly Australians and to stop the exodus of nurses from the aged care sector.

The NSWNA is calling for: c the national licensing of all direct care staff; c extra funding to achieve and maintain wage parity for nurses working in aged care with their colleagues in other sectors; and c minimum nursing staff levels and an appropriate skill mix of carers and enrolled and registered nurses throughout the aged and community care workforce. .

THE LAMP OCTOBER 2007 19

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NG A E W E DS CI A NR E B R I E F

Major employers on board g Aged care nurses welcome new agreements with major aged care employers.

A

ged care nurses working for UnitingCare Ageing, Presbyterian Aged Care and Salvation Army Eastern Territory Aged Care have overwhelmingly voted in favour of new Union Collective Agreements (UCAs) that protect pay and conditions in the insecure environment created by the Howard government’s WorkChoices legislation.

Around 2,000 nurses and a similar number of other staff are now protected under new UCAs

20 THE LAMP OCTOBER 2007

negotiated between the NSWNA, Health Services Union (HSU) and these major aged care employers, including UnitingCare Ageing which employs 1,000 aged care staff at 90 facilities, making it the largest aged care provider in NSW. Liz Graham, DoN, and Michael Rosa, AiN, at Wesley Heights Nursing Home – owned by UnitingCare Ageing – feel secure and are happy to know that their new UCA will remain in place for the next two years, until July 2009.

‘It’s a great result and it helped having management work with staff during the whole process – we felt supported,’ said Liz. ‘We feel valued and staff Happy with the are more new Agreement: likely to Michael Rosa, stay with AiN, and Liz Uniting Graham, DoN, from Wesley Care,’ she Heights said.

Nursing Home The UCAs are based on the template agreement negotiated by the NSWNA, the Aged and Community Services Association (ACS) and the HSU. ‘We worked with ACS to negotiate a template agreement to establish agreement on minimum standards in an enforceable document that covers a large number of nurses working for employers who are members of ACS,’ said NSWNA General Secretary Brett Holmes.

‘These new UCAs provide a strong benchmark for agreements across the aged care sector. Other employers will be now under pressure to also come to the negotiating table,’ said Brett.

What members have won The new UCAs preserve nurses’ existing conditions and deliver a minimum 3.5% pay increase per year.

Members will also benefit from improvements in conditions including the introduction of nine weeks’ paid maternity leave and adoption leave, and an increased rate of accumulation for long service leave after 10 years’ service.

Other improvements include: c Recognition and a pay scale for Endorsed Enrolled Nurses; c Increased entry salary for newly qualified RNs; c Updating the definition of an AiN with the provision for an AiN to be a team leader; c A requirement that RNs be given handover time at the beginning of their shift; c No overtime in unreasonable circumstances, such as when staff have family responsibilities; c Long-term casuals have the right to apply for their position to be made permanent.

‘The inclusion of nine weeks’ paid maternity leave is a big win. I’m also very happy AiNs are getting better recognition.

The provision for AiNs to be made team leader is a professional boost and recognises our skills,’ said Michael.

Liz is also impressed that their new agreement will provide a better career path and structure for staff and promotes their professional development.

‘There is recognition for nurses doing additional study, and the pay scales for EENs have been simplified,’ she said.

The agreements with UnitingCare, The Salvation Army and Presbyterian Aged Care will also include a union delegates’ recognition clause, which gives delegates the right to meet with management and members in the workplace, and a consultation clause, which places obligation on management to consult with staff over any planned workplace changes.

Importantly, the agreements include a dispute settlement clause that allows for court arbitration when matters cannot be resolved by talks between affected members and their employer. This makes members’ conditions legally enforceable in the WorkChoices environment.n

NSWNA Nambucca Valley Care branch members: (back row from left) Venetia Ingle, Margaret Harris, Christine Ryan, Marcus Boehm, (centre from left) Susan Strong, Robyn Mattick, Barbara Nicholas and (front) Gwen Green.

Protection for Nambucca Valley Care nurses

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urses at Nambucca Valley Care are also set to benefit from a new Union Collective Agreement that provides protection in the new hostile WorkChoices environment.

Based on the ACS template Agreement (see previous story), the UCA secures pay and conditions until September 2009.

The proposed agreement covers three facilities owned by Nambucca Valley Care: Autumn Lodge Nursing Home, Riverside Gardens Aged Care and Riverside Hostel.

NSWNA Branch President, Gwen Green, said management has been responsive to their ideas and this had made things a lot easier. ‘We look forward to working with them and appreciate their effort’, said Gwen, AiN. According to NSWNA Assistant General Secretary Judith Kiejda, management should be commended for working with their employees. ‘With the shortage of nurses in aged care, other employers will be under pressure to follow their good example,’ said Judith.

The Agreement preserves the

majority of the nurses’ existing employment conditions and will deliver a minimum pay increase of 3.5% per year until it expires in 2009.

Members will also benefit from improvements in conditions including the introduction of nine weeks’ paid maternity leave and adoption leave, and an increased rate of accumulation for long service leave after 10 years’ service.

Sticking together gets results Members at Nambucca Valley Care realised the value of sticking together and formed a new NSWNA Branch to give them a stronger voice in bargaining for their new agreement.

The Nambucca Valley Care branch consists of 39 members and seven branch executives.

‘We were worried about losing our conditions under WorkChoices. We were talking a lot among ourselves and it became clear that there was the need for a branch so we made things official,’ said Marcus Boehm, RN. ‘We want to work with management on all issues and establishing the branch was the best way to do this and to give

our members the proper information,’ said Kit Harris, EEN. Information and communication are important when negotiating an agreement with your employer. Talk to other nurses at

‘Management should be commended for working with their employees.

With the shortage of nurses in aged care, other employers will be under pressure to follow their good example.’

NSWNA Assistant General Secretary Judith Kiejda.

your workplace about asking your employer to offer you a union agreement. Together, approach your employer with your request.

‘We were lucky that management recommended the ACS template agreement,’ said Kit. n THE LAMP OCTOBER 2007 21

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AGENDA

Rudd promises to end health blame game g Labor leader Kevin Rudd has promised an extra $2 billion for health and put forward a plan to end the blame game between the federal and state governments.

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evin Rudd has announced a new health policy with plenty of carrots in the form of extra funding and incentives to state governments to reform the health system.

He has also threatened to wield the stick – the federal takeover of public hospitals – if the states fail to reach agreed targets in the improvement of hospital services.

Essentially, Labor’s plan promises to nationally resource a new model of integrated primary care, which will promote wellness and better care in the community. Labor believes this will reduce the demand for hospital services.

The new policy also promises more transition beds to help discharge from acute care beds older patients who no longer need them.

These initiatives, plus the extra two billion dollars, will be built into the next Australian Health Care Agreement, which traditionally has only dealt with hospital services.

These sweeping changes will

be driven by a new National Health and Hospitals Reform Commission, strengthened by input from clinicians, including nurses and consumers, that will report to the government.

Where will the extra $2 billion go?

Rudd says the extra $2 billion will be invested in four key initiatives: c New or enhanced primary care services, stronger preventative health care and better chronic disease management in order to reduce preventable hospitalisations and non-urgent accident and emergency presentations; c A reduction in waiting times for essential hospital services such as elective surgery; c Improved facilities for transition care in order to reduce hospital stays for older patients; and c Reducing non-urgent accident and emergency presentations by increasing access to medical and specialist services in the community.

RUDD’S PLAN FOR HEALTH REFORM c A $2 billion National Health and Hospitals Reform Plan. c 2,000 additional transition care places. c A National Health and Hospitals Reform Commission to develop a long-term health reform plan for the nation. c A commitment to seek an electoral mandate to take over public hospitals if insufficient progress is made on reforms within the next term of government.

Labor says its reform will occur in three stages: c A Rudd government would invest $2 billion in a National Health and Hospitals Reform Plan; c Within 100 days of the election, a federal Labor government will

‘An initiative to create more transition beds for older patients is a fantastic idea. On the Central Coast, our patient demographic is much older so we have trouble with the number of patients who need transition beds but instead end up in acute hospital beds. Freeing acute care beds means our skills as nurses are better utilised caring for high-acuity patients, as we are trained to do.’

John Alchin, Senior Nurse Manager Patient Flow, Gosford Hospital

22 THE LAMP OCTOBER 2007

WHAT HEALTH EXPERTS HAVE TO SAY ABOUT LABOR’S PLAN c ‘For 20 years, the missing but essential ingredient for health system reform has been political leadership. It’s exciting that it has arrived at last.’ Professor John Dwyer, foundation Chairman of the Australian Health Care Reform Alliance.

c ‘An essential step in recognising the importance of preventative health care in Australia.’ Australian General Practice Network.

c ‘Nurses across Australia will be excited about the prospect of improving our health system where they struggle each day to provide basic nursing care.’

Ged Kearney, Assistant Secretary, Australian Nursing Federation.

c ‘We can only wonder why the current federal government has not put forward such a promising proposal to date.’

