Schmierer also highlights the
importance of coordination and
collaboration: “Registered
Nurses liaise and collaborate
with GPs, allied health, and
other specialties, so our
residents receive best practice,
coordinated and integrated
care. It is envisaged that there
will be fewer resident transfers
to hospital due to the
Registered Nurse’s timely
assessment and intervention in
those with a declining health
status.”
The StewartBrown Aged Care
Financial Performance Survey
Participants Report (March
2024) further underscores the
value of RNs in aged care
settings. Facilities with higher
RN staffing levels generally
show better care outcomes and
resident satisfaction.
“The presence of skilled
nurses in aged care homes is
indispensable,” says
Rappensberg. “They are at the
forefront of providing
exceptional care, ensuring that
our residents live with dignity
and comfort.”
One of the most significant
changes following the Royal
Commission’s
recommendations is the
introduction of 24/7 RN
coverage in aged care homes.
As of July 2024, approximately
92% of aged care homes report
having an RN on-site around
the clock, up from 86% the
previous year. This ensures
residents receive professional
medical attention whenever
needed, enhancing their overall
care and well-being.
“The increase in care minutes
directly enhances the well-
being of our residents,” says
Rappensberg. “It means more
personalised attention and
better health outcomes. These
improvements are vital for
addressing the complex health
needs of aged care residents,
many of whom require regular
medical assessments and
interventions.”
Claire Schmierer, Executive
Manager of Clinical
Governance at Doutta Galla,
adds, “Our highly skilled
registered nurses supervise
newer graduates and other
direct and non-direct care
staff, ensuring ‘out-of-hours’
care and service are equal to
those provided during regular
business hours.”