The Lamp December 2007 - January 2008 web

lamp the

magazine of the NSW Nurses’ Association

volume 64 no.11 December 2007 – January 2008

more

Print Post Approved: PP241437/00033

nurses

ease

ED overload

Flexibility

& Choice

Choose your future with First State Super ■

Not for profit fund

■

Flexible contribution options

■

Low administration fee of $52 a year

■

Top rated by major research companies*

■

Easy to access information to help you make your super choices

More information Web:

www.firststatesuper.com.au

Phone: 1300 650 873 Email: enquiries@firststatesuper.com.au

Chant West Financial Services Pty Limited ABN 75 077 595 316 AFSL 255320. SelectingSuper, a company of Rainmaker Information Pty Limited ABN 86 095 610 996.

SuperRatings Pty Ltd ACN 100 192 283.

First State Super is open to anyone who is eligible to be a member of a superannuation fund (age restrictions apply). Please consider the First State Super Product Disclosure Statement (PDS) having regard to your own situation before deciding whether to become a member or continue membership. A copy is available by calling us or visiting our website. The information contained in this document is current as at October 2007. Prepared by FSS Trustee Corporation (FTC) ACN 118 202 672, AFSL 293340, RSE L0002127, the trustee of First State Superannuation Scheme RSE R1005134.

2 THE LAMP december 2007 – January 2008

YOUNG 11/07

#

s

About The Lamp

c o n t e n t s

Cover story

lamp the

magazine of the NSW Nurses’ Association

volume 64 no.11 December 2007 – January 2008

More nurses ease ED overload at POW 12

more

Cover

Print Post Approved: PP241437/00033

nurses

Workloads relief in POW ED: Mark Booby, NUM; Barbara Daly, Senior Nurse Manager; and Liz Ryan, NUM.

ease

eD overloaD

Photography by Fiora Sacco.

Lamp_Dec07-Jan08_1.5.indd 1

23/11/07 12:46:08 PM

News in brief

Nurses getting active

8 Your right to breastfeed at work 8 Put down the baby, pick up the mop 9 The link between missing persons and mental illness 9 Stroke of good luck for Port Macquarie 9 ANF launches nursing research journal online 11 Extended hours of service at the NSWNA 11 Do you know an outstanding nurse?

11 Have your say on women’s health

30 2008 Roadshow: NSWNA visits 3,000 members across NSW

Workloads

Obituaries

12 More nurses ease ED overload at POW 14 Staff boost at Bowral 15 Workloads win at Port Macquarie 16 Nurses deliver great care despite burdens

2008 public health system campaign 18 Recognition and pay central to public health campaign 20 Costa says you’re only worth 2.5% 20 Our campaigns do make a difference

Industrial issues 22 SOS rips off entitlements and pay 23 Unanimous vote for union agreement at Campbelltown Private 24 More improvements to continuing education allowance 34 Courses newly eligible for the continuing education allowance

A year in review 26 2007: A victory for nurses’ rights

19

24

Xmas giveaways 32 Merry Christmas from the NSWNA More than $4,000 worth of giveaways

Lifestyle 36 Movie reviews 43 Book me

38 Janette Gloria Sheppard 38 Frances (Fran) Jane Grosser (née Milligan) 39 Judith Ann McDonald (née Foy) 40 Geoff Hartmann 40 Carolyn Flemington 41 Stephanie Meredith (née Blake)

Notice 45 2008 NSWNA Electiom of branch delegates and alternate delegates 45 NSWNA membership fees 2008

Regular columns 5 Editorial

by Brett Holmes 6 Your letters to The Lamp 35 Ask Judith 47 Our nursing crossword 49 Diary dates

Special offer 36 20 double passes to see Into the Wild, 100 double passes to 2 Days in Paris and 25 double passes to Hunting and Gathering, 3:10 to Yuma and I Served the King of England

30

36

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 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 The lamp produced by Lodestar Communications T 9698 4511 Press Releases Send your press releases to: T 9550 3667 E gensec@nswnurses.asn.au 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 Peg Hibbert, 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.

Individuals $60, Institutions $90, Overseas $100.

Do you know a remarkable nurse?

80/100/0/10 H

oste d

0/30/100/5

by K im

Watk ins

Special

gu e s t p erforma

by Kat nce e

Ceberan o

NOMINAT IONS

CLOSE

29 FEBRU ARY 2008

Recognise the outstanding efforts of a remarkable nurse by nominating them in one of three categories: Nurse of the Year Innovation in Nursing Graduate Nurse of the Year

Winners announced at a gala dinner on Thursday 15 May 2008 at Melbourne’s Crown Entertainment Complex

There is $25,000* in prizes up for grabs!

Also, just by nominating you will go into the draw to win one of five $500 Coles Group gift cards** Visit www.hestanursingawards.com to find out how

For more information and to nominate visit: www.hestanursingawards.com HESTA Super Fund Reg. No. R1004489 H.E.S.T. Australia Ltd ACN 006 818 695 | AFSL No 235249 | RSE No L0000109 **Authorised under Permit Nos. NSW LTPS/07/27330, ACT TP07/04548 & SA T07/4681

4 THE LAMP december 2007 – January 2008 Kim Watkins and Kate Ceberano appear by arrangement with Saxton Management Group Pty Ltd

Tickets can be purchased online at www.hestanursingawards.com Proudly presented by:

*Proudly supported by:

s

e d i t o r i a l

BY BRETT HOLMES GENERAL SECRETARY

Nurses left to pick up the slack g Research reveals nurses are left to pick up the slack across a system that has reached a critical point.

T

his month The Lamp reports on two comprehensive research projects that shine a light on the working conditions of our public health system nurses (see pp 16, 20).

The first is a longitudinal study by the University of Technology, Sydney, based primarily on quantitative data collected from NSW Health adminis­ trative systems and directly from wards. It is an ambitious attempt to understand what constitutes nurses’ workload and the skill mix in medical and surgical units across different types of hospitals.

The second is an investiga­ tion of NSW Nurses’ Association members’ attitudes, perceptions and experiences of working in the public health system using qualitative research.

These two projects, bet­ ween them, give us an insightful look at life at the frontline in our public hospitals.

They reveal a complex workplace environment for nurses where there are great pressures and a variation in resources between wards.

Increased patient acuity, the considerable movement of patients on and off wards, the shortage of RNs and shorter lengths of stay by patients have all contributed to an increase in workloads for nurses.

The UTS study concludes that nursing unit managers must be provided with the necessary human resources, including adequate nursing hours and an appropriate skill mix, as well as appropriate data and institutional support.

In our own research, nurses tell us that it is left to them to pick up the slack across a system that has reached a critical point. Nurses are angry they have been put

in a position, which is not of their making, where it is difficult for them to provide good nursing care and where they suffer extreme levels of stress.

This is compounded by a perception that their work is misunderstood and undervalued. This perception is validated by the media frenzy that accompanies a system breakdown in one of our public hospitals.

groups was nurses do not believe the system provides them with enough support to do their jobs in an optimum way.

This is the context in which next year’s award covering nurses’ pay and conditions will be negotiated.

Already, the NSW Treasurer Michael Costa, has flagged he will be looking to li­ mit public sector wage increases to 2.5% per year unless there are significant improvements in productivity.

Mr Costa should realise there are no productivity improvements left to squeeze out of nurses. The nursing workforce and the public hospital system they have been propping up are living on the edge now.

NSW Health and the State Government are going to have to think and act beyond their current managerialist mindset if the formidable problems of our public health system are to be solved.

Report after report from such diverse sources as the Productivity Commission and UTS have shown that nurses are the backbone of the health system, that there is a critical shortage of them and that any longlasting solution involves making their jobs more attractive.

This means better pay, more staff, the right skill mix and an appreciation by management of the realities for nurses at the frontline.

If Mr Costa has trouble getting his head around that, maybe he should get away from his beans and put himself in the shoes of a nurse in an emergency department, or busy medical or surgical unit for a day.

2008 promises to be another challenging and important year for the NSWNA and our members, but I hope many you will take whatever time is available over the festive season to share good tidings and joy with your family and friends. Merry Christmas!n

Already the NSW Treasurer Michael Costa has flagged he will be looking to limit public sector wage increases to 2.5% per year unless there are significant improvements in productivity.

Aggression towards nurses continues to be unacceptable and is now a part of their work environment.

These tough working conditions – long hours, high workloads, extreme stress, high levels of responsibility and relatively modest levels of pay – contribute to a tendency for nurses to neglect their own health.

What came out clearly from our

THE LAMP december 2007 – January 2008 5

s

letter of the month

l e t t e r s

Jill Fisher

NSWNA inspiring nurses to help others I would like to express my thanks to the NSWNA for helping me through a workrelated injustice, which lasted for nearly 12 months. I would especially like to acknowledge the help of Marny Thomas, Nigel Manning and Mara Apelis whose support and advice were instrumental in bringing about a positive outcome.

I never felt my membership to be more worthwhile than when it empowered me to pursue an unpleasant course, thankfully to be vindicated at the finish. This experience has encouraged me to become a branch official myself, with the view of helping nurses in my workplace. Thank you to the NSWNA. Jill Fisher, CNE, Vice President Ryde Hospital.

Postgraduate allowance system needs to be fair I read in The Lamp, July, 2007, of another case of a worker not receiving her Con­ tinuing Education Allowance (CEA) for the Associate Diploma she undertook.

My case is that I completed a postgraduate certificate in Paediatric Nursing at the Royal Alexander Hospital for Children (RAHC) in Sydney in 1981. The duration of the course was six months. This course was the gold standard of paediatric courses at this time.

In response to my application for CEA, my employer stated that as my course was only six months duration, and the policy directive states that the course ‘must be of at least 9 months duration’, I am not to be paid for my certificate.

I feel that this is unfair as the course involved working fulltime at RAHC in various wards, completing study blocks, assignments and exams.

The course structure was the same (no less) as the present day course offered by the College of Nursing. In addition, I also completed a 150 theoretical hour module, from the College, in Acute Illness in Children, in 1996. This module was one of the modules in the Paediatric Graduate Certificate course at the time.

I am sure that there are many courses that nurses completed in the past that were 6 THE LAMP december 2007 – January 2008

not nine months in duration, as this was all that were offered at the time. I feel that we are being unduly penalised by not being paid the CEA for our certificates. It is demeaning our qualifications.

Amanda Fryer, RN, Grafton Base Hospital Editor’s response: The original decision by the IRC limited payment of the CEA to post graduate qualifications from a tertiary education institution. The Association reconised that this disadvantaged nurses who under­took their specialist post registration courses before post registration courses were available at universities.

The provision in the original decision for a review of the CEA award conditions gave the Association the opportunity to run a claim to extend payment to hospital courses. For the claim to be successful the Association had to provide evidence of hospital courses of an equivalent standard to a post graduate certificate.

The IRC granted the extension of payment to hospital-based courses equivalent to a post graduate certificate. The proviso that the course was of 9 months’ duration was accepted as a measure of equivalence of theoretical hours.

Hospital courses undertaken prior to 1985 were assessed by the then Nurses Registration Board. This assessment was used to determine the level of payment for certificate allowances under the award provisions then in place. The paediatric nursing courses were assessed as qualifying only for the lower level payment for hospital courses. On the basis of that distinction in the NRB’s assessment, the Association cannot now argue that all hospitalbased courses are of equivalent standard.

Uniforms out of stock Nursing uniform stocks at St George Hospi­ tal, Kogarah, are at an all time low and we are unable to buy uniforms to fit our sizes.

Since our uniform policy is compulsory we have to buy ‘ordinary clothes’ to wear at work when our old ones disintegrate. I heard of one of our staff members being offered the cleaners’ uniform instead (in jest I hope)!

This means we are buying ‘uniforms’ to wear at work that are not tax deductible for either initial cost or laundry (bit of a tax fiend just quietly).

When calculating our tax refund our uni­form allowance minus deductions must be making a substantial impact on income tax paid and adding to the government coffers.

I am more than a little peeved as the three remaining shirts are on high rotation with no news as to when I will be able to purchase any more...unless I want a new vocation perhaps.

Jessica McInnes, RN, St George Hospital

Naomi Endicott

Mental health workers stretched to the limit Working in a team that provides acute care and crisis management for mental health clients in the community is a rewarding and at times very challenging job. As a team we are not only dealing with clients who are difficult to manage but we also have to deal with the chronic lack of funding to the mental health system.

The media and politicians talk of this issue continuously and the words can start to become irrelevant, insignificant and sound like political jargon. However, as a clinician working in the community, I deal with these issues first hand and see how it affects mental health clients and their day-to-day care.

Only today I read an article in the newspaper that spoke of a coronial finding where a clients’ suicide could have been prevented if more inpatient beds and community support systems were in place.

Magistrate Jeff Linden concluded his inquiry by stating ‘these findings highlight the three major systemic problems in mental health care: chronic underfunding of acute services, lack of funding for “step down” facilities and community support, and significant workforce shortages.’

Clinicians in the mental health system are working to the best of their ability, within a system that is in crisis and stretched beyond its means. We are dealing with fami­ lies and clients who are frustrated with the services that are available and their perceived abandonment and neglect by clinicians.

All too often, we are seeing clients who do not receive adequate support and follow-up after an admission to hospital (which may have also been too short a stay due to bed shortages).

This is not due to lack of trying by mental health staff, it is simply due to the fact that there isn’t enough staff, (nurses, psychologists, occupational therapists, social workers and psychiatrists) to provide the amount of care that is needed.

Mental illness affects one in three Aus­ tralians and does not discriminate on race, gender or social standing. It is time that mental health is no longer ignored, it needs to be viewed as important and essential as other aspects of the health system and given the funding that it deserves.

Naomi Endicott, RN Prince of Wales Acute Care team in mental health

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.

Aged care workers deserve respect and funding

Glenn Sheppard

Beverley Brady

Health system needs a check-up

Is time in lieu a fair deal?

I read Brett Holmes’ editorial in The Lamp last month with an increasing sense of frustra­ tion and disillusionment.

I accept the Association has a mandate to support political change where its members’ workplace interests are directly threatened, but it is overstepping the mark when it com­ mits so breathlessly to untested health policy.

I am supportive of a socialist approach to health care, but have no confidence in the Labor Party to produce a brave new world in health reform.