Doctors Reform Society.

c

help establish a National Health and Hospitals Reform Commission to develop a long-term health reform plan for the nation; If the states and territories have not begun implementing a national reform plan by the middle of 2009, a Rudd government would seek a mandate to assume funding responsibility for the nation’s public hospitals.n

Super clinics to bolster community health, take pressure off hospitals

P

art of Labor’s health plan includes an extra $220 million to establish GP super clinics in local communities in order to bolster frontline health services for families.

The super clinics would provide access to doctors, nurses, specialists and allied health professionals, such as

Kevin Rudd said the super clinics were part of a plan to end the blame game on health and provide local solutions within a consistent national strategy.

physiotherapists, podiatrists, dieticians and psychologists in one centre.

Some of the funding would pay for administrative and nursing support that would make the super clinics attractive to new graduates, trainees and GP registrars.

Labor says this is to encourage health workers into regions where there are workforce shortages, particularly in rural and regional areas.

Kevin Rudd said the super clinics were part of a plan to end the blame game on health and provide local solutions within a consistent national strategy.

‘Australia needs a systematic approach to fixing the health system; not just one-off policies for marginal electorates,’ he said.

‘Labor understands that taking the pressure off hospitals requires ensuring good-quality health services in local communities. And through bolstering Commonwealth investment in primary care by supporting new GP super clinics, we’re prepared to do our part.’n

‘The super clinics would ease the load on ED, which means we could offer better service to people who require emergency care.This would also decrease the stress on nurses who are often hounded by patients who have had to wait a long time in emergency.’

Mark Constable, NUM, ED, Wyong Hospital

THE LAMP OCTOBER 2007 23

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AGENDA

Hospital based training plan under fire g Profession rejects patch up scheme for more ENs.

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he federal government’s plan to establish new schools in hospitals to train enrolled nurses has been roundly criticised by the nursing profession as an ill-conceived, pre-election patch up.

Responding to what he admitted was a ‘desperate’ shortage of nurses, Prime Minister Howard announced his government would fund 25 schools in public and private hospitals to train an extra 500 ENs a year.

Howard said students with Year 10 school qualifications would be eligible to enrol for the courses, which would usually take about 18 months.

The return to hospital-based training for nurses represents ‘old time thinking 24 THE LAMP OCTOBER 2007

from a worn out government’, said Brett Holmes, General Secretary of the NSW

More than 30,000 registered nurses refuse to work in the profession because of poor wages and working conditions.

Nurses’ Association.

‘The government is obviously out of touch with the needs of a modern health system,’ Brett said.

‘Nurse training moved to the tertiary sector almost a generation ago

because the profession understood it needed highly trained nurses capable of delivering the highest quality care.

‘Australia needs more universitytrained nurses with on-the-job experience.’

Howard admitted the government failed to consult with the nursing profession before devising the plan.

Asked by a reporter if the profession had been consulted, Howard replied: ’Well there was a lot of consultation with health professionals. There wasn't consultation with the nurses’ federation, and I'm disappointed that they've come out against it, although I noticed that the AMA has expressed its support and also the private hospitals have expressed their support.’

Leading nurse educators criticised the plan.

They included the Acting Dean of Nursing, Midwifery and Health at the University of Technology, Sydney, Denise Dignam, who accused the government of â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;attempting to play on the nostalgia of the public for hospital trainingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;.

She said hospitals were no longer places where patients spent long periods recovering, needing the kind of basic care on-the-job trainees could deliver.

Her comments were supported by the Executive Director of the Royal College of Nursing, Rosemary Bryant, who said the government was arbitrarily imposing a new system onto the existing enrolled nurse training system, which was working well in the TAFE sector.

She said funds to pay for hospitalbased schools would be better spent on

more TAFE places for enrolled nurses, more clinical placements for student nurses or more places for nursing students at university.

Old time thinking from a worn out government.

Brett Holmes said that as well as providing more university places the Howard government should have done more to attract qualified nurses back to the health system. â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;More than 30,000 registered nurses â&#x20AC;&#x201C; over 10% of the workforce â&#x20AC;&#x201C; refuse to work in the profession because of poor wages and working conditions,â&#x20AC;&#x2122; he said.

â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The federal governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s response to this dire statistic is to promote WorkChoices, a system tailored made to cut wages and make working conditions more onerous.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; Labor leader Kevin Rudd likened Howardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s plan for hospital-based schools to the government's scheme for Australian Technical Colleges, established in opposition to the State-based TAFE system. â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;After three years and more than half a billion dollars, the Australian Technical Colleges have not produced a single graduate. And on the governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s own figures, these colleges will produce fewer than 10,000 graduates over the next five years in the face of a shortage of over 200,000 skilled workers,â&#x20AC;&#x2122; he said. n

SCHEME WONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;T FIX A DECADE OF NEGLECT ven if it goes ahead, the federal governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s plan to train an extra 500 enrolled nurses a year is a drop in the bucket compared to the health systemâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unmet needs.

Back in 2004, the Howard government was provided with an Australian Health Workforce Advisory Committee Nursing Workforce Planning Report, which warned that over the next decade Australia will need up to 13,500 new registered nurses and 5,734 new enrolled nurses each year to meet the demand for nursing services.

Despite this report, 2,408 applicants were turned away from registered nursing courses at universities last year because there were not enough places.

Federal underfunding of university places remains a core part of the problem.

Jan Brown, coordinator of the nursing program at University of New England, argues the government should put

E

more money into nurse education â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;considering that nurses are the backbone of the health systemâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;The government could put more money into nurse places and more scholarships. They could abolish HECS or drastically reduce it for students. That would really make a difference,â&#x20AC;&#x2122; she said.

It is not just nursing thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s suffered from the Howard governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s decade of neglect of higher education. Recent studies show that: â&#x20AC;˘ Since 1995, Australia is the only OECD country to cut public investment in tertiary education (by 7%). Other OECD countries increased their investment by an average 48%; â&#x20AC;˘ Since 1998, more than 300,000 Australians have been turned away from TAFE; â&#x20AC;˘ Since 2001, almost 150,000 eligible applicants have been turned away from Australian universities.

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THE LAMP OCTOBER 2007 25

• NSWNA RECRUITMENT INCENTIVE SCHEME •

SIGN UP A NEW MEMBER FOR THE CHANCE TO

WIN A FABULOUS

FIJIAN

HOLIDAY

For every friend or colleague you sign up, you’ll receive a David Jones gift voucher and also go into the draw to win a fantastic holiday for two. You could be jetting off from Sydney return with Air Pacific to Denarau Island in Fiji for three luxurious nights at The Radisson Resort Fiji. After a relaxing stay in a Pacific Lagoon Guest Room, you and your guest will then enjoy a Blue Lagoon Cruise aboard MV Mystique Princess for a 4-day, 3-night Gold Club cruise. All onboard meals, cruise entertainment and shore excursions are included in this exciting prize.

$10 David Jones gift vouchers For the period from 30 June – 30 December 2007, recruiters will receive a $10, instead of a $5, David Jones gift voucher for every new member they sign up.

Membership application forms Hurry! Call the Association now for your recruitment kits and recruitment incentive scheme details.

Ph: 8595 1234 (metropolitan area) or 1300 367 962 (non-metropolitan area) or go to www.nswnurses.asn.au

Fiji tri p draw n 3 0 Jun e 200

26 THE LAMP OCTOBER 2007

8

s

I N D U S T R I A L

I S S U E S

Spotlight ditches ‘confusing’ AWAs g Infamous for its ‘2¢’ AWAs, Spotlight retail chain abandons WorkChoices and plans for a union collective agreement.

T

he retail chain Spotlight attracted controversy last year when it offered employees AWAs that stripped away penalty rates in return for 2¢ more per hour.

Now the company has denounced the Howard government’s IR laws as ‘bewildering’ after failing the new ‘fairness test’, and has announced plans to abandon hundreds of AWAs in favour of a union collective agreement.

The company’s latest batch of more than 400 AWAs has been rejected by the Workplace Authority under the new Fairness Test, introduced by the government to ensure no workers are worse off under the new system. The test requires that fair compensation be paid to workers who give up award conditions such as penalty rates.

The latest batch of AWAs has failed the fairness test but the company also has more than 1,000 workers on AWAs that predate

WorkChoices, and 800 on AWAs introduced under the legislation but not subject to the fairness test.

Spotlight has commenced negotiating a new union collective agreement with its workers and their union, the Australian Workers Union (AWU).

NSWNA Assistant General Secretary Judith Kiejda said Spotlight’s decision to drop AWAs altogether is a strong indictment that the new IR system is confusing and convoluted.

‘Last year when it was revealed that Spotlight was offering workers agreements that provided just 2¢ per hour more in return for giving up penalty rates, John Howard defended the company as “creating jobs for workers”.

‘Now the government’s own fairness test has exposed one of it biggest pin-up companies as offering unfair deals to its workers,’ said Judith.

Chief Executive of Spotlight, Stephen Carter, said the company found the

Government’s legislation increasingly confusing.

‘We have tried to embrace the Government’s industrial relations agenda by adopting its framework, but we have been unsuccessful,’ he told ABC radio.

