The Lamp May 2011

lamp the

magazine of the NSW Nurses’ Association

volume 68 no.4 May 2011

MORE STAFF ON THE Print Post Approved: PP241437/00033

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About The Lamp

c o n t e n t s

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

Sydney Office 50 O’Dea Avenue, Waterloo NSW 2017 (all correspondence) T 8595 1234 (metro) 1300 367 962 (non-metro) F 9662 1414 E gensec@nswnurses.asn.au W www.nswnurses.asn.au Hunter Office 8-14 Telford Street, Newcastle Ease NSW 2300 Illawarra Office L1, 63 Market Street Wollongong NSW 2500

Cover story

More staff on the way p12 Cover Sharon Townsend, NUM, Medical Oncology ward, Wagga Wagga Base Hospital.

Photography by Hayley Hillis

News in brief

NSWNA matters

8 UK nurses rail against government cuts 9 More union-busting bills pass in US 9 New MPS opens at Balranald 11 Rostering software available 11 Nurses called on to encourage flu vaccination

40 NSWNA Branch News

Regular columns

18 Climate change is a health issue 20 No doubt about climate change 22 Undeniable economic impacts of climate change

NSWNA Election 2011

Competition

24 Meet the NSWNA Councillors

Aged care 30 Nurses tell Commission aged care needs nurses

7 Win an activity trip to Manly

44 Win 25 double passes to Babies and 25 double passes to Get Low.

36 Debora Picone: The Public Health System: My life’s work

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The Lamp Editorial Committee Brett Holmes, NSWNA General Secretary Judith Kiejda, NSWNA Assistant General Secretary Coral Levett, NSWNA President John Lyons, Baradine MPS Roz Norman, Tamworth Base Hospital Elsie May Henson, Barraba Multi Purpose Service Peg Hibbert, Hornsby & Ku-Ring-Gai Hospital Michelle Cashman, Long Jetty Continuing Care Richard Noort, Justice Health Advertising Patricia Purcell T 8595 2139 or 0416 259 845 F 9662 1414 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

Special offers

Profile

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The lamp produced by Sirius Communications T 9560 1223 W www.siriuscommunications.com.au Press Releases Send your press releases to: F 9662 1414 E gensec@nswnurses.asn.au

5 Editorial by Brett Holmes 6 Your Letters to The Lamp 34 Ask Judith 34 Nurse Uncut 35 Nursing Research Online 42 Books 44 At the movies 47 Our nursing crossword 48 Diary dates

Agenda

NSWNA communications manager Noel Hester T 8595 2153 NSWNA communications assistant Janaki Chellam-Rajendra T 8595 1258 For all Lamp editorial enquiries, letters and diary dates: Editorial Enquiries T 8595 1234 E lamp@nswnurses.asn.au M 50 O’Dea Avenue, Waterloo NSW 2017

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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. Professional members can subscribe to the magazine at a reduced rate of $50.

Individuals $73, Institutions $120, Overseas $130.

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Image supplied by Tourism Port Douglas and Daintree unless otherwise noted.

Membership Application forms or Direct Debit forms can be downloaded from our website www.nswnurses.asn.au.

Alternatively call the NSWNA on 8595 1234 (metro area) or 1300 367 962 (non-metro area) for more information.

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BY BRETT HOLMES GENERAL SECRETARY

Our next task is to make ratios work g The improvements to staffing won in our pay and conditions campaign are excellent but there is still work to be done in order to make the benefits tangible.

Nurse-to-patient ratios as equivalents to Nursing Hours Per Patient Day are now legally embedded in our Award and the funding is available to bring about 1,400 new nurses into the NSW Public Health System over the next two years.

These significant gains are the fruit of a successful NSWNA campaign, and give nurses the potential to have more control over their workloads and more capacity to deliver better and safer patient care.

Our next task is to successfully implement these improvements so these gains become reality and our workplaces are less stressed, nurses’ jobs are more satisfying and patients reap the benefits with better care.

This will not occur overnight but the process is already underway. Ratios are to be phased in over two years but the first tranche of positions has already been advertised. We have been deep in talks with NSW Health about where and when the first rollouts will occur.

NSWNA officials have been crisscrossing the State holding information sessions to explain the improvements to members.

Nurses will get all the help possible from their Union so the implementation is smooth and effective. But to maximise the benefits it will also require nurses on the ground to be involved and to understand how the new improvements can be practically applied at the ward level.

NUMs will have an important role to play. For the implementation to be effective they will need to lead the way.

The new Award gives NUMs more flexibility in how they roster. As the funding has been committed for more staff, and ratios as equivalents to Nursing Hours Per Patient Day are now legally enforceable, for the first time ever NUMs

Climate change is a health issue

The new Award gives NUMs more flexibility in how they roster. will be in a stronger position when dealing with finance departments.

Of course, change can create difficulties and challenges that need to be met and worked through. The implementation of our new Memorandum of Understanding won’t be any different.

But there are good reasons for there to be good faith in this process from staff and management. A significant amount of new resources will now be pumped into the system and that is a win/win situation for everybody.

The biggest winners should be the NSW public. They expect and are entitled to a world-class health system.

That goal was always at the forefront of our campaign. It will remain at the forefront as we now move on to the implementation.

Four years ago climate change became an important political issue in Australia as the alarming prognosis of the science and the consequences for our planet became appreciated by the wider public.

Unfortunately, since then, public debate about climate change has become politically contentious and poisoned as the previous bipartisan approach has crumbled.

While the politicians have been squabbling, the planet has continued to warm. Climate change is a very important health issue and will have major consequences for our already overloaded health system and for nursing.

In this month’s Lamp (pp.18-23) we look at the health implications of climate change and what the science is telling us.

Nurses have a proud history of cutting through the political cant that often paralyses the quest for solutions to health problems.

Climate change is a seminal health issue and the consequences of inaction will be catastrophic. It is important that nurses understand this issue and contribute to finding a solution.

NSWNA election The NSW State Electoral Commission has advised that I have been re-elected unopposed as the NSWNA General Secretary.

I am grateful that Judith Kiejda and myself, along with my team of councillors – some of whom are new, have been elected unopposed so we can continue to deliver outcomes for nurses and midwives across all sectors of our membership.

Not one of us take that privilege for granted and every day we strive to meet the expectations of our members no matter how great they are.

I thank you for your support and confidence in my leadership. n THE LAMP may 2011 5

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Stop making it difficult for hard-working ENs I am writing about all the ENs who have worked for years and have a lot of experience and knowledge, who have done the medication course and successfully passed the course only to find that they can’t be registered as an EEN as they have not completed the Certificate IV that prepares them to do the medication course.

Surely in this day and age of nurse shortages these ENs should be registered as EENs, seeing as the Certificate IV does not exist anymore.

My sister is one of these people.

She has also completed her first-line emergency care course and the only solution she was offered was to do the new EEN course, which would be at her expense and time. At the moment she almost feels like giving up on nursing.

I am hoping that all these very experienced and knowledgeable people are, in the near future, given the recognition of their success and are allowed to be registered as EENs. Irene Armstrong, RN

Thank you to the NSWNA I would like to acknowledge and thank the NSWNA and everyone who has given their assistance to me and my family following a workplace incident that happened earlier this year.

In particular, I would like to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of the Organiser for the Greater West area. Her expertise, determination and friendship have been invaluable during this difficult period.

Emily Pritchard, EEN

ARCHI

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Every letter published receives the Sydney Morning Herald and Sun Herald delivered 7 days a week for 26 weeks Subscribe to the Herald today to save 41% off the newsstand price and enjoy the convenience of the paper delivered to your home each morning. Visit www.subscribe. smh.com.au/ lamp for more details.

The letter judged the best each month will be awarded a $50.00 Coles Myer voucher courtesy of Moore equipment.

Clever carts to help clever nurses. For details on the range of clax carts please visit www.mooreequipment. com.au or call (02) 9519 5540

Disappointed at The Lamp’s choice of letters I am writing to express my dismay and disappointment at several of the letters chosen to be published in last month’s issue of The Lamp, in particular the letter that was deemed worthy of ‘Letter of the month’ by Felicity Eason, EEN, and ‘Nursing is 24/7’ by Daniel Ruthers.

The tone of both of these letters lacked understanding towards individual practitioners as they negotiate their entry into the nursing workforce. Indeed, I believe these two members both being allowed to air their views could be viewed as ‘horizontal violence’.

There is enough of this within our workforce without the approval of our Union by publishing these types of letters.

While I understand that people are entitled to their opinions, sanctioning this type of commentary from members with a reward from the Association and no commentary at the end of either letter would appear to be further approval of such narrowly-held views.

If I was Danny Oakenfull I would feel very let down by the NSW Nurses’ Association for allowing such comments to go to press.

Terri Newsham, RN Editor’s response: At The Lamp we publish a diversity of views. Debate of differing views is welcome. Publication does not mean the NSWNA endorses or agrees with the views expressed.

The trouble with Tuesdays You may be finding it hard to talk to our information officers on Tuesdays. This is because Tuesday is the one day of the week when all our staff are in the office for staff and team meetings. These meetings are essential for information distribution and planning activities.

If at all possible, please don’t ring on this day as there can be considerable delays.

But if you need urgent assistance, you will get it.

Our information department receives approximately 900 calls per week, and the phones are ringing hot from 8.30am to 5pm. We are working hard to meet your needs and thank you for your patience.

Call 8595 1234 (metro) or 1300 367 962 (non-metro).

Australian Resource Centre for Healthcare Innovations

ARCHI is a free, national knowledge sharing and networking service for health professionals, supporting clinical practice improvement and innovation.

Visit the ARCHI website today at

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HSS11-1010_ARCHI

• Search for innovative projects and new initiatives in your field • Promote and share your clinical experience with nurses in other hospitals • Review up-to-date models of care, such as Medical Assessment Units • Collaborate with health professionals from across Australia • Find out the latest on safe patient clinical handover • Participate in discussion forums 6 THE LAMP may 2011

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Don’t make assumptions about people’s circumstances It seems my letter about the difficulties of a newly-graduated single parent finding suitable employment has stirred some strong, and mixed, responses ranging from fantastic job offers to my being considered a waste of university space.

To those who contacted me with some truly attractive employment opportunities after reading of my experience with a stagnant, often archaic industry in desperate need of an overhaul, l thank you. To those who feel I am a waste of resources, who do you think you are?

I have worked for 10 years as an AiN so I have plenty of experience in the health sector and knew exactly what I was in for; it’s not 25 years but for some people, 25 years is too long. As an AiN, I was frustrated and disillusioned with a failing industry and thought I could make a real difference by increasing my education and do my part to better nursing.

I saw a problem and instead of whingeing and complaining I got off my proverbial and did something about it! As with all RNs, I worked hard, achieved great results and now I am in the position to increase our evidence-base by being actively involved in research, on a part-time basis, so I can give due attention to my work and family life.

I challenge anyone who completes any university degree to say they are the same person in the same life situation from beginning to end. I went into my degree as a married man, without any concern about the shift work that would be inevitably required of me, already working shifts as an AiN. After separating, I entered my second year of university living out of my car, requesting as many night shifts as possible so I would have somewhere safe to be overnight.

I dare anyone to question my dedication to the nursing profession when I could have easily just given up.

I am not looking for sympathy, and I do know there are huge numbers of great nurses in very similar situations who manage to struggle with shift work and being a single parent.

Essentially, my questions are: Why should we have to struggle? Why can’t nurses negotiate working hours if we wish? Sure, there are heaps of nurses who would love to work only mornings, but talking with many nurses about this topic I find there are plenty who would prefer to work afternoons, or nights.

I concede it’s not for everyone in every situation and it’s not a cure-all but something different needs to be done, with a positive approach free of insults and assumptions about people who bring ideas to the table, like greater flexibility in staffing to alleviate shortages.

I have now secured employment with an employer who recognises social trends, realises family dynamics have shifted and is moving towards making allowances for the specific needs of skilled workers as a necessary way of securing a future workforce. Let’s see NSW Health work as hard to secure its future as I have done to secure mine.

Danny Oakenfull, proud RN

Got something to say?

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c o m p e t i t i o n

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Send your letters to: Editorial Enquiries email lamp@nswnurses.asn.au fax 9662 1414 mail 50 O’Dea Avenue, Waterloo NSW 2017 Please include a photograph along with your name, address, phone and membership number. Letters may be edited for clarity and space.

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UK nurses rail against government cuts Nurses in the UK have expressed their anger over government cuts to jobs and services throughout the NHS by taking part in a national rally, passing a vote of no confidence in the Health Secretary, and vowing to take industrial action if necessary to defend attacks on their pensions.

Nurses and healthcare assistants from across the UK took to the streets on 26 March in a national rally protesting against government cuts.

According to the Royal College of Nursing (RCN), it was the first time since 1988 that nurses nationally have marched together against government cuts to jobs and services.

RCN members came together to demonstrate their opposition to the cuts that are currently taking place within the NHS, as well as expressing concern about attacks to their pay and pensions. The RCN’s Frontline First campaign has already identified that 27,000 NHS posts are earmarked to be lost across the UK. Many members continue to report widespread cuts to services as the NHS in England seeks to save £20 billion in efficiency savings by 2015.

From 1 April nurses will enter a two-year pay freeze against a backdrop of surging inflation and fuel prices, while recent pension proposals mean members are likely to work longer, pay more and yet receive less in their hard-earned pensions.

‘The fact that so many nurses [marched] together for the first time since the days of Margaret Thatcher is testament to the depth of their anger about these cuts,’ said RCN Chief Executive & General Secretary, Dr Peter Carter. ‘Nurses are facing a two-year pay freeze and widespread cuts to jobs and services. On the ground, nurses are stretched to breaking point and we know that slashing huge numbers of frontline jobs is jeopardising patient care.’

More than 250,000 people took part in the March for the Alternative, which was organised by the Trades Union Congress (TUC). Members from several unions marched alongside students, parents and community workers.

A week after the rally, health workers at a conference held by public sector union Unison vowed to join their colleagues in other parts of Unison and other unions in taking industrial action if necessary to defend the NHS Pension Scheme from the government, which wants to increase member contributions by 50%.

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‘When you next think about cutting a budget or closing a service, remember one thing: patients need nurses.’

RCN Chief Executive & General Secretary, Dr Peter Carter.

The health workers unanimously agreed to an emergency motion calling for a campaign to defend the NHS Pension Scheme, including working to build capacity for industrial action if necessary.

Unison’s new national secretary for health, Christina McAnea, warned: ‘This is not a drill: it’s the real thing.’

In another display of their displeasure, the RCN overwhelmingly backed a motion expressing no confidence in Health Secretary Andrew Lansley and the Coalition Government’s NHS reforms at its conference in mid-April.

In his keynote speech at the conference, Dr Peter Carter said: ‘We will stand up, we will fight and we will be heard. When you next think about cutting a budget or closing a service, remember one thing: patients need nurses.’

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More union-busting bills pass in US Two more US states have signed off on bills that reduce the collective bargaining power of unions.

Ohio and Michigan join Wisconsin as recipients of legislation that affects around 350,000 public sector workers.

The Ohio bill allows unions to negotiate wages but not health care, sick or pension benefits. It also gets rid of automatic pay increases and bans workers from striking, and goes further than the Wisconsin bill by extending union restrictions to police officers and fire fighters, as well as teachers, nurses and other workers. The Michigan bill gives an emergency financial manager the right to break or change union contracts under certain conditions.

