QUALITY ACCOUNT
2016 − 2017
www.kyhealth.org.au
OUR PURPOSE
OUR VALUES
EMPATHY
We actively listen to understand your
feelings.
We show empathy by acknowledging others’
emotions.
Individuals are included in decisions about their
care and have their needs acknowledged.
We provide choices and support individual
wishes.
Our actions demonstrate our
compassion for others.
WELLBEING
Safety is at the forefront of everything we do.
People feel safe in our care.
We foster a person centred approach through flexible,
individualised care.
We support the physical, emotional,
social and psychological health of all.
COMMUNITY
People experience a welcoming, friendly
approach.
We embody the cohesiveness and spirit of
our communities.
Everyone feels connected and has a sense of
belonging.
Our teamwork is built on cooperation,
collaboration and communication.
HEALTHY COMMUNITY. LOCAL CARE.
Highlights Establishing Cancer Day Unit
Reviewed Complaint
Management Policy and Procedures
Introduce ViCTOR (Victorian Endorsed Track and Trigger tools) for pediatric patients and UCC presentations
Commenced Consumer Practice
Partners Project
Improved Internal Referral Processes
Continued review of Clinical Pathways
Introduced use of Whiteboards at patient bedsides
Review of Discharge Planning processes
Antimicrobial Formulary List and Prescribing Guideline revised
Participation in Residential Care
‘Better Resident Care” Project
CONTENTS
2 Chief Executive Statement
3 Consumer, Carer and Community Participation
4 Community and Consumer Experience
5 Cultural Responsiveness and Diversity
6 Closing the Gap
7 Family Violence
8 Cancer Services
9 Breastfeeding Café
10 Quality and Safety
10 Clinical Governance
10 Monitoring and Investigation
11 Accreditation
12 Consumer and Staff Experiences
12 Discharge
13 Happy or Not?
14 Complaints
15 Compliments
16 Staff Experience and Patient Safety
17 Continuity of Care
17 Perioperative Services
19 Infection Prevention and Control
20 Staff Health: Vaccination Program
21 Food Safety Program
21 Cleaning and Environment
22 Blood Matters
23 Medication Safety
24 Falls Prevention and management and
24 Pressure Injury Management and Prevention
25 Aged Care Services
26 Aged Care Quality Services
28 Planned Activity Group
29 Transitional Care Program
30 Primary and Community Health
32 District Nursing
33 Campaspe Early Childhood Intervention Service
34 Advance Care Planning
26 Volunteers
36 Education
36 Students 36 Graduate Nurse Program
On behalf of Kyabram District Health Service, I am pleased to present to you the Quality Account for 2016-2017
The Quality Account is an important way for our health service to report on the quality of the care and services provided and to demonstrate to you the improvements in the services we deliver to our local community.
The quality of the services is measured by looking at indicators of clinical safety, care effectiveness and the community’s experience of the care provided.
In keeping with our Purpose to achieve a healthy community through the provision of local care, KDHS continues to evaluate and improve our models of care to ensure our services remain consumer focused and are integrated and better coordinated both internally and with our external partners.
Through the Board Clinical Governance framework, KDHS has established four pillars for governing, monitoring and improving quality & safety of the care we provide.
KDHS has continuously maintained quality accreditation under the National Standards Program which applies predominately to our acute care health service, the Aged Care Standards Agency which applies to Sheridan, our residential aged care facility and through home care standards for our home based and aged person support programs.
KDHS has also achieved accreditation as a provide under the national Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) Over the past 12 month reporting period, KDHS has continued to minimise a number of its key identified clinical risks resulting in reductions in the level of risks aligned to pressure ulcer prevention;
hospital acquired infection related incidents and timely response to escalation in care. The KDHS Board has identified three current high clinical risk priorities for close monitoring. These priorities are minimising incidents related to surgical procedures; the prevention of falls resulting in injury in the aged care residents and ageing inpatient community and providing effective clinical governance oversight in medication management.
We look forward to reporting on our progress in minimizing and hopefully, eliminating these risks in the coming years
Throughout the reporting period, KDHS consistently reported a patient satisfaction rating of 98% and above. Our staff rating for patient safety is 83% (state average is 72%) and 92% of KDHS staff recommend a friend or relative to be treated as a patient at KDHS. (State average is 72%)
We hope you enjoy reading about what has happened at your local health service in the past 12 months with the assurance that the KDHS Board, Managers, Staff and contracted providers continue to strive towards improving quality and safety outcomes for our community. Peter Abraham Chief Executive
CHIEF EXECUTIVE STATEMENT
KDHS Board of Directors, Management and staff are continuing to build strong partnerships
with our community and the people who may use, or at some stage, need to use our Health
Service. We aim to involve people in their own health care wherever possible and we
encourage and support consumer and community participation in care and treatment
decisions for individual consumers as well as the development, review and improvement of
KDHS services
Consumer involvement in Committees, forums and workshops assists to improve policy and
care, treatment and wellbeing and also assists with the development or review of our
brochures and information.
Consumers participating in the health service governance structures and committees offer a
consumer perspective by providing advice to the Board on issues such as access to services,
redesign and improvement strategies, quality of care, strategic planning, consumer advocacy
and processes for further developing consumer participation and engagement.
The Consumer Participation Plan 2015-2017 has been reviewed and approved in consultation
with the Community & Cultural Governance Committee and consumers. Completion of the
Plan met 100% timelines and is scheduled for further development and actions.