‘We just want to negotiate with the union given the increasing levels of complexity that we face.’

Labour’s industrial relations spokesperson Julia Gillard said the decision to go back to collective bargaining showed that WorkChoices was bad for both employees and employers.

‘Workers can still lose award conditions and not get any compensation and businesses are finding it very difficult to comply with these complex laws,’ she said.

Bill Shorten, National Secretary of the AWU, told The Australian: ‘Spotlight has discovered that the federal government has changed the rules so often that it doesn’t know whether it’s playing soccer, football or rugby.’ n

‘Spotlight’s decision to drop AWAs altogether is a strong indictment that the new IR system is confusing and convoluted.’

NSWNA Assistant General Secretary Judith Kiejda

‘Workers can still lose award conditions and not get any compensation and businesses are finding it very difficult to comply with these complex laws.’

ALP industrial relations spokesperson Julia Gillard

THE LAMP OCTOBER 2007 27

Later this year there is a federal election which will have a huge impact on the lives of working people – yet many NSWNA members may not be able to vote because they are not correctly enrolled.

Now is the time to fix that by checking you are on the electoral roll at your correct address.

You should check your enrolment if: •

You are turning 18 and have never voted before;

•

You have moved house in the past two years;

•

You are not sure whether you are enrolled.

The federal election will take place later in 2007.

The election will be decided by small numbers of voters in a few key seats.

That’s why your vote can make a difference. So make sure you are correctly enrolled to vote.

It’s important to enrol as soon as possible because John Howard has changed the laws to make it harder to enrol. Once the Prime Minister calls the federal election, it will be too late to get on the electoral roll.

Have your say in 2007 elections ENROL TO VOTE NOW

Jo Sudol, TEN, enrols to vote

28 THE LAMP OCTOBER 2007

For more information on how to vote or to download an enrolment application form, visit the Australian Electoral Commission website at www.aec.gov.au or call (02) 6271 4411 or 13 23 26.

You can also pick up an enrolment application form at your local post office.

IR SHORTS AWA WORKERS MISS OUT ON REDUNDANCY PAY

W

orkers on AWAs employed at the South Burnett Meatworks in Queensland have missed out on tens of thousands of dollars in redundancy pay after the plant closed. Workers on a union collective agreement, however, will get their full redundancy entitlement, with some employees getting up to $19,000.

‘There are 230,000 workers who are made redundant each year and the increasing use of AWAs that provide no redundancy entitlement means more than a million workers over five years could be affected.’

The collapse of the South Burnett Meatworks at Murgon in Queensland has exposed a major new loophole in the Howard government’s WorkChoices IR laws, with redundancy pay not protected by the laws and not covered by the so-called ‘Fairness Test’, according to the ACTU. ‘There are 230,000 workers who are made redundant each year and the increasing use of AWAs that provide no redundancy entitlement means more than a million workers over five years could be affected,’ said ACTU President Sharan Burrow.

EMPLOYERS SIT TIGHT BEFORE ACTING ON WORKCHOICES

A

survey by the Australian Human Resources Institute shows that a majority of human resource practitioners are awaiting the outcome of the federal election before acting on WorkChoices.

The survey of more than 1,000 members also found that HR people believe the work/life balance will deteriorate over time under the new laws. Contrary to the Coalition promise of a ‘simpler’ IR system, more than half reported it had increased their need for legal advice.

The rebranding of the federal government’s watchdogs drew ‘considerable criticism’ as a waste of time that would increase confusion. While the federal government has repeatedly said the new laws would lead to more jobs, this failed to resonate among HR practitioners. Only 20% agreed it would increase their willingness to hire, 31% disagreed and 48% were neutral.

NO WORRIES FOR SMALL BUSINESSES WITH UNFAIR DISMISSAL LAWS

A

nother survey of 1,800 small and medium enterprises by Sensis has found 7 out of 10 small business operators think bringing back unfair dismissal laws would have a minimal impact on their businesses. A mere two out of ten thought it would harm business prospects.

The survey also revealed the impotency of the federal government’s so-called fairness test. Only 55% of small business owners were aware of the fairness test provisions and only 38% of these have provided employees with the work relations fact sheet – a legal requirement under the laws.

WORKPLACE OMBUDSMAN SLOW, UNRESPONSIVE AND INEFFECTIVE

O

Sharan Burrow

ut of 800 complaints to a Queensland government helpline from workers who were underpaid, dismissed or treated unfairly, then referred to the federal government’s Workplace Ombudsman (formerly the Office of Workplace Services), only four responses have been received back by the Queensland government.

INDUSTRIAL PEACE national survey of 2,170 enterprises by Sydney University’s Workplace Relations Centre found that only 3% of businesses experienced industrial disputes in the 12 months before WorkChoices was introduced in April 2006. The study also found that 64% of employers had ‘good’ or ‘very good’ relations with unions and only 4% were dissatisfied.

‘WorkChoices is driven less by concrete problems and more by ideology’, the report’s author Dr John Buchanan told the Sydney Morning Herald.

Despite low unemployment and strong economic growth, 15% of businesses had also cut staff, leading to what Dr Buchanan described as ‘smouldering discontent’ among employees concerned with job security.

A

Dr John Buchanan

A survey of the outstanding claims by workers by the Queensland government found that more than one in three (33.5%) were dissatisfied with the service or outcome by the Howard government’s Workplace Ombudsman.

More than one in three were dissatisfied with the service or outcome by the Howard government’s Workplace Ombudsman.

The top three reasons the workers were unhappy with the response were: c The watchdog indicated the worker had ‘no claim’ but did not provide reasons; c The watchdog accepted the employer’s details of events without giving the worker an opportunity to respond; c The watchdog did not provide any detail or keep claimants informed on the progress of the matter. n THE LAMP OCTOBER 2007 29

SELLING FAST – PLACE YOUR ORDER NOW Place your order now for NSWNA merchandise

$10 $20

$10

$10

‘NURSES RIGHTS AT WORK’ CAMPAIGN T-SHIRT ORDER FORM Name of the facility:

Name:

Address:

Contact number:

(M)

(PH)

PLEASE TICK SIZE AND NUMBER OF EACH SIZE REQUIRED c NURSES RIGHTS@WORK black s/sleeved t-shirt $10 Size 10

Size 16

Total cost of order: Please include $5 postage & handling

Size 18

Method of payment: Size 20

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Cheque

Size 24

Money Order

Visa

MasterCard

Name of Card Holder: c MY RIGHTS@WORK white child’s s/sleeved t-shirt $10 Size 8 Expiry Date: _____ / _____ c BOXING ANGEL long-sleeved t-shirt $20 Size xl White:

Size xxl White:

Signature:

Size xxl Black:

NURSES RIGHTS@WORK MY VOTE black s/sleeved t-shirt $10 Size 10

Size 12

Size 14

Size 18

Size 20

Size 22

Size 16

To order, fax the order form to Glen Ginty (02) 9550 3667 or post to: NSW Nurses’ Association PO Box 40 Camperdown NSW 1450 Merchandise order forms available on our website www.nswnurses.asn.au

30 THE LAMP OCTOBER 2007 Authorised by Brett Holmes, General Secretary, NSWNA

s

Q & A

ASK

JUDITH

WHEN IT COMES TO YOUR RIGHTS AND ENTITLEMENTS AT WORK, NSWNA ASSISTANT GENERAL SECRETARY JUDITH KIEJDA HAS THE ANSWERS.

Permission for secondary employment I work in a public hospital and I’m currently on maternity leave and due to return to work in three months‘ time. Am I able to work casually at a different hospital during this period?

Under NSW Health policy directive PD2005_626, Code of Conduct – NSW Health, section 2.4 Outside employment and business activities, there are certain obligations you are required to undertake in relation to secondary employment.

If you are a full-time employee, you are required to seek permission from your primary employer. If you are part-time or casual, you must advise your primary employer of any actual, potential or perceived conflict of interest between the second employer/position and your primary position. If requested, you must provide details of the secondary employment to your primary employer if allegations of a conflict of interest arise.

You must also give an assurance to your primary employer that the secondary employment will be performed outside your normal working hours, not conflict with the work you do with the primary employer, not adversely affect your work performance and not create any safety issues in regard to your clinical practice.

You need to also be aware you are entitled to return to work on

reduced hours at your primary place of employment in line with NSW Health Policy Directive PD2005_154 and the Public Health System Nurses’ & Midwives’ (State) Award clause 34.

10-hour break between shifts I work in a public hospital and have recently transferred to a different ward.

Previously, I was given a 10-hour break between shifts (afternoon to day shift).

However, my new NUM says this is not the case on her ward and we are only given an eight-hour break. I have to travel an hour each way to work and I don’t feel as though I have had a break. Can my NUM do this?

The provision for a 10-hour break is found in the Public Health System Nurses’ & Midwives’ (State) Award, clause 4 Hours of Work … subclause (iv) (a) which states: ‘… with no less than 10-hours break between each rostered shift, unless agreed otherwise between an employee and local nursing management.’Therefore the Association believes that the employer should pay for the checks.