The depth and variety of vested interests in Western health systems is such the only guarantee Kevin Rudd can give is more money – to be squandered – as exemplified by the US. Nursing representation in a national health reform organisation will be lip service to the financial and social might of medicine, pharmacology and technology.

Australian health services are a political football because all politicians secretly acknow­ ledge the waste and ineffectuality en­demic to the existing system. It is useful to have an anomalous service for which blame can be lobbed between federal and state governments.

If the Association wants to support real change in the health system, it needs to look at why so many consumers and nurses, are deserting the mainstream, seeking satisfaction elsewhere.

The current system perpetuates dependency, selling quick fixes to inappropriate lifestyle choices and societal inequities, ensuring it meets the needs of the providers rather than the consumers.

Glenn Sheppard, RN, Agency Staff

I am writing regarding the use of time in lieu becoming the norm instead of overtime payments.

It is not uncommon in today’s work environment to be asked regularly to do overtime, to cover roster deficiencies, sick leave etc. My concern is that it is becoming more common for staff to be asked to do overtime and to take time in lieu instead of payment.

Personally I am happy to take the option of time away from the workplace, however two issues arise. In a time of short staffing, taking the time in lieu is not always possible, so staff run the risk of never getting the time owed them back.

Secondly, it seems to be that time in lieu should be provided at double time as would be the case if we were being paid the hours of duty, for example, four hours overtime equates to eight hours time in lieu.

To only take the time as single hours is short changing us. As it stands now, I feel nurses are being disadvantaged when asked (or pressured) into taking the time in lieu of payment option.

Beverley Brady, CNC Aged Care Manly Hospital Branch Secretary Editor’s response: The Association’s research reveals a widespread inability of public health system nurses to take time off in lieu, due to understaffing. The issue of providing it at ‘double time’ is being considered by delegates on the claim committee for inclusion in the 2008 public health system campaign.

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.

Every letter published

receives a delightful

ABC Classics CD – for uplifting enjoyment!

ABC Shops provide you with a window into the wonderful variety of programs seen and heard on ABC Radio, TV and Online by offering a range of quality DVDs, books, music and audio products.

For locations, visit abcshop.com.au

I wish to respond to a comment made in the October issue of The Lamp. What frus­ trates me is the type of comment made by nurses such as that on page 22 – ‘Freeing acute care beds means our skills as nurses are better utilised caring for high-acuity patients, as we are trained to do’.

I have completed the same training as nur­ses who chose to work in acute care – a three-year hospital based training, a mid­ wifery certificate, a Bachelor of Nursing, and a Graduate Certificate in Aged Care Management. I choose to work in aged care, not acute care. Sure, it is not as glamorous and high-tech as acute care nursing, but no less skilled or necessary.

All people, nurses included, need to remember that people over 65 years get sick too, and need treatment in acute care units just like those under 65 years. The world’s population is ageing, our fertility rate is dropping, so logic tells you your patients are going to be older. People of all ages deserve the best care, whether they are suffering acute or chronic illness While state and federal governments of both persuasions continue to cost shift on health and aged care and negative attitudes among some nurses about caring for aged people continue, our aged will continue to receive grossly under-funded care, and the workers will continue to be underpaid.

I work for an organisation that was part of a recently negotiated Union Collective Agreement. However, if I returned to working in public health, I still would be paid significantly more than I am in aged care.

I acknowledge there are problems at times getting permanent beds in aged care. However, this is sometimes due to people’s reluctance to pay bonds and fund their own accommodations.

Increased spending on rehabilitation and community care would help alleviate much of this problem, and allow people to return home earlier and continue to lead productive and worthwhile lives.

Name witheld The NSWNA requests that members provide their contact details with all submitted letters. This is important so we can contact members for editing purposes and clarifying content matter, if so needed.

THE LAMP december 2007 – January 2008 7

s

n e w s i inn bbrri ieeff

Put down the baby, breastfeed pick up the mop Your right to

at work

T

he NSW Department of Health has released a comprehensive breastfeeding policy to guide Area Health Services (AHSs) in promoting and supporting breastfeeding in the community and among its staff.

Breastfeeding in NSW: Promotion and Support aims to increase breastfeeding rates in NSW, in line with the recommendations of the National Health and Medical Research Council’s (NHMRC) ‘Infant Feeding Guidelines for Health Workers’, which explains the known benefits of breastfeeding for both mother and child.

Compliance with this policy directive is mandatory and AHS chief executives will be required to submit a policy implementation report to the department by the end of June 2008.

Under the policy, AHS employees should be encouraged and supported in combining breast­feeding and their return to work, with appropriate working conditions and facilities in place to assist breastfeeding employees. For example, flexible work times, expressing facilities and lactation breaks.

For further information about this policy, go to http://www.health. nsw.gov.au/policies

8 THE LAMP december 2007 – January 2008

g Maternity nurses must double as cleaners

‘Maternity staff are seriously under strength and struggling to keep up with their nursing duties.’

Paul Widseth.

N

urses at John Hunter Hospital’s Delivery Suite are being forced to put down the baby and pick up the scrubbing brush and mop.

The Delivery Unit, one of the biggest in the state, has no nighttime cleaner and has been understaffed by more than eight full-time-equivalent midwives.

The Nurses’ Association branch at the hospital has called on management to provide a dedicated cleaner between 11pm and 6am.

Branch secretary Paul Widseth said the lack of a night shift cleaner was a longstanding grievance.

‘Maternity staff are seriously under strength and struggling to keep up with their nursing duties, yet a night nurse has to leave her patients and spend 45 minutes to one hour cleaning the delivery unit every time a baby is born,’ Paul said.

‘There are nurses looking after five or six birthing mothers while another nurse is off cleaning a room.’

Paul said the maternity unit had

failed 15 of 18 cleaning audits by the hospital’s infection control division over the past 18 months.

‘Putting a dedicated cleaner on at night would strengthen infection control measures and take some stress off the nurses,’ he said.

He said nurses had rejected as inadequate a management proposal to trial an on-call cleaner who would have to be called away from cleaning administration offices every time a baby was born.

He pointed out that John Hunter maternity unit has 15 ensuite birthing rooms and between 3800 to 4000 births a year.

‘It should be benchmarked against similar size units such as at Nepean, Royal North Shore and Royal Prince Alfred which all have cleaners round the clock,’ Paul said.

NSWNA Assistant General Secretary Judith Keijda said nurses were worried the lack of cleaners was jeopardising patient care by compromising infection control measures and putting nurses under unnecessary stress.n

The link between missing persons and mental illness

I

n 2006 there were 10,119 missing person reports made in NSW to the police – 23% of these were recorded as having mental health issues.

A new resource aims to raise awareness of the link between mental health and missing persons, with the hope that more missing person cases will be solved.

Jointly produced by the Families and Friends of Missing Persons Unit (FFMPU) and the Mental Health Association NSW Inc (MHA), the ‘Missing Persons Information for Mental Health Professionals’ information sheet provides practical information for nurses and other professionals.

Stroke of good luck for Port Macquarie

P

ort Macquarie Base Hospital recently won a $350,000 NSW Health 2007 Rural Stroke Grant, which will fund the staff needed to establish an acute stroke unit.

With plans to open in January, the unit will have four beds, specialising in acute stroke care and rehabilitation.

‘The unit will offer a high level of care to the highest priority cases and it will only be the second of its kind in

‘The unit will offer a high level of care to the highest priority cases and it will only be the second of its kind in NSW. ’

A new resource aims to raise awareness of the link of mental health and missing persons, with the hope that more missing person cases will be solved.

The information is available online at www.lawlink.nsw.gov. au/missingpersons and the MHA website at www.mentalhealth.asn.au The online nature of the publi­ cation means FFMPU and MHA can continually update and add to the resource, providing accessible and current material. The newsletter can also be easily downloaded.

NSW,’ said the Stroke Care Co-ordinator, Kim Parrey.

‘Research shows that patients admitted to specific stroke designated care have better outcomes. It provides concentrated care and the nurses are very specialised, dealing with strokes all the time,’ said Kim. Nurses will work with patients throughout the duration of their stroke treatment, even the rehabilitation stages, liaising with other health care professionals assisting in the treatment of the patient, including occupational therapists and dieticians.

Kim Parrey

Patients are not the only ones to benefit from the new stroke unit – nurses are also given the chance to expand their skills and knowledge through the new unit. ‘In such a specialist setting it is a great opportunity for the nurses to keep upskilling,’ said Kim.n

ANF launches nursing research journal online

T

he Australian Nursing Federa­tion (ANF)’s Australian Journal of Advanced Nursing (AJAN) will now be provided free online. Celebrating 25 years in print, the ANF flagship publication is a respected quarterly that gives Australian nurses the chance to participate in and publish original research.

The move to a free online publication means more exposure for Australian research and authors. ‘It will give

unlimited national and international access to AJAN articles and provide unlimited national and international exposure for Australian nurse researchers and their work,’ said Jill Iliffe, Federal Secretary of ANF. The website is easy to navigate and users can access whole issues or individual articles. Back issues will also be available soon.

AJAN is available from http:// www.ajan.com.au n THE LAMP december 2007 – January 2008 9

10 THE LAMP december 2007 – January 2008

s

n e w s i inn bbrri ieeff

Do you know an of service outstanding nurse? at the NSWNA Extended hours

g With new extended opening hours, the Association hopes to assist more members

T

he NSWNA has recently extended the hours of Information Services through to 7pm. With this new extension, the Association hopes it can better assist more members and those who are unable to call during normal business hours.

‘We are very happy to offer these new extended hours,’ said NSWNA Assistant General Secretary, Judith Kiejda. ‘We understand it is not always convenient for members to make contact during office hours but it is important they still have access to our Information Services.’

Information Services can help members with their general enquires about workplace and nursing matters and certain membership enquiries.

Reception and other services provided by the Association will continue to run Mon-Fri, during the hours 8.30am – 5.30pm.

Answers to a variety of general enquiries can also be found on the NSWNA website in the ‘Ask Judith’ or the ‘Members Section’ at www.nswnurses.asn.au

N

ominations are open for the HESTA Australian Nursing Awards to honour deserving nurses who stand out in their fields.

Sponsored by HESTA super fund and, from this year, Members Equity Bank, the awards are a big event for the Australian nursing community attracting over 700 nominations in 2007.

The three categories are Nurse of the Year, Graduate Nurse of the Year and the Innovation in Nursing Award.

NSWNA member, Andrew Whale took out the Innovation in Nursing Award in 2007 for his work with men’s health in rural areas.

HESTA Chief Executive Officer, Anne-Marie Corboy, said she was excited about ‘uncovering the next crop of remarkable nurses in the community and more unsung heroes.’

State and Territory finalists in each award category will be flown to Melbourne in May 2008 to attend a gala ceremony at Crown Casino. Winners are rewarded generously with cash prizes of up to $10, 000.

The NSWNA encourages all members to consider their hardworking peers and nominate nurses who go above and beyond the call of duty. You can even win simply by nominating,

with one of five $500 Coles Group gift cards up for grabs.

Nominations close on 29 February 2008. For more information go to www.hestanursing awards.com n

Have your say on women’s health

A

ll nurses with an interest in women’s health are invited to go online and complete a short questionnaire.

Focusing on training opportunities and clinical services in the area of Women’s Health, the questionnaire is on behalf of a prominent training and clinical service

provider and should only take about 10 minutes to complete.

Participants who complete the survey will be rewarded with a 15% discount voucher from the training and clinical service provider conducting the research, to use at their bookshop in 2008.

To access the questionnaire go to www. taverner.com.au/surveys/s2432.htm n THE LAMP december 2007 – January 2008 11

s

no c e w v es r i snt o br y i e f

‘Our workloads are incredibly stressful. People are going home shattered after a shift.They finish physically and emotionally exhausted and are getting burnt out. It’s just getting busier and busier – you’re constantly juggling.’

Happier with more reasonable workloads (from left): NE Sarah Hoy; CNC John Magill; NSWNA Branch Secretary Carol Hook; Senior Nurse Manager Barbara Daly; NUM Liz Ryan; and NUM Mark Booby.

12 THE LAMP december 2007 – January 2008

More nurses ease ED overload g More staff, more reasonable workloads in POW emergency department.

A

determined workloads campaign by the NSWNA Branch at Prince of Wales Hospital (POW) has won 248 RN hours per week for the hospital’s busy emergency department (ED).

The boost to nursing staff brings wel­ come relief to exhausted members who have been struggling with increasingly unmanageable workloads for years.

Liz Ryan, NUM, said there are a number of factors contributing to increased workloads in ED. Presentations have been increasing 7-8% per year, levels of acuity and admission rates have risen and there are more presentations by mental health patients.

‘Patients are sicker than before and they are here longer because beds are not available in wards to move patients out of ED. ‘Workloads used to fluctuate seasonally. For example, there were busy times during winter. Now it’s busy all the time. You can have five or six patients sitting in the ambulance bay,’ said Liz. ‘ED is a very unstable environment.

You don’t know what’s going to come through the door.

‘Our workloads are incredibly stressful. People are going home shattered after a shift. They finish physically and emotionally exhausted and are getting burnt out. It’s just getting busier and busier – you’re constantly juggling. We desperately needed an increase in nursing staff, particularly on night shift.’

Liz said excessive workloads pressure puts at risk the safety of nurses and patients. ‘We are very concerned about patient safety,’ she said.

NSWNA Assistant General Secretary Judith Kiejda said pursuing nurses’ right to a reasonable workload is a priority of the Association and is an enforceable provision under the Public Health System Nurses’ & Midwives’ (State) Award.

‘The Award includes a Reasonable Workloads Clause that details procedures to address excessive nurse workloads by working through the local Reasonable Workloads Committee,’ she said.

Members in ED raised the issue with the NSWNA Branch at POW, which took the issue to the local RWC. Senior Nurse Manager Barbara Daly collected data and prepared a submission for the RWC, demonstrating a strong case that additional nursing staff were required to cover ED workloads. The data included rates of ED presentations, admissions, mental health presentations and discharges. The committee was also provided with a snapshot of workflow across the week.

‘This submission was crucial to the process,’ said Judith Unfortunately, issues were not resolved at a local level after 12 months of discussion.

In September, Judith Kiejda was visiting nurses on the wards at POW when she was shown the submission.