Review processes and progress is a performance indicator of the Committee and a report is
provided bi-annually. Actions and improvements from the Plan include:
Commencement of training for consumer engagement and partnerships
Partners in Practice funding submission and commencement
Consumer Literacy Group review of all new and revised brochures prior to distribution
Diversity Plan reviewed and submitted to DHHS
Policy review including Interpreter and Language Services
CONSUMER, CARER AND COMMUNITY PARTICIPATION
Community and Consumer Experience
Improving the Healthcare Experience
In November 2016, KDHS was announced as one of
four successful recipients of first round funding from the
Health Issues Centre Practice Partners Program.
At KDHS we know that ‘everyone has a healthcare
experience’, and this project encourages patients,
resident’s, carer’s and community members to share
their healthcare journey, experience and ideas with
our staff through ‘CARE’ (conversation and reflective
practice) discussions.
Led by the Quality, Experience and Safety Unit, KDHS
are using these conversations to further develop empathy
in all that we do and to support all staff to see themselves
as caregivers. This occurs through the presentation of
healthcare stories at meetings and as part of staff
education.
Using the healthcare stories, KDHS is working with staff
and a small consumer representative working group to
understand care experiences in relation to patient-
centred care principles. This allows the health service
to deliver improvements in care that meet patient needs,
and ultimately lead to improved safety, quality
care and experience for everyone.”
If you would like to meet with a KDHS
representative to share your story in a
confidential manner, arrange a ‘CARE’
conversation with a small group of friends,
or would like further information, please
email the Experience and Innovative
Practice Coordinator on :
or phone 5857 0300
Key Highlights
15 face-to-face individual
CARE discussions
Monthly meetings of an
“Improving Healthcare
Experience” Working Party
Training of 3 consumers in
“Co-production for Health
Consumers”
Active recruitment of patients
willing to have CARE
discussions
Use of patient CARE
discussion at Clinical
Governance Meetings
Use of experience stories and
data to inform planning and
implementation of services
improvements
Bi-monthly “You said, we did”
posters published to inform
the community of
improvements
Cultural Responsiveness and Diversity
The Community and Cultural Governance Committee and the Aboriginal Health
Governance Committee are involved in assisting us to provide responsive and
accessible services that meet the needs of diverse communities including Aboriginal
and Torres Strait Islander people and the LGBTI community. This also includes
provision of quality, professional language services if required.
The Committee also supports improvements in communicating with culturally and
linguistically diverse groups, ensuring access to all, advocating on the behalf of clients,
ensuring staff knowledge and skills, and provision of culturally appropriate meal choices.
We aim to deliver services that are relevant and accessible for all ensuring
diverse and cultural needs are not a barrier to service provision.
KDHS has continued to deliver improvement objectives in the Cultural Responsiveness
and Disability Plan with significant outcomes including:
Review of Interpreter and Language Services
Access to information in languages appropriate to current patients, residents and
clients as well as for the vision impaired.
Completion of a gap analysis against the Rainbow Tick Standards and an approved
action plan for implementation.
During the 2016-2017 period, the Victorian Hospital Experience Survey (VHES) indicated
that only 4% of responses were from patients from non-English speaking backgrounds
and none of the respondents had requested interpreter services. 3% of patients needed
help understanding English however family and other support was available in all
instances.
Closing the Gap
Improving Care for Aboriginal Patients (ICAP)
KDHS continues to be committed to ensuring appropriate health services are delivered in
accordance with the Aboriginal community’s cultural needs
In May 2017, KDHS employed an Aboriginal Health Liaison Officer (AHLO) to work with
communities and build sustainable relationships while improving access and services with
the engagement and support of the Aboriginal Health Governance Committee. The AHLO
has also focused on enhancing existing relationships with Aboriginal Community
Controlled Health Organisations(ACCHO) and arranging attendance by Rumbulara
representatives to the Health service.
During 2016-2017 we have also:
Investigated and arranged appropriate training and education opportunities for staff
Ensured cultural resources and information is available to help staff better understand
aboriginal culture and respond appropriately
Strengthened the commitment to accurately identifying all Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander patients on admission and when accessing services – this ensures we are
able to provide care appropriate to their cultural needs
Continued to develop positive relationships between KDHS and the local Aboriginal
community
Reviewed and revised the current Aboriginal Health Plan
Continued to work with the University of Melbourne in the Inclusive rural health care
at KDHS project including positive outcome of staff focus groups and workshops
Foundation student’s collage based on the book: “How the Murray River was Made” by Irene Thomas
Family Violence
Prevention, early identification and responding to family violence is a priority action for
KDHS with a number of initiatives both at organisational and community levels
occurring during the last 12 months.
In November 2016, KDHS committed to spreading the White Ribbon message
promoting ‘the positive role men can play to stop violence against women and be part
of this social change’, and participated in a Campaspe Shire awareness campaign.
We recognise domestic violence inflicts physical injury, psychological trauma and
emotional suffering and its impacts can last a lifetime. It can happen to anyone at any
time and knows no socio-economic or cultural boundaries. KDHS is an important
contact point for people who may have experienced family violence, presenting an
opportunity for early identification and referral for those who may be at risk.
Our staff have participated in further education to raise awareness, strengthen their
understanding of, and ability to identify and respond to family violence. KDHS staff
are engaged in the Campaspe Family Violence Action Group and have formed
pathways of support to specialist Family Violence services
Strengthening the Health Service Response to Family Violence
Cancer Services
KDHS commenced delivery of Cancer
Services in July 2016 in partnership with
Goulburn Valley Health to meet the needs
of people with cancer living in Kyabram and
local areas.
Our focus for Cancer Services has been on
providing “Care Close to Home” and this
has resulted in the establishment of the:
Medical Oncology Clinic
Day Oncology Unit
Allied Health and Supportive Care
services
Physical Activity in Cancer Care
Program
The Medical Oncology clinic, staffed by
senior Medical Oncologists, provides a
regular visiting service to Kyabram for
patients who have been recently diagnosed
with cancer, are undergoing chemotherapy
treatment, or having regular specialist
review.