Your NUM must roster you with a minimum 10-hour break unless you have an agreement with the NUM whereby you agree to have only an eight-hour break between rostered shifts. If you do not have an agreement that allows for an eight-hour break to be rostered, you could be entitled to be paid overtime for the day shift.

Slipped on the way to work I am an AiN working in a nursing home. Last week when I was leaving for work I slipped down the front stairs of my house and hurt my knee. I have reported the injury to my NUM but she says that I am not entitled to workers' compensation. Is this correct?

Section 10.4 of The Workers Compensation Act 1987 states that if a worker is on their way to work and they injure themselves they must have gone past their front gate before they are entitled to put in a claim for workers compensation. This means you must have left your property before you have any entitlement. Not all claims are accepted and if members are unsure whether or not to put in a claim they should discuss this with their doctor and then an Information Officer at the Association.

Are private hospital nurses entitled to Continuing Education Allowance?

I recently read in The Lamp that the Association had secured a Continuing Education Allowance for Clinical Nurse Specialists. I work in a private hospital, am I entitled to the allowance?

The article referred to Clinical Nurse Specialists who are employed in a public hospital. At present, the Continuing Education Allowance is not paid to nurses who are employed in private hospitals.n

Nurses helping care for children!

As a professional in the nursing field you have the knowledge and skills needed to provide care. You can utilise these skills as a foster carer whilst continuing in your career. Your commitment can range from caring for a child one weekend a month through to permanent care. For more information please call Centacare on 8709 9333 or visit www.fosterkids.com.au THE LAMP OCTOBER 2007 31 Centracare.indd 1

13/7/07 12:44:48 PM

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N PEEW S C ISA LI N PEO BP R LI EE F

Golden anniversary for Jan Ryan

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e would like to share with our nursing colleagues a tribute to one of our valued peers, Jan Ryan, who works at the Bungora Opioid Treatment Unit in Wollongong. We would like to congratulate Jan on a long and successful nursing career.

Jan commenced her general nurse training in 1955, at the Mater Hospital, Auckland, New Zealand, and was registered in 1958. Jan trained as a maternity nurse and then completed her psychiatric training at Kingseat Psychiatric Hospital, Auckland in 1960.

Janâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s career has spanned various fields and various countries as she travelled with her family. Her initial specialty area as a registered nurse was in theatres, working in both the Mater Hospital and the Rawhiti Hospital in Auckland. Travelling again, Jan spent a period of time as a general nurse in Pennsylvania, USA before moving to Australia.

In April 1975, Jan began her long

Jan and her Mother at her Graduation in 1958 32 THE LAMP OCTOBER 2007

involvement with health care in the Illawarra area, firstly as a community nurse in what was then the Illawarra Health Commission. She remained in this position, interspersed with family commitments and further travel, until 1988. During this time, she was involved in community education and training programs. Towards the end of 1988, Janâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s family moved to New Zealand. Before moving back to New Zealand, a colleague encouraged her to attend a drug and alcohol course, which proved to be the beginning of a new field of practice for Jan. For the next four years, Jan worked with Auckland Drug and Alcohol Services, as Coordinator for Recovery House. She also worked as a nurse counsellor in general drug and alcohol services.

Arriving back in Australia in 1992, Jan commenced work with Illawarra Health Drug and Alcohol Services, a position she retains to this time. Jan currently works at Bungora Opioid Treatment Unit in Wollongong, a SESIH service, where her skills and knowledge continue to be appreciated by staff and

Jan is a very valued member of staff, and makes a significant contribution to the success of the team. clients alike. It should be noted that Jan did attempt a brief retirement in 2002, but returned to our service in 2004.

Jan is a very valued member of staff, and makes a significant contribution to the success of the team. Staff especially appreciate her thoughtfulness, which extends to bringing flowers from her garden to the unit each week, and bringing lunch for the team on days she is on duty.

She is our representative on the Drug and Alcohol Workforce Development and Research Committee, and she keeps a close eye on and maintains our orientation package and program. Jan also performs a key role in the dispensing of opioid treatment therapy.

We would like to acknowledge our wonderful team member, and also add that Jan has just recently celebrated her 70th birthday, with a memorable party for her family, friends and colleagues.

She is also about to celebrate that amazing nursing achievement ... a golden anniversary (50 years) as a Registered Nurse, and still working hard.

We hope her second attempt at retirement is still a few years away.n

Team building for a tough job

W

orking in an operating theatre is a tough job that requires a dedicated and communicative team. Terri Pinkis, CNS, from Wollongong Hospital recently received the Excellence in Perioperative Nursing Award for her initiatives to promote support and teamwork in the neurosurgery unit.

The award is from the NSW Operating Theatre Association which holds an annual excellence awards program to recognise the achievements and professional credibility of perioperative nurses.

‘Team morale is vital in a highly stressful environment so I try to provide initiatives that are fun and easy and that help us all to bond and work hard as a team,’ said Terri, who is also the chairperson of the

NSW Operating Theatre Association in the South Coast and Southern Highlands area.

A few years ago she attended a workshop about minimising errors at work and was intrigued by the team moraleboosting activities suggested. She decided to implement them at Wollongong.

‘This adds a new dimension to our work and really encourages the notion of a team,’ said Terri.

Some of the Terri’s initiatives in the neurosurgery unit include dolphinpatterned hats and the use of a magnetic board to indicate staff members’ moods.

‘These are only small things but they provide a bond and this is what you need in perioperative nursing,’ she said.

‘The doctors are very supportive and even the registrars who come through every six months are quick to adopt it and love the idea.’n

LIONS NURSES’

SCHOLARSHIP

Looking for funding to further your studies in 2008?

The trustees of the Lions Nurses’ Scholarship Foundation invite applications for scholarships for 2008.

Nurses eligible for these scholarships must be resident and employed within the State of NSW or ACT. You must be registered or enrolled with either the NSW Nurses and Midwives Board or regulatory authority of the ACT, and must have a minimum of three years’ experience in the nursing profession in NSW or the ACT. Applicants must also be able to produce evidence that your employer will grant leave for the required period of the scholarship.

Details of eligibility and the scholarships available (which include study projects either within Australia or

overseas), and application forms are available from: The Honourary Secretary, Lions Nurses’ Scholarship Foundation 43 Australia Street, Camperdown NSW 1450 or contact Ms Glen Ginty on 1300 367 962 or gginty@nswnurses.asn.au www.nswnurses.asn.au

Completed applications must be in the hands of the secretary no later than 28 November 2007.

THE LAMP OCTOBER 2007 33

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34 THE LAMP OCTOBER 2007

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N PEEW S C ISA LI N PEO BP R LI EE F

‘It is going to be a challenge to build the bridge between the refugees’ country of origin and their new life, but in the end they will have better health and be empowered and educated.’

Refugee Health Nurse Christine Foletti

Giving refugees a healthy new start C As Refugee Health Nurses in the Hunter and New England region, RNs Christine Foletti and Joy Harrison are helping refugees when they arrive in Australia.

S

tarting a new life in a new location can be very daunting – there is always so much to do, including adapting to the new surroundings. For refugees, this new life and the associated changes are even harder, even if it means their new home is safer than the one they left behind.

Cultural differences and language barriers are well-known obstacles for refugees, but medical and health issues are also important and need to be addressed.

Christine Foletti, RN and midwife, and Joy Harrison, RN, are helping refugees when they arrive in Australia, ensuring they know what medical services are available to them and providing basic health care.

Christine and Joy are the Refugee Health Nurses for the Hunter and New England region. The new roles aim to improve the access to health care for refugees, and introduce them to the Australian health care system.

‘I am based in the Newcastle

Refugee Health Clinic, drawing on a team of people including other nurses, interpreters, multicultural liaison officers and health care professionals,’ said Christine.

Joy works in the northern sector of the region, from Tamworth to Tenterfield. She is based on the road and tries to run clinics at the local health centres every fortnight.

‘I am paving the way as this is a new role, and with an area this large to cover, there is lots to do.’

Both Christine and Joy have always had a strong interest in community health and working with people from other cultures.

‘I have worked in remote areas of Australia and was involved in humanitarian work overseas in Sudan and Rwanda,’ said Christine.

‘It is going to be a challenge to build the bridge between the refugees’ country of origin and their new life, but in the end they will have better health and be empowered and educated,’ said Christine.

The service involves an initial health assessment for the refugees in the first

week of their arrival to Australia.

‘We take their history, do blood tests, administer any vaccinations needed and see if other health professionals need to be seen,’ said Christine.

‘Education is a big element to our work as well – we want to set these people up for success.

‘Some things are very basic, like how to cook and keep certain vegetables that are new to their diet,’ said Joy. Through this educational initiative, refugees’ health will hopefully improve and add to their experience in their new home.

‘Many of the refugees have longstanding health problems, and health care may not have been a concern due to the poverty and unsafe conditions in their original countries,’ said Christine.

Joy adds that ‘people are overjoyed to have a designated health care worker focussed on them when they first get here’.