‘The submission was very thorough and clearly demonstrated there was a serious workloads problem in ED,’ Judith said.

The NSWNA immediately requested an urgent Area Health Service Reasonable Workloads Committee meeting.

The ensuing process resulted in a significant staffing increase. The offer included an extra registered nurse during the day, and three additional RNs on night duty. This means an extra 210 nurse hours for night shifts each week.

Liz said the extra positions were already making a big difference to workloads and nurse morale in ED. The campaign by the POW members also resulted in a boost to union membership, with at least five nurses from ED becoming part of the NSWNA team after seeing the benefits of sticking together and having the union behind them.n THE LAMP december 2007 – January 2008 13

s

w o r k l o a d s

Staff boost at Bowral

Staff of the Milton Park General Ward, Bowral District Hospital: (standing from left) Craig Cottingham, Lee Davies, Amanda Lamperts, Rebekah Hingley, Meril Stever, Madelon Elferink, Karina Timores, (sitting from left) Fleur Leonard and Patricia Wright.

g Extra staff brings relief to exhausted nurses at Bowral Hospital.

A

pproval of more staff will ease excessive nurse workloads in the busy 36bed Milton Park ward at Bowral Hospital.

Sydney South West AHS recently approved a ward clerk during the week and an endorsed enrolled nurse or an assistant in nursing for both the evening and night shifts. ‘The branch is elated with the outcome,’ said Branch Secretary, Deb Ponig, CNS. Nurses had been suffering heavy workloads for long periods over several years. This was brought to the attention of the branch in February this year during a very busy period. ‘Our ward was frequently full and we were experiencing very heavy workloads due to the mix of elderly patients, acute medical and surgical patients, drug health and mental health patients,’ said Patricia Wright, RN. ‘We were short staffed and facing excessive workloads most days. The ward 14 THE LAMP december 2007 – January 2008

was busy due to the patient mix and we were simply overworked and losing morale. Patient care became task oriented, as we simply didn’t have the time for more rounded care.

‘We were frequently going without proper breaks, critical incidents were repor­ted and patients and relatives began showing aggression towards the nurses. We were stretched to the limit.’

With the backing of the NSWNA, the Branch decided to present its case to the hospital’s Reasonable Workloads Committee (RWC).

Over a four-week period, nurses documented important issues including the number of patients, staffing ratios, overtime and meal breaks.

‘Workloads was a major problem for nurses. People were burning out, it even resulted in the resignation of a valued member of staff,’ said Deb Ponig.

‘The workloads tool identified the need for an extra nurse on both the night

and evening shift, as well as a ward clerk. We really needed these extra pairs of hands.

‘By collecting data and applying the tool we were able to show our case and the results were stark. It was clear we needed extra staff not simply organisational changes.

‘We are a small branch but by perseve­ring and seeking the help of the Association we were able to get great results.

‘You need the material data to prove a case so never say you are too busy to fill in workloads forms.’

Patricia encourages other nurses fa­ cing workload stress to work collectively and seek backing from the Association.

If you have a workloads concern or want more information about the Reasonable Workloads Committee and workloads issues as governed by the Public Hospital State Award, contact the Association on 1300 367 962.n

Port Macquarie nurses welcome extra staff : (from left) Natalie McDonald, RN; Nathan Goldie, RN; Tracey Morris, RN; Sue Pritchard, RN; and Heather Pile, RN.

Workloads win at Port Macquarie g More staff ease ED workloads at Port Macquarie Base Hospital.

N

urses at Port Macquarie Base Hospital have wel­ comed the recent approval for additional staff in the emergency department (ED), after a strong campaign by the local NSWNA Branch.

North Coast AHS has approved an additional enrolled nurse for the morning shift, an additional registered nurse on the night duty and an extra 28 clerical hours a week.

Branch President and RN, Michael Parrey, explained there has been a 20%

increase in presentations to ED over the past two years, leading to a significant increase in nurse workloads.

‘Nurses were under increasing pressure so we approached the Reasonable Workloads Committee (RWC), which applied the reasonable workloads tool, then recommended to management that additional staff were required,’ he said.

‘Understaffing meant increased waiting times for patients. With the approval for increased staff, patient flow will be much smoother and quicker through the department.

‘This is a big morale boost for staff. Everyone seems happier and more motivated by the Branch’s recent success.

‘This is a good workloads win

‘This is a big morale boost for staff. Everyone seems happier and more motivated by the Branch’s recent success.’ for nurses at Port Macquarie Hospital.

Initially the hospital was told it could only have these additional positions in a temporary, six-month capacity. The branch fought to make these positions permanent. Members should be proud of this result,’ said NSWNA Assistant General Secretary, Judith Kiejda.n

Wondering how you can reach

over 51,000 nurses in NSW

to advertise your product or service?

lamp the

The Lamp is the most direct and credible way to reach nurses in NSW. Mailed directly to residential addresses (97.9%), you can be assured your message will hit home.

magazine of the NSW Nurses’

volume 64 no.8 September

Association

2007

For The Lamp advertising enquiries contact: Patricia Purcell Tel: (02) 8595 2139 • 0416 259 845 • Email: ppurcell@nswnurses.asn.au The Lamp-quater.indd 1

19/11/07 10:10:35 THE LAMP december 2007 – January 2008AM 15

s

w o r k l o a d s

Nurses deliver great care despite burdens g A ground-breaking study into nurse workloads in NSW public hospital medical and surgical wards reveals a multitude of factors that have greatly increased the work burden on hospital wards.

T

he study, called ‘Glueing it together: nurses, their work environment and patient safety’, was conducted by a research team at the University of Technology, Sydney. It was commissioned with great fanfare by Morris Iemma in 2003 when he was Minister for Health and analyses data between 2001 and early 2006.

It paints a portrait of a complex workplace environment for nurses with a high level of variability across nursing units producing a demanding and unpredictable workplace. In the words of the authors, ‘there is no typical ward.’

The study focussed on specific wards rather than overall hospital data, recognising that the nursing ward/unit is ‘the operational and business unit of the hospital.’

The report says the importance of nursing leadership at the ward level to job satisfaction, satisfaction with nursing and intention to leave, which ultimately impact on patient safety, cannot be overstated.

Pressure mounts in the ward The study recognised there had been extra resources added to the NSW Health system but found these were primarily ENs, TENs and AiNs rather than RNs and this increase had not been uniform across all types of hospitals.

understand the care requirements, the pharmacology, the treatments, the protocols and preferences of specialist medical staff for an increasingly various patient assignment,’ says the report.

‘Churn’ or the movement of patients on and off nursing wards is a significant

The importance of nursing leadership at the ward level to job satisfaction, satisfaction with nursing and intention to leave, which ultimately impact on patient safety, cannot be overstated.

The report says there are various contributing factors that are increasing the pressure on nurses.

The average number of different case types per ward (DRGs), while starting at a high level in 2001, had increased by 2005.

‘This means nurses who work on medical and surgical units must

but poorly recognised factor in increasing the work burden for nurses.

Nurses must be involved in these movements, especially when a patient is frail, a fall risk, suicidal, an absconding risk, on high-dose chemotherapy or oxygen, agitated or bleeding. Accom­ panying a patient to another ward or

real career Development opportunities in Mental Health Hornsby Kur-ring-gai Mental HealtH service

Registered Nurses We are offering full or part time appointments, plus • Up to $1000 to support professional career development.

• A range of professional development support whether you are an experienced mental health nurse, a new graduate or an RN wanting to change your career path to mental health • A variety of clinical settings from community to the acute in-patient Lindsay Madew Unit, a purpose-built Mental Health Intensive Care Unit and the Psychiatric Emergency Care Centre (PECC) • Opportunities to engage in practice development activities For employment inquiries, phone (02) 9477 9500 or email: hornsbymh@nsccahs.health.nsw.gov.au

16 THE LAMP december 2007 – January 2008

Key findings service may take a nurse away from his/ her assignment of patients or tasks for an unknown period of time, the study reports.

The report found patient acuity had increased over time in principal referral hospitals. This increase was particularly prevalent on medical and surgical wards.

Shorter hospital lengths of stay had concentrated the need for nursing into shorter and shorter time periods, with a given amount of patient care delivered in a shorter period of time. This tested the resources of regional hospitals, in particular, where there was a decrease in nursing hours per patient.

Excellent care despite the pressures The study finds nurses believe they are giving a high standard of care despite these intense and increasing pressures, and contrary to public perceptions gener­ ated by the media about the standards of care in our hospitals.

Most of the nurse respondents described the quality of nursing care on their last shift as excellent (25.8%) or good (57.1%), while only 17% regarded the standard of nursing care as fair or poor on that shift. 78% indicated the quality of patient care given on their wards had improved or remained the same over the past 12 months.

Nurses did report a frustration at their

difficulty in delivering more personal care. There was a lack of time for a range of comfort measures such as talking with patients, back rubs and skin care, oral hygiene, turning patients, documentation and the taking of vital signs.

More than one-third (39.5%) of nurses reported they were unable to comfort and talk to their patients on the most recent shift, the report says.

More RNs improve patient care The report provides ample evidence that an increase in the number of RNs would greatly improve patient care.

A skill mix with a higher proportion of RNs produced significantly decreased rates of nursing sensitive, negative clinical outcomes.

An extra RN would reduce the incidence of decubitus ulcers by 20 per 1000 patients, pneumonia by 16 per 100 patients and sepsis by 8 per 1000 patients.

A proportional increase in RN hours is associated with statistically significant decreases in decubiti, GI bleeding, physiological/metabolic derangement, pulmonary failure, sepsis and shock and failure to rescue.

Patients were less likely to fall and suffer injury as RN hours increased.

The presence of a nurse educator on the ward and an increased proportion of nurses working on their ‘usual’ ward were associated with fewer medication errors.

The study found violence, or the

c The quality of the working environment for nurses is emerging as an important factor for patient and nurse safety. c Patient acuity has risen. c There is considerable movement of patients on and off wards.

This ‘churn’ increases the work burden for nurses. c On average, approximately one hour per day of additional care above that actually provided is required to meet each patient’s needs. c Skill mix is more critical to patient outcomes than hours of nursing provided. c The work environment, including nurse leadership, the presence of a nurse educator on the ward, adequate resources, nurse autonomy and nurses’ control over their own work practice are important for providing safe patient care. c Stability of the ward staffing improves patient outcomes.

The full report can be downloaded at www.health.nsw.gov.au/pubs/2007/ nwr_report.html

threat of violence, was widespread and had consequences that flowed on to patients.

Patients were more likely to experience a medication error where nurses experienced threats of violence.

The government has announced it will establish an advisory committee to consider the report’s findings. n

THE LAMP december 2007 – January 2008 17

s

2008 public health system campaign

Recognition and pay central to public health campaign g Recognition of increased workloads and a fair pay rise will be a central focus in our public health system campaign next year.

T

he award for public health system nurses expires in June 2008 and the NSWNA has kick-started the campaign to renew and improve it.

The union has elected a log of claims committee and conducted detailed research into members’ attitudes.

In this campaign the NSWNA will seek recognition and financial reward for the increased workloads and extra responsibilities that have been the bane of nursing in recent years.

NSWNA General Secretary Brett Holmes said a plethora of reports have documented, quantified and analysed workforce and workloads issues in public hospitals.

‘A once-every-four-years opportunity to do something concrete to make nursing more attractive to more people and ease the chronic shortage of nurses.’

‘The reports all recognise some core facts: nurses are the ones that hold the health system together, there aren’t enough of them and the initiatives to increase numbers have been a drop in the bucket of what is really needed. There is ample evidence of how the dearth of nurses impacts adversely on patient care,’ Brett said.

‘We not only have empirical studies.

We have real life examples of the critical state of the system, with Royal North Shore Hospital being the most prominent in recent times.

NSWNA General Secretary Brett Holmes 18 THE LAMP december 2007 – January 2008

‘This award campaign will be a once-every-four-years opportunity to do something concrete to make nursing more attractive to more people, to ease the chronic shortage of nurses and

improve outcomes in the health system.’

NSWNA research into members’ attitudes has found a widespread sentiment for recognition and financial reward for unsocial hours and increased responsibilities in nursing.

Members are unequivocal that unbearable workloads and inadequate skills mix on wards demands action to create safer workplaces for nurses and patients.

Nurses are also crying out for more support so more of their time can be devoted to patient care and less to administrative paperwork and cleaning.n

What nurses say g Members of the NSWNA Log of Claims Committee tell The Lamp what they see as the priorities for our claim.

Coral Levett, NSWNA President and ANF Federal President, Senior Nurse Manager, Area Education Unit, Garrawarra Centre.

‘It is time for a night duty penalty rate that remunerates people fairly for anti-social hours.

Nurses in other states and other industries have higher night duty penalty rates. NSW should come into line with these other states. Experts say it doesn’t matter how much you think you get used to night duty, your body never fully adjusts.’

John Lyons, RN, Baradine Multi Purpose Health Service.

Peg Hibbert, NSWNA Councillor and CNS, Hornsby & Ku-ring-gai Hospital

‘The government needs to make the profession more attractive. It’s not just about money, it’s also about conditions.There is a lot of frustration that there isn’t enough staff for nurses to spend enough time with patients.We also need good support staff. Too many NUMs are doing data entry instead of being out on the ward using their expertise and helping young nurses.’

‘We need to get a satisfactory wage increase that recognises us for the extra responsibilities we’re taking on. We need more nurses and midwives and better skill mix, so our workplaces are safe for us and for patients.’

THE LAMP december 2007 – January 2008 19

s

2008 public health system campaign

Costa says you’re only worth 2.5%

N

SW Treasurer Michael Costa flagged the State Government’s policy for public sector wages agreements in the June 2007 budget papers: ‘… while above-inflation increases were necessary in the past to attract and retain staff in key front-line areas, the balance has been redressed. The Government’s wages policy is to maintain those real wage improvements.

Therefore, future wage increases will be limited to a net cost of 2.5% per annum, with any additional increases tied to negotiated productivity savings.’

The policy was reinforced three months later: ‘Additional increases [over 2.5% per year] are available where employee-related cost savings are achieved.’