Our four chair Oncology Day Unit was
purpose built to provide chemotherapy and
supportive treatments to patients in a
comfortable and supportive environment.
Extensive planning and development of the
service saw the engagement of consumers
in providing valuable feedback into the
Oncology Day Unit to ensure the
environment, services and resources met
the needs of patients, carers and family
members. The treatment area looks out
onto a restful outdoor area following a
complete ‘garden blitz’ thanks to the
Echuca and Shepparton Bunnings team
and now includes a range of beautiful
plantings, garden furniture and a tranquil
water feature.
Chemotherapy is delivered in a safe
environment via ‘state of the art’ Smart
Infusion Pumps with Oncology Medication
Guardrails, and is supported with the
expertise of the Medical Oncologists and
Oncology Pharmacist. Our dedicated
nursing staff have undergone extensive
training and clinical placement in the
delivery of chemotherapy and have a
strong focus on providing person-centred
and supportive care to all patients.
We recognize that the benefits of exercise
is beneficial for people during cancer
treatment to help manage some of the
common side effects of treatment, speed
up return to usual activities and improve
quality of life. Our trial Physical Activity in
Cancer Care Program has been
established to address this need and an
Accredited Exercise Physiologist is now
offering professional exercise advice to
support people having cancer treatment to
be as physically active as their abilities and
conditions allow.
Cancer Services cont’d
The service is provided at Kyabram District
Health Service, Echuca Regional Health
and Rochester and Elmore District Health
Service. The 6-month trial project, funded
by Loddon Mallee Integrated Cancer
Services, is to develop a service that meets
patient needs and is accessible through a
GP-led chronic disease management plan.
The Exercise Physiologist works closely
with the oncology teams and allied health
staff at the health services to ensure the
exercise plans are safe and tailored to the
individual.
The Medical Oncology Clinic, Oncology
Day Unit and Physical Activity in Cancer
Care Program are valuable community
services which complement the existing
extensive allied health and community
nursing, advance care planning and
palliative care services available at KDHS
to people living with cancer in Kyabram and
surrounding communities.
Breastfeeding Cafe
The Breastfeeding Café continues into
its third year. The group meets on a
monthly basis and welcomes all new
parents to come and seek friendship
from other new parents, listen to guest
speakers and gain support from
midwives and a Maternal and Child
Health Nurse.
The Cafe is advertised via the KDHS
Facebook site as well as in the local
newspaper and all new parents are
encouraged to participate through our
pregnancy care service.
…Thank you to Nursing staff for the care and kindness shown to my husband and the extra time taken to make sure he was comfortable…
Family Member, Oncology Unit
QUALITY AND SAFETY
Clinical Governance
Clinical Governance is a shared responsibility at Kyabram District Health Service. It
provides a framework ensuring we consistently provide safe, high quality care and is
fundamental in ensuring improvements in patient safety.
The KDHS Clinical Governance Framework outlines the organisation’s structures,
processes, staff responsibilities and reporting. Measurement and reporting of
performance is reported to a number of committees and process and outcome measures
are monitored internally or benchmarked with external organisations. The Clinical
Governance Committee meets quarterly and members include consumers, Board
members and staff.
Monitoring and Investigation
KDHS supports a reporting culture in which staff are encouraged to report incidents, inclusive of errors, hazards or near misses. This consistent approach ensures a detailed analysis and review of any serious incidents or adverse events and identifies if there are trends or special cause variations.
Where an adverse event has occurred or where there was an indication that there may
have been the likelihood of such an occurrence, a screening tool is used to guide
investigation processes and enables us to learn from experiences, errors or near misses
and be accountable for the effect they may have on those involved. Communication is
open and honest with all relevant parties under the principles of Open Disclosure
Review includes the Directors of both Medical and Clinical Services, nursing staff and
Medical Officers with reports to the Clinical Quality and Safety Committee and Clinical
Governance Committee
Effectiveness
Consumers of health care should be able to expect that the treatment they will receive will produce measurable benefit. Effectiveness relates to the extent to which the treatment, intervention or service achieves the desired outcome
Appropriateness
Interventions are performed that will produce the desired outcome – appropriateness is about using evidence to do the right thing to the right patient, at the right time, avoiding over and under utilization
Acceptability
Opportunities must be provided for health consumers to participate in health service planning, delivery, monitoring and evaluation at all levels – should enhance the acceptability of services
Safety
Harm arising from care including the environment in which it is carried out, must be avoided and risk minimised in care delivery processes
Accreditation
Accreditation standards provide a nationally consistent statement of the level of care
patients, resident, clients and all members of the community should be able to expect
from health service organisations.
Surveys are conducted by independent bodies and are a rigorous process to assess the
quality of care and services. In May 2017, surveyors from the Australian Council of
Healthcare Standards (ACHS) conducted a successful survey across all Acute and
Primary Health Services with a further 3 year accreditation attained. This result was a
recognition of the commitment of staff in continuing to provide high standards of quality
care and service.
Accreditation
Framework
Applies to: Outcomes
National Safety and Quality Healthcare Standards
Organisation-wide KDHS was successfully accredited in May 2017 for a 3 year period.
Commonwealth Aged Care Accreditation
Sheridan Aged Care Successfully accredited in August 2015
Community Common Care Standards
Community Home Care
Program
District Nursing Social Support Program (formerly Planned Activity)
Successfully accredited - July 2020
Surveyors also noted in the final report that: “The organisation is
commended for the work that they are doing in building and
establishing a culture of safety through; education; training and
support; the provision, review and response to timely and
accurate data; dedication to the involvement of consumers
throughout all aspects of the patient journey; as well as the
passionate leadership within Infection Control and Blood Safety,
in particular” – Final Report June 2017
CONSUMER AND STAFF EXPERIENCES
Surveys are a valuable source of information to assist in improving our performance.