The measures – both introduced by Republican politicians – prompted street rallies in both states and followed the mass protests of Wisconsin reported in last month’s issue of The Lamp. Although Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker signed the bill into law last month, thus eliminating most of state workers’ collective bargaining rights, opponents have filed a series of lawsuits against it and a judge ordered the state to put the law on hold while she considers a broader challenge to its legality.

Democrats in Ohio have vowed to mount a campaign with unions to overturn the measure in a referendum this November.

Solidarity actions with embattled workers in the states took place on 4 April and the following days, with more than 1,200 events including teach-ins, vigils, faith services and town halls.

‘The irresponsible, greedy behaviour of banks brought on the Global Financial Crisis, yet the consequent pain is not being suffered by those who caused the crisis but by ordinary workers.’

These actions honoured the legacy of the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., who was assassinated on 4 April 1968 in Memphis, Tennessee, where he had gone to stand with sanitation workers demanding their dream: The right to bargain collectively for a voice at work and a better life. The workers were trying to form a union with the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees (AFSCME).

NSWNA General Secretary Brett Holmes said these attacks on workers’ rights in the United States and Britain are a stark reminder of what can happen when anti-union politicians decide to use their powers against workers. ‘The irresponsible, greedy behaviour of banks brought on the Global Financial Crisis, yet the consequent pain is not being suffered by those who caused the crisis but by ordinary workers.

‘It is not that long ago since the Howard Government was implementing similar policies in Australia,’ said Brett.

Branch members at Balranald fought hard to improve the staffing for the new MPS. Pictured back row: Amanda Morton; Wyn Scott, RN; Bella Mannix, EN; Gaye Renfrey, RN. Seated are from left: Fran Grimm, RN and Lyn Walker.

New MPS opens at Balranald Nursing staff at the new Multi Purpose Service at Balranald are celebrating the opening of the facility, which features 16 aged care beds and eight acute beds.

A hundred staff members came from Swan Hill and 160 from Mildura.

‘This is a beautiful new health service for the community and our members to work in,’ said NSWNA Assistant General Secretary Judith Kiejda. ‘The Branch has been instrumental in campaigning for a higher staffing establishment because their aged care residents are all in private rooms and the MPS is very spread out over a large footprint. Our members have secured five hours of an AiN each morning and afternoon to assist in caring for the aged care residents. This is one of the most isolated MPS’s in the State.’

Community health services are also situated in the new building.

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THE LAMP may 2011 9

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Rostering software available Demonstration videos showcasing the new rostering software program soon to be introduced into the NSW Public Health System are available for employees to access via the health service intranet.

The NSWNA is continuing to meet with the Rostering Centre of Excellence (RCE) to discuss the introduction of the new software.

‘During these meetings, the Association continues to raise issues of importance to members about rosters and how they are developed,’ said NSWNA Assistant General Secretary Judith Kiejda.

‘We have been reassured that the rollout of the new software will not change the way rosters are developed at a local level.

The software is flexible enough to accommodate specific work patterns – for carers’ responsibilities, for example – and is capable of taking into account employees’ requests for certain shifts or days off in the preparation of a roster.’

The Association has been advised that a trial of the program is to be undertaken in a small number of wards at Concord Hospital. This will assist the RCE to determine functionalities or components that need to be amended or enhanced in the software in the lead up to a live rollout. The Association will closely monitor the trial, and updates regarding implementation will continue to be provided to Branch Officials and Delegates.

Members reported some technical issues with the demonstration videos.

‘Links to the demonstration videos have been emailed to all Public Health System members, but we have received reports that either the link failed or the video would not play. Each of these problems has been conveyed to the RCE and are being addressed,’ Judith said.

‘If you continue to have difficulties accessing the site or the video, the problem may lie with your local IT department blocking access to the media server. This may be a local security policy issue but is easily rectified. If you have problems accessing the link, notify your local IT support, which can “unlock” access to the link.

‘Users in the various Local Health Networks who are unable to view the videos need to log a call with their local IT Helpdesk and ask them to unblock this IP address: 10.20.64.16. The Association has been advised that this should resolve problems accessing the videos.’

There are two links to the intranet video demonstrations: http://intranet.hss.health.nsw.gov.au/ insidehss/operations/corporateit/rostering http://intranet.hss.health.nsw.gov.au/ insidehss/pmo/rostering Members can only access the intranet while logged onto a computer at work, as personal computers generally don’t have access.

s Computer Essentials for Nurses and Midwives – 1 day

3 May, Prince of Wales Hospital, Randwick

22 June

11 July

Members $85 • Non Members $170

s Basic Foot Care for RNs & ENs

11 & 12 May, Wagga Wagga, 2 days

29 & 30 June, Waterloo

Members $203 • Non Members $350

s Appropriate Workplace Behaviour – 1 day

19 May, Coffs Harbour

2 June, Newcastle

4 August, Armidale

25 August, Albury

Members $85 • Non Members $170

s Basic Foot Care for AiNs – 1 day

20 May, Tamworth

12 September, Wagga Wagga

Members $85 • Non Members $150

s Legal & Professional Issues for Nurses

Nurses called on to encourage flu vaccination Health experts have warned that reduced vaccination may lead to increased health risks this flu season and urged nurses to challenge the risky behaviour of people when it comes to preventing transmission of influenza and seeking vaccination.

As the ‘flu season’ begins, new findings released last month by the Influenza Specialist Group (ISG) of a survey of 1,120 people revealed that while 82% of respondents recognise that even healthy people would benefit from vaccination, nearly three quarters (72%) are unsure whether they will get the vaccination, almost half (42%) have never had the vaccination and around 35% will definitely not be seeking vaccination this year.

According to Kerryn Lajoie, ANF – Immunisation Nurses Special Interest Group, nurses have a key role to play when it comes to providing education and advice regarding influenza, as well as ensuring that they themselves are vaccinated.

‘The survey demonstrates a level of risk-taking among consumers in terms of taking preventive measures and avoiding transmission to others.

Nurses can play an important role in influenza prevention through education and recommendation, particularly among those who are at increased risk of serious outcomes,’ said Kerryn.

The latest surveillance data reveals 54,096 cases of influenza reported across Europe so far, while in England and Ireland, at the peak of the influenza season, more than one in every 100,000 people was hospitalised in intensive care units, in a single day.

The H1N1 influenza virus, which is still circulating, has also caused serious illness, hospitalisation and deaths across the Northern Hemisphere in otherwise healthy, younger adults, many of whom did not have underlying risk factors. n

and Midwives – ½ day

27 May, Penrith

1 June, Newcastle

1 July, Albury

29 July, Dubbo

Members $39 • Non Members $85

s Policy & Guideline Writing – 1 day

3 June, Waterloo

Members $85 • Non Members $170

s CPD workshop for RNs – 1 day

15 June, Coffs Harbour

6 July, Penrith

Members $75 • Non Members $170

s CPD workshop for ENs – 1 day

13 July, Penrith

Members $60 • Non Members $170

TO REGISTER or for more information go to www.nswnurses.asn.au or ring Carolyn Kulling on 1300 367 962

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More staff on the way g We have won provisions to improve staffing and skill mix, now we need to implement these improvements for safer patient care.

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he NSWNA and members fought hard to win nursing hours/ratios and other provisions in the Public Health System Award that give nurses greater control to ensure adequate staffing and skill mix for safer patient care.

NSWNA Assistant General Secretary Judith Kiejda said, ‘We campaigned hard to win these provisions as part of the Award, now they will be progressively implemented in public hospital wards. It’s time for nurses and patients to start reaping the benefits we have won.’

Nursing hours/ratios embedded in the Award Nursing hours/ratios are now embedded in the award and are enforceable by law.

Implementation of the new nursing hours/ratios system The new nursing hours/ratios system will be progressively implemented in three tranches in eligible public hospital wards.

The selection of wards in each tranche will be agreed by the NSWNA and NSW Health.

NSW Health and the NSWNA are currently meeting to agree on the first tranche of wards that will convert to the nursing hours/ratios system. The selection should be finalised by June to enable recruitment of additional nurses to start.

The NSWNA has been informing members about the new system at information sessions held at hospitals and services across NSW and through phone hook-ups with Branch Officials.

NSW Health is also meeting with DoNs at public hospitals to explain the new system.

Recruitment of additional nursing positions Around 1,400 additional FTE nursing positions are currently required to implement the new nursing hours/ ratios system. Recruitment will be in three tranches:

n Tranche 1. Around 450 new FTE nursing positions will be recruited by 1 July. n Tranche 2. Around 450 new FTE nursing positions will be recruited in two phases – phase one by 1 Feb 2012; phase two by 1 July 2012. n Tranche 3. Around 450 new FTE nursing positions will be recruited in two phases – phase one by 1 Feb 2013; phase two by 30 June 2013.

NSW Health is currently advertising for new FTE nursing positions online, and has already received more than 300 Expressions of Interest (EOIs).

The Department is referring the EOIs to the Local Health Networks for interviews and selection.

Selection will follow normal recruitment processes. To avoid delays, the NSWNA has asked NSW Health to investigate using a block recruitment process rather than the e-mercury electronic recruitment process.

FTE positions will be also filled as nurses working on a part-time and casual basis convert to permanent FTE. As soon as interviewing and selection has been completed, the additional nurses will be placed on the first tranche of wards selected to convert to the new nursing hours/ratios system.

Improvements to patient care and patient flow Sharon Townsend, NUM in the Medical Oncology ward at Wagga Wagga Base Hospital, is thrilled to have minimum nursing hours/ratios laid out in the Award.

‘It’s certainly a good thing to have minimum staffing laid out in the Award.

With the implementation of minimum staffing as per the Award provisions the Nursing Unit Managers will be able to communicate with hospital management regarding nursing numbers to facilitate safe patient care.’

On Sharon’s ward, the pivotal provision that will have the greatest impact on improving patient care is having the ability to roster an additional in-charge nurse after hours.

‘It will make a big difference having a senior RN rostered when the NUM is not on duty, whose role focuses on directing patient care. If an in-charge nurse has a patient load, this detracts from patient care.

For me, this is the most significant part of what we’ve gained. This will improve patient care and facilitate patient flow,’ said Sharon.

Where we have

won ratios n Surgical/medical

wards.

n Palliative care units. n Rehabilitation units. n Acute adult inpatient mental health units.

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Replacing absences with like classifications The Award includes a provision that all unplanned absences should be replaced with like classifications. The requirement for nurses to be replaced with like classifications is effective immediately. This requirement applies to all clinical areas, not just nursing hours/ratios wards.

Make sure we get ‘like for like’

More resuscitation nurses for EDs We have won funding for an additional 188 full-time equivalent positions in Emergency Departments (EDs).

This means a 1:1 resus nurse ratio for the EDs with more than 45,000 UDG presentations per year and dedicated nurse positions for resuscitation beds in EDs with more than 25,000 presentations.

Implementing resus nurses for EDs The NSWNA and NSW Health are currently assessing how many resus nurses are required for each hospital ED that qualifies under the Award commitments. The additional positions in EDs will be implemented in five tranches: Tranche 1: May and June 2011 Tranche 2: 1 July 2011 Tranche 3: 1 February 2012 Tranche 4: 1 July 2012 Tranche 5: 1 February 2013.

Karen Fernance, NUM in the Cardiology Unit at Bankstown Hospital, is determined to see the ‘like for like’ clause for replacement staff implemented.

Like many hospitals, it’s a significant problem at Bankstown Hospital that AiNs are being used to replace ENs or RNs for short-notice leave. So Karen is pleased a new ‘like for like’ clause has been included in the new Public Health System award, which provides that unplanned nurse vacancies should be backfilled by nurses of the same classification for the full length of the shift.

‘Generally replacement staff come from a pool of undergraduate RNs who are AiNs. It’s particularly problematic when Cert III AiNs are used to replace ENs or RNs,’ said Karen.

‘Now we have a clause in the Award stating that nurse vacancies should be backfilled by nurses of the same classification, I started thinking how we could start to immediately address the problem.’

Karen approached the NSWNA for help developing a standardised template that shows how we can do this.

‘If the like-for-like provision is not being met, raise it with your Branch, and then the Reasonable Workloads Committee at your hospital,’ Karen said.

‘There’s going to be some trial and error.

The implementation is going to be through a negotiation process. We need to be proactive and work through the Reasonable Workloads Committee to make sure nurses get the benefits of the new “like for like” Award provision.’

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f you think you may have a problem with your sight, you are not alone. By 2020, around 400,000 people in Australia could have a vision impairment that affects their daily life.

But that’s where we can help.

Guide Dogs NSW/ACT offers a range of free mobility services to help people with different levels of vision impairment.

You don’t have to be blind, and you don’t have to get a Guide Dog. To find out how we can assist people with impaired vision to get around safely and independently, call 1800-GUIDEDOGS or visit guidedogs.com.au today.

14 THE LAMP may 2011

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Perioperative Services

Clarification

ACORN 2008 standards will be implemented in Operating Rooms.

The minimum staffing in each theatre will be two nurses: one must be an RN; the other may be a suitably qualified EN. In addition there should be one Anaesthetic nurse (or their equivalent).

on

Control and flexibility to ensure we have enough trained staff Kerry Rodgers, NSWNA Councillor and NUM working in the operating suite at Nepean Hospital, said the new Award provisions will give NUMs greater control and flexibility in regard to rostering, with the ability to ensure enough adequately trained staff are working on each shift.

‘For a NUM in the perioperative environment, the ACORN 2008 standards ensure NUMS can roster enough adequately trained staff for safe patient care. Also we’ll have the flexibility to utilise them to where they are needed,’ said Kerry.

The extra staff will mean NUMs can ensure better support for transitional nurses and beginning practitioners.

‘The new standards will make a huge difference in how operating suites will function. For nurses on the floor, the provisions mean the environment is less stressful and they

will have greater job satisfaction.

The Award provisions support the scope of practice for ENs who have higher-level specialist qualifications, for example, the Advanced Diploma Perioperative Nursing,” said Kerry.

A key factor to the success of implementing the new provisions is that the standards are enforceable.

‘We are able to hold management to account. It means we can ensure we get the staffing entitlements we fought for because we have the backing of the Award,’ said Kerry.

‘As a perioperative NUM, if there are not enough competent, adequatelytrained staff rostered on, we would inform management that we won’t be able to safely run that room.

This applies across the perioperative environment, from theatres to recovery and day surgery.’

Birthrate Plus Roll-out of Birthrate Plus will commence in June this year and must be finalised by June 2012. The timetable for implementation of Birthrate Plus can only be varied by agreement with the Union and is as follows: n By the end of June 2011, Maternity Services with completed Phase 2 data collection and where the models of care remain unchanged. n By the end of December 2011, Maternity Services with completed Phase 2 data collection and where changes to the models of care require review, including possible further data collection. n By the end of June 2012, Maternity Services that are of sufficient size to utilise Birthrate Plus and were not part of Phase 2 data collection.

See the April issue of The Lamp or the NSWNA website (www.nswnurses.asn.au) for detailed information about Birthrate Plus.

back pay

The NSWNA published a table in The Lamp recently, which outlined the expected back pay for Public Health System nurses and midwives negotiated under the new Award. However, the amounts published were before tax – the gross amount – and they are only an estimate of base back pay.

The back pay figure also does not include any extra payments that would be back paid for nurses’ penalty rates or annual leave and leave loading that was taken between July 2010 and the back payment date.