(Premier’s Memorandum, 11 September 2007)

Michael Costa

20 THE LAMP december 2007 – January 2008

And again: ‘Increases in employeerelated expenses of more than 2.5% [per year] must be funded through employee-related reform measures and other cost savings. Such measures would generally involve direct changes to award/agreement provisions, legislation and could relate to staffing levels, human resource policies, rostering arrangements, workforce composition, work intensity or job redesign that leads to savings.’ (NSW Government Wages Policy, p.5) The government’s suggestions for employee-related ‘reform’ are: c Reducing overtime by 5% by 2008; c RDOs not to be excessively accumulated or used as a substitute for recreation leave; c Redesign jobs to allow some of the work to be undertaken by lessqualified staff who are easier to attract; c Remove barriers to part-time or casual staff; c Avoid accrual of excessive levels of leave.

(Wages Policy, Appendix A) NSWNA members have told us in focus groups they are outraged by these proposals and NSWNA General Secretary Brett Holmes has passed members’ views to the government.

‘We will not accept a bean counting approach in 2008 when nurses are already dealing with up to 10% increased demand for acute sector services,’ he said. n

Our campaig

S

ince 1996, nurses working in the public health system have received pay increases deli­vered through a series of fouryear agreements nego­tiated with the state government.

Wage increases in the 2000 to 2004 agreement totalled 16%.

Nurses achieved additional pay increases through statewide strike action in the ‘What’s a Nurse Worth?’ campaign that culminated in the special

What you can do

to help

c Make sure your contact details are up to date. NSWNA needs your email address, award classification and mobile number so we can get Campaign 2008 info to you fast. c Encourage all your friends and workmates to be NSWNA members – there is strength in numbers. They can join online or by phone today. c Make contact with your NSWNA Branch officials and offer to help them organise campaign activities in 2008. c Nominate to be part of the statewide Campaign 2008 organising committee (email spearce@nswnurses.asn.au for details of what the committee will do and how you can make a difference).

gns do make a difference case/work value wages claim in the NSW Industrial Relations Commission.

Nurses won additional wage increases totalling 9.5% as a result of widespread support for the campaign.

The collective action of the Association’s members during the ‘There’s no fix without nurses’ 2004 to 2008 campaign again delivered a higher outcome.

When the government offered four increases of 3% nurses threatened industrial action, forcing the

government to agree to be bound by a recommendation from the NSW Industrial Relations Commission.

Following submissions from the Association and the Department, the IRC recommended that the final two increases be increased. Nurses won a total of 14.75% for that campaign.

Overall pay increases between 2000-2008 amounted to 47.3%. But we can’t stand still. With never-ending price increases, 2008 will be the time to stand up for greater rewards for nurses. n

Campaign

2008 timeline

c January 2008: NSWNA branches to vote to endorse claim. c From February: negotiations, campaign activities by nurses and midwives, any proposed settlement offer to be voted on by branches. c June 30, 2008: current Award expires – aim for new award to be in place.

MIDWIVES!!

HELP US EASE THE SQUEEZE DOWN UNDER!

Simply Midwifery

Call Kay Duckinson at Staffing Synergy Sydney on (02) 9575 3901 or visit us at www.staffingsynergy.com.au

10912

Staffing Synergy is Australia’s Number 1 midwifery agency. At present we have more work available than we can handle- and we need your help! We are looking for more experienced midwives to join our fantastic team and help keep up with our huge demand for quality staff. Synergy can offer you fulltime, part-time or casual across the Sydney metropolitan area, any day of the week. Our Melbourne and Brisbane offices are very keen to help out if you want to work and travel around the country. Rural and remote placements are also in great demand. With full indemnity insurance (including Delivery Suite and antenatal), an ongoing education program, great rates of pay and the flexibility to work when and where you want, why not call us today and bring some new life to your career?

THE LAMP december 2007 – January 2008 21

s

inne dwuss ti r n i ab lr ii se sf u e s

SOS rips off entitlements and pay g NSWNA investigates SOS for breach of Award and examines dodgy new non union agreement.

T

he NSWNA is investigating the prosecution of the home nursing agency SOS for breaches of the Award – including its failure to pay the correct kilometre allowance and travel time.

SOS provides home nursing services to clients of the Commonwealth Department of Veterans Affairs. The company employs approximately 200 casual nursing and domestic staff, who care for clients at home predominately in the New England and Central Coast regions of NSW and south Queensland.

Clients can be widely dispersed across a region, meaning that nurses are travelling between clients and can travel hundreds of kilometres each week in rural areas.

According to NSWNA General Secretary Brett Holmes, SOS is suspected of failing to pay nurses’ minimum entitlements under the Nurses Other than in Hospitals (Notional Agreement Preserving State Award) – including the minimum travel allowance per kilometre.

‘SOS is suspected of underpaying nurses’ travel allowances. They have been travelling in their own cars, sometimes for hundreds of kilometres each week, and have often received nothing from their employer. Sometimes they have been paid an allowance that was less than the minimum,’ said Brett.

Not only is SOS suspected of failing to pay the minimum per kilometre allowance, it is also suspected of failing to pay nurses for travelling time. Many nurses say they were only paid for time spent in face-to-face contact with clients.

‘The job requires nurses to spend hours each week travelling between clients, yet they allegedly were not paid for this time. This is why the Association is examining these suspected breaches very carefully,’ said Brett.

The company stands accused of mul­ tiple breaches of the Award – but that’s not bad enough for SOS. The company recently dished out a non union agreement that slashes conditions even further.

The new WorkChoices agreement gives no guaranteed pay rise for three years, strips back penalty rates, and applies no minimum shift.

The agreement also cuts the per kilometre travel allowance to just 20 cents per kilometre – and that’s only after the first 20 kilometres. The company wants nurses to cover the first 20 kilometres out of their own pockets. Under the Award, nurses should have been paid 62 cents per kilometre. The difference between the Award rate and what the company is offering under the new Agreement is approximately $190 per fortnight.

‘This is what SOS nurses are losing in travel allowances. The lack of pay rises

NSWNA General Secretary Brett Holmes

The company stands accused of multiple breaches of the Award – but that’s not bad enough for SOS. The company recently dished out a non union agreement that slashes conditions even further. and penalties means even greater losses per fortnight for many nurses,’ said Brett.

As a non union agreement, the NSWNA had no role in the negotiations but the union is examining the validity of a ballot where staff allegedly voted for the non union Agreement. Nurses who received their ballots late should contract the Association immediately.

‘Nominated employee representatives asked SOS that they be present when votes were counted. This appears not to have occurred. This lack of scrutiny in the ballot leaves employees questioning the result,’ said Brett ‘It appears that under WorkChoices employees have no right to be present when the ballot is counted. The failure of the legislation to allow proper scrutiny by employees invites unscrupulous behaviour from a minority of bad employers,’ he said. n

Great Legal Advice for Nurses Bob Whyburn and his team are proud to be the lawyers for the New South Wales Nurses’ Association. They have extensive experience in winning Employment and Industrial cases.

Litigation • Employment & Industrial Law • Class Actions • Medical Law • Superannuation & Insurance Law Wills & Probate • Conveyancing

Call the Association information line now to find out how to access this great service. www.mbc.aus.net

22 THE LAMP december 2007 – January 2008

Sydney Level 20, 201 Elizabeth St, Sydney NSW 2000 Phone: (02) 9261 1488 Fax: (02) 9261 3318 Newcastle Level 1, 179 Brunker Rd, Adamstown NSW 2289 Phone: (02) 4953 9500 Fax: (02) 4953 9511 Visiting Office: Wollongong By appointment.

Phone: (02) 9261 1488

Unanimous vote for union agreement g Campbelltown Private approves pay deal

N

urses at the new Campbell­ town Private Hospital in south-western Sydney have voted unani­mous­ly for a union-negotiated collec­ tive agreement with their employer, Healthscope.

The nurses approved the agreement in a ballot conducted by Healthscope.

They get a 6.5% wage increase in two instalments – 4% first pay period to commence on or after 1 September 2007 and 2.5% first pay period to commence on or after 30 June 2008.

The agreement will expire on 1 September 2008 at the same time as other Healthscope facilities.

NSW Nurses’ Association delegate at the hospital, Sharon Pippen, said members are pleased with the outcome.

‘Healthscope responded positively to the union’s case for improved wages and conditions,’ Sharon said.

‘We are better off under the union collective agreement because it gives the nurses protection and certainty, at

a time when the federal government’s WorkChoices legislation does the opposite.’

‘We are better off under the union collective agreement because it gives the nurses protection and certainty.’

Sharon Pippen

The agreement: c Gives casual nurses the right to

voluntarily convert to permanent employment in certain circumstances; c Establishes a disputes settlement procedure which makes the agreement legally enforceable and provides for binding arbitration if a dispute cannot be resolved by negotiation; c Establishes a process to address workload issues.

Sharon said the big majority of nurses at the 46-bed surgical facility, which opened in April, are union members.

‘Negotiations for a new collective agreement will commence next year.

It is important that everyone is a union member. The more members at Campbelltown Private, the stronger our position will be when the next agreement is negotiated,’ she said.

‘As the union delegate, I encourage all nurses to join, and benefit from the protec­ tion and support of the union. It is a bonus to know that advice and support from the Association is just a phone call away.’

Healthscope is Australia’s second largest private hospital provider. n Members of the NSWNA Campbelltown Private Hospital Branch: (front row, from left) Diana Fifita, AnnMarie Downie, Sharon Pippen, Colleen Delaney, (back row, from left) Diana Manders, Lynette Dine and Janelle Napper.

THE LAMP december 2007 – January 2008 23

s

inne dwuss ti r n i ab lr ii se sf u e s

More improvements to continuing education allowance g Increase from 1 December, more courses now qualify

T

he continuing education allowance for public hospital nurses has gone up and more nurses are now entitled to receive it.

The NSW Nurses’ Asso­cia­ tion won a decision in the State Industrial Commission in February 2007 increasing the monetary level of the allow­an­­ces and extending payments of the allowances to thousands of nurses with hospitalbased post-registration qualifications.

They include nurses in specialities such as midwifery, mental health, operating theatres and intensive care.

Judith Kiejda

These nurses, and thousands more who got the allowance before 26 February because they hold postregistration qualifications from a university, all benefit from the increases applying from 1 December.

‘A major breakthrough for thousands of experienced nurses.’

The allowance increased from the first pay period on or after 1 December 2007.

And more training courses have been made eligible for the allowance, meaning nurses whose hospital-based qualifications have now been approved will be entitled to back pay from 1 March 2007.

Following the 1 December increase, allowances now range from $18 per week (Enrolled Nurse Certificate 1V or equivalent)

Allowances up from December 2007 All continuing education allowances will increase, effective from your first pay period in December 2007. This is a continuation of the phased increases won in February 2007 – they will further increase in September 2008.

The new weekly rates are:

Qualification

From 1st pay From 1st pay period on or period on or Current rate ($) after 1 Dec ‘07 after 1 Sept ‘08 ($) ($)

Hospital Certificate

15.00

22.50

30.00

Postgraduate Certificate

20.00

25.00

30.00

Postgraduate Diploma / Degree

32.00

38.50

45.00

Masters Degree / PhD

40.00

47.50

55.00

EN Cert. IV or equivalent

14.00

18.00

22.50

24 THE LAMP december 2007 – January 2008

to $47.50 per week (Master’s Degree/ PhD). All allowances will go up again from 1 September 2008 (see box bellow).

More courses were recently declared eligible for the allowance.

The College of Nursing has provided the Association with the details necessary to include substantial numbers of their courses in the list of those eligible to attract a CEA payment.

If you meet the criteria of working in a relevant clinical area, you can apply for back pay of your allowance as follows: c qualification assessed as equivalent to hospital certificate (1991–2001 courses), from March 2007 (the date these certificates became eligible); c qualification assessed as equivalent to postgraduate certificate (2002 onwards courses), from December 2004 (the date the original allowances were won).

If you worked in a relevant clinical area for a part but not all of this period, you should claim payment for the part period.

NSWNA Assistant General Secretary, Judith Kiejda, said members who have had their applications for the allowance rejected, should check the newly-updated lists of eligible courses.

‘If you are still in doubt about whether you qualify, phone the NSWNA for advice,’ Judith said.

‘The extension of the allowance to hospital-based, post-registration qualifications was a major breakthrough for thousands of experienced nurses who got their qualifications before universitybased training came in.

‘Many of these nurses are now in leading clinical positions yet until the union’s successful case in the Industrial Commission they were denied financial recognition while nurses with more recent qualifications were rewarded simply because they went to university.’

For a list of the newly-eligible courses for the continuing education allowance, please see page 34 n

’It’s good to recognised for extra study’ Jason Crisp, RN, Bloomfield Hospital, Orange,

says the improvements demonstrate the profession is looking after those who do more study to further their careers and advance their skills. Jason has a graduate certificate in mental health nursing, which he finished in 1998. ‘The allowance is wonderful. It helps bring best practice into workplaces. The graduate certificate was a starting point for me. It led to other certificates. Then I did a Masters. It was like the first step in a longer journey.’

Clare Waite, CNS, Haematology at RPA,

says improvements to the Continuing Education Allowance are a good incentive to keep abreast of best practice. Clare has a Diploma in Advanced Cancer Care nursing, which she finished in 2005. ‘The diploma broadened my knowledge base in general but also honed areas specific to my work. It’s good to be recognised as well as getting the extra money. It’s not a highly-paid profession so any extra money is handy.‘

THE LAMP december 2007 – January 2008 25

s

n e ywe sa ri ni nb r a r ie evf i e w

A : 7 0 0 2 g It’s been a tough but worthwhile year for nurses in NSW. The union and NSWNA members waged one of our toughest campaigns ever against Howard’s new IR laws, and on election day Australians overwhelming showed that our rights at work are worth voting for.

A change of Federal Extra pay for continuing education Government in The NSWNA won extended and improved allowances for public hospital nurses with relevant post registration qualifications. As a result, up to 10,000 nurses are 2007 means the now eligible for a continuing education allowance. winding back of these laws and a big boost to nurses’ rights.

26 THE LAMP december 2007 – January 2008

victory for nurses ’ right

s

Ads defending nurses’ rights

As part of our campaign against WorkChoices, the NSWNA ran two sets of TV ads defending nurses’ rights in the lead ups to State and Federal elections.