Every 3 months, the Department of Health and Human Services sends a survey to
randomly selected patients and participation is voluntary and anonymous.
This survey, the Victorian Hospital Experience Survey (VHES) looks at many areas
including our nurses, medical practitioners, care, treatment, discharge, communication
and non-clinical services.
For 2016-2017, 97% of patients, both medical and surgical, who responded to the VHES survey rated their overall hospital experience as either 'very good' or 'good'. This was an excellent response and above the overall State rate of 91%. For both the January – March and April – June 2017 periods, KDHS achieved 100%
Discharge
During 2016 – 2017, all clinical departments have maintained a strong focus on discharge planning
and continuing care and treatment in the home environment where the need has been identified.
Review of discharge is continuing and incorporates medication information, discharge summaries,
planning for continuing services and processes to obtain feedback and support for patients once
they had returned home.
Discharge surveys have been revised and phone calls from staff following discharge enable
patients to discuss any concerns and ensure they have any further information they may need.
The overall discharge satisfaction
rate for the 2016-2017 period is
98% in comparison to the overall
State average of 84%.
Survey results again identified some areas for improvement including discharge
processes and there is a continuing focus on improving the discharge process,
information provided and discharge planning.
The Victorian Hospital Experience Survey for Community Health Services was also
introduced in 2016 however there were not enough responses for an result to be
provided, This survey will again be held commencing October 2017 with a focus by staff
on working with clients to provide feedback
Happy or Not?
To further strengthen our quality Feedback mechanisms, KDHS have introduced “Happy
or Not” feedback collection units.
These units are used to target a specific question over a designated time period and
are available in four locations across the organisation. While the answers do not provide
comprehensive feedback information, they allow measurement of satisfaction and are
used to support areas that are a focus at any given time.
They have also been instrumental in assisting the measurement of our empathy value
and providing improvement data following the introduction of the “Hello, my name is…”
campaign.
2 examples of the improvement results following improvement measures are:
Do you know the name of the person
caring for you today?
Improved from 67% in July to 88% in
December following introduction of the
“Hello, my name is…” campaign
Have your needs been met today? Measuring consumer reaction to KDHS
values – 92%, an improvement of 4% from
88% in 2016
Complaints KDHS recognises that compliments,
suggestions and complaints are a
valuable source of feedback and form an
integral part of our continuous quality
improvement systems. Handling
complaints and acknowledging
compliments involves all staff.
Information on the process for providing feedback is available with the feedback boxes but is
also provided in all patient, resident and consumer information brochures. Each time a
complaint is received, it is communicated to the appropriate Manager who conducts a
thorough review. The outcome of the investigation, including an explanation of any
contributing factors and lessons learned, is communicated back to the consumer.
Details are used anonymously to
improve practice and reports are
provided to the Clinical Governance
Committee.
During 2016 -2017, the number of
complaints has increased by 14% to 49
from 42 in 2015-2016. 47% related to
care and interaction with staff, a
decrease of 8%) while administrative processes and facilities made up the remainder and
included concerns with access, signage, equipment and communication
Patients, residents, clients and their families are also able to lodge complaints with the Health
Complaints Commissioner if they are not satisfied with outcomes of investigations by KDHS.
The Aged Care Complaints Commissioner also investigates complaints related to Residential
Aged Care and Community Home Support programs. There have been no complaints lodged
externally during 2016-2017
During 2017, a visual report on complaint and suggestion outcomes was also developed and
is displayed throughout the Health Service and on the KDHS website.
“You Said, We Did…” provides information on complaints and suggestions and the outcomes
to ensure all members of our community are aware of the actions taken
and the importance to KDHS of feedback received
…”This hospital is the best ever. Kids
should be given lollies at appointments – I
really want to come here again”…
5 year old Joseph
…Lodged a complaint about treatment
and attitude towards daughter by a
service at KDHS – more than happy with
the way it was managed and the ongoing
communication…
John G
2013-2014 2014-2015- 2015-2016 2016-2017
Total 43 32 42 49
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
Total Complaints
Compliments
Compliments are also important as recognition of the care and services we provide.
They are acknowledged and shared with the staff
involved.
Recording of formal compliments commenced
In 2015 and in 2016-2017, 41 written
compliments have been received as well as many
thank you cards and informal notes of appreciation.
This does not include the numerous cards and
thank you’s provided directly to staff.
Compliments recorded were also for clinical care,
the Advanced Care Planning program and the
facilities provided.
KDHS continuously explores ways to encourage
consumers, families, carers and staff to provide
feedback on care and services whether that is a compliment, complaint or suggestion.
… Compassionate, caring
and thoughtful staff…
Adele P (MSW)
Our Facebook page provides information to the
community and our “Likes” continue to
increase. The KDHS website also has a new
look. www.kyhealth.org.au
Please also follow us on our new Instagram page _kyhealth
…Excellent care from all
Nursing staff and Doctors
O.F. Day Surgery…
Lois B
Staff Experience and Patient Safety
People Matter
Staff at KDHS are asked annually to participate in an external survey - “People Matter” -
distributed by the Victorian Public Sector Commission. Information is gathered across a
broad range of people management issues such as employee commitment and job
satisfaction. Another focus area is staff feedback on patient safety and in 2017, 47% of
staff participated with above average results on all questions when compared with similar
health services.