So the actual amount that any particular nurse will have received as back pay is an individual calculation dependent on how many hours you have worked over those months, whether you took any annual leave, penalty payments or other similar variable payments you were entitled to.

Many nurses will have been taxed at a higher marginal rate in the period that you received your back pay because the higher payment pushed your earnings for that fortnight into a higher tax bracket. This will be rectified when you complete your 2010-2011 tax return.

Have you left the Public Health System since 1 July 2010?

If you have left the Public Health System since 1 July 2010, you are entitled to back pay for the recent pay increase of 3.9%. The back pay will apply to all hours that you worked including penalties and so on for the period between 1 July 2010 and the date you ceased working in the Public Health System.

You must request this back pay to be made by emailing your name, payroll number, and location of your employment to the following address: QualityAssurance.ServiceCentre@hss. health.nsw.gov.au. Be sure to keep a copy of your email

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NSWNA information sessions g NSWNA Assistant General Secretary Judith Kiejda and NSWNA Officers travelled to workplaces last month to run information sessions about implementing the new provisions in the new Public Health System Award.

At Liverpool Hospital, Richard Mensah, RN in the Neurology ward, said he was looking forward to increased levels of staffing. ‘The provisions in the Award will make our job easier. We’re looking forward to implementing increased staffing on our ward that will deliver safe patient care. We’re very excited and relieved that the situation with staffing is finally going to change,’ he said.

NSWNA Assistant General Secretary Judith Kiejda answering members’ queries about the new Award provisions at the information session at Canterbury Hospital.

Brian Grant, CNS in the coronary care unit at Liverpool Hospital, said staff are keenly waiting the implementation of the staffing provisions in the Award. ‘Our ward only has the staffing levels of an ordinary medical ward so we’re already

understaffed. Before the MOU was signed off, they actually wanted to cut our staff numbers because our beds were cut from 28 to 26.

‘Judith’s information at the session was really good and enlightened us quite a bit and will certainly help us move forward in implementing the Award provisions. The Director of Nursing said at the meeting that the coronary care unit would be one of the places looked at for extra staffing.

‘We will be able to have a nurse in charge – particularly on an afternoon shift – who doesn’t have a patient load, which would be a big thing for us,’ said Brian.

In the Emergency Department at Liverpool Hospital, staff are pleased they finally have one more nurse per shift, especially as this gives NUMs the power to place the extra nurse in resuscitation.

‘We’re really excited to get an additional nurse per shift. It will make a difference,’ said Michael Patane, an RN in ED. ‘We fought hard for extra staff to help us maintain the highest level of patient care. Now we look forward to its implementation.’ n

Liverpool Hospital members were keen to hear about implementing the new provisions

Richard Mensah, RN at Liverpool Hospital, is looking forward to increased staffing on the Neurology ward.

ED nurses at Liverpool Hospital are excited at the prospect of one additional nurse per shift. Pictured left to right: Michael Patane, RN, and his colleague Jennifer Hand, RN.

Brian Grant, CNS at the coronary care unit at Liverpool Hospital, said staff are keenly awaiting the implementation of extra nurses.

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ARE YOUR WORKMATES OR FRIENDS MEMBERS OF THE NSWNA? Why not ask them and if they aren’t, sign them up. Like you, they need the security of belonging to a strong and dynamic union.

Not only will you be building your union by signing up a new member, you and a friend could win this fabulous holiday on Lord Howe Island. The more members you sign up, the more chances you have to win!

The prize* includes a seven-nights’ stay with meals at Pinetrees Lodge, return flights for two on Qantaslink from Sydney, airport transfers on Lord Howe Island, and some activities.

Experience the natural beauty and tranquility of world-heritage-listed Lord Howe Island. Enjoy great food, good accommodation and outstanding hospitality at the historic Pinetrees Lodge.

Pinetrees Lodge is situated on one of the prime aspects of Lord Howe Island as it has unsurpassed access to the lagoon.

Cycling, reading, birdwatching, scuba diving, surfing, swimming and bush climbing – it’s up to you! And if you believe your cardiac health is up to it you can always attempt the challenging climb up Mt Gower. We have been told that this climb is worth every strenuous step as the views from the top are incredible.

So, if you are up for this sort of holiday where you will enjoy uncomplicated days, crystal clear waters and uncrowded and unspoilt beaches, make sure you ask the nurses and midwives you work with if they are members of the NSWNA!

HURRY! Call the Association now for a recruitment kit and recruitment incentive scheme details.

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

WN 30 JUNE 2011

THE LAMP may 2011 17 *

Conditions apply.

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World Health OrganiZation facts on climate change

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• Climate change affects the fundamental requirements for health – clean air, safe drinking water, sufficient food and secure shelter.

• The global warming that has occurred since the 1970s caused over 140,000 excess deaths annually by the year 2004.

• Many of the major killers such as diarrhoeal diseases, malnutrition, malaria and dengue fever are highly climate-sensitive and are expected to worsen as the climate changes.

Climate change is a health issue g Climate change will affect the health of most populations in the next decades and put the lives and wellbeing of millions at risk.

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groundbreaking report by The Lancet and University College London found that ‘the effects of climate change on health will affect most populations in the next decades and put the lives and wellbeing of millions of people at increased risk’.

The report says a new advocacy and public health movement is urgently needed to adapt to the effects of climate change on health. It also emphasises the need for the threat of climate change for humankind to be seen as a health issue.

Health experts say that dealing with climate change requires a two-pronged approach. Firstly, mitigation measures that reduce the severity of climate change by drastically reducing carbon emissions in the short term; and, secondly, the ability to adapt to the health impacts.

The report outlines six ways in which climate change impacts on health: changing patterns of disease and morbidity; the security of food, water and sanitation; the vulnerability of human settlements; extreme meteorological events; and likely mass-population migration.

A new advocacy and public health movement is urgently needed.

There is overwhelming evidence for human-made global warming The Lancet report is part of a growing body of research about the implications of climate change on health as the overwhelming evidence from climate change science warns of the dangerous consequences for human life if current trends in global warming are not urgently addressed.

The most recent report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) states that global warming is ‘unequivocal’ and there is overwhelming evidence for humanmade global warming.

The IPCC provides a rigorous assessment of the published and peerreviewed research on climate change, and its report was compiled by 1,250 expert authors from over 130 countries.

• Areas with weak health infrastructure – mostly in developing countries – will be the least able to cope without assistance to prepare and respond.

• Reducing emissions of greenhouse gases through better transport, food and energy-efficient choices can result in improved health.

The main health risks in Australia from climate change include: • health impacts of weather disasters (floods, storms, cyclones, bushfires) • health impacts of temperature extremes including heatwaves • mosquito-borne infectious diseases (dengue fever, Ross River virus) • food-borne infectious diseases and other health risks from poor water quality • increases in urban air pollution • mental health consequences of social, economic and demographic dislocations.

NSW is likely to experience an average increase in temperature of 1-3°C, which would have both acute and insidious health impacts.

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Climate change science warns of the dangerous consequences for human life if current trends in global warming are not urgently addressed.

Even if targets to limit an increase in global temperature to 2°C are met – and that is a very big ‘if’ – our planet will be changed forever.

According to experts, the effects will be severe: floods, droughts, heatwaves and storms will worsen.

Sea levels will rise, threatening coastal habitation. Food and water will be less secure, impacting on the public health of billions of people.

Global temperature rises above 2°C are feasible – in fact, likely without drastic action – and the planet then enters into dangerous, even catastrophic territory.

It will also happen here Australia is very vulnerable to the effects of climate change.

We are already the driest inhabited continent on earth and are vulnerable to the dangers of extreme heat and drought. We are home to many ecological systems that are at risk.

Australians are overwhelmingly coastal dwellers. Our industries and urban centres face water crises. Our economy, including food production and agriculture, is under threat.

According to NSW Health, by 2050 NSW is likely to experience an average increase in temperature of 1-3°C across the State, which would have ‘both acute and insidious health impacts’.

The Department flags that: ‘More frequent heatwaves will result in increased hospital admission for heat-related illness. Changes to the social, economic and cultural fabric of communities, particularly in rural areas, as a result of more frequent or longer droughts will also affect the mental health burden in those communities.’

There is hope and health professionals should lead Fiona Armstrong is a former Senior Research Officer at the ANF, who now convenes the Climate and Health Alliance, a group of health-care stakeholders that advocates for climate change policy to protect public health.

Fiona says nurses have an important role to play in the climate change debate. ‘There is a great need to broaden the policy discussion on climate change in Australia. There are large risks and consequences for public health from climate change,’ she says.

‘Nurses are a large group of stakeholders in the health system and can show leadership on this issue.’

Fiona says there is a lot of justifiable fear around climate change but there are also solid grounds for hope.

‘The science shows clearly that we need to act quickly. We can slow climate change so it is not irreversible. The window is small and reducing but it is still there. It is a massive project but it is one that we must undertake.

‘The good news is that we know about it and we know what we can do. The technology is available and resources are abundant.

All that is missing is political will.’

Massive implications for our health system Fiona says there is little discussion in health policy about the impact of climate change on the health workforce and the health system.

‘We know our health system is under pressure now. Climate change will add to that pressure with more and more severe direct consequences like heatwaves, fires, droughts and storms and indirect consequences like vector-borne diseases, increased pollution and contamination of our marine life and reduced food security.

‘It’s already happening now. In South East Queensland the floods and cyclones show the impact of climate change on the community and health system has already arrived. The chances are that the size and frequency of events like these will become the norm.’

Fiona says there is a positive flip side to action on climate change.

‘There are also opportunities for improving public health. Urgent action on climate change will have many positive health impacts.’

She says a step towards low-carbon living has health benefits that will improve our quality of life by reducing diseases prevalent in rich high-carbon societies – obesity, diabetes and heart disease – and by reducing the effects of carbon pollution. n

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No doubt about climate change g There is overwhelming evidence for human-made global warming.

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lobally, 2010 was a very hot year. The World Meteorological Organization found the entire world had the warmest six months, the warmest year, and the warmest decade on record. In Australia, the Bureau of Meteorology has found each decade since the 1940s has been warmer than the preceding decade.

Seventeen nations reached new temperature highs last year. Pakistan hit 129°F (54°C) – a new record for all of Asia; and Moscow, never having reached temperatures of 100°F (38°C) before, surpassed that temperature with regular monotony during its summer.

This unparalleled heat had devastating consequences: Pakistan had the worst flooding in its history and Russia’s grain harvests were wiped out.

In Australia we had the devastating floods in Queensland and at the same time bush fires in several states.

Are these events evidence that we are beginning to feel the economic and environmental costs of inaction on climate change?

The science on climate change is unequivocal The conclusions are emphatic from one respected report to another on climate change: there is overwhelming evidence for human-made global warming.

The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) – a United

CO2 from human activities remains in the atmosphere for a very long time… unless greenhouse gas emissions are reduced, an upward trend in global temperature will continue.

‘The role of greenhouse gases in the atmosphere is qualitatively well understood. It is known that increasing the atmospheric concentration of CO2 leads to higher mean global surface temperatures. It is known that CO2 has increased very substantially during the last century to the highest levels seen in the last 800,000 years,’ he said.

‘It is also beyond serious question that some CO2 from human activities remains in the atmosphere for a very long time, as is the message that unless greenhouse gas emissions are reduced, an upward trend in global temperature will continue.’

Nations organisation – stated in its landmark 2007 report that global warming is ‘unequivocal’ and that ‘most of the observed increase in globally-averaged temperatures since the mid-20th century is very likely due to the observed increase in greenhouse gas concentrations’.

This followed the landmark report on the economics of climate change by Sir Nicholas Stern in 2006, which was underpinned by the clarity of the scientific position.

Australian scientists concur with these conclusions.

Professor Kurt Lambeck, the former President of the Australian Academy of Science, said it is important to stress that considerable progress has been made in understanding climate change and why it occurs.

Scientists frustrated by sceptics Despite the broad consensus in scientific circles on the causes and consequences of climate change, political and media debate is bogged down by point scoring, which assumes there is doubt about the science.

The frustration among scientists with this impasse is beginning to emerge.

‘The peer-reviewed verdict is in.

Action on climate change is too important to be derailed by naysayers and Luddites,’ Anna-Maria Arabia, chief executive of the Federation of Australian Scientific and Technological Societies (FASTS), told The Age (FASTS represents 60,000 working scientists).

20 THE LAMP may 2011

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WHAT HAPPENS WITH EACH DEGREE INCREASE IN TEMPERATURE?

1°C

After a 1°C global average temperature rise, arctic sea ice would disappear for good in the summer months. Heatwaves and forest fires will become more common in the sub-tropics. The worst hit will be the Mediterranean region, southern Africa, Australia and southwest United States. Most of the world’s corals will die, including the Great Barrier Reef. Glaciers that provide crops for 50 million people with fresh water begin to melt and 300,000 people are affected every year by climate-related diseases such as malaria and diarrhoea.

Photography courtesy of Martin Howard

‘While politicians debate the ins and outs of the proposed carbon tax, FASTS calls on all sides of politics to put peer-reviewed science ahead of cheap, political arguments.’

This intervention came on the heels of the resignation of the country’s Chief Scientist Dr Penny Sackett, who told a Senate committee: ‘This is an enormously important time in history, probably unlike any before it. Science is not the complete answer … but it does tell us the possible consequences.’

Sackett said the scientific message on climate change was consistent across all scientific disciplines throughout the world.

‘This is a message that I have great concern is not reaching the general populace,’ she said.

While public discussion on climate change is non-partisan and in support of the science in most European countries, the US shares Australia’s muddied political debate.

In an open letter delivered to Congress last year, 255 members of the US National Academy of Sciences, among them 11 Nobel laureates, urged recognition of the overwhelming scientific evidence of climate change and condemned the ‘political assaults on scientists in general and on climate scientists in particular … typically driven by special interests or dogma’.

2°C

With a 2°C global average temperature rise the Amazon turns into desert and grasslands, while increasing CO2 levels in the atmosphere make the world’s oceans too acidic for remaining coral reefs and thousands of other marine life forms. More than 60 million people, mainly in Africa, would be exposed to higher rates of malaria. Agricultural yields around the world will drop and half a billion people will be at greater risk of starvation.

The world’s sea level begins to rise by seven metres over the next few hundred years. Coastal flooding affects more than 10 million extra people. A third of the world’s species will become extinct.

3°C

After a 3°C global temperature rise, global warming may run out of control and efforts to mitigate it may be in vain. Millions of square kilometres of Amazon rainforest could burn down, releasing carbon from the wood, leaves and soil and thus making the warming even worse, perhaps by another 1.5°C. In southern Africa, Australia and the western US, deserts take over.

Billions of people are forced to move from their traditional agricultural lands in search of scarcer food and water.

4°C

At this stage, the Arctic permafrost enters the danger zone. The methane and carbon dioxide currently locked in the soils will be released into the atmosphere. Further melting of Antarctic ice sheets would mean a further 5m rise in the sea level, submerging many island nations. Italy, Spain, Greece and Turkey become deserts and mid-Europe reaches desert temperatures of almost 50°C in summer. n From the Guardian Online - Sources: Mark Lynas, Stern Report, UK Met Office

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Undeniable economic impacts of climate change g The economic arguments for strong and immediate action on climate change are compelling. Yet politicians have failed to grasp the magnitude of the crisis.

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n 2006, Sir Nicholas Stern, a former Chief Economist at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, the World Bank and the British Treasury delivered a landmark report on the economic impacts of climate change.