While they have a big task ahead of them, both Christine and Joy have a wealth of experience and dedication, which is a great start for such an important role.n THE LAMP OCTOBER 2007 35

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L I F E S T Y L E

Gardening digs up the goods g Time in the garden can help nurses balance the demands of their profession, says talkback radio gardener Susan Russell.

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usan Russell cannot remember a time when she wasn’t busy juggling various tasks. ‘I need to be constantly engaged – it keeps my brain sharp,’ she said.

A clinical nurse consultant at Port Macquarie Drug and Alcohol Services, Susan also owns a nursery, hosts her own talkback radio program and has just started piano lessons.

‘My interest in gardens and horticulture probably stems from my mum dragging me to nurseries when I was very young,’ said Susan.

‘I decided to do an Advanced Diploma in Horticulture through TAFE in the late 1990s. At times I wondered if I was a lunatic, juggling all the practical assignments with my full-time job as a CNC, but I have come to realise I will 36 THE LAMP OCTOBER 2007

probably always be studying in some way or another.’

Susan also has a Masters in Clinical Drug Dependency from Macquarie University and says that the best piece of advice she can offer is to be passionate about what you are doing, as this is a great motivator.

‘It is fantastic to have a passion outside of your job – it provides some balance with the demands of nursing which is very important.

‘The trick is to prioritise and plan ahead, this way you can fit time in for yourself, doing what you enjoy outside of work.’

Now working part-time in nursing and running her own nursery, Susan also hosts a gardening talkback program every fortnight on her local ABC radio station.

‘I was approached by the local station a little over a year ago and was very

happy to take on the role. My job requires a lot of public speaking so talkback radio comes very naturally,’ she said.

Susan sees many similarities between nursing and gardening and therefore recommends it as a hobby to other nurses. ‘Gardening involves looking after things and monitoring, much like nursing. You need to look out for your plants just like patients and take appropriate steps to provide the best care.

‘I find my gardening helps alleviate stress which strengthens my relationships and organisation at work. It can also be a group activity where you can share tips and advice, which adds a social aspect.’

For readers in the Port Macquarie area, tune into 95.5FM (ABC Local Radio) every second Thursday around 9am to hear Susan’s segment on the ‘Morning Show’.n

C O M P E T I T I O N

SUSAN’S GARDEN TIPS FOR SPRING c Lightly prune flowering native plants after they have finished flowering but remember not to cut off the foliage as this provides food for next season's flowers. c Cut back spring flowering vines like jasmine and wisteria to keep them under control. c Fertilise spring bulbs that have finished flowering before foliage dies down. c Plant seedlings of petunias, marigolds, asters, snapdragons and dianthus for a wonderful summer display. c Feed your annuals and vegetables with a liquid fertiliser fortnightly. c Last but not least, make sure you wear sunscreen and a hat.

WIN!

A RELAXING ESCAPE TO THE PICTURESQUE SOUTHERN HIGHLANDS The Southern Highlands will make you feel ‘A World Away’ from the daily grind with its array of attractions including magnificent gardens, antiques, heritage and wondrous natural attractions. The Southern Highlands is an ideal great place to relax, escape, unwind and rejuvenate within easy reach of so many NSW locations.

The Lamp is offering NSWNA members the chance to win this luxurious and pampering prize: c Two general admission tickets to ‘A Day On The Green’ Concert featuring Lionel Richie, to be held at Centennial Vineyards in Bowral on Sunday, 9 December. c An Escape Package at Berida Manor, including accommodation for two people in a double room on Sunday, 9 December, and Monday, 10 December. Breakfasts are included for Monday and Tuesday mornings, and dinner on Monday evening. c Bowral Massage Therapy will spoil the prizewinner with two massages, one for each person.

Our reviewers & tipsters receive a delightful ABC Classics CD – for uplifting enjoyment!

Gifts so good, you won’t want to give them away. There is an ABC Shop near you. For locations visit abcshop.com.au or call 1300 360 111.

Ask about our rewards program.

WANTED

c A High Tea At the Whitehorse Inn – a stunning venue with a high tea to impress at every level. c Top all of this off with a delightful selection of Southern Highland cool climate wines to take home.

This prize is only available to be taken on Sunday, 9 December, and Monday, 10 December, due to the specific date of A Day On The Green.

This fun-filled prize is the perfect escape for two so be sure to get your entries in by 31 October 2007. Write your name, address and membership number on the back of an envelope and send to: Southern Highlands Competition PO Box 40, Camperdown NSW 1450 For more information on the Southern Highlands, go to www.southern-highlands.com.au

We're seeking members with a non-nursing skill or talent they'd like to share with other nurses. You could be a whiz in the kitchen.

Or have some DIY plumbing and home-handy tips. Or a wild and wonderful interest or skill. Be it strange, extraordinary or useful, we'd love you to come on board as a NSWNA tipster. We are also seeking closet film buffs to share with other nurses their views on the movies they love and hate. It’s a chance to see previews of next month’s new releases. Please contact us with expressions of interest to be part of our tipster and movie review team.

Be part of the action by calling Editorial Enquiries now on 02 8595 1219 or email lamp@nswnurses.asn.au THE LAMP OCTOBER 2007 37

38 THE LAMP OCTOBER 2007

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L I F E S T Y L E

A Mighty Heart g A journalist goes to Pakistan hoping to break news; instead he disappears and becomes the headlines. A remarkable story told for a son who will never see his father.

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uffering, loss, grief and despair are portrayed in this movie but there is also a continuing thread of resilience and hope as Mariane Pearl, a woman of incredible strength, unfolds her story.

Daniel (Dan Futterman) and Mariane Pearl (Angelina Jolie) are both journalists, who, while on assignment in Karachi, Pakistan, experience the unthinkable when Daniel goes missing.

The story is based on a real-life event that made world headlines in 2002. When Daniel went missing, agencies from around the globe were involved from the FBI to counter-terrorism agencies, diplomats and other journalists. They all descended on the Pearls’ house in Karachi to dedicate themselves to seeking out the movements and whereabouts of Daniel Pearl. The production team, led by Brad Pitt, was fortunate to have the ‘real’ Mariane Pearl as a consultant. The detail was apparent throughout the movie, although sometimes too complex and convoluted to comprehend.

However, this did not detract from the story but added to the complications and frenetic chaos everyone was dealing with.

Most of the movie was filmed in Karachi, giving an incredible insight into this largely unseen part of the world. A comment made during the movie was that ‘Pakistan has a population that can never be counted!’ You are engrossed and transformed by the sights, sounds and people in all aspects of this story.

Daniel Pearl had a philosophy of writing only the ‘truth’ and a belief in refusing to succumb to either hate or fear. A man of integrity and high ethical standards, he had arranged one more interview before he and his wife were to return to the USA to prepare for the arrival of their first child.

He never returned home.

Angelina Jolie, as his devoted wife Mariane, was not always convincing in this role. She was always glamorous but at times seemed totally unconnected to the unfolding traumatic events. Although, when she did succumb, it was intensely felt and heart-wrenching. The tension was palpable. In contrast, her best friend, Asra (Archie Punjabi), was very credible – outwardly displaying fury, concern and frustration throughout the unfolding story. There was no holding back.

Review by Christine Merlino, RN, RPAH

The Lamp’s rating

This is an exceptional story told for a son who will never see his father.n A Mighty Heart opens on 18 October.

TICKET GIVEAWAYS FOR NSWNA MEMBERS

4 MONTHS, 3 WEEKS & 2 DAYS

Death at a Funeral

will screen exclusively at Palace Academy Twin from 18 October.

from 11 October

Set in Romania during the last ‘golden’ years of communism, director Cristian Mungiu’s Palme d'Or-winning masterpiece tells the story of two small-town university students, Otilia and Gabita, who share a room and their deepest secrets.

When Gabita falls pregnant, the two girls are faced with an overwhelming problem, with an abortion, illegal at that time, seemingly the only answer to their dilemma. But nothing is easy and the price they are forced to pay is higher than either could have imagined.

The death of Daniel (Matthew Macfadyen) and Robert’s (Rupert Graves) father brings their entire dysfunctional family together to mourn his passing. When a man shows up at the funeral threatening to reveal the deceased man’s shocking secret unless he gets some cash, the two brothers are forced to figure out a way to deal with the blackmailer. As they pull out every stop to try and prevent any news from spreading to the guests, the ceremony turns into complete chaos. www.iconmovies.com.au/deathatafuneral

New British comedy, in cinemas

The Lamp has 20 double passes to see Death at a Funeral, 25 double passes to 4 months, 3 weeks & 2 days, 15 double passes to A Mighty Heart. To enter, email lamp@nswnurses.asn.au with your name, membership number, address and contact number.

First entries win!

THE LAMP OCTOBER 2007 39

s

O B I T U A R I E S

Many were touched by her kindness MARILYN MILLS • 2 MAY 1952 – 12 JUNE 2007

T

otal disbelief and devastation was felt by the staff and residents of St Anne’s Nursing Home in Broken Hill when they heard that Marilyn would not be back to work with and to care for them.

Always a dedicated, caring and an efficient nurse, Marilyn was an AiN at St Anne’s for over 23 years and was diagnosed with brain tumors just seven weeks before her death.