97% of staff responding to the survey believe the organisation provides high quality
services and that the organisation is driving towards a “safety-centred organisation” with
87% job satisfaction. 91% believe KDHS treats employees with dignity and respect while
92% stated they would recommend KDHS to relatives and friends
KDHS continues to focus on embedding our Values of Empathy, Wellbeing and
Community with a continuing focus on further embedding the values within every
department.
Following a Board commitment in 2015, “Crucial Conversations”, a two-day education
course, has continued to provide staff with the necessary skills for fostering open dialogue
with almost 200 staff completing the training.
…Fantastic, friendly staff – highly
recommend to anyone…
CONTINUITY OF CARE
Perioperative Services
Kyabram Health secured the services of 2
new surgeons in 2017.
Dr Senthil Rengasamy provides another
option for our community as an
orthopaedic specialist and Dr Muthukumar
Subramaniyan provides Ear, Nose and
Throat specialist
services to our
community.
Both surgeons consult in Kyabram and
provide surgical services at KDHS on a
monthly basis.
Our ability to provide endoscopic surgery
has been enhanced with the purchase of a
new colonoscope, as well as a carbon
dioxide gas unit that ensures a better
postoperative period for clients as they
recover from a colonoscopy. To further
complement our endoscopic services, a
processor that allows for digital imagery
has also been purchased in 2017.
KDHS continue to utilise the services of a
theatre consultant to review and provide
guidance for our perioperative services
Minor Procedure Treatment
Rooms
Until 2016 minor procedures were being
conducted in the Day Procedure Unit by
Doctors and were identified as a less than
optimal patient experience while also
impacting on Theatre availability and
available funds.
As a result of review, minor
procedures were relocated
to an ambulatory care
setting in the Health &
Wellbeing Wing and provided an improved
care and treatment experience in a safe
and appropriate setting for non-admitted
treatment services.
The service commenced in 2016 and
following implementation, surveys were
sent out to clients and all doctors
participating in the provision of services
through the clinic. There was 100%
satisfaction from both clients and GP's with
some feedback and suggestions for
improvement.
As a result, lighting has been improved
and additional sources found for the
provision of specialized equipment.
Satisfaction with the changes is reflected
in continuing increased usage.
Renal Dialysis
The Renal Dialysis (RDU) at KDHS currently operates Monday to Saturday and continues to
facilitate treatments for 12 local patients from the Kyabram district and wider community with
7 permanent, experienced staff members. The Unit is also to provide treatments for visiting or
holidaying patients from around Australia and overseas and demand increases for this service
over the Christmas and Easter periods.
Kyabram RDU remains a satellite unit of St Vincent’s Melbourne and continues to benefit from
their ongoing support, including a visiting Renal Nurse Practitioner.
A satisfaction survey of clients in 2017 noted an overall increase in satisfaction of 7% from
89% in 2015 to 96% in 2017.
Further information was provided in relation to a response relating to knowledge of
complaints systems.
Infection Prevention and Control
Infection Prevention and Control – Our priority
Infection prevention & control is the responsibility of management and all health care
workers within our health service.
An infection is an illness caused by “germs” such bacteria and viruses. By following a few
simple measures such as hand hygiene and vaccinating staff against influenza, we can
reduce the risk of spreading germs to patients, resident’s staff and visitors.
KDHS participates in the National Hand Hygiene (HH) Initiative. To facilitate hand hygiene
compliance, hand basins and alcohol hand rub are located throughout the organisation.
Signage also promotes HH to staff, patients and visitors. In 2016, HH stands were placed
at the entrance to the hospital, urgent care and at the café. This encourages outpatients
and visitors to be aware and practice hand hygiene.
Health care workers compliance to the 5 moments of HH is audited regularly. The
organisation consistently achieves the performance target of 80% compliance and in June
2017, this figure has increased to 85%.
The April – June 2017 VHES results indicated 94% of patients noted hand-wash gels
were available for patients and visitors to use
and that they had observed staff using hand
hygiene products.
5 Moment sof Hand Hygiene:
Before touching a patient
Before a procedure
After a procedure or body fluid exposure
After touching a patient
After touching a patient’s surroundings
Staff Health: Vaccination Program
Staff health is another essential component of infection control and prevention. It
incorporates immunisation and the management of occupational exposure.
KDHS offers all health care workers free influenza vaccination. Even healthy people can
catch and spread the flu bug and vaccination is the most effective protection against
influenza.
Strategies have been introduced to increase the immunisation rate including
immunisation hours, providing a mobile service to departments and use of promotional
literature. As a result, 230 (76%) of 301 health care workers were vaccinated against
influenza in 2017. This is an increase of 22 staff with a vaccination rate of 76%.
50
60
70
80
90
2014 2015 2016 2017
Sta
ff r
ate
- %
Immunisation Rates
Food Safety Program
External third party audits are
conducted each year and
determine compliance with both
the Victorian Food Act 1984 and
FSANZ (Food Standards Code)
2009.
Following a comprehensive review of
the Food Safety Plan, KDHS has again been compliant against the standards and is
reviewing the Plan to ensure it continues to meet legislative and safety requirements.
Cleaning and Environment
Cleaning standards and auditing requirements for healthcare facilities are governed by
the Cleaning Standards for Victorian Public health facilities 2011. Environmental cleaning
schedules are in place and audits undertaken regularly. Until June 30th 2017, external
cleaning audit results have been forwarded to DHHS.
Internal audits are also regularly conducted and are reported to the Infection Prevention
and Control Committee for
discussion. During 2016-2017,
cleaning audits continued to meet
very high standards exceeding
mandatory compliance rates on all
occasions for all Moderate to Very
High Risk areas.