The central tenet of Stern’s review was that unless we invest 1% of global GDP per annum in measures to prevent climate change it would cost us 20% of global GDP. Stern has since upwardly revised his estimate to 2% of global GDP as a response to the worsening prognosis about climate change from the scientific evidence.

He has publicly castigated politicians for their failure to grasp the magnitude of the crisis.

‘Do the politicians understand just how difficult it could be? Just how devastating a rise of four, five, six degrees centigrade would be? I think not yet.’

In an interview with British newspaper The Guardian he slammed the attempts of some politicians to discredit the science.

‘We’re the first generation that has had the power to destroy the planet.

Ignoring that risk can only be described as reckless. There are many half-baked attempts to naysay the science, but they always unravel on inspection,’ said Stern.

Garnaut recommends strong action Similarly in Australia, the Garnaut Climate Change Review has looked at the impacts of climate change on the Australian economy with similarly strong advocacy for action on climate change.

‘Australia’s interest lies in the world adopting a strong and effective position on climate change mitigation,’ he said.

Garnaut said climate change would be an economic disaster for Australian agriculture.

By 2050, unmitigated climate change would mean major declines in agricultural production across much of the country, including a 50% reduction in irrigated agriculture in the MurrayDarling basin. By 2100, irrigated agriculture in the Murray Darling basin would decline by 92%, he found.

There are other economic risks.

Climate change threatens the Great Barrier Reef, a tourist Mecca that brings billions of dollars to Queensland each year and employs thousands of people.

Climate change is also bringing about rising sea levels. About 85% of Australians live on our coasts. A recent report found as many as 247,000 existing residential buildings valued up to $63 billion are potentially at risk from a 1.1 metre sea level rise.

‘We’re the first generation that has had the power to destroy the planet.

Ignoring that risk can only be described as reckless.’

Sir Nicholas Stern, a former Chief Economist at the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development, the World Bank and the British Treasury.

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The ALP Australia is one of the world’s top 20 emitters as a nation and emits more pollution per person than any developed country in the world – including the US. What’s more, our pollution levels continue to rise.

Last year they rose by 1.2% alone.

So what are our political parties proposing to reduce our emissions?

The Coalition Climate change denial is an important driver The Howard Government’s policy on climate change reflected the scepticism, even denial, on the part of many senior members of the Howard Government on the scientific evidence of global warning.

The Howard Government refused to sign the Kyoto protocol. Australia was one of only two industrialised countries (among 190) that refused to sign.

As public opinion shifted, however, Howard pledged in 2006 to develop an emissions trading scheme.

In opposition, the Coalition’s position has swung from a bipartisan approach under Malcolm Turnbull, who had pledged support for an Emissions Trading Scheme, to an oppositionist policy under Tony Abbott.

Abbott proposes an alternative ‘direct-action’ climate policy involving a 5% reduction in emissions by means of creating a $2.5 billion fund to provide ‘incentives’ for industry and farmers to reduce emissions and through measures such as storing carbon in soil.

The Liberals have rejected outright the idea of a price on carbon.

The Liberals’ policy does not include an emissions trading scheme, and industrial polluters would be allowed to continue to emit at current levels without penalty.

A price on carbon that evolves into an emissions trading scheme The very first act of the former Prime Minister Kevin Rudd in December 2007 was to ratify the Kyoto Protocol. The Kyoto Protocol is an international and legally binding agreement that commits industrialised countries to reduce or limit their greenhouse emissions.

The former Prime Minister also put forward a plan to introduce an emissions trading scheme in 2010 – known as the Carbon Pollution Reduction Scheme. It gave a target range for Australia’s greenhouse emissions in 2020 of between 5% and 15% less than 2000 levels.

Bipartisan support for the Emissions Trading Scheme was scuppered by Tony Abbott when he took over as leader of the Liberal Party. The Greens also opposed the scheme, which they said didn’t go far enough and rewarded the polluters.

Consequently, the implementation of the ETS was postponed.

The ALP now has a two-stage plan for a carbon price mechanism, which will start with a fixed price on carbon for three to five years before transitioning to an emissions trading scheme.

Businesses that are the biggest polluters would be charged when they pollute.

The Greens Make the polluters pay The Greens have been consistent in advocating net zero greenhouse gas emissions by no later than 2050 with a minimum of 40% reduction on 1990 levels by 2020.

They also have a plan to boost green jobs and a clean economy.

The Greens want to move away from a dependence on coal power and motorways towards solar, thermal, wind and other renewable generators and greater investment in public transport.

Although the Greens opposed Rudd’s ETS as being too weak they now support Prime Minister Julia Gillard’s current two-step plan for a carbon price leading to an ETS. They believe polluters should pay. The Greens have consistently come out against the coal industry as the biggest polluters and have criticised Julia Gillard and Treasurer Wayne Swan for ‘backing off’ the big three mining companies.

Following the 2010 election the Greens agreed to participate in a committee of MPs and experts to formulate a price on carbon. n

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s

N S W N A

e l e c t i o n

2 0 1 1

Meet your NSWN

Introducing the NSWNA Councillors, who were elected unopposed as part of the

Coral Levett

President and Councillor Registered Nurse n Nursing & Midwifery Education Unit, South

Eastern Sydney Local Health Network n NSWNA President since 2003 n ANF Federal President since 2003 n ANF (NSW Branch) President since 2003 n NSWNA Councillor since 2000

I currently hold positions that include ANF (NSW Branch) President and ANF Federal President. l have a background in cardiac nursing and have worked in roles including RN, CNS, NE and NUM. Issues relating to cli­­­nical nursing and education are very important to me. I believe that nurses and mid­wives should continue to become actively involved in areas that influence cli­­nical practice, health policy, leadership and the future direction of nursing and midwifery.

I am a strong advocate for nurses and midwives in the workplace, and use my NSW and Federal union roles to inform health policy and advise on clinical practice whenever possible.

Strong and experienced leadership and working as a cohesive team with Brett Holmes and Judith Kiejda is critical if we are to continue to improve the interests of nurses and midwives in NSW.

Susan Brazil

Gary Clark

n Nurse

n NSWNA

Registered Nurse and Midwife Manager, Nursing & Midwifery Services, Hunter New England Health n NSWNA Councillor and ANF NSW

Branch Councillor since March 2010

I have been a member of the NSWNA since 1984 and elected to the John Hunter Branch in 1990 and Nurse Manager Branch in 2000.

My experience in senior clinical and managerial roles and current Local Health Network-wide role gives me the opportunity to be involved at all levels of nursing and midwifery, across metropolitan, rural and remote areas of practice.

My nursing experience has allowed me to provide leadership, guidance, support, feedback and facilitation to services and teams while respecting my role as a union delegate and Branch Official and advocating for nurses and midwives in the public sector.

I am committed to the union move­ ment because I truly believe that a strong, effective and representative union is essential if we are to build a fair and just society.

Nurse Manager, Justice Health n ANF

Councillor since 2003 NSW Branch Councillor since 2004

I am currently a Nurse Manager in Justice Health, managing Primary Health Centres, and have over 30 years’ health experience in disaster management, marketing, public affairs, mediation, recruitment and as a paramedic.

Nurses and midwives, whether working in the public, private or aged care sectors, need their views strongly represented. I will continue to fight for equality of pay and conditions because I understand and support both the public and private sectors.

I am proud to have been part of the 1 nurse: 4 patients campaign, and I now want to make sure the achievements of that campaign, which will deliver safer patient care and better conditions for nurses, are implemented and spread to other nursing specialties, especially community health.

We must continue the Because we care campaign in aged care to deliver better outcomes in aged care nursing as well.

A cohesive experienced Council continues to be critical as the NSWNA and ANF work together in the new industrial and political environment.

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WNA Councillors

of the Brett Holmes and Judith Kiejda Team in the recent NSWNA elections.

Lyne Dine

NUM, Endoscopy, Campbelltown Private Hospital n NSWNA

Branch Delegate Councillor – since 2008 n ANF NSW Branch Councillor – since 2008 n NSWNA

I stood for re-election as an NSWNA Councillor to continue to provide a private hospital voice to Council.

I have experience in public and private hospitals in the Campbelltown area since 2000. I held a Delegate role while at the Campbelltown Hospital and, with a colleague, was instrumental in establishing Branches of the NSWNA in the two private hospitals.

I became active after realising so many of my colleagues were unaware of their rights and entitlements. You need to get active if you want to influence change at work and this means improving the conditions of nurses and standing up for our rights at work. I bring that view to Council.

I will advocate for the flow-on of improvements for public sector nurses to the private sector including aged care.

It is critical that the NSWNA continues to hear from nurses and midwives in the private sector.

Tania Gleeson

RN, Wagga Wagga Base Hospital n NSWNA

Councillor since 2007 n ANF NSW Branch Councillor since 2006 n NSWNA Branch Secretary/Delegate, Wagga Wagga Base Hospital Branch.

I have been a local NSWNA Branch Delegate at Wagga for many years and am currently Branch Secretary.

I have been pro-active in campaigning for rights at work, 1 Nurse: 4 Patients, and issues that influence clinical practice.

As a rural RN my nursing background is intensive and coronary care in the public sector and in cardiovascular nursing in the private sector. I will continue to fight for improvements in the nurse-to-patient ratios won so far in the public sector.

I have always been a strong advocate for nurses and midwives in the public and private sectors, and will continue to do so. I know you don’t win everything the first time you campaign for it so I will keep the pressure on at the highest levels of the Union to win more next time.

Peg Hibbert

CNS, Acute Care Medicine, Hornsby & Ku-Ring-Gai Hospital n ANF

NSW Branch Councillor since 2004 Councillor since 2003 n NSWNA Branch President/Delegate, Hornsby & Ku-Ring-Gai Hospital & AHS Branch n NSWNA

I am proud to represent the voices of nurses on the ward. I bring experience of medical nursing, as well as having juggled both full-time and part-time hours in my nursing life.

I am deeply committed to nurses’ ongoing professional development. I am chair of my workplace Reasonable Workloads Committee.

In my 17 years as Branch President, I have consistently represented members to protect our rights and entitlements.

I am proud to have been involved in the recent hard-fought campaign to improve nursing hours and introduce professional standards for operating suite nurses and midwives.

The continuing challenge for nurses is to maintain and build on what we have achieved. I believe a strong, experienced leadership is essential if nurses are to be in the best possible position in the new industrial environment.

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2 0 1 1 e l e c t i o n N S W N A

n ANF NSW Branch Councillor since 2001

Executive member since 2004 n NSWNA Councillor since 2001

Executive member since 2006 n NSWNA Branch President/Delegate

Manly District Hospital Branch

Lyn Hopper

RN, Nursing Unit Manager (Intensive Care), Manly District Hospital

I have been an NSWNA/ANF member all of my 33 years in nursing, and Branch President/Delegate for the past 11 years.

Working in a metropolitan ICU, I am at the coalface of the problems faced every day by working nurses.

n NSWNA

Branch Delegate, Wallsend Aged Care Facility Branch

Louise Howell RN, Quality Manager Wallsend Aged Care Facility

I possess over 25 years’ experience in nursing management, quality, vocational and nurse education, aged care, community and disability sectors with qualifications in management and education.

I am extremely passionate about lifelong learning, promoting and achieving quality nursing conditions in all specialty areas, excellence in resident outcomes in aged care, and for all nurses achieving a firm commitment from the Commonwealth Government to support mandated nursing ratios in aged care.

Residential aged care facilities are home n Branch President, Gosford Private Hospital n Delegate

since 1995 n Founding Member: Quality Aged Care Action Group (QACAG) – Central Coast

Deborah Lang

RN Educator/DVA Liaison Officer, Gosford Private Hospital

Elizabeth McCall Registered Nurse and Midwife

I seek to ensure the private hospital and aged care nurses are represented on Council. I have worked at RNSH, Goulburn Base, Crown Street Women’s, Gosford Public, and 28 years at Gosford Private Hospital.

I am a founding member and actively involved for three years with QACAG Central Coast, raising the awareness of aged care nursing issues at a local level with community members and n Nurse

Manager, Byron District Hospital (Nursing), MHSc. n NSWNA Branch Secretary/Delegate, The Sutherland Hospital, 1987 to 1989 Byron District Hospital since 1989 n NSWNA Councillor since May 2010 n ANF NSW Branch Councillor since May 2010 n BHSc

I have extensive industrial activist experience as an NSWNA Branch Secretary and Delegate and I continue to provide proactive industrial representation for nurses and midwives at local, Health Service and State levels and have achieved effective outcomes on many occasions.

The changes to health-care delivery

I am an activist who has campaigned for the maintenance and improvement of public hospital services on Sydney’s Northern Beaches. I also feel strongly and will fight for nurses having a prominent role in the implementation of the Federal Government’s new Health Reform Strategy.

As a Council member, I will strive to constantly improve nurses’ conditions, improve your job and make it more satisfying. I am acutely aware that nurses are doing it tough and I can help make a difference. for the most vulnerable people in our community. Most elderly people live in their own homes and will never require nursing home services but for those who do, we should provide the highest possible standards of care. Staffing levels are too low to allow for the human touch of care in residential care facilities. The staffs in these facilities do an excellent job with limited resources Furthermore I am also a Justice of the Peace and support the practice of ethical, respectful behaviours, honesty and trustworthiness in my dealing with all people.

I embrace innovation and knowledge to achieve excellence; I strive to be inclusive and consultative in all my communications. politicians alike. The private sector must maintain parity with the public sector and we must continue to improve the wages and conditions in the aged care sector.

I participated on the Private Hospital Log of Claims Committee in 2007 and again in 2011.

Private and aged care nurses have a pivotal role in delivering ongoing care in our community.

Continuing education and improving working conditions are paramount in supporting nurses and midwives to deliver their best care. in Australia call for political and industrial acumen. Due to my industrial experience in both urban and rural areas I have the strength, passion and knowledge to provide transparent, informed advocacy for nurses and midwives.

I also believe that the NSWNA has a key role in advocating for social justice in Australia with a view to representing those people who require support in our communities.

Nurses and midwives have many exciting and challenging issues to face in the changing Australian health system. I want to continue to provide dedicated, proactive support into the future as we all need and deserve unified, courageous industrial leadership.

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Lucille McKenna RN, St Mary’s Villa Nursing Home n ANF

NSW Branch Councillor since 2002 n NSWNA Councillor since 2003 n NSWNA Branch Secretary/Delegate, NSW Aged Care Nurse Managers Branch

I am a Registered Nurse with 40 years’ experience – 35 years in aged care. I have worked in nursing homes in Sydney, the Central Coast and Tamworth, in both not-for-profit and for-profit facilities.

I am passionate about nursing and will represent all nurses and midwives wherever you work. I feel very strongly about the: n need for ratios in aged care with the right balance of skills and nursing care n lack of wages parity for aged care nurses with other nurses n changing roles for nurses in aged care.

As a member of Council, I will work to address these problems and work with you to ensure that the Commonwealth Government recognises the value of aged care nurses and that nurses continue to be the preferred workforce in the sector.

I ask for your support so that aged care continues to have a significant voice on Council. I bring a positive and progressive approach and an understanding of the issues confronting all nurses.