THE LAMP december 2007 – January 2008 27

28 THE LAMP december 2007 – January 2008

s

n e ywe sa ri ni nb r a r ie evf i e w

200 7: A v

ict o

ry f

es’

or n urs

hts r ig

Workloads breakthroughs Strong campaigns delivered extra staff for overworked RPA midwives and mental health nurses at Morisset Hospital.

The NSWNA also worked with the Health Department

to develop new mandatory guidelines on managing workloads in emergency departments, community health services and mental health inpatient units.

Wins in aged care

Despite the insecure environment created by WorkChoices, the NSWNA negotiated Union Collective Agreements in 2007 with many aged care employers, protecting existing conditions and locking in future pay rises. The agreements are based on a template agreement negotiated by NSWNA, HSU and the Aged and Community Services Association (ACS).

Standing up for safety Union action delivered security and OHS improvements at Inverell Hospital.

THE LAMP december 2007 – January 2008 29

s

nu er wsse s i g n e tbtri n i egf a c t i v e

New England

Coffs Harbour

North Coast Western Region

Hunter Central Coast Greater Sydney

South West Illawarra

Southern Region

Our first trip to Tumut Hospital

Fighting for rights at work in Bathurst

NSWNA visits 3,000 members g NSWNA officials wore out their boots during the 2007 Roadshow, travelling more than 17,000 kms to visit members at work across NSW.

30 THE LAMP december 2007 – January 2008

T

he NSWNA Roadshow undertook a busy schedule this year, visiting nurses all over the state to talk about their concerns and inform them of the Your Rights at Work campaign.

Officials hit the road in July and have since visited 99 hospitals, nursing homes, private hospitals and correctional centres as part of our annual Roadshow.

The NSWNA Roadshow enables officials from the Associations to meet

mem­bers at their workplaces, which is espe­ cially important for nurses in rural areas.

Along the way, we spoke to more than 3,000 members, and recruited 300 new members who realised the value of the union in protecting their conditions at work. Members raised concerns about the threats posed by the new IR laws. Another leading concern raised by nurses was excessive workloads.

Nurses were invited to be part of larger community meetings where Unions NSW Secretary John Robertson

Standing together for nurses’ rights at the Your Rights at Work election campaign launch on the Central Coast

Delegates from Tweed Heads Hospital

Visiting Lismore on the North Coast leg of the Roadshow

Sausages and smiles at Cooma

Jennifer Ryan, RN, chats with John ‘Mo’ Robertson at the Coffs Harbour barbeque.

across NSW spoke about the impacts of WorkChoices on rural communities. With members sporting their Your Rights @ Work tshirts, these meetings were a great way for people to voice their concerns and understand the realities of WorkChoices.

Rain, hail or shine, members came to show their support, even in the very chilly Snowy Mountains, where the Roadshow visited for the first time, in celebration of a new branch at Batlow Hospital and their new multi-purpose service building.

Tumbarumba and Mannus Correctional Centres were also visited this year with a new road from Mt Selwyn making the visits possible for the first time.

Members raised serious issues with the Association on the Roadshow but it was also an opportunity for plenty of fun, with barbeques in Bega, Milton, Tweed Heads, Queanbeyan, Cooma, Coffs Harbour and Bathurst and a drink and chat at local pubs, including Tumut, for the very first time.

The Association is now undertaking visits to city-based facilities as things wrap

Members raised concerns about the threats posed by the new IR laws. Another leading concern raised by nurses was excessive workloads. up for another year. It will be all systems go again for the Nurses’ Roadshow in early 2008, taking the Association to more workplaces and encouraging nurses to be active members so they can protect their rights and conditions.n THE LAMP december 2007 – January 2008 31

s

x m a s g i v e a w a y s

Merry

Christmas

Pamper yourself

Indulge in five-star luxury on the central

Innoxa Bath & Shower Therapy gift packs are the perfect remedy to help hardworking nurses unwind over Christmas. Australian-made, all Innoxa products are hypoallergenic and are never tested on animals.

The NSWNA has 34 gift packs to give away, each valued at over $44. Each pack contains all you need for an indulgent home-pampering treatment: c Peace Hand Cream $9.99 c Peace Foam Bath $9.99 c Peace Body Lotion $9.99 c Peace Shower Gel $9.99 c Peace Calming Talc $4.95 The Peace range will calm and relax you with the natural ingredients of chamomile, peach, cedar wood and musk.

For more information on Innoxa products, go to www.innoxa.com. For stockists, please call (02) 9938 4111 or toll free 1800 025 607

NSWNA members are invited to take advantage of this special offer from Quay West Resort Magenta Shores on the NSW central coast.

For just $399 per night the Family Fun Time Package* includes: c Overnight accommodation in a luxurious fully selfcontained, three-bedroom villa; c 30% off adult full buffet breakfast in Barretts Restaurant; c Kids eat breakfast free when dining with an adult; c Gift for every child on arrival.

We are also giving away a relaxing prize package of two nights in a luxurious three-bedroom villa, including breakfast for up to six adults each morning, at this stunning resort.

For bookings, please call (02) 4352 8100, email reservations@qwrms.mirvac.com.au or go to www.mirvachotels.com/ quay-west/magenta-shores

Calling all tennis fans Summer is here and that means the world’s top tennis stars are coming to Sydney to compete in the Medibank International 2008, at Sydney Olympic Park Tennis Centre from January 6-12.

Australia’s own Lleyton Hewitt and American James Blake will head the men’s field in 2008, with most of the world’s top 30 ranked women expected to play it out for the women’s title.

How to enter the NSWNA Christmas Giveaway 32 THE LAMP december 2007 – January 2008

For your chance to win one of these great prizes, write your name, address and membership number on the back of an envelope and send to:

NSWNA Christmas Giveaway PO Box 40, Camperdown NSW 1450 You will need to send a separate envelope for each prize you want to win.

from the NSWNA g After such a busy year, our members deserve some special treats.

The NSWNA wants to help nurses celebrate Christmas by giving you the chance to win some fantastic prizes, valued at over $4,200.

central coast

Kick up your heels at the Sydney Festival 2008 The Sydney Festival is a three-week extravaganza with a diverse and rich program of more than 80 acts celebrating the arts.

The NSWNA has eight tickets, valued at $880, to give away so get your entry in and be part of the fun! All performances start at 8pm.

2 tickets to Three Works by Nacho Duato Monday, 7 January Lyric Theatre, Star City Spain’s most celebrated dance company, Com­ pañía Nacional de Danza, will take your breath away with its mix of classical and modern dance, infused with a passionate Spanish flair.

2 tickets to Spanish Harlem Orchestra Monday, 7 January Sydney Opera House Concert Hall The Spanish Harlem Orchestra will have you dancing in the isles with its energy and infectious sound.

2 tickets to Pink Martini Sunday, 6 January Riverside Theatres Pink Martini blends a feast of Latin, lounge, classical and jazz music in its diverse repertoire.

This is a very charming night of music for all.

The NSWNA has 10 double passes to give away to the Medibank International 2008 – five for Sunday, January 6 and five for the night session on Wednesday, January 9. This exciting prize is sure to have you on your toes right to the last point.

For more information about the Medibank International 2008, go to www.medibank international.com.

To purchase tickets, contact Ticketek on 132 849 or www.ticketek.com.au or agencies.

2 tickets to Au Revoir Parapluie by James Thiérrée Tuesday, 8 January Sydney Theatre at Walsh Bay A Sydney Festival favourite returns to dazzle audiences with this mesmerising contemporary circus performance. James Thiérrée is one of today’s greatest and most creative performers.

For more information about the Syd­ ney Festival’s fantastic program, go to www.sydneyfestival.org.au

Photos: Getty Images Please specify your preferred date for the Medibank International 2008 and Sydney Festival 2008 competitions.

Competition closes 18 December 2007.

*Family Fun Time Package valid for stays 16-20 December 2007 and 13-24 January 2008 inclusive, subject to availability. Conditions apply.

THE LAMP december 2007 – January 2008 33

s

inne dwuss ti r n i ab lr ii se sf u e s

Courses newly eligible for the continuing education allowance 2002 onwards In 2001 the College of Nursing became an accredited Australian tertiary institution.

Therefore, provided the other criteria are met (i.e. working in relevant area and evidence of attaining qualification), College of Nursing qualifications from 2002 onwards are eligible for the CEA at Post Graduate Certificate level.

The courses include: c Graduate Certificate in Acute Care Nursing c Graduate Certificate in Advanced Nursing c Graduate Certificate in Aged Care Nursing c Graduate Certificate in Breast Cancer Nursing c Graduate Certificate in Cancer Nursing c Graduate Certificate in Child and Family Health Nursing c Graduate Certificate in Critical Care Nursing c Graduate Certificate in Mental Health Nursing c Graduate Certificate in Neonatal Intensive Care Nursing

c Graduate Certificate in Paediatric

Nursing Studies c Graduate Certificate in Perioperative Nursing c Graduate Certificate in Stomal Therapy Nursing.

1991-2001 Many of the College of Nursing qualifica­ tions awarded between 1991-2001 have been assessed as meeting the criteria to be recognised as eligible for the CEA at the Hospital Certificate level. They are: c Accident and Emergency Care Certificate c Advanced Nursing Studies Advanced Midwifery Stream Certificate c Advanced Nursing Studies, Infertility, Certificate c Advanced Nursing Studies Women’s Health Certificate c Advanced Psychiatric Certificate c Anaesthetic and Recovery Room Certificate c Child and Adolescent Certificate

c Child and Family Health Certificate c Clinical Nursing Studies Certificate c Coronary Care Certificate c Generalist Nursing (Advanced)

Certificate c Gerontological Nursing Certificate c Gynaecological Nursing Certificate c Intensive Care Nursing Certificate c Midwifery (Advanced) Certificate c Oncology Certificate c Operating Suite Nursing Certificate c Orthopaedic Certificate c Paediatric Intensive Care Certificate c Perioperative Nursing Certificate c Spinal Injury Certificate c Women’s Health Certificate

Over this period courses may be titled either Certificate or Graduate Certificate. College of Nursing qualifications issued between 1991 and 2001 not listed above do not meet the minimum criteria to be recognised as eligible for the CEA.n

Gir ls jus t wanna h a v e FUN. . .

Enjoy thE nEw girls just wanna havE fun holiday EscapE from

375

$

*

per person

*Conditions apply, based on minimum 6 twin share only & subject to availability.

34 THE LAMP december 2007 – January 2008

Girls just wanna have fun package inludes:

Day Three

Day One

Hot country breakfast at Treehops Restaurant.

Self-drive buggy with lunch box to explore Resort.

Afternoon Eaglereach check-in with a glass of Champagne.

Massage at Lowanna day spa.

Champagne cocktail & 2 course dinner at Treehops Restaurant.

Twin share accommodation in fabulous Mountain top spa lodges.

Escape to Eaglereach, dual winner of the “Best Superior Accommodation in Australia Award”. Another world, just two hours from Sydney.

Day Two Hot country breakfast at Treehops Restaurant.

Wine tour & tasting at local vineyard.

Picnic lunch platter on the Observatory.

Deck at Treehops Restaurant.

Pizza & Salad night at Treehops Restaurant.

Twin share accommodation in fabulous Mountain top spa lodges.

Summer Hill Road, Vacy, HUNTER REGION, NSW Email: enquiry@eaglereach.com.au www.eaglereach.com.au

s

Q & A

ASK

JUDITH

when it comes to your rights and entitlements at work,

nswna assistant general secretary judith kiejda has the answers.

Public holidays over Christmas and the New Year

Study leave entitlements and changes to contracted hours

I have been asked to do the rosters for the Christmas/New Year period. Could you please advise me of the Public Holidays for this period?

I am currently employed as an EN in a private day surgery unit. Earlier this year I commenced university, studying for a Degree of Applied Science in Nursing, to become an RN. I am studying on a part-time basis and during the year I will be required to attend campus for two to four days twice a semester. I applied for study leave for this period but my employer told me I am not entitled to be paid for these days. I have heard that in the public system nurses are entitled to some type of paid study leave.

I have also applied to increase my contracted hours of work but this has been rejected by my employer.

Can my employer refuse my claim for study leave? Can my employer refuse my request to increase my hours of employment?

The following days are gazetted as the Public Holidays over this period: c Tuesday, 25 December 2007 – Christmas Day c Wednesday, 26 December 2007 – Boxing Day c Tuesday, 1 January 2008 – New Year’s Day.

CNS educational allowance entitlements I recently successfully applied for CNS status. I was then informed by my employer that I was now no longer entitled to receive the educational allowance and that I would have to re-apply for the same allowance in the future, if I’m entitled to it. As I was receiving this allowance prior to my achieving CNS status, why would I have to reapply? Are they right?

Under the Public Health System Nurses’ and Midwives’ (State) Award, the Continuing Education Allowance (CEA) was granted as part of the special case run by the NSWNA in 2004 to certain nursing classifications. The eligibility for the CEA was extended on 26 February 2007 by the NSW Industrial Relations Commission to include additional categories of nurses.

Full details are contained in NSW Health Policy Directive PD2007_027 Section 9.2.1 Public health system entities: (i) lists the classifications eligible to apply for a CEA and this includes CNSs. As a CNS, you are entitled to be paid the relevant CEA and you do not have to re-apply for it.

You have not indicated whether or not your employer has a study leave policy. The Association, however, would encourage you to apply for study leave for the duration of the course or for each year while you are studying. As you are intending to continue working while you are studying for your degree and will possibly be applying for a position at the same facility after finishing your degree, it would be advisable to include in your application the reason why you are applying for the leave. State the advantage to you, and to your employer if it grants the leave, as it will have the benefit of the knowledge you gain by doing the course.

So the answer to your first query is yes your employer can refuse your request for study leave.

I should also inform you that your emplo­y­er is under no obligation to increase your hours of employment.

That should not discourage you from proposing your hours be increased and the opportunity costs/benefits that may flow from such an agreement.

It is important to remember your contract of employment is the agreement you make with your employers when accepting their offer of a job – whether verbal or written. A variation to the hours of work agreement is a matter for negotiation. You and your employer may either agree or disagree on the terms of any variation to your hours of work.