Survey results from the Victorian Hospital Experience survey also support audit results
with 96% of patients finding the hospital “very clean” – this is an improvement of 10%
from the previous year and is 21% the State average
Moderate
High
Very High
Moderate High Very High
Mandatory 85% 85% 90%
KDHS 90% 93% 98%
Average % Compliance
…Staff are to congratulated for achieving
such a high cleaning standards…
ACHS Surveyors, Mary 2017
Moderate
High
Very High
Moderate High Very High
Mandatory 85% 85% 90%
KDHS 90% 93% 98%
Average % Compliance
Blood Matters
With a qualified Transfusion Nurse on site, there continues to be significant improvements
in the management of blood and blood products.
The Transfusion Nurse works with staff, reviewing all aspects of blood product transfusion
and any associated issues or concerns. Audits of practice, systems and documentation
occur monthly and results are reported to all staff and management.
A project that commenced in 2013 focusing on Orthopaedics has continued to be
successful in the reduction of unnecessary transfusions and compliance with the National
Blood Authority Patient Blood management guidelines. As a result, combined rates for hip
and knee replacements transfusions has reduced from 80% in 2012 to 6% (one-two
patients per year) as the result of diligent blood testing prior to surgery and changing of
practices .
This project is again being evaluated to focus on length of patient stay and discharge
planning.
One of the major focuses for blood and blood product management is on clear and
complete documentation to ensure clinicians are able to document the best possible
transfusion history and make informed decisions and has seen the introduction of not only
a blood pathway, but also an Immunoglobulin pathway and a Ferinject pathway.
Following scheduled audit processes and some minor changes to the document,
significant improvement has been achieved with compliance increasing to 100% from
82% in the 2015-2016 period
The areas of improvement include:
Consent – an increase from 84% to over 90% with only 1 consent not signed due to
emergency circumstances.
A new patient education booklet for patient information has been simplified to ensure
patient understanding of procedures
Development of a Massive Transfusion policy and kit. This resulted from a mock
scenario held during Blood Transfusion Month with 24 nurses and 3 Doctors involved
and attending. Pathology staff also attended.
The introduction and promotion of Ferinject to improve treatment for patients who are
found with lower than normal Iron levels. This has reduced a patient’s admission time
for iron treatment from 6-8 hrs to only 30 minutes. It has also seen a substantial
increase in the diagnosis and treatment of patients with iron deficiency anaemia
(IDA). In 2014, 9 patients presented for Iron therapy increasing to 99 in a 6 month
period in 2017.
All clinical staff participates in the Blood Safe e-learning program with ongoing support
and resourcing by the Transfusion Nurse who also conducts short education sessions for
staff. 86% of staff in the Acute, Theatre, Porters, District Nursing and Dialysis areas have
currently completed the training package.
Medication Safety
At KDHS medication safety depends on providing the right medication to the right patient
in the right dose and at the right time and there are continuing efforts to ensure
medication safety for all patients and residents.
Medication Month is held annually in March with promotion of safety and staff education
supported by visual displays, resources and a staff awareness campaign. There is also a
focus on improving incident reporting for medications to ensure all “near miss” incidents
are captured. These incidents are those were a prescribing, dispensing or documentation
error may lead to an incident if not identified prior to administration.
An annual medication administration competency program is available for all Registered
Nurses and medication-endorsed Enrolled Nurses and KDHS participates in the National
Medication Chart audit program and bi-annual completion of the National Medication
Safety review.
With the opening of the Oncology Day Unit, a Pharmacy Chemotherapy Action Plan was
developed, implemented and monitored to ensure safe practice with 84% of required
actions now completed and the remainder being addressed. A risk assessment was also
completed Minor Procedures Treatment Clinic to ensure safe medication storage and
access and has resulted in secure storage and access.
There is a continuing focus on medication management and administration resulting in a
decrease in incidents over the year of 7% from 175 to 163. 55% of these incidents (91)
are rated as “Near Miss” where the possibility of an incident was identified before
administration of medication. It is also important to note that many of the total number of
incidents and “near miss” reports, (46%) directly relate to documentation, security,
storage, and prescribing. Of the total number of incidents reported, none have had an
adverse outcome or resulted in patient harm.
Patients are also provided with information at discharge about changes to their
medications including those to continue, which medicines may have stopped being used
and any new medication that has been started.
Acute MSW Sheridan
2014-2015 48 16
2015-2016 95 81
2016-2017 99 64
0
20
40
60
80
100
120
Medication Incidents
Falls Prevention and Management
The Falls Committee has been active in ensuring all patients, residents, clients and staff
have access to current and comprehensive information and resources.
Strategies and guidelines are in place for falls prevention and management throughout
KDHS and includes assessment and screening on admission to the hospital, residential
aged care and community care.
The number of falls has decreased by 12% for the period with 2 fractures reported as a
result of falls in Aged Care.
Policies and procedures have been reviewed and equipment has been purchased to
assist falls prevention including sensor mats, mobility aids and improved nurse call
systems.
Pressure Injury Management and Prevention
Acute MSW Aged Care
0
50
100
150
200
By Clinical Area
2014-2015 2015-2016 2016-2017
Pressure injuries most commonly occur when patients are elderly or are confined to bed
and susceptible areas of their body are subject to constant pressure.
A four-point classification scale on the depth of the injury is used to determine the
severity and treatment options from stage 1 through to stage 4.
Screening and management of at risk patients ensures prevention strategies are in place
and include consultations with wound specialists, pressure relieving mattresses and heel
protectors. Patients, carers and family are also involved in developing appropriate
strategies for management and information is provided both during their stay and on
discharge.
There were 22 pressure injuries reported in the Acute area, an increase of 10 from the
previous year. Of the 22, 12 were admitted with existing pressure injuries either from
another health care facility or from their home and 4 of these patients had multiple
pressure injuries present. Of total admissions, this is 0.1% of 100 occupied bed days for
admitted inpatients.