Dianne Mckillop

RN, Rural and remote relief positions throughout NSW and Victoria n Aged

care worker since 1981; firstly as an AiN, then as an Enrolled Nurse since 1992. n Completed Bachelor of Nursing at CSU, Albury in 2006; Grad Cert in Mental Health; Grad Cert in Assessment Nursing; Grad Cert in Immunisation; Certificate in Training & Assessment TAE41010 n NSWNA Councillor since 2007 n ANF NSW Branch Councillor since 2008 n NSWNA Branch Delegate, Lilliane Brady Village

I come to Council, with 29 years’ experience in aged care, and now as a rural and remote relief RN in North Western NSW. I am passionate in my support of nur­ses and midwives. Nurses who work in aged care and remote areas need special sup­port to ensure their contribution is recognised.

I will endeavour to raise the profile of nurses in all fields, particularly those who give specialised service to aged care and remote area nursing which can be challenging, demanding and often understaffed.

My aim is to represent all nurses and mid­wives and provide a link between rural, regional and metropolitan nursing and mid­wifery issues; I will continue to strive for: n Nurses’ rights n Fair and reasonable workloads, improved nurse-to-patient ratios in rural hospitals n Introduction of nurse-to-resident ratios in aged care n More graduate positions in aged care n Greater representation of rural and remote nurses and midwives.

Richard Noort

Clinical Nurse Consultant, Justice Health n State-wide Community & Court Liaison Service Wollongong Local Court n NSWNA Branch Secretary/Delegate, Justice Health Court Liaison Nurses Branch n NSWNA Council member, September 2009 n NSW ANF Council member, November 2008

I have been a nurse for 28 years, working in all fields in my chosen speciality of mental health. I have been a nurse activist throughout my nursing career.

I have personally been involved in the formation of two Branches and I have participated in many union campaigns. I am proud to have been part of the Council guiding the leadership through the 1 Nurse: 4 Patients campaign and seeing a substantial win for nurses and our health system. These improvements need to be spread wider across the nursing specialties.

Now, more must be done to attract and retain nurses and midwives.

We need to be actively involved in the planning, management and delivery of health services. Nurses must manage nurses to ensure the delivery of safe patient care.

Strong and experienced leadership, working as a cohesive team with Brett Holmes and Judith Kiejda is essential for nurses and midwives to be in the best possible position in a changing industrial and political environment.

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2 0 1 1 e l e c t i o n N S W N A

n NSWNA

Councillor since 2001 ANF NSW Branch Councillor since 2001 n NSWNA Branch Secretary/Delegate, Tamworth Rural Referral Hospital n Member, Reasonable Workloads Committee n Member, Area Joint Consultative Committee

Roz Norman

EEN, Special Grade – Mothercraft Nurse Paediatrics, Tamworth Rural Referral Hospital

I am an experienced Enrolled Nurse special Grade, working in a rural Paediatric Unit; a Mothercraft Nurse (Advanced Certificate); and an Executive member of the Enrolled Nurse Professional Association.

I have been actively involved for many years in advancing the role of nurses, especially Enrolled Nurses. n RN, Operating Theatre Certificate

I have more than 33 years’ nursing experience, 26 of these in the perioperative setting.

I have held Branch representative and/ or Delegate roles for the past 11 years.

I am passionate about nursing and proud to be part of the 1 Nurse: 4 Patients campaign which has delivered

nurse/patient ratios via set NHPPD for many areas, ACORN 2008 Standards and Birthrate Plus. These will provide safer patient care.

We need to build on these wins to spread them across more specialties including community nursing and get the balance right across all types of hospitals.

I will use my voice on Council to ensure the NSWNA continues to pursue improvements in working conditions for nurses and midwives across all sectors.

The Because we care campaign must continue for aged care and we must ensure nurses deliver nursing care.

n RN,

n Ratios for community health, mental

MCN MACORN n NSWOTA ACORN Representative n NSWNA Councillor since 2007 ANF NSW Branch Councillor since 2008 n NSWNA Branch Delegate, Nepean Hospital Branch

Kerry Rodgers

NUM, Operating Suite, Nepean Hospital

RM, NP Grad Dip Independent Nursing Practice WHN cert n NSWNA Councillor since 2002 n Executive Council member since 2005 n ANF NSW Branch Councillor since 2002 n NSWNA Branch Secretary/Delegate, Lower Hunter Community Health Nurses

Lorna Scott

NP, Women’s Health, Hunter New England Local Health Network

Debra Smith

Registered Nurse and Midwife

I will fight for improved access to study leave, implementation of nurseto-patient ratios, the widening of their coverage and increased resources for all nurses and midwives.

Nurses and midwives at all levels need fair and equal representation and deserve fair pay and conditions that reflect the constantly changing roles and responsibilities undertaken by them in our multi-faceted health settings.

I am proud to have been part of the Council team who are delivering for nurses and midwives and commit to seeing that continues for all sectors.

I have a deep commitment to clinical nursing and the health of nurses.

I have experience working in and representing nurses in regional, rural, community and hospital settings and will strive for: n Nursing

Unit Manager, Auburn Hospital Pre-Assessment Unit n Bachelor of Health (Clinical Studies) n NSWNA Councillor since 2010 n ANF NSW Branch Councillor since 2010

I have worked as a nurse and midwife for 33 years, currently as a NUM at Auburn Hospital.

I have experience in public, private and the aged care sectors.

I believe that nurses and midwives should be represented as a collective so that our rights, awards and agreements

health and small hospitals

n Nursing management and nursing

care remaining with nurses

n Safe workplaces and a stop to violence,

bullying and harassment.

A cohesive and experienced leadership of the NSWNA is essential to provide representation to all our members across the State and Federal industrial jurisdictions.

I continue to bring fresh ideas to the NSWNA and I will keep pushing for even better improvements to nurses’ and midwives’ conditions and wages at both State and Federal levels.

are enforced. This is why we require strong and cohesive unions.

I have been proactive in campaigning for reasonable workloads, nurse/patient ratios, the adequate recruitment of skilled nurses and midwives and the appropriate recruitment of newly graduated nurses and midwives.

As nurses and midwives, we have many challenges ahead and I look forward to conti­nuing to be a positive and active representative. A cohesive, experienced Council continues to be critical as the NSWNA and ANF work together in the current industrial and political environment.

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n Masters

of Midwifery NSWNA Branch Vice President and Delegate 2007-2011 Log of Claims Committee 2010 n NSWNA Councillor 2009-2011 n ANF Councillor 2008-2011 n RPAH

O’Bray Smith

Registered Midwife and Nurse, Concord Centre for Mental Health, Royal Prince Alfred Hospital – Women and Babies

As a public-sector community mental health nurse I face daily the challenges of staff shortages, increasing workloads and an increasing patient acuity. We need to tackle these problems today in order to provide good-quality health care both now and in the future, not only in our hospitals but in the community.

Certificate (Acute Care) Current Studies: Masters in Nursing (Advanced Practice) n NSWNA Branch Delegate, John Hunter Hospital Branch

Being an active unionist and Branch Delegate has enabled me to discover firsthand the potential that our Union holds to increase nurses’ and midwives’ status in society. We must market our profession as a force in today’s industrial climate.

Only through improving our access to education and opening our minds to new ideas can we hold a voice in the decisions affecting our future. I am proud of to be part of the Holmes/Kiejda Team delivering a psychiatric nursing perspective, a midwifery background and a youthful voice to Council.

n Graduate

Jillian Thurlow RN, John Hunter Hospital

I am a motivated RN working in the Emergency Department of one of the busiest trauma centres in New South Wales. I am passionate about providing better patient care and safer workplaces for nurses in all disciplines across the State.

I have worked in the private and public sectors, in surgical and cardiothoracic departments as an Endorsed Enrolled Nurse before qualifying as a Registered Nurse.

n NSWNA Councillor since 2007 n ANF NSW Branch Councillor since 2006 n Coffs Harbour Hospital – NSWNA Branch

Branch Secretary – 4 years Branch President – 5 years Branch Delegate – 11 years

Sue White

Endorsed Enrolled Nurse, Coffs Harbour Base Hospital

Gil Wilson

CNS, Intensive Care, Lismore Base Hospital

I am an experienced Endorsed Enrolled Nurse working in an acute 48-bed medical unit. Experience across inpatient wards and units, holds me in good stead when representing nurses from many areas of nursing.

I have been actively involved for the past 18 years in my Branch, holding Dele­gate, n Diploma

of Health Science in Nursing Graduate Certificate in Intensive Care Nursing Graduate Certificate in Clinical Teaching n Branch Secretary and Delegate, Lismore Base Hospital Branch

The second form I filled out when I commenced nursing at Royal Prince Alfred Hospital in 1990 was an application form for the NSWNA. Since then for the past 21 years every day I’ve been a nurse I’ve been a member of the NSWNA. I became an activist for St Vincent’s

I have been actively involved in the NSWNA from very early in my career.

More recently I have been campaigning within the Hunter New England area for safe patient care 1:4 ratios.

My experience in and enthusiasm for emergency and surgical nursing, with special interest for Enrolled Nurses, and rural areas will assist me to voice the opinions and concerns of members.

I believe my passion, dedication and drive for safe patient care and a safer workplace for nurses will make me a valuable asset on the NSWNA Council.

Secretary and President positions during that time. I use my local experience to represent the interests of all members on the NSWNA and ANF Councils.

I am proud to have led my Branch in many recent campaigns including 1 Nurse: 4 Patients for safer patient care and have been a strong supporter of the Because we care aged care campaign at the national level. More needs to be done.

I want to make sure that recent improvements from the 1 Nurse: 4 Patients campaign translate into safer patient care outcomes.

Hospital Darlinghurst Branch participating in campaigns to stop amalgamation of St Vincent’s and St George Hospitals and the What’s a nurse worth campaign.

As President, then Branch Secretary for Lismore Base Branch, I’ve led the fight against the assault on nursing positions by the NCAHS. I led the Branch in the successful 1:4 campaign. I have served as a member of the Professional Issues Committee for the NSWNA. As an NSWNA Delegate I speak out for my members and for the nursing profession.

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a g e d c a r e

Nurses tell Commission

Aged care needs nurses g Nurses rally for aged care outside Productivity Commission hearing.

NSWNA Assistant General Secretary Judith Kiejda joined aged care nurses and community supporters at the Productivity Commission rally.

Gordon Blair, an RN working at an aged care facility on the South Coast, took up his position outside the Adina Hotel on Crown Street, Surry Hills, along with aged care nurses and community supporters.

Debbie Lang, RN at Gosford Private Hospital and QACAG member, attended the rally with her mother and spoke up for the rights of aged care nurses and residents.

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A

ged care nurses and community supporters turned out in force in Surry Hills on 28 March for a rally outside the venue where the Productivity Commission held its meeting. The message was clear: Safe staffing levels and pay equity for aged care nurses.

Debbie Lang, RN at Gosford Private Hospital and a member of the Quality Aged Care Action Group (QACAG), was a guest speaker at the rally along with NSWNA Assistant General Secretary Judith Kiejda.

‘The Productivity Commission needs to be mindful of nurses when they consider a recommendation. Nurses need proper staffing, professional support and reasonable pay for caring for the elderly,’ said Debbie, whose mother joined her at the rally.

Daphne Swan, RN at St Catherine’s nursing home in Bathurst, agreed: ‘We need to show the Productivity Commission that we care about the needs of our patients. Increased pay for more staff would attract more people into the sector and allow us to give better

care where we’re not rushed,’ she told The Lamp.

Alice Scott, a former aged care worker, said she and other colleagues had come from Wollongong for the rally because ‘things have got worse in the sector. Nurses deserve more money, better conditions and more respect’.

Around 60 people turned up for the rally and lined up outside the Adina Hotel where the Productivity Commission heard evidence from an RN working in aged care and NSWNA Officers. They formed a line along Crown Street, where they spoke with passers-by. Several cars tooted their horns in support.

Representatives from organisations including QACAG, Retired Teachers Association, Combined Pensioners and Superannuants Association (CPSA), and the Council of Retired Unionists Association (CRUMA) attended the rally.

Helen Hamilton, a community supporter whose mother lives in a nursing home, told The Lamp: ‘I cared for my mum till two years ago, then she moved to a nursing home in the Illawara.

Although my mum is well taken care of, staffing could definitely be better.’ n

Shirley Ross-Shuley, AiN, and member of the Quality Aged Care Action Group, travelled down from the Blue Mountains to attend the rally.

The Edith Cavell Trust

Scholarships for the academic year 2012 Applications for the Edith Cavell Trust Scholar­ships are now being accepted for 2012. Members or Associate Members of the NSW Nurses’ Association or the Australian Nursing Federation (NSW Branch) are invited to apply.

Applicants should meet one of the following criteria: 1. Student nurses undertaking full-time courses leading to initial registration as a nurse.

2. Registered or enrolled nurses who wish to attend:

an accredited clinical nursing education course of six months or less, either full-time or part-time; an accredited nursing conference or seminar relevant to applicant’s clinical practice.

3. Properly constituted nursing orga­nisations, faculties or schools of nursing or registered or enrolled nurses wishing to: attend full-time, relevant postbasic studies at an approved institution for a period or periods of more than six months;

undertake an academically approved research program in the theory and practice of nursing work; conduct or fund a relevant professional or clinical nursing educational program.

Applicants must be currently registered or enrolled with the

NSW Nurses’ Registration Board (or the Registration Board of the state where practising).

Applicants must use the official Edith Cavell Trust application form. Details of the Edith Cavell Trust Rules are available on request and will also be supplied with the application form.

For further information or forms, contact: The Secretary – The Edith Cavell Trust 50 O’Dea Ave, Waterloo, NSW 2017 T Mrs Glen Ginty on 1300 367 962 E gginty@nswnurses.asn.au W www.nswnurses.asn.au – click on ‘Education’

Applications close 5pm on 30 July 2011 THE LAMP may 2011 31

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CONTINUING EDUCATION. ENDORSED CPD.

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Over 50 tutorials to choose from

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Endorsed CPD consistent with the requirements of The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Board

Highest quality interactive tutorials available online in Australia

Written by nurses for nurses.

Topic areas include: aged care, cardiology, ethics, preventative care, medico-legal issues, mental health

Authors include nurse practitioners, nursing educators and academics, nurse/lawyers

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Every 10th tutorial is free

Access to the CPD logbook to manage your CPD

Visit www.healthstaffed.com.au

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s

Q & A

Age limits and super

(b) employers who employ a nurse/ midwife, principally engaged in nursing/midwifery duties comprehended by the classifications listed in Schedule B – Classification Definitions.’

And the classification definitions, at B.2, now have as part of the definition of nursing care: ‘For the purposes of this award nursing care also includes care provided by midwives’.

ASK

JUDITH when it comes to your rights and entitlements at work, nswna assistant general secretary judith kiejda has the answers.

Is the Nurses Award applicable to midwives?

I am a Registered Midwife working in a private hospital. I was told that my facility is now covered by the Nurses Award 2010. But this award makes no mention of midwives or midwifery.

So is this the appropriate award?

If you are between 18 and 69 years of age and are paid at least $450 per month before tax, your employer MUST pay Super Guarantee contributions. Source: www.ato.gov.au If you are outside of this age range, you should check with your individual superannuation fund for what their policy is regarding the upper age limit that Voluntary Employer Contributions are accepted.

What happens to Workers’ Compensation payments at retirement age?

Can I object to receiving vaccinations?

I am currently on Workers’ Compensation – off work, totally incapacitated. I am receiving the Workers’ Compensation statutory rate of pay as I have been on Workers’ Compensation for a period of time in excess of 26 weeks. I have been told that 12 months ago I reached my retirement age when I turned 64 years old and my 65th birthday is just around the corner.