If the leave is refused initially, you can always apply next year as some employers do not always grant study leave for either EN or AiNs during the first year of a course as not all students continue after the first year of study, but may consider granting the leave for the second and/or third year. I would certainly encourage you to apply next year, and if the leave is granted in the second year of your studies, you will need to clarify with your employer if you need to apply for the third year of the course, as you employer may not have a policy that grants automatic flow on of study leave from one year to the next.

You may also like to apply for a scholar­ ship to help financially with the course. You have three options in this regard: 1. The Edith Cavell Trust Scholarship 2. The Lions Nurses’ Scholarship Apply for both of these through the NSWNA (go to www.nswnurses.asn. au and click on Education) 3. The NSW Nursing Scholarship Available through NSW Health (go to www.health.nsw.gov.au and click on Health Professionals/Nurses/ Scholarships where you will find a full list offered by the Department and also links to other organisations providing scholarships).n

THE LAMP december 2007 – January 2008 35

l i f e s t y l e

s

The language of love g A couple with two very different backgrounds take a trip to Paris with interesting consequences.

The Lamp’s rating

read the synopsis for this film and thought ‘oh, a chick flick’.

WRONG! Yes, it is a romantic comedy but definitely one that most men would enjoy as well.

The story is about a young couple from New York who, after a relationship of two years, decide to take a European vacation to inject some more romance into their relationship.

Jack is an American interior designer who behaves like the typical American tourist we read about. Marion is a photographer who was born in Paris to parents best described as a little offbeat.

They decide to spend two days in Paris so Marion can catch up with old friends and Jack can finally meet her parents. Marion’s parents do not speak English and Jack speaks very little French.

And so the fun begins.

The movie highlights the issues that arise when two people from different cultural backgrounds unite. Jack is well out of his comfort zone. He is quite neurotic – in a country very different from his own, with different standards, different food and a language he doesn’t understand.

Marion is, by birth, a Parisian so she

the male and female interpretation in this story.

While the film is in English and French, there are a lot of subtitles but this does not detract from the film, rather it makes you empathise with poor old Jack.

The emotional and sexual chemistry in the film is very adult, very realistic but very funny when you see it on the big screen. Well worth watching.n 2 Days in Paris opens on 26 December.

I

ticket giveaways for NSWNA members

Review by Di Mannion, RN, St George Hospital

HUNTING & GATHERING In Cinemas 13 December

Camille (Audrey Tautou) is doing her best to disappear. She barely eats, works at night as a cleaner, and lives in a tiny unheated attic in an 18th century apartment that also houses the ornate apartment of the stuttering aristocrat Philibert (Laurent Stocker).

Philibert, who sells postcards outside a museum, is every bit of a gentleman. He rescues Camille from her freezing garret one evening and invites her to stay. Hunting and Gathering is a story of human connec­tion and the nurturing spirit of relationships.

36 THE LAMP december 2007 – January 2008

is in her comfort zone. Catching up with old friends means contact with some past boyfriends. To her they’re old friends but for Jack, the green-eyed monster emerges.

He begins to see Marion in a whole new light and can’t help but think he has hooked up with a girl with a very colorful past.

The movie has some very funny moments relating to some serious issues like honesty and trust, two important factors in any relationship, and you get

3:10 to Yuma In Cinemas 31 January 2008 Starring Academy Award Winner Russell Crowe (Gladiator), Christian Bale (Batman Begins), Ben Foster (X-Men), Gretchen Mol (The Notorious Betty Page) and Peter Fonda (Ulee’s Gold) in a modern take on the classic western au d r e y tau to u

by Elmore Leonard.

The enchanting new romantic

fable from Claude Berri, director of JEAN DE FLORE TTE from the best-selling novel

by Anna Gavalda

Guillaume Canet

Laurent Stocker

Françoise Bertin

In Arizona in the late 1800s, infamous outlaw Ben Wade (Crowe) and his vicious gang of thieves and murderers have plagued the Southern Railroad.

When Wade is captured, Civil War veteran Dan Evans (Bale) volunteers to deliver him alive to the ‘3:10 to Yuma‘, a train that will take the killer to trial.

Hunting &Gathering Love might be closer than

you think.

HIRSCH & PATHE RENN PRODUCTIONS PRESENT A fIlm by ClAUDE bERRI AUDREy TAUTOU GUIllAUmE CANET lAURENT STOCKER AND fRANCOISE bERTIN “HUNTING AND GATHERI ( DIRECTOR fROm ANNA GAVAlDA’S NOVEl MUSICBY fREDERIC bOTTON OF PHOTOGRAPHY NG” ENSEmblE C’EST TOUT) AGNES GODARD, A.f.C. SOUND EDITED

It’s a mission that becomes a violent, impossible journey toward each man‘s destiny.

Into the Wild g Into the Wild is a moving journey of self discovery. Grace Mist recommends this sometimes political, sometimes funny, loving film by writerdirector Sean Penn.

B

ased on the true story of Chris McCandless, Into the Wild is the loving conclusion of many years work by writer-director Sean Penn.

Chris McCandless (Emile Hirsch) is a 22 year old who, after graduating from college, rejects his family, his wealthy upbringing, and the prospect of becoming a lawyer to travel through America searching for his identity.

On the road, he encounters people that embrace him and help him along, played by seasoned actors like William Hurt, Catherine Keener, Marcia Gay Harden and Vince Vaughn.

Though the film covers familiar terri­ tory, Into the Wild is a ‘journey’ film with a difference. This is about a young man breaking away from domestic violence and the suffocating control of his parents’ wealth. It is his longing for connection that leads him eventually to Alaska.

Into the Wild is an engaging film, some­times funny and breathtakingly shot by Eric Gautier, with a great sound track. It will appeal to those who condemn injustice

Review by Grace Mist, Psychiatric Nurse, St John of God Private Hospital The Lamp’s rating

and hypocrisy, and those who feel they have to compromise ideals to survive in a world where money and power reign.

It is a political film in an indirect way, in a loving way and relevant in our world now when peace, tolerance and caring for the environment are matters of urgency.

As we embrace Chris in his quest, we experience the wonder of discovery, the pain of loss and the interdependence between the great and the tiny. The film also looks at the relationship between the intellect, the practical, and the individual beauty in both. The importance of community is also examined.

Into the Wild is the reconstruction of Chris’ last two years of life, and a loving eulogy to the spirit of youth – to the idealism we lose as we get older and our never-ending struggle for a better world.n Into the Wild opens on 29 November.

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

I Served the King of England In Cinemas 26 December

While serving the cream of Prague society, humble waiter, Jan Dítû (Ivan Burnev) dreams of owning his own hotel and becoming a millionaire. Full of desire and ambition, he hustles his way towards his dream. But getting a fortune and keeping it are two different things.

I Served the King of England is a bittersweet comedy directed by celebrated Czech director Jirí Menzel.

The Lamp has 20 double passes to see Into the Wild, 100 double passes to 2 Days in Paris and 25 double passes to Hunting and Gathering, 3:10 to Yuma and I Served the King of England. To enter, email lamp@nswnurses.asn.au with your name, membership number, address and contact number. First entries win!

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.

THE LAMP december 2007 – January 2008 37

s

o b i t u a r i e s

Hardworking and dedicated Janette Gloria Sheppard • 1946-2007

J

an or ‘Shep’, as she was more fondly known, spent her early life growing up on the family farm ‘Kia-Ora’ in Ardlethan, NSW. It was here Shep developed her love of country life, with horses and trotting being a major part of family life.

Shep would help her father Jack, an icon of the trotting industry, with horse breeding and training. She was very much the country girl and would often be seen on the tractor.

Her education began at St Joseph’s Primary School in Ardlethan and secondary school at St Mary’s, Leeton.

The choice of a career in nursing fitted her like a glove. She commenced at West Wyalong Hospital in 1962 then moved to Leeton Hospital in 1964.

Shep met a young and courteous footballer, romance blossomed and Leon and Jan were married in 1967, settling at Murrami. Following the birth of their daughter Leanne, the family moved to Bethrungra in 1968, where life revolved around this small community. A son, Darren, arrived in 1969 and their family was complete.

In August 1972, Shep re-commenced her nursing career at the District Hospital in Cootamundra, where she finished her studies, balancing shift work, young children and a husband.

The 1974 Graduation Day ceremony was held at Christ Church of England, Cootamundra, where Shep graduated alongside Leoni Brown, Cheryl Slavin, Wendy Whybrow, Marion Millar, Sandra Fox and Clare Keyes.

In 1978, the family moved to ‘Darlee’, a small holding on the outskirts of Bethrungra. Darlee was a basic three-room hut and relied on power from a generator.

In 1981 a larger modern home was built. Shep was ecstatic as this provided her family with what most took for granted.

Shep was always on the go with the hospital – especially following the rationalisation and amalgamation of the towns’ two hospitals to one. Shep worked 38 THE LAMP december 2007 – January 2008

extensively in the operating theatres, and proved herself a loyal, talented and dependable anaesthetic and scout nurse at the Cootamundra Hospital.

Shep’s love of theatre work and her expertise in this area led to further studies. She completed one of the state’s first courses in sterilising and microbiology for Enrolled Nurses. She then shared her new-found knowledge with other nurses.

Shep was an incredible, intelligent and beautiful lady, who for more than 30 years was a caring and dedicated nurse, highly respected by her peers and work colleagues. Her kindness and thoughtfulness touched the hearts of the many patients in her care.

In 2003, Shep’s service and commitment to nursing was recognised by the then Greater Murray Area Health Service, when she was presented with a brass plaque and certificate at a ceremony in Wagga Wagga.

Shep was proud of her children and the adults they had become, she cherished her six grandchildren and was never short of a story, photo or paper cutting of their progress and achievements.

A good all-rounder, Shep enjoyed cooking, sewing, knitting and gardening.

Friends were always being given nutritious

Janette Gloria Sheppard

recipes, her rose and geranium cuttings and the garments she made were spectacular.

In March 2005, our world crumbled when Shep was diagnosed with Peritional Cancer, aged 59. She was immediately flown to Royal Women’s Hospital in Randwick, where she received treatment by leading specialists in this field.

During these trips for operations and chemotherapy, Shep’s courage and unwavering faith helped her greatly and staff were amazed at her sheer guts and determination.

Almost two years later Shep lost her courageous battle and passed away while being comforted by her family.

Shep will be sadly missed by all who knew her, worked with her and more importantly loved her.n

By June Urwin, RN at Cootamundra Hospital.

Her smile and dedication will be remembered Frances (Fran) Jane Grosser (née Milligan) 10 August 1946 - 6 February 2007

F

ran commenced her General Nursing Training at The Maitland Hospital in October 1963.Our friendship was sealed as we met each other on that momentous day.

Fran was always a dedicated, caring and efficient nurse and loved by all her colleagues. Fran was a popular nurse

Outstanding nurse, outstanding humour and kindness Judith Ann McDonald (née Foy) udy (as she was known to her friends) spent her childhood in Granville in Western Sydney with her loving parents, two sisters Pamela and Dianne, and brother, Michael. She often spoke of those happy days, and the family outings in her father’s car and picnics by the creek.

Judy began her nursing training at St Joseph’s Hospital in Auburn. It was to be a career that spanned over 40 years, and Judy brought it her own special qualities of loyalty, empathy and kindness in the light of her deep Catholic faith.

Judy was a supportive colleague, always ready to lend an ear to another’s problems, and to offer encouragement.

She was so proud to be a nurse, and this pride and love of her craft remained with her until she reluctantly retired.

Judy was also well known for her sense of humour. Her sister Dianne remembers they could see the windows on the top floor of the hospital from their home. They would watch for a towel fluttering in one of

the windows, this was Judy cheekily letting them know she was thinking of them.

In those days the life of a trainee nurse was tough – shifts were often split, there was a lot of heavy lifting and basic care to be carried out, not to mention all the repetitive cleaning chores – but Judy took it all in her stride.

After she finished her training, Judy went to Launceston, Tasmania, to study midwifery with a group of her colleagues from St Joseph’s Hospital. Her family were very proud of her when she graduated and was placed fifth in the state.

Returning to NSW, Judy then went to Brewarrina Hospital then Warrinella Private Hospital in Granville, and Albury Hospital. She worked at State Rail for some years before going to Port Macquarie and working with disabled children.

Returning to Sydney, she worked at Lidcombe Hospital, then Health 24 Medical Centre, Merrylands, and Merrylands Nursing Home.

Sadly, Judy’s sister Pam became ill and Judy helped to care for her until she died. After she died Judy played an important part in the life of Pam’s daughter, Allison. Then Judy’s mother became ill and she cared for her also, until she died.

and well liked by all those she cared for during her nursing career. With a beaming smile, she was often referred to as ‘the pretty nurse from Gunnedah.’

On graduating from Maitland Hospital in 1967, Fran was awarded the prestigious Gold Medal. In 1969, after completing her Midwifery Training at St Margaret’s Hospital, Darlinghurst, Fran married her school sweetheart and love of her life, Tim Grosser.

The couple settled back in Gunnedah to raise four beautiful children, Timothy, Sally, Georgina and Stephen.

Fran continued to work at Gunnedah Hospital as NUM of the

Aged Care Facility and the Emergency Department. She then went on to become a Level 2 Nurse Manager of Gunnedah Hospital and Acting Area Health Service Manager.

Fran was well known and respected throughout the New England region. For many years she carried out her duties in her usual diligent manner until illness necessitated her retirement in 2005.

After major surgery, chemotherapy and much suffering, Fran passed away in Gunnedah Hospital with her family by her side on 6 February 2007.

During Fran’s last years, even though suffering pain and discomfort, she always had a smile,

6 June 1936 – 13 September 2006

J

Judith Ann McDonald

Judy married and had an adored son, Douglas, and she was later to be a fond grandmother to his two children, Kurt and Jessica, and mother in-law to Leanne.

She was always a loving sister and aunt, even when her own health was failing.

Judy was already in poor health when she made her final move to Cairns to be close to her sister, Dianne and family. At first she worked at Mary Potter Nursing home, then briefly at the Freemasons’ nursing home until she was unable to work any longer.

Judy lived alone for some time but was eventually admitted as a resident to the Freemasons’ home. She died after a long and miserable illness. She is greatly missed by her friends and family, and her beautiful smile will always be remembered. n

By Sylvia Ajaj, RN, Canterbury Community Health, and Gloria Gray, RN, Auburn District Hospital. encouragement, understanding, love and appreciation for others.