Our friend was always tall and strong and looked after us all. How could this dreaded disease get her so quickly?

I knew Marilyn at school and when I started nursing at age 17, Marilyn joined the convent and worked for the Catholic

40 THE LAMP OCTOBER 2007

Church caring for orphaned children for many years, living in Wagga Wagga and then New Zealand.

Marilyn dearly wanted to join the order of the Sisters of Compassion but this wasn’t to be. She then returned to Broken Hill to work for the Sisters of Compassion in the Girls’ Home until it closed, then transferred to St Anne’s shortly before Southern Cross Care took over the Nursing Home.

I met up with Marilyn again when I started working at St Anne’s as an RN in 1984. In those days (23 years ago) there were only two of us and a bedmaker, caring for 26 residents in Lourdes Ward on dayshift. Marilyn was always an excellent organiser and the residents were all up and dressed in no time. Paperwork was minimal so we spent all our day with the residents.

Marilyn spent many years serving on QA and OH&S Committees and was an excellent mentor for new staff.

Marilyn’s life was dedicated to helping other people. Her caring and giving nature had a huge impact on many lives. Those close to her have first-hand

knowledge of many instances where she gave herself generously to those suffering hardships. These good deeds were done with no fuss.

Marilyn also enjoyed seeing everyone have a good time. She had many farewells and Christmas parties at her house. These times will be treasured by everyone.

Marilyn’s life was dedicated to helping other people. Her caring and giving nature had a huge impact on many lives.

Marilyn had that special touch when caring for the dying and provided comfort to families. The residents of St Anne’s Nursing Home and her workmates will miss her.n

By Julie Baldwin, Manager, St Anne’s Nursing Home

Leading nurse steered hospital through major changes MARGARET COOPER BOOTH AM • 1926-2007

M

argaret was born in Sydney, the eldest of three children of Gwenfra and John Cooper Booth, a medical practitioner.

When Margaret left school, WWII had not yet ended and women were required in the workforce. She had a choice of two jobs – working in the Lindfield Laundry or entering nursing.

As her father was a doctor it was not surprising that she chose nursing.

In 1944 she began a four-year training course at Royal Prince Alfred

Deputy Matron in 1962.

In this role she worked closely with Matron Ruth McClelland. They formed an excellent partnership and became lifelong friends.

Over the next two decades Margaret played a major role in introducing significant changes that shaped nursing practice and education. Team nursing was introduced; training was reduced to three years; male nurses were employed; a pilot program to integrate hospital training and a university education was trialled and

Seeking a solution to a severe shortage of nurses, Margaret travelled to the United Kingdom in 1985. The subsequent recruitment campaign resulted in 100 nurses joining RNSH. Hospital. During this period the new miracle drug, penicillin, came into use.

She completed her midwifery training at Royal North Shore Hospital and this marked the commencement of a long and successful career there.

In 1952 she completed a Diploma in Ward Administration at the College of Nursing, Melbourne, returning to RNSH the following year to take charge of the Men’s Medical Ward. A Nightingale Scholarship enabled her to travel to London in 1958 and complete a Diploma in Nursing Administration at the Royal College of Nursing.

On her return to RNSH she became Assistant Matron until being appointed

trainee nurses were no longer required to live in hospital residences.

At the same time nurse managers faced difficulties maintaining patient services during several periods of industrial unrest. Eventually better pay and conditions were achieved under a 38-hour week with rostered days off. Developments in medical and surgical techniques and radical changes in the delivery of health services altered the role and skills required of all nursing personnel. It was at this time that the title of Matron was changed to Director of Nursing.

In 1981, in the midst of this new and challenging environment, Margaret was appointed Director of Nursing. As a

manager, she was firm and resolute and demanded a high standard. However any staff member who came to her with a request for help – whether work-related or of a personal nature – would be treated sympathetically. At all times she maintained a personal interest in her staff and enjoyed hearing about and meeting their families on special occasions.

Seeking a solution to a severe shortage of nurses, Margaret travelled to the United Kingdom in 1985. The subsequent recruitment campaign resulted in 100 nurses joining RNSH. Margaret was a Fellow of the NSW College of Nursing, Fellow of the College of Nursing Australia, Member of the Institute of Nursing Administrators NSW and ACT, Member of the Royal Australian Nursing Federation (NSW Branch).

She also sat on the external advisory committee of Cumberland College of Health Sciences and the Sydney Institute of Technology. In 1986, a year before her retirement, Margaret was made a Member of the Order of Australia (AM) in recognition of her outstanding contribution to nursing.

Margaret’s funeral was held in Orange in April. Members of the Graduate Nurses’ Association held a memorial service at the hospital chapel on 30 June to acknowledge her significant contribution to the hospital over many years.

Margaret is survived by her sister Joan and brother Peter and his family.n Una Sullivan, RNSH Graduate Nurses Association THE LAMP OCTOBER 2007 41

Simply better ward beds at every step of the way

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Smart and sophisticated, the FE 5000 is Australian designed and Australian made and is testimony to all the things health professionals have come to value in equipment that allows them to do their job efficiently, whilst catering for the comfort and needs of the patient.

AvantGuard 1200速 The AvantGuard 1200 bed is a valuable support to your daily nursing activities that will help you reduce the risk of injury during patient mobilisation whilst improving the safety, comfort and autonomy of your patients.

CareAssist速 ES Bed

The CareAssist ES bed incorporates several unique features to help you protect and care for your patients including onebutton Dining Chair速 feature; unique four-corner brake access with audible alarm; stowable patient pendant; Shearless Pivot速 and an inbuilt nightlight.

Enhancing the lives of patients and caregivers

For more information on these ward beds and our full range of hospital beds, trolleys and ward furniture please visit: www.medicrafthill-rom.com.au or call 02 9569 0255 42 THE LAMP OCTOBER 2007

s

L I F E S T Y L E

SPECIAL INTEREST TITLE

Journeys with the Black Dog; Inspirational Stories of Bringing Depression to Heel

Book me Develop your interpersonal and self-management skills: a practical resource for healthcare administrative and clerical staff

by Karen Stainsby with forward by Mari Robbins, Radcliff Publishing (available through Elsevier Australia), RRP $69.00: ISBN 978-18461-9107-7 A large part of what you do as a nurse involves communicating with other people: colleagues, patients, relatives, carers and the general public.

Given the complexities, vulnerabilities and demanding behaviour of other people, this may at times be an arduous task. This book brings together relevant case studies, questions and points for reflection and discussion along with self-assessment questions and action plans to reinforce learning and is a must for all healthcare professionals with direct patient contacts, including administrative and clerical staff, their managers and teachers.

Wound Care: A Collaborative Practice Manual for Health Professionals (3rd edition)

by Carrie Sussman and Barbara Bates-Jensen, Lippincott Williams & Wilkins, RRP $165.00: ISBN 978-078-1774444 Wound Care: A Collaborative Practice Manual

provides basic and advanced information on wound healing and therapies and emphasises clinical decision making.

This book integrates scientific findings with principles of good wound care and provides a set of evidence-based practices.

It features a chapter showing how to use negative pressure therapy on many types of hard-to-heal wounds. This revision has two entirely new chapters, Management of Wound Pain with Negative Pressure Therapy and an expanded chapter on photo stimulation to include LASER.

AACN Certification and Core Review for High Acuity and Critical Care with CDROM

edited by Tessa Wigney, Kerrie Eyers and Gordon Parker, Allen and Unwin, RRP $24.95: ISBN 9781741752649 Autobiographical stories written by sufferers of depression open up the lid on this insidious and often silent disease and chart the journey from first onset to successful management. The book provides the reader with inspiring and insightful stories from people who know exactly what it means to bring the black dog to heel.

(6th edition) edited by JoAnn Grif Alspach, Mosby (available through Elsevier Australia), RRP $79.95: ISBN 978-1-4160-3592-3 The new 6th edition of Core Review for High Acuity and Critical Care nursing helps readers assess and build their knowledge of critical care nursing as they prepare for the certification exam. The book consists of three 200-question sample examinations that provide extensive practice and review key content. An in-depth rationale, complete with references, is included for each question. Written under the authority of the American Association for Critical-Care Nurses (AACN), this book is an ideal study tool to facilitate preparation for critical care nursing certification.

Nursing in General Practice: the toolkit for nurses and health care assistants

By Pam Campbell, Anne Longbottom and Alison Pooler, Radcliff Publishing (available through Elsevier Australia), RRP £15.00: ISBN 9781846191725 Nursing in General Practice is an indispensable toolkit that prepares readers for adjusting their roles in accordance with patient needs, personal and professional aims and career aspirations. It is useful for nurses and health care assistants in general practice. The user-friendly, straightforward style makes it great for quick reference, bringing together all the basic information required to find a clear career path. n

WHERE TO GET THIS MONTH’S NEW RELEASES These books are all available on order through the publisher or your local bookshop. Members of the NSWNA can borrow any of these books and more from our Records and Information Centre.