What will happen to my weekly Workers’ Compensation payments once I turn 65?

I am an RN in a public hospital. Can I conscientiously object to receiving certain types of vaccinations?

I would suggest you read the new policy directive on this topic: PD2011_005 Occupational Assessment, Screening and Vaccination Against Specified Infectious Diseases, before making your decision.

This directive outlines the process that must be followed when an employee objects to vaccinations and it may include deployment to another part of the facility.

An individual retirement age is defined by the age that you are able to claim the aged pension. For some people this age is 64. Your retirement age can be confirmed by contacting Centre Link.

The Workers’ Compensation Act states that you are still entitled to receive weekly Workers’ Compensation benefits for a maximum of 12 months after reaching retirement age. So, once you get to your 65th birthday, you will no longer be entitled to receive weekly Workers’ Compensation benefits for being incapacitated and off work. Instead, you can apply to receive the aged pension.

You are still entitled to receive Workers’ Compensation payments for other ongoing treatments such as physio and other medical expenses.

Am I entitled to back pay?

I am an RN employed in a private hospital for the past two months. Prior to this I was employed full-time in a public hospital. Am I entitled to any back pay with the most recent pay increase in the public sector? If so, how do I go about claiming this?

Yes, you would be entitled to back pay if you were employed in the qualifying period. The back pay is dated back to the first full pay period on or after 1 July 2010, so providing your employment was from that period you can claim back pay.

You should write to your previous public sector employer, requesting that they make payment to you. n

NC263354

Yes, the Nurses’ Award 2010 is the appropriate award. It is true that the award as originally issued has wording in both the coverage and classification clauses that was not comprehensive. This has now been remedied.

On application from the Australian Nursing Federation, Fair Work Australia on 9 March 2011 varied the Award, effective 1 January 2011, so that the coverage clause reads in part: ‘4.1 This occupational award covers: (a) employers throughout Australia in the health industry and their employees in the classifications listed in Schedule B – Classification Definitions.

What is the upper age limit that an employer can discontinue payments of superannuation?

Health Education and Learning Network

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Includes access to all topics, all vodcasts, all conference presentations and full access to Joanna Briggs Institute

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User friendly, complete a topic anytime/anywhere at your own pace ion cat e edunytim l a ion le a fess ssib pros acce e n i e onlr nurs fo

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Latest best practice procedures; many disciplines including acute care, med/surg, aged care; new topics added regularly www.healnet.edu.au THE LAMP may 2011 33

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What’s hot on Nurse Uncut g Car parking at work, bullying in the workplace, the rewards of nursing in mental health, and Indonesian nurses jailed for pursuing their rights!

Read all the latest happenings at www.nurseuncut.com.au.

Driving, car parking, and nursing shifts – How do you get to work?

Nurses jailed for pursuing their rights! http://www.nurseuncut.com.au/ nurses-jailed-for-pursuing-their-rights/

http://www.nurseuncut.com.au/ driving-car-parking-and-nursingshifts-how-do-you-get-to-work/

Most nurses work shift work and night shifts, which often mean public transport and carpooling are not valid options for them. Do you walk, bike, or drive?

Many hospitals do not have adequate staff car parking. There is either a high cost associated with the parks, or there is a very long waiting list to get a pass for the staff parking lot. Read more at Nurse Uncut.

The rewards of being a mental health nurse (Part 1 and 2) http://www.nurseuncut.com.au/ the-rewards-of-being-a-mentalhealth-nurse/ and http://www. nurseuncut.com.au/the-rewards-ofbeing-a-mental-health-nurse-part-2/

The average age of the average nurse is mid-40s, but the average age of mental health nurses is late 50s. There is a real crisis in terms of recruitment and retention of nurses in this sector.

In this series we discuss the benefits of nursing in mental health and what can be done to encourage recruitment and retention.

As part of its package of health reforms announced last year, the Federal Government announced $277 million for mental health to boost frontline services, prevention and early intervention.

Read the full story at Nurse Uncut.

Five nurses in West Papua have been jailed by the Indonesian government for taking industrial action. Australian Unions and the ANF are calling for the immediate release of these nurses.

Bullying in the workplace http://www.nurseuncut.com.au/ bullying-in-the-workplace/

‘I have been bullied too, it is not nice. I have worked full time for over 30 years. My cup is no longer 1/2 full. I am working five to eight more years, I will be 58 years old then, and then I will take leave without pay and get a chemist job or something, and one very experienced nurse with many individual personal patient thank you cards to prove it, will exit the building.’ Read all the readers’ experiences at Nurse Uncut.

Nurses forced to complete education and study in their own time. http://www.nurseuncut.com.au/ nurses-forced-to-complete-coursesand-study-in-their-own-time/

‘Last year our hospital gave us a list of online courses we had to complete in our own time. It was over 50 hours’ worth, six days. In addition, they have added extra online courses such as Bloodsafe. We were recently informed that we are to expect even more online learning to do in our own time. It isn’t voluntary. I don’t know of any other job where staff are required to do unpaid work at home and have to present the certificates at work to be marked off.’

Read the full story at Nurse Uncut.

What are nurses talking about?

Nurses’ uniforms http://www.nurseuncut.com.au/ forum/component/option,com_ ccboard/Itemid,24/forum,13/ topic,188/view,postlist/#ccbp3719

‘The scrubs are a great option, especially for infection control, as mentioned above.

Doctors wear them, the world wears them, and the TV soapies’ stars all wear them, so I’d call that ‘evidence based’ enough. Nursing administration is trying to stop a bulldozer.’

Bullying in NSW http://www.nurseuncut.com.au/ forum/component/option,com_ ccboard/Itemid,24/forum,13/ limitstart,120/topic,187/ view,postlist/#ccbp3482

‘More to the point, the risk is far greater for those who now suffer from the same treatment I received because I was too afraid to speak up at the time. Can I take the risk?

If it means that I save just one fellow nurse from months of verbal abuse, the answer is hell yes I can take the risk.’

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nursing research online

Climate change and health g This month Nursing Research Online examines the climate change debate in Australia with particular focus on the health perspective.

Shifting from fear to hope: Australia’s abundant energy and opportunities for future wealth and health More than luck: Ideas Australia needs now, December 2010 Fiona Armstrong

Australia’s history is closely linked with a reliance on natural resources. We have been encouraged to think that the ‘lucky country’ is dependent on its natural assets for wealth and prosperity and that their exploitation is our only key to a stable economy and flourishing society. The bad news is that the way we are using some of those resources is damaging not only the ecosystems on which we depend, but also our economic security and our nation’s reputation as a good global citizen.

The good news is that our abundant natural resources can continue to dominate Australia’s future. But we must begin to transform our economy now to capitalise on this continent’s natural advantages of sun, wind, and soil and the opportunities they afford for a secure future.

Repositioning Australia now to capitalise on its natural advantages by building industries based on sustainable resources will enable us to lower our emissions and draw down carbon dioxide – with the additional benefits of more jobs (and more secure jobs), cleaner air, economic prosperity and energy security. http://morethanluck.cpd.org.au/ making-it-last/shifting-from-fearto-hope/

Managing the health effects of climate change

Implications of Climate Change for Health Services in Australia

Prof. Anthony Costello FRCPCH The Lancet, Volume 373, Issue 9676, Pages 1693 - 1733, 16 May 2009

National Climate Change Adaptation Research Facility Blashki, G. et al December 2010

Climate change is the biggest global health threat of the 21st century Effects of climate change on health will affect most populations in the next decades and put the lives and wellbeing of billions of people at increased risk.

During this century, earth's average surface temperature rises are likely to exceed the safe threshold of 2°C above preindustrial average temperature.

Rises will be greater at higher latitudes, with medium-risk scenarios predicting 2-3°C rises by 2090 and 4-5°C rises in northern Canada, Greenland, and Siberia.

This report outlines the major threats – both direct and indirect – to global health from climate change through changing patterns of disease, water and food insecurity, vulnerable shelter and human settlements, extreme climatic events, and population growth and migration.

Although vector-borne diseases will expand their reach and death tolls, especially among elderly people, because of heatwaves, the indirect effects of climate change on water, food security, and extreme climatic events are likely to have the biggest effect on global health.

A new advocacy and public health movement is needed urgently to bring together governments, international agencies, non-governmental organisations (NGOs), communities, and academics from all disciplines to adapt to the effects of climate change on health.

Rather than heralding a suite of new diseases, climate change is likely to amplify many existing disorders and health inequities as a risk multiplier, and in this sense the health system responses to climate change need to be considered mostly in the context of existing health services. In some instances climate change is expected to result in a change in the geographic distribution of particular health impacts – such as the range of certain mosquito-borne infections, or the extent of coastal exposure to cyclonic activity.

In general, indications to date suggest that climate change may both increase the background demand for a range of health services, and may also generate a shift in the intensity and frequency of service responses to prepare for, and respond to, and recover from extreme events.

While there may be some positive health effects from climate change (such as reduced deaths associated with cold weather), overwhelmingly the impacts are predicted to be negative on public health. As the detailed implications of climate change for public health continue to be elucidated there remains significant levels of uncertainty, and we therefore present a ‘pragmatic’ strategy, even without precise projections, as to how climate change will play out in Australia in coming decades.

http://www.thelancet.com/ journals/lancet/article/ PIIS0140-6736(09)60935-1/fulltext

http://www.sustainable.unimelb. edu.au/content/pages/healthequity

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p r o f i l e

The Public Health System

My life’s work g The departing Director General of NSW Health, Debora Picone, AM, reflects on the significant improvements to patient care and safety achieved over the past four years, and commends the NSWNA on its tough but responsible campaign for nurse-to-patient ratios.

T

he departure of Debora Picone, AM, as DirectorGeneral of NSW Health was disappointing to the NSWNA, as she was the first nurse to hold the position and demonstrated understanding of issues for nurses, said NSWNA General Secretary Brett Holmes. ‘Her appointment in 2007 was a sign of how far the nursing profession had come.’

It was under Ms Picone’s four-year reign that the NSWNA achieved one of its most significant wins – nurse-to-patient ratios with almost 1,400 additional nursing positions. ‘It was not only a great win for the nursing profession, it will ensure great improvements in patient care and safety,’ said Brett.

Ms Picone’s sudden removal occurred days after the election of the NSW Coalition Government.

‘I am proud of improvements to patient care and safety that have occurred over the past four years. NSW has a Public Health System it can be proud of.

‘In particular, there have been significant improvements around open disclosure to patients, implementation of the severe chronic disease management program, improvements in rural health particularly cancer and cardiology services, development of critical patient services at Wollongong and Nepean Hospitals and the establishment of the Agency for Clinical Innovation, and in complaints handling

processes. New systems have been introduced to improve staff education and clinical supervision communications.

‘The development of a clinical services plan for community services is also important. I am most proud of the new Liverpool Hospital development.

‘Another significant achievement was convincing the Government to provide a large funding allocation for updating the department’s IT system to continue the implementation of the electronic medical record. It was a significant investment that saw the rolling out of electronic medical records.

‘The final crowning was the recent settlement of the dispute with the NSWNA. The NSWNA ran a hard campaign but it was an extremely responsible campaign.

It achieved the single largest Award gain for nurses in NSW. Some are saying it wasn’t enough but it was the largest industrial award gain for any profession or trade group in the public sector,’ said Ms Picone. ‘I want to particularly acknowledge the leadership of the then Deputy Premier, Carmel Tebutt and Karen Crawshaw, Deputy-Director General.’

‘It was a very tough campaign but the NSWNA showed incredibly good and decent leadership. The NSWNA was determined that these issues needed to be dealt with.

‘I’m glad it worked it out, and we maintained a respectful working relationship throughout.’

Brett Holmes said that while Ms Picone was a tough negotiator, having a nurse in the top administrative job certainly made it a bit easier to discuss the experiences and concerns of NSW nurses.

‘She was able to navigate a path to finalising negotiations whenever she was given the opportunity to do so by the Government.’

Ms Picone has worked in the Public Health System for 36 years, starting her career in 1975 as a student nurse at Prince Henry Hospital.

‘My background as a nurse prepared me more than most for the role as Director General. I always had an understanding of the clinical issues.

This was always in the back of my mind. I visualised what decisions meant for patients and staff,’ said Ms Picone.

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‘Back when I was a NUM at Prince Henry Hospital, I developed a strong set of clinical management skills. Nurses need to be exceptional communicators.

It’s the perfect experiential training ground for management.’

Prior to being appointed Director General, Ms Picone held various senior health administrative roles:

‘I am very proud to be a member of the NSWNA. I am very proud of the NSWNA – never more so than the past few years.’

n Chief Executive Officer South Eastern

Sydney Illawarra Area Health Service n Administrator South Western Sydney Area Health Service n Deputy Director General (Strategic Development) NSW Health n Acting Chief Executive Officer, New England Area Health Service n Chief Executive Officer, Corrections Health Service.

Ms Picone has also held academic positions as: n Professor, University of Wollongong n Clinical Professor, Prince of Wales Clinical School, University of NSW n Clinical Associate Professor, Department of Surgery, Faculty of Medicine, University of Sydney.

Ms Picone was awarded Member in the General Division of the Order of Australia (AM) in June 2006 for services to public health administration in NSW. As she advanced through the ranks of NSW Health, Ms Picone has maintained

membership of the NSWNA since joining as a student nurse in 1975. She served as NSWNA President between 1987 and 1992.

‘I am very proud to be a member of the NSWNA. I am very proud of the NSWNA – never more so than the past few years,’ she said.

Despite her recent abrupt removal as Director General, Ms Picone considers herself to be ‘the most fortunate person in NSW’, for having had the opportunity to work with wonderful people and for having been lucky enough to have worked throughout her career to improve patient care and safety.

‘The Public Health System has been my life’s work and I imagine it will continue to be so in some other capacity,’ she said.

Brett Holmes said: ‘The NSWNA wishes Ms Picone all the best for the future and we thank her for the contribution to NSW nursing and healthcare.’ n

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Continuing Professional Development (CPD) Requirements For most Nurses and Midwives, continued professional development happens informally on a day to day basis, and we have been doing it for years. So exactly what impact does National Registration have on your yearly registration requirements? You must now show adequate documentation of CPD that

meets national standards. It should follow the CPD cycle which involves reviewing practice, identifying learning needs and planning and participating in relevant activities with reflections. Records must be kept for three years in case you are audited.

Compliance Through Your eNurse Professional File Your eNurse Professional File has been designed to comply with the CPD Standards. All you have to do is follow the four simple steps.

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Calculate your exact amount of CPD hours required.

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Fill out your Learning Plan template.

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Record your CPD activities and enter your reflections

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n e w s i nMATTERS NSWNA b r i e f

NSWNA Branch News pt busy attending c Members were ke international barbecues, receiving nt care, fundraising accreditation for patie hibition. and organising an ex

, Members only

Photo courtesy of Parkes Champion Post

Newly-appointed Branch President of St Vincent’s Private Hospital Darlinghurst, Paul Pager, CNE (left), got straight down to business by signing up new member Casey Cheang, RN, Anaesthetics and Recovery.

, Gosford Hospital holds members’ BBQ

, Nurses key to retention of oncology at Parkes

A barbeque was held on 28 March to thank the nurses at Gosford Hospital for their hard work during the recent public sector campaign and also to celebrate the win. Pamela Hart, who won the raffle, which consisted of Easter Show tickets, said, ‘I was so excited to win the show tickets. I am taking my goddaughter to the show and gave the other two tickets away to a friend and work colleague.’ Pictured from left to right: Raffle winner Pamela Hart receiving her prize from NSWNA staff member Christine Kirby.