Expressions of love, respect and popularity were evident by the large crowd in attendance at her funeral Mass and celebration of her life at St Mary’s Catholic Church, Gunnedah, in February 2007.

The death of a much loved wife, mother, mother-in-law, grandmother and true friend left an unfillable void in our lives, but her everlasting smile and spirit lives on in our hearts and minds.

God bless you, Fran, my surrogate sister and true and loving friend. Vale ‘pretty nurse from Gunnedah’!

By Helen Carter, RN, Maitland Hospital.

THE LAMP december 2007 – January 2008 39

s

o b i t u a r i e s

Dedicated to nursing and Indigenous health Geoff Hartmann 30 July 1939 – 23 August 2007

G

eoff Hartmann, Registered Psychiatric Nurse, unexpectedly passed away in August, on the evening of his last shift in a successful nursing career that spanned more than 40 years.

A memorial service was held at Rozelle Hospital followed by the funeral in Geoff’s hometown of Narrabri.

Geoff was born in Narrabri and was a proud member of the Kilimaroo tribe.

It was always Geoff’s wish to be buried next to his mother for whom he expressed great love and respect. He attributed his completion of secondary schooling to her.

Given the considerable difficulties Indi­ genous people experienced at that time it is a testament to both Geoff and his mother that he not only finished his schooling but went on to gain nursing registration and later a degree in social science.

Geoff started his psychiatric nurse training in 1963 at the then named Parramatta Psychiatric Hospital. For most of his career he worked in the field of psychiatry and specialised in Aboriginal mental health.

Throughout his career Geoff maintained a strong advocacy for this

marginalised group and always displayed a genuine positive regard for his clients.

As well as working in the large psychiatric institutions, Geoff worked in the correctional health system and rural community health. In all the positions he held Geoff became involved in educational and support programs for Aboriginal clients and their communities.

He supported school students, presented segments on local radio, wrote numerous articles for local newspapers and mentored students undertaking Aboriginal health studies. Geoff contributed to the first advanced diploma of health science program (Aboriginal

mental health) conducted by the NSW Aboriginal Medical Service.

In February 2005 Geoff started work at the Clarence Valley Mental Health Service. He had fulfilled a dream of returning to the country to live on a farm where he showed a genuine affinity with his dogs and horses.

Aside from his wife, Denise, Geoff’s other great love was his football team the Broncos. He immensely enjoyed sledging other league tragics at every opportunity.

Geoff considered humour to be an important part of his working day and could be counted on to instigate or participate in any lively conversation.

He was a treasure trove of mental health history over the past half century.

There was no greater proponent of the value of the mental health nurse in the multi disciplinary team. At the same time he was quite vociferous in promoting his firm belief that nurses are unrivalled in their all round mental health skills and ability.

Geoff’s colleagues and friends express our sincere sympathy to his lovely wife Denise. We are deeply saddened that after such a long fruitful working life of giving to others, Geoff did not have the opportunity to experience the retirement he so richly deserved. n

By Acute Care Staff, Clarence Valley Mental Health Service

Midwife healed with fun and humour Carolyn Flemington 29 September 1952 – 1 August 2007

C

arolyn Flemington burst into the Coffs Harbour maternity unit in 1991, joining the staff in a casual capacity. She was the perfect casual, plenty of energy, hard working and with good availability.

Carolyn never did anything quietly or without gusto. She was willing to assist in the nursery, could be coerced into the birthing unit when necessary and ran the ward with noisy efficiency.

40 THE LAMP december 2007 – January 2008

Carolyn quickly became a favourite to work with, not only for the energy she exuded but also her good sense of humour. A shift with Carolyn was a shift where things got done with a sense of fun, be it upfront or lurking in the background.

Carolyn started her nursing career in Tasmania and moved to Sydney, to the Royal Women’s Hospital. Here she completed her midwifery training after

Community devastated by her passing Stephanie Meredith (née Blake) tephanie Meredith was born at Balranald Hospital on 1 June 1961. She began her schooling at St Joseph’s in Balranald and after two years went over to Balranald Central School where she remained until she completed her HSC. On leaving school, Stephanie worked as part of the domestic staff at the Balranald Hospital, filling in for everyone from the office workers to the cook. Later, she was made permanent on the wards, forming an attachment to the ‘oldies’, as she used to call them.

In the early 1980s Stephanie trained in Deniliquin as an Enrolled Nurse where she passed with distinction. On returning to Balranald she nursed an elderly gentleman for a few weeks on his property, before going back to work at Balranald Hospital.

This was Stephanie’s life. She loved being home, loved the town and loved the hospital. She worked well with her fellow nurses, always looking for ways to improve the lives of elderly patients.

Many times, as a special treat, Stephanie would bring patients home for

afternoon tea after she had finished her shift, or home for Christmas dinner, if they had no family.

During this same period Stephanie travelled to America, Canada, Singapore, Bali and New Zealand. She loved different cultures and learning about the customs of other countries.

Stephanie also worked in Western Australia for 12 months but this was a little too far away from home, so she returned. She then went to Melbourne and did agency work before working as a division 2 nurse in the clinics and outpatients department at the Royal Children’s Hospital. She loved working with children.

It was during this time she met and married her husband Craig, and lived in Melbourne. Stephanie had two girls and they used to spend the holidays in Balranald visiting Stephanie’s Mum and Dad. On these visits she would fill in if Balranald Hospital was short staffed.

In 2005 Stephanie was diagnosed with a brain tumour. This was benign and was removed, but the operation left her with facial palsy and deafness in one ear.

After many operations she had a BAHA implant which enabled her to hear.

Stephanie and her two beautiful girls were tragically killed in the Kerang Rail accident on June 5 when returning to

some post-grad work and accidentally setting fire to the hospital!

She and her new husband, David, bought a house in the Shire and spent the next three years in the maternity section at Sutherland Hospital. Carolyn was also popular here and gained the friendship of the friendly and the not so friendly.

Her commitment to midwifery was absolute and Carolyn got great enjoyment from looking after women and their babies. She was dedicated to breastfeeding and concerned for all whom she cared for.

She left Sutherland pregnant and

after three children and a move to Albury she started her casual career.

After staying overnight in Coffs Harbour on their way to Expo ‘88 in Brisbane, Carolyn and David thought that Coffs could be a place they could finish raising their children away from the chills of the south.

So our adventure with the ‘senior casual’ (a self-given title) commenced.

When her breast cancer was diagnosed we confidently thought that no cancer could survive all that energy.

Sadly, we were wrong, as the disease progressed in spite of Carolyn’s, and our, positive thoughts. She probably

1 June 1961 – 5 June 2007

S

Melbourne after a weekend visit to her parents in Balranald.

Stephanie was held in very high regard and was loved by all who knew her.

The Balranald Hospital staff and the whole Balranald community felt total disbelief and devastation after this tragic accident.

Stephanie’s kind and gentle nature will be dearly missed by all the staff and patients at Balranald Hospital. n

By Alicia Camin, EN and Jenny Blake, RN & Branch President, Balranald Hospital

had her dark moments but to us she displayed that enduring sense of humour we had all grown to love.

Carolyn left no stone unturned in the treatment of her cancer but medical science could not save her.

A shadow lies over maternity as our ‘senior (and favourite) casual’ has sought greener pastures. At her funeral many past and present staff came to pay their respects and honour a popular colleague. A long guard of honour allowed us to publicly honour our very dear friend.

By Anne Grundy, Midwife Coffs Harbour Hospital THE LAMP december 2007 – January 2008 41

Simply better ward beds at every step of the way

FE 5000

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® 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® ES Bed

The CareAssist ES bed incorporates several unique features to help you protect and care for your patients including onebutton Dining Chair® feature; unique four-corner brake access with audible alarm; stowable patient pendant; Shearless Pivot® 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 december 2007 – January 2008

s

l i f e s t y l e

Special Interest Title

The Political Brain: The Role of Emotion in Deciding the Fate of the Nation

Book me Understanding and Supporting Professional Carers

about their own health or the health of someone they love.

by Janet Thomas with forward by Michael Carroll, Radcliff Publishing, RRP $58.00 : ISBN 978-185775-798-9 Understanding and Supporting Professional Carers is a practical guide offering easy-to-implement ideas to support health and social care professionals. With illus­ trative case studies and in-depth analysis of psychological demands, it helps to aid the understanding of the challenges and stress faced by carers. It is suitable for health and social care managers, thera­ pists, and counsellors.

Williams Hematology

Save Your Life and the Lives of Those You Love: Your GP’s 6-Step Guide to Staying Healthy Longer (pbk)

by Professor Leanne Rowe and Professor Michael Kidd, published by Arena, an imprint of Allen and Unwin Book Publishers, RRP $27.95: ISBN 978-174175-188-8 Why wait until you lose your health before it becomes important to you? Discover how to prevent or detect the nine most common life-threatening illnesses and add years to your life. Save your life and the lives of those you love is an easy-to-understand guide to long-term good health and is an essential reference for everyone who cares

(7th edition)

by Ernest Beutler (M.D.), Marshall A. Lichtman (M.D.), Barry S. Coller (M.D.), Thomas J. Kipps (M.D.) and Uri Seligsohn (M.D.), McGraw-Hill Professional, RRP $215.00 (+ shipping) : ISBN 978-0-07143-591-8 Williams Hematology 7th Edition, addresses the hottest topics in hematology today including: cytokine and chemokine networks in blood cell regulation, the most recent diagnostic and treatment approaches to blood cell and coagulation protein dis­ orders, advances in the management of the lymphomas and lymphocytic leukemias and the management of hemostatic and thrombotic diseases. Chapters remain­ ing from the previous edition have been carefully reviewed and thoroughly updated in order to provide the most current and authoritative coverage of the field now available. (This book is not available for loan but may be viewed by visiting the NSWNA Library)

Emergency Nursing: Core Curriculum (6th edition)

by Emergency Nurses Association, Saunders Publishing (available through Elsevier Australia), RRP $125.00 : ISBN 9781-41603-755-2 Whether you are a new or an experienced

by Drew Westen, Public Affairs N.Y., RRP $29.77(includes shipping and handling): ISBN 978-1586484255 The Political Brain is a serious and groundbreaking investigation into the role of emotion in deciding the life of the nation.

It looks at data across several American Presi­ dential elections from the 1950s through 2000, examines the evidence for the role of emotion in driving voting behaviour, and pro­ vides a “clinical” view of a number of campaign ads, debate lines and personal profiles of the candidates.

Westen’s discoveries could ut­ terly transform electoral arithmetic, showing how a different view of the mind and brain leads to a different way of talking with voters about issues that have tied the tongues of Democrats for much of 40 years. emergency nurse, you’ll find that the Emergency Nursing Core Curriculum, 6th Edition is an essential tool for your practice.

Authored by the Emergency Nurses As­ sociation (ENA), this highly-respected resource will help you build and ver­ ify your knowledge, develop prac­tice standards, improve quality of care, and educate nursing staff as well as patients and families. The Emergency Nursing Core Curriculum, 6th Edition is also the ideal resource to help you prepare for the Certification for Emergency Nurses (CEN) exam. 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 december 2007 – January 2008 43

The newest way to improve your patients’ health may be the oldest.

Southern Cross University is offering health professionals a postgraduate degree in Traditional Chinese Medicine. With a strong focus on acupuncture this course has been specifically developed for healthcare professionals in fields such as nursing, pharmacy, medicine, or allied health. This is a unique opportunity to expand the scope of care you are qualified to offer.

Choose a specialisation that interests you. These may include women’s health, acute or chronic pain management, stress management or hormonal imbalance. Flexible online delivery will allow you to complete your studies without compromising work or family commitments. Apply now.

SC844E_L

Visit scu.edu.au/healthscience

SC844E_L 124x176 4C V2 1

1/11/07 4:51:13 PM

17.8

Super is your future

15.0

15.6

%*

11.1 % 15.6Growth % Option (default)

11.1

15.0%

%*

17.8

17.8

%

%

11.1

%

%

%

17.0

15.0%

1 year return

2 year compound return 3 year compound return %

17.0 4 year compound return

15.0

%

17.8%

5 year compound 16.2%return

17.0 15.0% 15.0 17.8% For quality super contact HIP %

% 17.8%

* All returns are to the end of June 2007

15.6%

11.1

*

15.6

15.0%

17.8

15.0

%

15.6

11.1% %

% 11.1 15.6% 17.0%

15.0%

15.6%

17.8

11.1% %

11.1 15.0 15.6 15.6 %

%

17.8%

15.0 15.0% 15.0% 11.1% %* 11.1 or visit hipsuper.com.au 15.0% 1300 654 099 15.0% % 17.0% % 11.1 15.0% 44 THE LAMP december 2007 – January 2008 % % 15.0 % % %

11.1%

% 15.6 %

%

15.0

strong investment returns low fees great insurance investment choice HIP Super Pension

17.8

11.1%

% 15.6 15.0

17.0%*

Choose HIP

%*

* Please note all these returns are still subject to annual audit verification. Past returns are no indication of future performance and if you are unsure of what investment option best suits your own personal financial 6012Lamp situation, objectives and needs, you may need to seek advice from a qualified financial planner. AFSL 247063 RSE L0001533 RSE R1056617.

%

s

n o t i c e

2008 NSWNA Election of branch delegates and alternate delegates

P

ursuant to the Industrial Relations Act, 1996, Robert Leslie Whyburn will be the Returning Officer for the election of branch delegates and alternate delegates to the Annual Conference and the Committee of Delegates of the NSW Nurses’ Association.

Nominations Nominations in writing are requested on and from 1 January 2008 for the following positions: Branch delegates and alternate delegates to the Annual Conference and the Committee of Delegates.

Each branch shall be entitled to elect such delegates according to the number of financial members in that branch as at 31 Decem­ ber 2007, as follows: (information as to the number of financial members in each branch is available from each branch secretary, or the NSW Nurses’ Association, (telephone 1300 367 962) c 50 financial members or less: 1 delegate c 51-130 (inclusive) financial members: 2 delegates c 131-300 (inclusive) financial members: 3 delegates c 301-500 (inclusive) financial members: 4 delegates c 501-750 (inclusive) financial members: 5 delegates c 751-1000 (inclusive) financial members: 6 delegates c 1001-1250 (inclusive) financial members: 7 delegates c 1251-1500 (inclusive) financial members: 8 delegates c 1501 financial members or more: 9 delegates Each branch shall be entitled to elect alternate delegates equal to the delegate entitlement of that branch, provided that a branch shall be entitled to elect at least 2 alternate delegates.