For borrowing information, contact Jeannette Bromfield, 8595 2175, jbromfield@nswnurses.asn.au or Cathy Matias, 8595 2121, cmatias@nswnurses.asn.au Please note these publications can be purchased by going directly to the publisher’s websites: McGraw-Hill: www.mcgraw-hill.com.au Elsevier Australia: www.elsevier.com.au THE LAMP OCTOBER 2007 43

CAREGIVERS a change is as good as a rest

use your nursing background to work as a temporary live-in care giver Do you want to Work and Travel?

Are you capable of providing housekeeping support, have some care-giving experience or have trained as a nurse and are you eligible to work in the UK? Then we can help you work and travel in the UK. Placements involve live-in care for older people in their own homes.

Depending on experience the pay is between $1000 and $1200 a week.

All placements are short-term and include free board and lodgings, making them a great way to augment your cash in between travel excursions.

Visit our website for more information about this fantastic opportunity – not only the great pay and conditions but also the good time off, holiday pay, free training and professional friendly support.

To be eligible to work for us in the UK you must have one of the following: • A valid British or European Union Passport • A Working Holiday Visa for commonwealth citizens aged 30 or under • An Ancestry Visa by virtue of having a UK grandparent Email us on: enquiries@oxfordaunts.co.uk or visit our website at: www.oxfordaunts.co.uk

OXFORD AUNTS CARE 3 Cornmarket Street Oxford OX1 3EX UK Phone: ++ 44 1865 791017 Fax: ++ 44 1865 242606

JCXG [QW GXGT

JCXG [QW GXGT explored Tasmania’s

unique rail heritage on board the West Coast Wilderness Railway and discovered the inspiring story of the pioneers; taken a cruise through Tasmania’s World Heritage Area with Gordon River Cruises; discovered the cultural and heritage wonders of the region on the new Piners & Miners – then found a welcoming haven? Strahan Village offers individual terraces and cottages in a harbourside town on the edge of the wilderness.

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walked forest-fringed lakeside tracks; tasted full-flavoured local wines and hearty mountain fare; ventured out on a nocturnal animal tour; indulged in a hot stone massage in an alpine setting; admired the nation’s finest collection of environmental photography at The Wilderness Gallery and then felt the crackling warmth of a log fire after your day in the wilderness? Cradle Mountain Chateau is an experience to savour.

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JCXG [QW GXGT left your footprints

behind when wandering on a beach’s sandy shore; climbed granite mountains bathed in sunlight; sampled saltysweet oysters straight from the waters in front of you, sipping award-winning wines from local vineyards while the sun sets? Freycinet Lodge, uniquely set within Freycinet National Park, will take your breath away with its welcome, its comforts and its surroundings.

Visit puretasmania.com.au or call 1800 084 620, quote GS064 and our friendly Tasmanian specialists will arrange all your accommodation and experiences at our island’s most inspiring destinations; Freycinet, Strahan, Cradle Mountain, 44 THE LAMP OCTOBER 2007 Hobart and Launceston.

9119

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CRoSSWoRD Test your knowledge of aged care in this month’s Lamp crossword.

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ACROSS

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A person who is 100 years old (11) Major Sydney hospital, abbrev, (1.1.1.)

The branch of medicine concerning old people (10) Cells with the ability to renew, …. cells (4) Covering of the eyes (7) Wash, immerse in water (5) Craniums (5) The spiral canal of the inner ear (7) Deteriorate, erode (4) Cessation of menstruation (9) Red blood cell, abbrev (1.1.1.)

Sac under the liver where bile is stored (11)

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DOWN

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Deterioration of mental function in older people (8) One of the two upper chambers of the heart (7)

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The science of the body (7) Injured but unbroken skin (7) Enrolled nurse, abbrev (1.1.)

Removing waste products from the blood to treat renal failure (8) Advanced life support, abbrev (1.1.1.)

Back of the eye (6) Organisms treated with antibiotics (8) Method, scheme (6) Condition where there is too much sugar in the blood (8) Hollow tube usually inserted into the urethra (7) Pain in the wrist, …… tunnel syndrome (6) Ulcers, lesions (6) Car accident, abbrev (1.1.1.)

Doctor (1.1.)

Solution page 47 THE LAMP OCTOBER 2007 45

DIARY DATES

Conferences, seminars, meetings SYDNEY, HUNTER & ILLAWARRA NSWNA 7th Professional Issues Conf.

5 October, Swiss Grand Resort & Spa, Campbell Parade, Bondi Beach.

Cost: members $85, non-members $100 Contact: Carolyn Culling 8595 1234 Hope Healthcare Palliative Care Seminar – ‘Palliative Care: There is more than cancer’ 5 Oct, Neringah Hospital, Wahroonga.

Contact: Angela Doran, 9488 2200 Nurses Christian Fellowship Prof. Evening – Stem Cell Research & Cloning with Margaret Hutchison 12 October, 7pm, NCF Office, 5 Byfield Street Macquarie Park Contact: Diana, 9476 4440 National Herpes Awareness Day 13 Oct. For free posters, condoms and clinical guidelines, contact: Trish Berger, 8230 3843 or email: ahmf@ahmf.com.au ACAT Nurses Meeting 16 Oct,1–3pm, lvl 2, 2A-2B Conference Room, Bankstown Hospital Contact: Wendy Oliver, 9722 7300 Email: wendy.oliver@sswahs.nsw.gov.au Introduction to Renal Nursing 18 & 25 Oct, Concord Hosp., Riverside Rm Contact: CEWD, 9515 4370/ wards@email.cs.nsw.gov.au, stewartg@email.cs.nsw.gov.au NSW Pain Interest Group Nursing Issues – ‘Contemporary Pain Management Conference’ 19 October, Le Montage Bayside Events Centre, Leichhardt Contact: Sue Lee, Pain Management Unit, St George Hospital, 9350 1623/ 9350 1111 Pg 5114, email: susan.lee@ sesiahs.health.nsw.gov.au

Update on Urological Cancer 20 Oct, St George Leagues Club, Kogarah Contact: Virginia Ip Email: virginia.ip@cs.nsw.gov.au Midwives on the Tweed Educ. Day 26 October, Tweed Heads Bowls Club Contact: Jenni Sullivan, midwivesonthetweed@hotmail.com Australian Dermatology Nurses’ Association Annual Education Day 26 October, Rachel & Thomas Moore Education Centre, Liverpool Hospital Cost: members $50, non-members $65.

Contact: Jan Riley, janslrd@netspace.net.au NSW Lactation College Conference ‘Good Better Best: Clinical Perspectives in Breastfeeding’ 26 –27 Oct, Coogee Crowne Plaza Hotel Contact: Lynne Hall, 9664 4315 or 0419 245 966, halls4@bigpond.net.au The Bonnie Babes Foundation’s Grief Counselling Training Course 27–28 October, 9am–5pm, Liverpool Hospital. Cost: $120 Contact: Andreas, 03 9803 1800 Inaugural Adolescent Conference Eating Disorders: ‘It's Epidemic A Practical Approach to Health’ 31 Oct–2 Nov, Westmead Hospital Contact: Gail Anderson, 9845 6788 gaila@westgate.wh.usyd.edu.au Wound Care Assoc. of NSW State Conf. – ‘Becoming a Wizard in Wound Care’ 2–3 Nov, Win Entertainment Centre Contact: Debbie Blanchfield, 4295 8203, Debbie.blanchfield@sesiahs.health. nsw.gov.au, www.ciap.health.nsw.gov. au/wcansw/ Kaleidoscope Nursing Seminar 2 Nov, Sebel Kirkton Park, Hunter Valley Contact: Denise Kinross, 4921 3000 denise.kinross@hnehealth.nsw.gov.au Assoc. of Nurse Continence Advisors Workshop – ‘Secret Men’s Business‘

Simply Midwifery

MIDWIVES!!

SAVE YOUR ENERGY FOR WHERE YOU WANT TO WORK! At present Staffing Synergy has more work available than we can handle and we need your help! We can offer you full time, part time or casual hours.

We have full indemnity insurance (including Delivery Suite), an ongoing education program, great rates of pay and flexible hours. Why not call us today and become part of the Number 1 midwifery agency?

Call Kay at Staffing Synergy Sydney on (02) 9575 3901, Marc at Staffing Synergy Melbourne on (03) 9857 3544 or visit us at www.staffingsynergy.com.au 10334 46 THE LAMP OCTOBER 2007

23 November, St George Leagues Club Cost: $75 non-members. Contact: rhonda. brownlow@sesiahs.health.nsw.gov.au St Vincent‘s & Mater Health Sydney Nursing Research Symposium ‘Innovations: Forming Research Ideas from Clinical Practice’ 9 November, St Vincent’s Private Hospital, Darlinghurst. Cost: $50 Contact: Anne Fallon,8382 6451, afallon@stvincents.com.au Enteral Tube Feeding Workshop for Nurses. PEG care, replacing a g-tube, pumps, feeding formulas, troubleshooting 10 Nov, 8.30am –2pm, Westmead Hospital. Lecture Theatre 4. Cost: $25 (includes morning tea and lunch.)