Parkes Lachlan Health Service, through a community-funding grant from Northparkes Mines and a scholarship from the NSW Health, will resume its oncology services. CNS Louise Rawson received a NSW Health Scholarship to do further training in cancer care, and RN Karen Wright received a Northparkes Mines Community Funding Grant of $12,000 to undertake specialised oncology studies. Pictured left to right: Malcolm Stacey, Parkes Health Council Chairperson; Kerry Leach, Acting Area Health Service Manager; Louise Rawson, RN; Karen Wright, CNS; Deborah Hunter, Nurse Manager.

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+ Exhibition showcases historical medical equipment An exhibition at Henry Kendall Museum, West Gosford, organised by retired RN and NSWNA member Margaret Pearce (pictured), showcased medical paraphernalia and other items of interest dating back to World War I, which were used at Gosford Hospital. In an interview with the Central Coast Express Advocate, Margaret said, ‘We have everything from a field operating table used by one of Gosford’s first doctors in World War I to old glass syringes and nurses’ uniforms.’ The museum is open between 10am and 3pm every Wednesday, Saturday and Sunday and on most public holidays.

Photo courtesy of Central Coast Express Advocate

, RPA gets accreditation for giving babies best start in life The Royal Prince Alfred Hospital in Camperdown recently achieved internationally-recognised accreditation for creating an environment committed to giving babies the best start in life. RPA CNC for Lactation and Parenting Carmel Kelly said the hospital joined an elite list of only 10 other facilities across NSW to have achieved The Baby Friendly Health Initiative (BFHI) Accreditation. ‘This is a wonderful achievement and testimony to the commitment and teamwork of our staff across all disciplines and departments, including theatres, recovery, anaesthetics, obstetrics, midwifery and neonatal intensive care,’ Carmel said.

Left to right: RPA staff and NSWNA members Cheryl Paisley, RN, and Katie McKenna, RN, celebrate with Sasha and Todd Harding and their newborn.

) Fundraising effort a boon to Wyong hospital Photo courtesy of Central Coast Express Advocate

Former Wyong Hospital patient Ron Garlick, who sadly passed away, was determined to raise funds for the ward at the hospital where he had been looked after and had developed close relationships with staff. A member of the Masonic lodge, his dream was fulfilled by fellow members of the Morisset Masons who donated some much needed equipment to the surgical ward. ‘Staff got to know Ron really well during his stay in hospital and we are sure he would be pleased with the outcome of his and the Masons’ donation,’ said Graeme Hopper, NUM and NSWNA member in an interview with the Central Coast Express Advocate. Pictured left to right: Eve Neville, Physiotherapist; Graeme Hopper, NUM; Morisset Mason’s Graham Train and Bill Welch; Julianne Angel, Acting Nurse Manager.

THE ENROLLED NURSE PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATION Presents

CONFERENCE 2011 22 and 23 September 2011 Armidale NSW

Lighting the Way

Venue: Armidale Ex-Services Memorial Club Dumaresq St, Armidale 2350 8am-5pm Thursday, 8am-4pm Friday

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Conference presentations will include: • • • • •

Mental Health Community Nursing Aged Care – surgical Nursing Drug and Alcohol and other areas of Nursing practice.

For further information contact: Rebecca Phone: 1300 554 249 E-mail: nroseby@bigpond.net.au 20/04/2011 9:39:19 AM 41 THE LAMP may 2011

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b o o k s

Book me Child and Family Assessment in Social Work Practice (2nd ed)

An Introduction to Theory and Reasoning in Nursing (3rd ed)

By Betty M. Johnson and Pamela B. Webber, Wolters Kluwer Lippincott Williams and Wilkins, RRP *$81.40 : ISBN 9780781791038

By Sally Holland, Sage Publications (available through Footprint Books, RRP* $56.95 : ISBN 9781849205221 Child and Family Assessment in Social Work Practice is an excellent text for child welfare practitioners and students who deal with the assessment of children and their families. The focus is on in-depth assessment work where there are complex problems, such as in families with multiple support needs or following incidents of abuse or neglect. Social constructionism provides the main theoretical underpinning of the text.

Much of the discussion is informed by qualitative research conducted by the author between 1997 and 2001 on the practice of assessment by social workers in two coastal communities in the UK.

An Introduction to Theory and Reasoning in Nursing is devoted to helping nursing students develop a foundation of reasoning skills that are necessary to integrate the components of knowledge, skills, values, meanings, and experiences into nursing practice. The text is composed of 12 interrelated chapters that deliver a clear and understandable message about theory, what it is and how it supports what we do in nursing.

It provides an overview of theory, theory development, important nursing theories and nursing theorists, as well as a method for critiquing theory.

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.

Reviews by NSWNA librarian, Jeannette Bromfield.

Disclaimer: Some of the items featured in Book Me are based on information received and have not been independently reviewed.

Publishers’ websites c Footprint Books: www.footprint.com.au c Elsevier Australia: www.elsevierhealth.com.au c Wolters Kluwer|Lippincott Williams and Wilkins: www.wolterskluwer.com c Lippincott Williams and Wilkins: www.lww.com c Quay Books: www.quaybooks.co.uk

Contemporary Nursing: Issues, Trends and Management (5th ed)

By Barbara Cherry and Susan R. Jacob, Elsevier Mosby (available through Elsevier Australia), RRP *$67.95 : ISBN 9780323069533 This 5th edition of Contemporary Nursing: Issues, Trends, & Management prepares the reader for the rapidly evolving world of health-care. It provides a comprehensive, yet focused overview of nursing topics affecting practice and issues facing today's nurse managers and tomorrow's nurse leaders.

This edition is fully revised and updated, and provides a practical, balanced preparation for the issues, trends, and management topics you will encounter in practice.

Care for Pregnant Women Who Are Obese Edited by Yana Richens and Tina Lavender, Quay Books (a Division of MA Healthcare Ltd), RRP *$38.65 : ISBN 9781856423883 Care for Pregnant Women Who Are Obese focuses on the growing epidemic of obesity and how this is affecting the care of pregnant woman, their babies and the maternity services. It is written by leading practitioners who provide a review of the current evidence and clinical practices that are relevant to the many disciplines across the maternity services. *Price in Australian dollars at time of printing

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ESCORTED GROUP TOURS European Waterways and Baltic States  19 day itinerary commencing 15 July 2011 including European Waterways river cruise plus tours of Budapest and Paris  The river cruise of the beautiful Danube and Main Rivers on the MS Symphonie visits Budapest, Vienna, Melk, Regnesburg, Hilposten, Nuremberg, Bamberg, Wurtzberg, Wertheim, Frankfurt, Mainz and Strasbourg  Optional pre-cruise tour of Baltic States includes: Tallin (2 nights), Riga (2 nights), Vilnius (2 nights), Warsaw (2 nights) and Krakow (2 nights)  Price for River Cruise $5,949 per person based on twin share accommodation  Price for full tour including Baltic States $8,800 based on twin share accommodation

Walking Highlights of France & Italy

Borneo  18 days commencing 22 May 2011  Kuching (3 nights) including city and Bako National Park  Hilton Batang Ai Resort (1 night) including tour of traditional Lemanak longhouses  Kuching (2 nights) including day at leisure  Royal Mulu Resort (2 nights) including Mulu caves tour  Kota Kinabalu (3 nights) including visit to Kampung Night Market and Gaya Island tour  Kinabalu National Park (2 nights) including jungle and Poring tree top canopy walks  Sukau Rainforest Lodge (2 nights) including wildlife viewing expeditions  Sandakan including Sepilok Orang Utan Sanctuary and Australian War Memorial. Kota Kinabalu (1 night)  Total price for tour including airfares $5,300 per person based on twin share accommodation

 26 days commencing 06 September 2011  Paris (3 nights) including walking tour of city  Loire Valley (1 night) including overnight stay in Chateau  TGV train to medieval city of Avignon (1 night)  Saint Remy (2 nights) including ‘Walk on the footsteps of Vincent Van Gogh” tour  Gordes (2 nights) including two local walks. The first walk is to a 12th century abbey and the second between Vaucluse and Luberon Mountains takes in country homes, wheat fields, vineyards and olive groves  Aix En Provence (2 nights).  Monaco (1 night)  Coach to Monterosso (4 nights) one of the small fishing villages on the Cinque Terre. Three local walks covering ‘Campiglia Route’ ‘Sentiero dell’ Amore’ and Camoglia to Portofino route  Coach to Como (2 nights) in the beautiful Lakes District  Boat to Varenna (1 night) including walk to view local scenery, grand villas and castle ruins  Lugano (1 night) including ‘Montegeneroso challenge’ walk  Belgirate on Lake Maggiore (2 nights)  Venice (3 nights) including guided walking tour, grand canal tour and visit to islands of Murano and Burano  Group size between 12 and 16 people  Price for land arrangements $9,500 per person based on twin share accommodation

Please contact us for copies of tour brochures

Spectrum Holidays

511 Whitehorse Rd Mitcham VIC 3132 enquiries@spectrumholidays.com.au www.spectrumholidays.com.au Tel - 1300 130 840 Fax - 8804 2426 THE LAMP may 2011 43

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a t

t h e

m o v i e s

giveaways

for NSWNA members

Review by Murray James, RN, St John of God Private Hospital.

Get Low

Babies g A captivating film that follows the lives of four babies growing up in very different cultures.

W

hat’s so special about a movie featuring babies?

A lot! This surprisingly captivating movie-length documentary invites you into the lives of four babies, from birth to walking, from four widely different countries and cultures.

Meet Ponijao, Bayarjargai, Mari and Hattie from Namibia, Mongolia, Japan and the United States. In spite of their very diverse cultural and geographical environments, these children share a variety of experiences and range of emotions, as they play, laugh, cry, bathe, and explore their surroundings. All of this is captured by the lens of awardwinning director and cinematographer Thomas Balmès.

The babies’ engagement with animals, whether with pets in households or animals in rural settings, is particularly entertaining. The experiences in Mongolia are humorous, with an imperious rooster checking out the surprised baby’s bed.

In a sea of toys, Mari from Tokyo is intensely frustrated by her inability to thread a wooden spindle into a disc, while in Mongolia Bayajargai patiently unfolds an unruly toilet roll. Hattie in her urban setting flees a group singing an earth-honouring song, while in Africa Ponijao plays with simple objects in the dirt. And so these four explore, grow, and learn to master their environment.

As we watch these children we are invited to compare and reflect on the cultural divide: materially-rich, western lifestyles of San Francisco and Tokyo, where there is an abundance of toys and other stimulation; compared to the relatively materially impoverished existence in Namibia and Mongolia, where children create their own amusements from their natural settings.

I think Balmès, director and father of three, gives us some possible clues to think more deeply about developed and non-developed countries and cultures.

Ponijao and Bayarjargai’s slow, fascinating exploration of life in their naturalistic environment is held in stark contrast to the sophisticated, more solitary world of Mari and Hattie. I suspect that Balmès is asking us to fathom the differences between our fast-track world and a slower, more reflective one.

It is tempting to conclude that modernity can bring with it ‘dis-ease’, lifestyle problems and addictive behaviours – aspects that we as health professionals are all too familiar with.

Beyond the simple cultural narratives, this documentary offers a variety of teaching opportunities for health and early childhood professionals.

But whether viewed for educational purposes or purely for the pleasure of watching these children’s lives unfold, I believe this is a ‘must see’ movie.

In cinemas 5 May

A film by Aaron Schneider starring Robert Duvall (The Godfather, Apocalypse Now, The Apostle), Sissy Spacek (Coal Miner’s Daughter, The River, Crimes of the Heart), Bill Murray (Lost in Translation, The Darjeeling Limited, Groundhog Day) and Lucas Black (Sling Blade, Cold Mountain). For years townsfolk have been terrified of the backwoods recluse know as Felix Bush (Duvall).

People say he’s done all manner of unspeakable things – that he’s killed in cold blood; that he’s in league with the Devil; that he has strange powers. Then, one day, Felix rides into town with a shotgun and a wad of cash, saying he wants to buy himself a ‘living funeral’. Anyone who ever heard a story about him will come to tell it, while he takes it all in.

Fast-talking funeral home owner Frank Quinn (Murray) enlists his young apprentice Buddy (Black) to win over Felix’s business and what he discovers is that behind Felix’s surreal plan lies a very real and long-held secret that must get out.

The Lamp has 25 double passes to give away to Babies and Get Low.

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

Gifts so good, you won’t want to give them away.

There is an ABC Shop near you.

For locations visit abcshop.com.au or call 1300 360 111. Ask about our rewards program.

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POSITION VACANT Professional Officer (12 month secondment)

The Organisation The NSW Nurses’ Association is a trade union, which represents the industrial, professional and legal interest of nurses and midwives in NSW.

‘Lighting the Way’

The Role We seek a creative and self–motivated nurse for this secondment position who has experience in research and analysis and is aware of the contemporary issues challenging nurses in this sector.

Essential Criteria The successful applicant should hold recognised qualifications in the field of nursing. You should possess at least five years’ experience, preferably at a senior level, in nursing and have an understanding of trade union issues.

It is essential that you have the ability to network with key stakeholders at a senior level and be proficient in policy analysis, review, development and implementation and have demonstrated project management skills.

The successful applicant should be able to demonstrate their ability to work independently as well as part of a team, be able to meet deadlines and manage several issues simultaneously. High level written and oral communication skills are essential.

You must hold a current driver’s licence and be able to travel occasionally. You must hold registration with Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia and possess postgraduate qualifications in nursing or relevant field.

The Application Process Please read the information below on how to apply for this position. Applications will only be accepted from candidates who follow this process.

How to apply for this position: Please contact Employee Relations on 02 8595 1234 to receive an Employment Application pack which includes an Employment Application Form and Professional Officer Position Description.

Applications should be received by 20 May 2011 to: Robyn Morrison Employee Relations Manager NSW Nurses’ Association 50 O’Dea Avenue, Waterloo NSW 2017 or via email: rmorrison@nswnurses.asn.au

The Enrolled Nurse Professional Association of NSW : a voice for all Enrolled Nurses.

www.enpansw.org.au

FOCUS : • to pursue the professional, career and educational interests of EN’s • support and advocate for Enrolled Nurses in the NSW Health sector.

• yearly enrolled nurse conference for networking and information.

• to promote extended roles through further education.

Join this progressive organisation and participate in the enhancement of your career.

Membership fee’s are tax deductible.

Membership $30 per annum FOR FURTHER INFORMATION Phone: 1300 554 249 Forward cheque/ money order & details to : ENPA, PO Box 775 Kingswood 2747

Name: Address:

Work Place: Contacts: (H)

(W)

MOB

Email

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s

n o t i c e

NSW Nurses’ Association Summary of the Financial Statements for the Year Ended 31 December 2010

T

he financial statements of the New South Wales Nurses’ Asso­ ciation have been audited in accordance with the provisions of the Industrial Relations Act 1991, and the following summary is pro­­vided for members in accordance with Section 517(2) of the Act, as applied by sec­tion 282(3) of the Industrial Relations Act, 1996.

A copy of the Financial Statements, including the Independent Audit Report, will be supplied free of charge to members upon request.