Note: A person may nominate for one position only.

Candidates for election to the position of branch delegate or alternate delegate are required to be financial members of the Association at the date of opening of nominations i.e. 1 January 2008.

A person is not eligible to nominate for, be elected to, or hold any office in the Association, Committee of Delegates or branch thereof if (i) such person holds any office in any other registered trade union or a like or kindred nature or having objects similar to the objects of the NSW Nurses’ Association other than the Australian Nursing Federation, (ii) such person has been, within the period of 2 years immediately preceding the date of nomination or election, dismissed from any office or position in accordance with rule 14 of the Association’s Rules.

Pro forma nomination forms may be obtained from the returning officer, Robert Leslie Whyburn, c/- NSW Nurses’ Association, 43 Australia Street, Camperdown or from NSW Nurses’ Association (telephone 1300 367 962) or from the Association’s member only section of the website.

Close of nominations Nominations must be received by the returning officer, Robert Leslie Whyburn, not later than noon on Wednesday 20 February, 2008. They may be hand delivered to Returning Officer, Robert Leslie Whyburn, c/- NSW Nurses’ Association, 43 Australia Street, Camperdown; posted to P.O. Box 239, Camperdown, 1450 or faxed to (02) 9565 2747. Nominations received after the time and date specified will not be accepted. Nominations cannot be lodged with the NSW Nurses’ Association.

Any defect in a nomination must be rectified by the candidate prior to the close of nominations. A candidate may only withdraw his/her nomination in writing so as to be received by the returning officer prior to the close of nominations.

Should more than the required number of nominations be received a draw will be conducted to determine the order of candidates’ names on the ballot paper at 43 Australia Street, Camperdown at 2.00pm, Monday 25 February 2008. Candidates or their representatives are invited to witness the draw.

Voting If the election is contested a postal ballot will be conducted. All members of the relevant branch of the New South Wales Nurses’ Association financial as at noon, Wednesday 20 February 2008 and entitled to vote will be sent a ballot paper on Monday 3 March 2008. The ballot will close at 10.00am, Thursday 20 March 2008.

The method of voting to be observed for this election will be first past the post. Any candidate in a contested election may nominate another person to act as their scrutineer at the counting of the bal­ lot. Candidates should ring the Association to ascertain the date and time of counting.

Members should ensure that the Association is aware of their current residential address as voting material will be posted to each member’s residential address. Any enquiries concerning this election should be in writing or by fax and be addressed to R L Whyburn.

Robert Leslie Whyburn, Returning Officer for the 2008 NSW Nurses’ Association Election

NSWNA Membership Fees* 2008

M

embership fees for members of the NSWNA will be increased effective from 1 January 2008 as listed below.

Members who pay their fees by account will be invoiced these new rates in December 2007.

Members who pay their fees by Direct Debit or Automatic Credit Card will be charged the new rate from the first debit on or after 1 January 2008.

Employers who deduct fees via your pay­ roll system have been asked to deduct the new rate from the first full pay period in 2008.

We ask that members check their pay slip to ensure that their pay office is deducting the correct amount. n *NSWNA fees are tax deductible. All inclusive of GST

Classification

Year

Quarter

Month

Fortnight

Registered Nurse/ Midwife

$557

$139.25

$46.42

$21.42

Enrolled Nurse

$473

$118.25

$39.42

$18.18

Assistant in Nursing, Trainee Enrolled Nurse, Residential Care Nurse

$390

$97.50

$32.50

$15.00

THE LAMP december 2007 – January 2008 45

46 THE LAMP december 2007 – January 2008

s

Crossword

Find out how well you know your nursing words with this month’s crossword.

1

2

3

7

4

5

6

8 9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20 21

22 23

24

25

26 27

28

29

s

30

across

5. Indwelling catheter, abbrev (1.1.1.)

7. A condition occurring in late pregnancy that may include hypertension (12) 9. Get older (3) 10. Type of shock associated with an allergic reaction (12) 12. The thorax (5) 13. Deltoid, brachialis and gluteus maxi­ mus are all examples of these (7) 14. Twitch (3) 16. Unwell, ill (4) 17. Rheumatoid arthritis, abbrev (1.1.)

18. Leaves, departs (5) 19. Multiple sclerosis, abbrev (1.1.)

20. Atriums are found here (5) 21. Afternoon, evening abbrev (1.1.)

23. Nurse with some prescribing powers, nurse ... (12) 26. Lower digit (3) 27. Pyrosis (9) 29. Covering of the eye (3) 30. Flatulence (3) s

down

1. Inflammation in the lungs (10) 2. Virus that causes cold sores (6) 3. Care at the end of life (10)

4. Cardiac index, abbrev (1.1.)

6. Declining, deteriorating condition (12) 8. An object that controls the rhythm of the heart (9) 11. Tail bone (6) 15. Painful muscle contraction (5) 19. Psychological wellbeing, ... health (6) 22. Roughage in the diet (5) 24. Nursing older people, aged ... (4) 25. Bones of the thorax (4) 28. Where emergency patients go (1.1.)

Solution page 49 THE LAMP december 2007 – January 2008 47

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

CPD hours!

The College of Nursing

CPD hours!

AUSTRALI A’S NURSING FUTURE

Continuing Profess ional Development Han dbook

JANUARY – JUNE

48 THE LAMP december 2007 – January 2008

2008

DIARY DATES Conferences, seminars, meetings Sydney, Hunter & Illawarra Basic High Dependency Nursing Study Day in Albury 7–8 Dec, 324 Wodonga Place, Albury.

Cost: $299 Contact: (03) 9375-7311 The Renal Society of Australasia Dinner 7 December, NSW College of Nursing Contact: Anna Lee, 9382 4453 page 44829 or anna.lee@sesiahs.health.nsw.gov.au NSW Society of the History of Medicine Inc. Christmas Function 8 Dec, 2 pm, Vanderfield Building, RNSH Cost: free for NSWSHM member/ $10 per guest paid on arrival. RSVP by 4 Dec Contact: NSWSHM Secretary, 9036 6494 or email medhist@bigpond.com.au Social Justice Network of NSW – ’Celebration of UN Human Rights Day’ Dinner 14 Dec, 6.30pm, Jasmine Lebanese Res­ taurant, 224 The Boulevarde, Punchbowl.

Cost: $20 per person Contact: Hassan on 0432,450 314 or Jamal on 0424 163 667.

Email: socialjustice_nsw@yahoo.com.au Asthma Educators Course 3–7 March 08, Children’s Hosp. Westmead Contact: Lucy Keatley on 0411 212 303, edu@aarea.org.au Web: www.aareducation.com NSW Operating Theatre Assoc. Inc Annual Conference, 6–8 March 2008 Contact: ota@nursing.edu.au Web: www.nsw-ota.asn.au NSW Lactation College Inc Seminar ‘Ethics Extravaganza for CERPS‘ 14 March 2008. Venue: TBA Contact: Lynne Hall, 9664 4315, halls4@bigpond.net.au SESIHS ‘Connecting with Neuroscience’ Conference 18 April 2008, St. George Hospital, Kogarah Cost: $44-$55 Contact: Roslyn Millar, 9113 3559 or Jo McLoughlin, 0422418255, Joanne.

Mcloughlin@sesiahs.health.nsw.gov.au Royal North Shore Hospital Neuroscience Symposium 2 May 2008, North Sydney Harbourview Hotel, 17 Blue Street, 8am – 4.30pm Cost: $80 earlybird/ $95 after 18 April 08 Contact: Nicki Pereira, 9926 8074/ fax 9437 5172 or email npereira@nsccahs. health.nsw.gov.au

Cardiovascular CT at Concord Conf.

23–25 May 2008, Grand Pavillion, Rosehill Gardens Event Centre Contact: Tara Montgomery, 9518 7725, taram@conexion.com.au Web: www.cctatconcord.com

Interstate and overseas Australian Nurses Cardiovascular and Hypertension Association 12th Annual Conference Managing Hypertension and Cardiovascular Disease In Rural Practice 7 December, 8am-5pm, Hilton Hotel – Adelaide, South Australia Contact: Margaret Ross-Styles, 9926 7201, mstyles@nsccahs.health.nsw.gov.au 61st Annual Conference incorporating the Australian Urological Nurses Society Inc 13th Annual Meeting 24–28 February 2008, Convention Centre, Hong Kong Contact: Karina So, Urology Support Services, Concord Hospital, 9767 5000 Email: kso@email.cs.nsw.gov.au Web: www.urologymeeting.com.au

Reunions Wollongong Hospital May 1977 PTS 22 December. Venue: TBA Contact: Margaret Robinson (Pentassuglia), 4237 8237 or 0413 214 754, bmrobbo@nsw.chariot.net.au Tingha Hospital Reunion 26 Jan 2008, New Valley Road, Tingha Contact: Nola Walker, 6723 3387 Sydney Hosp. Reunion 78-1 (Feb Group) 16 February 2008, TBA. Contact: Gay Morrison (Peters), 9949 2270/ Louise Linke, loul959@hotmail.com St George Hospital Kogarah 1978 January PTS – 30 years Reunion 29 February 2008, Surf & Turf, Kogarah Contact: Marie Hodgetts or Pam Jones (nee Francis) ph 9113 1111 pg 366, pamela.jones@sesiahs.health.nsw.gov.au St Vincent’s Hospital 1986 March PTS 8 March 2008. Venue: TBA Contact: Sue Monaro (nee Driscoll), 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 Griffith Base Hospital Date/ venue: TBA. Contact: Brenda Bowen, 6962 1656, bbo83891@bigpond.net.au

Diary Dates 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 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 too far in the future may be cut. Only Diary Dates with an advised date and contact person will be published. 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.

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.

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

Do you like to sing?

Sydney Town Chorus, an award-winning women’s acapella group, invites women who love to sing to come along to their rehearsal evenings on Thursdays 7.30–10pm. Learn four-part harmony singing. Further details can be obtained from Adrienne on 0412 705 564 or Linda on 0419 274 851.

Crossword solution

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 email k.bracken@nrca.org.au

3rd Biennial National Conference on

ANXIETY & DEPRESSION

“diverse pathways to effective treatment” 3rd & 4th April 2008, Melbourne

30+ speakers led by Professor Paul Salkovskis, UK supported by:

plus ONE DAY SEMINAR with Professor Paul Salkovskis on 5 April 2008

Call +61 3 9886 0649 or visit www.reconnexion.org.au/conference THE LAMP december 2007 – January 2008 49

ARE YOU AN RN (DIV1), AN EN (DIV2), A MIDWIFE, OR A NURSE PRACTITIONER?

YES? ....THEN YOU

NEED A COPY OF THE :

NATIONAL COMPETENCY STANDARDS CODE OF PROFESSIONAL CONDUCT CODE OF ETHICS To download free copies of these and other ANMC publications, as well as keeping up to date on the work of ANMC visit our website:

w w w. a n m c . o r g . a u (02) 6257 7960 ‘Facilitating a national approach to nursing and midwifery regulation’

TOMBARRA

ad for LAMP Nov 6 resized.indd 1

24/11/06 10:36:47 AM

Situated on 30 acres of natural bush land, Tombarra is tucked away in picturesque southeast NSW. With newly refurbished accommodation, it is the perfect place to relax and unwind.

Take advantage of the trout fishing, bush walking, tennis and barbeque facilities.

The prices are just as nice and NSWNA members receive a 10% discount of the rates.

For more information go to www.tombarra.com.au

Careers Health currently has positions available for RN’s & EEN’s in the following areas: • • • •

Orthopaedics - Nth Shore Scrub / Scout - Inner West & Nth Shore Theatre - West Subs & Nth Shore Anaesthetics & Recovery - Inner West

For more information, contact Leslie Hall on (02) 8741 0409 or email leslieh@ccjobs.com.au

Advertv1.indd 1

Improve Patient Care – Improve Your Skills – Learn Hypnosis 23/11/07 9:11:20 AM

Hypnosis - Enhances existing treatments Hypnosis is arguably the fastest growing psychological therapy

50 THE LAMP december 2007 – January 2008

Discounts for nurses.

We’ll look after you!

Free Nurse’s Protection Pack: With every car sold. Bring this advert with you.

Window tint • Headlight protectors • Floor Mats • Weathershields

6 year warranty on all new vehicles.

†

Easy Finance • Fast Approvals • Ask for an obligation-free assessment today.

Free Power Pack

Fiesta

$15990*

From

Mazda2

XS Auto

24,990

$ From

*

$16500*

From

Focus

$19990*

From

Mazda3

$20790*

From

Hills Ford 64-72 Pacific Highway Hornsby

Your independent Ford Dealer.

9372 3000 www.hillsford.com.au

Hornsby Mazda

64-72 Pacific Highway Hornsby

1800 643 091 www.hornsbymazda.com.au

XR 3 Door Manual

19,990

$

*^

From

HORNSBY.

Northside European 53 Pacific Highway Phone 9487 4344 Fax 9489 9137 www.northsideeuropean.com.au

#All finance to approved applicants. Price includes metallic paint. *Price plus $1895 dealer charges plus Govt charges. ^Manual only. †3 years factory warranty plus a further 3 years dealer warranty, conditions apply.

DL 11283 MD11283

X21640

THE LAMP december 2007 – January 2008 51

See why more members come to us for a Home Loan Union members receive a “member-only” discount with Members Equity Bank – which means you could save thousands over the life of your loan.

So whether you need a new loan, or you’re looking to switch, give us a call – a mobile lender will visit you at home or at work, to discuss your loan and start your application.

A full featured home loan just for members!

CALL 1300 309 374

3 No application fee 3 No ongoing monthly fees 3 No fees to split, fix or top up your loan 3 Borrow up to 95% 3 Free redraw

or apply online at membersequitybank.com.au

Fees and charges apply. Terms and conditions are available on request. Applications are subject to credit approval. Members Equity Bank Pty Ltd ABN 56 070 887 679 AFS Licence: 229500. 66035/0707

52 THE LAMP december 2007 – January 2008