Aged Care Services
Sheridan Aged Care
Sheridan has developed a framework for
moving the residential service to a more
consumer driven model of care delivery
incorporating partnerships in care - one that
emphasizes the resident’s experience. The
key concept is “how do we make each day
special for the individual”. This program is
called, “Continuing my life’s journey – my
way”.
Workshops for staff, residents and relatives
have commenced and it is anticipated that
a service specific model will be developed
and ready for trial by January 2018.
Sheridan hopes that the model will
incorporate a level of flexibility so that all
resident cohorts now and into the future will
be supported to meet their goals.
Sheridan recently undertook a very
successful celebration of Aged Care Week
within the public health sector. This week
involved the following activities:
Nomination for PSRAC Aged Care
Volunteer Award – local photographer
Kylie Biltris nominated for her work with
Sheridan residents
Staff & Volunteer Feature Wall displayed
in the Sheridan foyer which has been
well read
Appreciation Notes (KDHS all
departments, residents, families,
community) – 120+ received
Staff and volunteer nominations for
Recognition Awards which were
announced at a special afternoon
tea and presented by the KDHS
Director of Clinical Services
Facebook page – Posting every day
throughout the celebratory week,
photos of resident and staff
engagement.
Resident activities including creation
of an Acrostic Poem in appreciation
of Staff & Volunteers which was
presented at the afternoon
celebration.
Sheridan has embraced social media
particularly the last 12 months providing
an opportunity for residents to retain their
community involvement. It’s noted with
delight that when residents are featured,
hits to those uploads well exceed normal
traffic with many family members sharing
the photos with their loved ones. This has
now evolved into a regular resident
activity where the facebook posts are
displayed on the large screen TV to
enable residents to view posts and all
comments made by family and friends.
Sheridan will commence a Carers group,
from September 2017 to enable
supporting partnerships in care service
delivery and allow opportunities for debrief
and education that supports the carer role.
The program will be run on a monthly
basis and carers will have access to carer
respite during the program
Aged Care Quality Indicators
Pressure Injuries
Pressure injuries occur when an area of skin has been damaged due to unrelieved
pressure. It usually occurs over the bony areas especially heels, buttocks and toes. There
has been a decrease of 19% in pressure injuries overall for the period with only Stage 1
and 2 reported.
Falls and Fractures
A comprehensive falls assessment is conducted by nursing staff and takes into
consideration the resident history, medical conditions, medications and mobility to
determine the risk of falls. For the 2016-2017 period, there has been a decrease of 24%
and fractures remain at 2 with ongoing reviews to identify areas for further improvement.
We strive to minimise these events and injuries while respecting the individuality of the
residents and risks that may present. Interventions have been implemented for improved
management of falls including increased use of sensor mats to alert staff.
Use of Physical Restraint
The use of physical restraint and type of restraint is similar and is above the rate of other
facilities across the state as there are a number of residents who have requested
interventions for their safety at various times. Even though this is implemented at the
residents request, such use meets the Department definition of restraint and therefore
must be reported and included in data. We continue to minimise use as much as possible
while respecting the choices made by residents and family who may request that
restraints are used for resident safety.
Multiple Medication Use
Sheridan residents who have more than nine medications prescribed remains comparable
to the previous period however at times, is above both the average and the State rate.
Medication is reviewed by the doctor and only prescribed as required dependent on each
individual resident. The number of residents who are prescribed more than 9 medications
has decreased in the latter part of the period.
Unplanned Weight Loss
Resident weights are monitored from admission and then monthly to ensure any concern
for resident weight loss is investigated, referred to the dietician and that adequate and
appropriate nutrition and hydration is provided. A personalised care plan is developed and
residents have a choice of meals. Sheridan continues to monitor and review weight loss
for all residents and this has resulted in consistent improvement in weight loss and
management for the year. There are systems in place to provide high quality food options
and a review of meals and delivery is occurring.
Our Journey to Sheridan, June 2017
Dad was admitted to Sheridan in June 2017 after a 3 month stay in Acute Services at
Kyabram District Health. Previous to this, Mum had looked after Dad at home with
visits from district nurses and St John of God.
The day of the move was very distressing for all of us but the staff at Sheridan were
friendly and welcoming; we had a couple of hiccups in the first couple of weeks but
after having a meeting with the Aged Care Manager, we got the concerns sorted out
very quickly.
There was never-ending paper work but staff were very knowledgeable and
helpful and navigated us through this process.
98 % of the staff have been amazing, they are very friendly and have been very
respectful and professional. Dad and Mum have a few favourites that go above and
beyond for them both and they bring a smile to Dad when they are in his room.
Dad was only in Sheridan a couple of weeks when he had his 89th birthday. The
staff were amazing, from posters wishing him a happy birthday to a beautiful nurse
baking Dad a cake. This helped us all settle in so much quicker.
The facility is bright and clean and welcoming and it is a credit to everyone involved.
The nursing staff at Sheridan have been awesome. They smile and speak
whenever we are visiting and they are giving dad and mum awesome care and
some laughs along the way. Dad knows about road trips and feet massages, car
shows and families. He enjoys the banter that happens in his room.
Dad is yet to become involved in Sheridan activities. The lifestyle coordinator has
tried but hopefully one day soon this will happen.
The cleaning staff are doing a great job and dad enjoys their conversation while
they are busy cleaning.
The catering staff do a great job and are also very friendly; again we have a few
favourites!!!
So to sum up our very anxious transition to Sheridan – it’s been an amazing journey,
meeting so many wonderful people along the way.