Certificates required to be given under the Act by the Accounting Officer and the Committee of Management have been completed in accordance with the pro­vi­si­ons of the Act and contain no qualifications.

Information to be provided to members or registrar In accordance with the requirements of the Industrial Relations Act 1991 [NSW], the attention of members is drawn to the provisions of Sub-sections (1) and (2) of Section 512 which read as follows:

STATEMENT OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME FOR THE YEAR ENDING 31 DECEMBER 2010 Membership Subscriptions

2010 ($)

2009 ($)

22,129,327

20,982,291

NursePower Fund Subscriptions

5,882,479

5,577,571

Other Income

1,557,655

2,172,092

29,569,461

28,731,954

LESS TOTAL EXPENDITURE

32,609,381

28,026,496

(DEFICIT)/SURPLUS FOR THE YEAR

(3,039,920)

705,458

TOTAL INCOME

Net Gain on revaluation of Financial Assets Actuarial (Losses)/Gains - Defined Benefit Fund TOTAL COMPREHENSIVE INCOME ATTRIBUTABLE TO MEMBERS

221,532

1,206,740

(657,196)

797,170

(3,475,584)

2,709,368

23,147,194

26,622,778

5,511,304

6,291,327

Balance Sheet as at 31 December 2010 ACCUMULATED FUNDS Represented by: Current Assets Non-Current Assets

35,476,179

33,523,611

TOTAL ASSETS

40,987,483

39,814,938

7,462,334

6,504,511

Non-Current Liabilities

10,377,955

6,687,649

TOTAL LIABILITIES

17,840,289

13,192,160

NET ASSETS

23,147,194

26,622,778

Current Liabilities

(1) A member of an organisation, or the Industrial Registrar, may apply to the organisation for spe­cified information prescribed by the re­gulations in relation to the organisation.

(2) An organisation must, on the making of such an application, make the specified information available to the member or the Industrial Registrar in the manner, and within the time, prescribed by the regulations.

Auditor’s certificate We certify that the above Summary of the Financial Statements is a fair and accurate summary of the Report, Accounts and Statements of the New South Wales Nurses’ Association for the year ended 31 December 2010. Our Independent Audit Report to the members dated 5 April 2011 on the Financial Report did not contain any particulars of any deficiency, failure or shortcoming as referred to in the Industrial Relations Act 1991 [NSW], as applied by Section 282(3) of the Industrial Relations Act, 1996.

DALEY & CO Michael L Gleeson Chartered Accountants Registered 98 Kembla Street Company Auditor Wollongong, NSW 2500 Dated this 5th day of April 2011.

A copy of the Financial Report, including the Independent Audit Report, may be found on the Members page of the website www.nswnurses.asn.au or can be obtained upon written application to: Brett Holmes, General Secretary, New South Wales Nurses’ Association, 50 O’Dea Avenue, Waterloo 2017

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Crossword Test your knowledge in this month’s nursing crossword.

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9 10

11 12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19 20 21

22

23

24

25

26

s

across

1. Inflammation of the skin (10) 6. The nape (5) 9. On, following or subsequent to (3) 10. French term for a male midwife or obstetrician (10) 11. Any device for holding tissues together (5) 12. Discrete, coin-shaped patches of eczema (8.6) 14. The use of voice to communicate (6) 15. Deadly, tending to produce death (9) 17. To reduce a fracture (3) 19. Presence of calculi in the urinary system (12) 21. Emergency room (1.1) 22. Loss of hair, baldness (8)

27

24. A yellow chemical that is laxative and used in diseases of the skin (7) 26. Characterised by avoidance or withdrawal (6) 27. Inflammation of the liver (9) 29. Hearing (8) 30. Inability to recognise objects by use of the senses (7) s

down

1. Determination of nature of a disease or injury (9) 2. Leaning, reclining, lying down (9) 3. An ancient Asian method of healing that uses long fine needles (11) 4. A rule or law (7) 5. Inflammation of the serous coat of the colon (11)

6. An eroded or ulcerated area detected by contrast radiography (5) 7. Carcinoembryonic antigen (1.1.1) 8. A system of organs that collectively performs a specific function (9) 13. A specialist who administers anaesthetics (12) 16. An instrument for cutting off an enlarged tonsil (10) 18. Eversion of a lip (8) 20. Removal of soluble constituents by running water (8) 21. Period of puberty or youth (7) 23. Resembling a cell (6) 25. To re-examine with a scanner (6) 28. The top or upper limit (4) Solution page 50 THE LAMP may 2011 47

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DIARY DATES Conferences, seminars, meetings SYDNEY, Hunter & Illawarra Critical Care Nursing Course – One evening a week for 10 weeks Dates: Thursday evenings 5 May to 7 July 2011, 6.30pm – 9.30pm Venue: Westmead Private Hospital, Westmead Contact: (03) 9390 8011 or info@criticalcare.edu.au or www. criticalcare.edu.au Basic & Advanced Cardiac Life Support 1-day Update Dates: 6 May, 7 May Venue: Westmead Private Hospital, Westmead Contact: (03) 9390 8011 or info@criticalcare.edu.au or www. criticalcare.edu.au 4th Neurosciences Symposium Date: 16 May Venue: Kerry Packer Auditorium at RPA Hospital on Missenden Road, Camperdown Contact: Nadia Schweizer on 02 95156111, pager on 88073.

NSW Health & Ambulance Employees Date: 22 May Venue: Revesby Workers’ Club, Brett Street Revesby.

Contact: Paul Sillato, Anatomical Pathology (SWAPS), Liverpool Hospital, 9828 5391

Leadership and Management for Health Professionals – Sharing the Experience Date: 27 May Venue: NSW Parliament House, 6 Macquarie St, Sydney Contact: To register go to: http://www. changechampions.com.au/seminar/ leadership-and-management-for-healthprofessionals—sharing-theexperience_112 St George Shoulder Conference Date: 2-4 June Venue: Novotel Brighton Beach, cnr the Grand Parade and Princess St, Brighton le Sands Contact: Marina Zimmerman, Meetings Co-ordinator, (02) 9113 2830, Email: marina.zimmermann@sesiahs. health.nsw.gov.au Women’s Health and Midwifery Conference Date: Saturday, 6 August Venue: Auditorium, Woolworths Corporate Head Office, 1 Woolworths Way, Bella Vista Contact: Marian Piper, Nurse Unit Manager, Birth Unit, Norwest Private Hospital, marian.piper@healthscope.com.au Navigating Neuro Date: 27 August Venue: The Chifley, Wollongong Cost: $88 Contact: Megan Sims ph 4253 4400 or megan.sims@sesiahs.health.nsw.gov.au

11-CPI-ADS-LA111_Layout 1 3/30/11 10:25 AM Page 1

Enrolled Nurses Professional Association Annual Conference Dates: 22 and 23 September Armidale, NSW Cost: $240 ENs wishing to present a paper please contact Ph: 1 300 554 249

Australian Dermatology Nurses’ Association (ADNA) 10th National Conference Date: 14-15 May Venue: Perth Convention & Exhibition Centre, Perth WA Contact: ADNA Secretariat 02 4739 2673 adna@westnet.com.au

Annual Mountains to the sea Conference on Midwifery and Paediatrics Dates: Friday, 8 July Venue: Level 8, Wollongong Hospital Contact: kerry.duggan@sesiahs.health. nsw.gov.au or 4253 4267

The Frontiers of Pain Australian Pain Society 31st Annual Scientific Meeting Date: 12-16 June Venue: Darwin Convention Centre, NT Contact: (02) 9954 4400, aps2011@ dcconferences.com.au www.dcconferences.com.au/aps2011

REGIONAL Forrest Community Services/CFA NSW Continence Education Days Dates: Thursday, 25 & Friday, 26 May Venue: Wagga RSL Club.

Contact: Marilyn Woodcock 8741 5699, cfansw@optusnet.com.au

End of Life Care Masterclass Date: 17 June Venue: Manchester Conference Centre Contact: www.mkupdate.co.uk, – bookings@mkupdate.co.uk

INTERSTATE & OVERSEAS Nurse Practitioners Keeping Our Patients Between The Flags Dates: 12 & 13 May Venue: Calypso Resort, Coolangatta, QLD Price: $50 pp Contact: Anne.moehead@ncahs.health. nsw.gov.au The Role of Support Workers in mental Health and Social Care: Date: 12 May Venue: 76 Portland Place, London, UK Contact: conference@mkupdate.co.uk or book online at http://www.mkupdate.co. uk/acatalog/Conferences.html

The Future Role of Support Workers and Assistant Practitioners 2nd National Conference Date: 30 June Venue: London.

Contact: www.mkupdate.co.uk to see complete listing of events, dates and venues in the UK. Advanced Emergency Skills Masterclass Date: 21 June Venue: Manor Hospital, Walsall Contact: bookings@mkupdate.co.uk tel: 017687 73030

Agitated, Disruptive – Even Aggressive Patients?

We can help!

Since 1980, CPI has been teaching health care professionals proven methods for managing difficult or assaultive behaviour. To date, over six million individuals—including thousands of nurses and other health care professionals—have participated in CPI’s highly successful Nonviolent Crisis InterventionSM training course.

This course teaches staff not only how to respond effectively to the warning signs that someone is about to lose control, but also addresses how staff can deal with their own stress and anxiety when confronted with these difficult situations.

For further details on CPI’s Nonviolent Crisis InterventionSM training course, call us toll-free at 1800 553 247, visit crisisprevention.com, or email us at information@crisisprevention.com.

Join us at an upcoming 2011 training course: 31 May–3 June • Melbourne, VIC 7–10 June • Brisbane, QLD

International Headquarters: 10850 W. Park Place, Suite 600 • Milwaukee, WI 53224 USA Toll-free: 1800 553 247 (Please ring before 9:00 a.m. Tues.–Sat.) Fax: 001 414.979.7098 Email: information@crisisprevention.com • crisisprevention.com

14–17 June • Brighton-le-Sands (Sydney), NSW 28 June–1 July • North Adelaide, SA Priority Code: LA111

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Teaching and Training Skills Date: 28-29 July Venue: TBC Contact: enquires@mkupdate.co.uk , www.mkupdate.co.uk 2th International Mental Health Conference Date: 24-26th August Venue: Radisson Resort – Gold Coast Contact: http://www.anzmh.asn.au/ conference2011 for full details 7th International Meeting on Intensive Cardio Care Date: 31 October – 1 November Venue: Tel Aviv, Israel Abstract deadline: 300 word abstract by 1 August Contact: The Secretariat, 7th International Meeting On Intensive Cardiac Care P.O. Box 574, Jerusalem 91004, Israel Tel: ++972-2-6520574 Fax: ++972-2-6520558 conventions@isas.co.il Website: www.isas.co.il//cardiaccare2011 3rd Rural & Remote Mental Health Symposium Date: 14-16 November

Venue: Mercure Hotel, Ballarat, VIC Contact: Laura Hancock Conference Secretariat ruralhealth@anzmh.asn.au The call for abstracts is open till the 2nd of May 2011. Please be sure to submit your work via the Symposium website www.anzmh.asn.au/rrmh11

Reunions Western Suburbs Hospital Graduate Nurses Reunion Saturday 28 May, 12 midday Venue: Ryde-Eastwood Leagues Club Contact: Robyn Daniel 02 9644 9692, Margaret Gane 02 9584 8801

NSWNA Events Check venue locations with Lyn Stevens on 02 8595 1234 or 1300 367 962.

For more information on NSWNA Education Courses contact Carolyn Kulling at the Association.

Ph: (02) 8595 1234 or free call 1300 367 962 or visit the Association’s website http://www.nswnurses.asn.au/ topics/2761.html

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

Send information to: Editorial Enquiries Email: lamp@nswnurses.asn.au Fax: 9550 3667 50 O’Dea Ave, Waterloo NSW 2017 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.

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. Diary Dates are also on the web – www. nswnurses.asn.au/events

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.

“Australia’s Premier Health & Aged Care Expo” for CEOs, Managers, Health Professionals ...

Sydney August 10 & 11 Rosehill Racecourse Open from 9:30 am to 4:00 pm Delegates - free attendance Register online today at www.totalagedservices.com.au

For all enquiries re exhibiting or attending, contact: Wayne Woff, Manager Total Aged Services P: 03 9571 5606 / 0422 484 209 F: 03 9571 9708 E: office@totalagedservices.com.au www.totalagedservices.com.au

CAREX supported by:

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Crossword solution

11th

RNs 19th & 20th August 2011

EENs Sydney wide Great team Flexible hours/shifts

9988 4588 www.healthcall.com.au

Glasshouse Arts, Conference & Entertainment Centre Port Macquarie, NSW

Hospitals, Aged Care Facilities, Community

www.ruralcriticalcare.asn.au Phone: 02 6650 9800 Email: jayne@eastcoastconferences.com.au

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YOUR CORPORATE HEALTH PLAN TODAY As a NSW Health employee you can access competitive corporate rates on your private health insurance with exclusive MBF corporate products.

Plus, join hospital and extras cover through your NSW Health corporate health plan by 31 May 2011 and you’ll get one month cover absolutely free. We’ll also waive the two and six month waiting periods on extras, including general dental, chiropractic, physiotherapy, and optical – so you can start claiming immediately.*

1300 653 525 quote ID 401862

your MBF centre

mbf.com.au/corplogin Username: nswhealth Password: healthplan

*New Bupa Australia customers on new memberships who join hospital and extras cover through their corporate health plan before 31/05/2011. Your second month is free after your initial payment.

Direct debit and payroll deduction (if available) only. Offer excludes all overseas visitors covers. Not with other offers. Other waiting periods apply. Bupa Australia Pty Ltd ABN 81 000 057 590. Trading as MBF.

50 THE LAMP may 2011

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Do You Know an Enrolled Nurse Who Excells?

The Enrolled Nurse Professional Association

Call for Nominations for The Ron Flockton Memorial Award ENPA are offering full conference attendance (travel, accommodation and conference fees) and 12 months membership to ENPA in remembrance of Ron and his dedication and passion to Enrolled Nursing.

This award is for Enrolled Nurses currently employed in NSW who has demonstrated their commitment to nursing by: • Excelling within their scope of practise.

• Pursuing professional, career and edu­ cational interests for all Enrolled Nurses.

• Showing a passion and flair for nursing.

• Acting as an advocate for, and support­ ing, Enrolled Nurses in NSW Health.

Typed applications (min 250 words) addressing any of the above criteria and outlining the qualifications and employment history of the nominated Enrolled Nurse.

The application should be signed by the applicant (either an RN or EN) and another (either RN or EN) who supports the application, and forwarded to: The Secretary ENPA PO Box 775, Kingswood NSW 2747

Before 1 August 2011. **Please ensure that full contact details are included.

Get a head start by distance education Enrolling now for April Semester The College of Nursing has a range of distance education subjects available that give you credit transfer towards a College of Nursing Graduate Certificate.

Subjects available in: • Acute care / Critical Care Nursing • Cancer / Breast Cancer Nursing • Aged Care Nursing • Perioperative Nursing • Child and Family Health / Neonatal / Paediatric Nursing

The College of Nursing creating nursing’s future

Call 1800 COLLEGE (265 534) or visit www.nursing.edu.au to apply.

23/03/11 6:44 PM

A first-class health service needs first-class professionals like you.

WA Health has a vast range of employment opportunities. We have 111 different places to work across WA and 2.3 million customers. To find your opportunity, visit www.health.wa.gov.au

DOH 11941 DEC’10 THE LAMP

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