Contact: Sally Piggott CNC, 9845 6715, sally.piggott@swahs.health.nsw.gov.au Nurses Christian Fellowship Prof. Breakfast 10 Nov, 9am, Gardens-R-Us, Kingsgrove Contact Jane 9449 4868 The HIV Nursing Practice Workshop 19–22 Nov, Albion St Centre, Surry Hills Closing date for applications: 9 Nov 07 Cost: $495 incl GST Contact: Albion Street Centre Education Unit, 9332 9720/1800 451 600, albeducation@sesiahs.health.nsw.gov.au NSW BFHI Seminar 21 & 26 Nov, Wollongong Hospital Contact: Elizabeth Steinlein, 9350 3192 Email: elizabeth.steinlein@sesiahs. health.nsw.gov.au Nurses’ Conference 2007 2nd Annual Conference for All Nurses 3 – 4 Dec, 66 Goulburn St, Sydney.

Cost $438.90. Contact: Samantha Steen, (03) 9375 7311, ausmed@ausmed.com.au Royal College of Nursing 2nd Annual National Conference 3–4 Dec, SMC Conference & Function Ctr (formerly Sydney Masonic Centre), www.ausmed.com.au

Rosehill Gardens Event Centre Web: www.cctatconcord.com Contact: Tara Montgomery, 9518 7725, taram@conexion.com.au

INTERSTATE AND OVERSEAS 7th National Men’s Health Conference and 5th National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Male Health Convention 2 – 5 Oct, Adelaide Convention Centre.

Contact: Greg Millan, 0417 772 390 Email: gmillan@bigpond.net.au 33rd Annual International Conference of the Australian College of Mental Health Nurses Inc 8-12 October, Cairns, Qld. www.astmanagement.com.au/anzcmhc7 6th International Conf. for Emergency Nurses –‘Future Directions, Future Challenges ... Beyond Tomorrow’ 11-13 October, Telstra Dome, Melbourne www.cdesign.com.au/cena2007 Australian Rehabilitation Nurses Assoc. 17th Annual National Conf.

11–12 October, Brisbane, Qld. Contact: (03) 9895-4483, arna@pams.org.au 5th International Meeting on Intensive Cardiac Care, Tel Aviv, Israel 14–16 October.

Contact: Rachel Weiner at seminars@isas. co.il, www.isas.co.il/cardiac-care2007 Crisis Prevention Institute Inc – Non-violent Crisis Intervention Training Courses 16-19 October, Brisbane, Qld. Contact: info@crisisprevention.co www.crisisprevention.com 16th Annual National Conference on Incontinence 31 Oct-3 Nov, Surfers Paradise Marriott, Gold Coast. Info: www.continence.org.au

NSW Rural Mental Health Conf.

3 – 5 December, Batemans Bay Contact: 6550 9800, www.rmhconference. com, info@eastcoastconferences.com.au

Australian Assoc. of Gerontology 40th National Conference – ‘Beyond 2007, Ageing: Evolution & Revolution” 21 – 23 November, Hilton Adelaide, SA Contact: Jane Howarth, aag@eastcoastconferences.com.au Web: ww.aagconference.com

Asthma Educators Course 3–7 March 08, Children’s Hosp. Westmead Contact: Lucy Keatley, 0411 212 303, edu@aarea.org.au, www.aareducation.com

ANF Victoria Branch – Aged Care Nurses Conference 30 Nov, 540 Elizabeth St, Melbourne Contact: ANF Vic Branch, (03) 9275 9333.

NSW Operating Theatre Association Inc” Annual Conference 6-8 March 2008 Contact: www.nsw-ota.asn.au Email: ota@nursing.edu.au

Australian Nurses Cardiovascular & Hypertension Assoc. 12th Annual Conf.

‘Managing Hypertension and Cardiovascular Disease In Rural Practice’ 7 Dec, 8am-5pm, Hilton Htl – Adelaide, SA Contact: Margaret Ross-Styles, (02) 9926 7201, mstyles@nsccahs.health.nsw.gov.au

Cardiovascular CT at Concord Conf.

23–25 May 2008, Grand Pavilion,

too far in the future may be cut. The dates that are to be printed are for three months in total. For example, in the March Lamp = March, April, May dates will be printed. Only Diary Dates with an advised date and contact person will be published.

Diary Dates

Reunions Tamworth Base Hospital Graduate Nurses 40th Reunion 13 October, Hospital Chapel, then Frog & Toad Function Centre.

RSVP by 1 Oct with payment $35.

Contact: Di Bushell, 6765 2226 Marrickville District Hospital Reunion for all ex-trainees and staff.

20 October, 2pm, NSW Masonic Club (169 Castlereagh St, Sydney) Contact: Evelyn Kelly, 0411 331 023 Prince Henry Hospital Trained Nurses Assoc. Inc. Nurses Annual Reunion, Golden Girls, 1957.

27 October. Chapel Service 11.30am, Lunch 12.45pm. Cost $25.

RSVP with payment by 20 October.

Contact: Lyn Smith, 9387 4412.

Email: phhtna@bigpond.com.au Royal Alexander Hosp for Children Reunion. 1974 PTS May & July group.

27 Oct, 12–4pm, Le Montage, Leichhardt.

Contact: Helen Forsyth, (07) 5494 1317 Email: binm@chw.edu.au

Morisset Hospital Reunion 30 Nov, 2pm, Dora Creek Workers Club.

Contact: Jaye, 0414 882 569, morissethospitalreunion2007@hotmail.com St Vincent’s Hospital 1986 March PTS 8 March 2008, TBA Contact: Sue Monaro (nee Driscoll) Tel: 9767 5000 page 60255 monaros@email.cs.nsw.gov.au Sutherland Hospital Caringbah Graduate Nurses 28 March 08, Sutherland Entertainment Ctr Contact: Vicki Lamb, 9523 8028

Social event Kempsey Health Campus 31st InterHospital Mini Olympics. ‘Bringing NSW Health Service Employees Together’ 25–26 October, Kempsey Contact: Sonia Guest, Locked Bag 1, Kempsey NSW 2440, 6562 0218, sonia.guest@ncahs.health.nsw.gov.au

Other notices NSW Nurses’ Association Recruitment Incentive Scheme From 30 June – 30 December 2007, the

Diary Dates is a free service for members. Please send the diary dates details, in the same format used here – event, date, venue, contact details, via email, fax, mail and the web before the 5th of the month prior, for example: 5th of August for September Lamp.

Send information to: Editorial Enquiries Email: lamp@nswnurses.asn.au Fax: 9550 3667, mail: PO Box 40 Camperdown NSW 1450

Diary Dates are also on the web – www.nswnurses.asn.au Special Interest Groups Special Interest Groups is now part of Diary Dates. If you are a special interest group, you now must send information about your event as above.

Please double-check all information sent is correct. The Lamp cannot guarantee that the issue will always be mailed in time for the listed event.

Due to high demands on the page, some dates too close to publication or

Send us your snaps If you’re having a reunion, send us some photos and any information from the night, and we’ll try to publish them.

NSWNA Recruitment Incentive Scheme prize increases from a $5 voucher to a $10 voucher for all new applicants recruited by NSWNA members.

Contact NSWNA Communications Team at lridge@nswnurses.asn.au or 8595 1234.

Correction

Call For Nurse Volunteers!

North Ryde Community Aid Looking for nurse volunteers in the Ryde/ Hunters Hill area to help older residents in their own homes with laundry. Contact: Kaye Bracken, Linen Coordinator, North Ryde Community Aid (Mon–Wed) on 9888 3380 or k.bracken@nrca.org.au

Crossword solution

In our OHS article last month, 'Concerns over smoking bans' (page 33), the photo of Peter Quist was incorrect and not actually Peter. The member featured was Rod Green. We apologise for this mistake.

DIPLOMA OF PSYCHOTHERAPY Commences March 2008, Sydney Australia & New Zealand Association of Psychotherapy Applications are invited from graduates of the mental health professions for the ANZAP Diploma in Adult Psychotherapy: • a three-year part time course with an experienced, multidisciplinary faculty, the diploma prepares candidates in the practice of Intensive Psychoanalytic Psychotherapy.

• the focus is on psychoanalytic theory and practice, and the development of practicing therapists through; theoretical interactive seminars with extensive reading material; individual and small group clinical supervision of audiotapes that allow a microanalysis of the therapeutic process; six Saturday morning seminars, an annual retreat and annual conference complement the course with clinical and theoretical presentations by experts in the field.

• the predominant model taught is the Conversational Model, an integrated model based in the Psychology of Self. Developed by Russell Meares and the late Robert Hobson, it incorporates trauma theory, linguistics, neurophysiology, infant research and developmental theories.

• personal psychotherapy, concurrent with the course, is mandatory.

A FREE ORIENTATION SEMINAR will be presented in October 2007.

Applications close 15th November 2007. Interviews held week commencing 1st December 2007.

For information contact Ms Lorraine Taylor, Course Administrator Tel: (02) 8399 3787 • Fax: (02) 9209 4323 info@anzapweb.com • www.anzapweb.com THE LAMP OCTOBER 2007 47

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