AUSTRALIA | Two years have passed since the conclusion of the groundbreaking royal commission into the Australian aged care system. This pivotal moment called for a complete overhaul of a system in crisis.
As the federal minister now responsible for the aged care portfolio, Anika Wells aptly characterised the final report as "a call to action to put people back in the centre of aged care." It was a clarion call for change and improvement.
The Albanese government has heeded this call with a series of reforms aimed at improving the quality of care and the working conditions of aged care professionals.
Among the mandates are a minimum of 200 care minutes per resident each day. These reforms are crucial to enhancing the aged care system's quality and effectiveness.
Nevertheless, challenges remain. The taskforce appointed by the federal government is diligently working to address critical issues. These issues range from ensuring the availability of qualified nursing staff to providing an environment that fosters both recruitment and retention within the sector.
A recent study led by Monash University's Associate Professor Helen Rawson delves into the perspective of aged care nurses in Victoria. The research examines their experiences, feelings, and operational dynamics within their workplaces. Published in the Nursing Inquiry journal, this study offers insights into the challenges that lie ahead.
In the wake of the royal commission, one of the primary concerns is the workforce. Most individuals providing care in residential aged care homes are personal care workers, comprising around 70 percent of the workforce. Enrolled and registered nurses make up the remaining 23 percent, and the number of registered nurses is growing. To meet post-commission standards, the government mandates having at least one registered nurse on duty 24 hours a day. This requirement underscores the importance of having a skilled and adequate workforce for delivering quality care.
The study highlights the significance of cooperative teamwork, called "relational care." In residential aged care, it's crucial to recognise that care is a collective effort. It involves various professionals, such as registered nurses, enrolled nurses, allied health clinicians, personal care workers, and more, collaborating seamlessly. Coordinating this multidisciplinary team is essential to ensure the best possible outcomes for residents.
However, the study also reveals that teamwork within this framework may only sometimes function optimally. In some cases, communication breakdowns occur, leading to challenges in delivering the best care. To improve this situation, it's vital to provide opportunities for all team members, including enrolled nurses, to engage with the multi-professional team, ensuring accurate and timely information exchange for resident welfare.
In addition, the study points out that some nurses feel excluded from the decision-making process and representation within the team. This highlights the need for a more inclusive and collaborative approach, where every team member feels empowered to contribute to the care and wellbeing of residents.
The aged care sector has faced its share of challenges, but it's imperative to focus on the ultimate goal: providing safe, high-quality care for older individuals. Empowering the workforce, ensuring their engagement, and retaining their dedication are essential steps toward achieving this goal. A motivated and contented workforce not only enhances the quality of care but also attracts new talent to the sector, securing a brighter future for aged care in Australia.
In these transformative times, work towards a more inclusive, empowered, and dedicated aged care workforce is essential. Their commitment and enthusiasm for their roles can significantly impact the lives of those they care for, ultimately contributing to a more compassionate and effective aged care system.