Thank you
Joy, Don and Glad
Planned Activity Group
The purpose of a Planned Activity Group
(PAG) is to contribute to both the physical
and emotional wellbeing of participants and
improve their ability to live at home as
independently as possible
A range of enjoyable and meaningful
activities are provided to enhance the
participant’s wellbeing and maintain their
skills. They are also able to enjoy social
interaction with others and participate in the
community outings and activities. For
people with carers, Planned Activity Groups
also support the care relationship.
The activities provided in PAG are
designed with this in mind. We currently run
three programs across Kyabram and
Stanhope combined with twice weekly bus
outings. Client satisfaction with the
program, the information provided and the
activities and choices remains at 100% with
83% of the respondents stating they are
“very satisfied”
Kyabram PAG has also enjoyed merging
with Stanhope participants for some new
events in 2017. One in particular was
‘Andrea Ruie DVD on the Big Screen’ and
a number of interesting screenings of David
Attenborough’s engaging Life DVD’s.
Campaspe Shire Library also provide a
range of activities on a monthly basis with
the most recent being the introduction of
technology utilising the iPad with a program
called OSMO.
OSMO is an interactive game of
recognition of words, pictures and shapes
and has the capacity to recognise the
participant’s skill level and automatically
adjust the game to match. This allows a
range of participants to use OSMO at the
same time and be supported at their own
cognitive level.
In the past year, the clients have also
enjoyed:
A cultural experience during NAIDOC
week
The monthly BBQ.
monthly men’s ‘Ky Club’ luncheon outing
while the ladies indulge in High Tea.
Art and painting each month with local
artist Murray Ross
Concerts including “ Fred Astaire “ in
concert and “Frankie J Holden and
Michelle Pettigrove” both at Riverlinks
during 2016-2017
Regular bus trips for lunch and
sightseeing to Echuca, Rushworth,
Tatura, Nathalia, Numurkah
The PAG Team are continuing to review
programs in consultation with clients to
ensure we meet their needs and provide a
program that is client focused.
Transition Care Programme (TCP)
Transition care provides short-term care
that seeks to optimise the functioning and
independence of older people after a
hospital stay. The care is goal-oriented,
time-limited and therapy-focused. It
provides older people with a package of
services that includes low intensity
therapy such as physiotherapy and
occupational therapy as well as social
work, nursing support or personal care to
maintain and improve physical and/or
cognitive functioning.
It seeks to enable older people to return
home after a hospital stay rather than
enter residential care prematurely.
…Program couldn’t be better.
And I would not be here if it
wasn’t for the care, thank you all
so much….
…The Transition Care Program
was a vital step in ensuring
continued supported
independence at home….
TCP Breakfast Group
Primary and Community Health
Diabetes Management and Education
The Diabetes Service at Kyabram District Health Service has successfully met the high standards of
the National Association of Diabetes Centres
(NADC) to be recognised as an NADC accredited
Diabetes Centre. We participated in a rigorous
accreditation process demonstrating our commitment
to diabetes care, quality improvement and improving
health outcomes through displaying reflective
practice, evidence based care and best practice
clinical care. This process has seen a collaboration
with an Endocrinology specialist Dr Esther Briganti
which provided the opportunity to expand services
offered for Type 1 diabetes clients within Kyabram
and surrounding areas.
We were commended on a proactive and reactive service to meet goals of high level patient-
centred care, empowering clients with pre-diabetes care, multidisciplinary integrated care and
strong collaboration.
We offer diabetes services to clients with Type 1, type 2 and gestational diabetes. Our service
includes group education programs. In February 2017 a Continuous Glucose Monitoring clinic
has been added to the services at Kyabram, which is enabling us to meet the needs of more
clients and improving health outcomes. This service is through GP or Endocrinologist referral. It
entails a small sensor being inserted into the abdomen, a small transmitter being attached to
the sensor and up to 288 interstitial glucose reading being uploaded to a receiver. This receiver
is then uploaded at the end of the 7 day period, which gives valuable data and graphs for
guiding adjustment/modification to diabetes management. The Diabetes Care Centre at
Kyabram District Health Service is now assisting other health services within the LGA and
Hume region to initiate the same process assisting in the development of service excellence in
relation to Diabetes care within rural Victoria.
Client comments:
"Very happy with the staff, they were amazing"
"It was helpful receiving the information from the
download so I could review it to see where improvement
be made. The continuous glucose monitor definitely
would help in the management of diabetes. Thank you"
Mind & Body Gentle Yoga – Tai Chi
Many studies have been written on the holistic health benefits of Yoga and Tai Chi. With this in
mind, Community Health Nurses from Stanhope and Tongala Health, outreach sites of
Kyabram District Health Service worked in partnership and designed co existing programs of
Yoga and Tai Chi for registered Community & Allied Health clients. These clients were referred
from previous disciplines e.g. Physiotherapy, Cardiac Rehabilitation and the Strength and
Balance Programs.
The pilot program of Gentle Mind & Body Yoga and Tai Chi was provided to complement
existing programs by offering clients the opportunity to participate in an exercise program which
provided both physical and mental health wellbeing.
These gentle forms of exercise and stress management both bring mind and body together.
Yoga – “Union” – a harmony between the physical, mental, emotional and spiritual aspects
of life, is built on the tree main elements of exercise, breathing and meditation. A gentle
form of exercise and stress management.
Tai Chi – the generation of life energy - integrates gentle flowing movements with deep
breathing which gently revitalizes the body and relaxes the mind, promoting and
maintaining relaxation and strength with minimum use of muscle.
The benefits of both exercises are that they incorporate low-impact, slow-motion movements
and incorporate a relaxation therapy.
The pilot programs were evaluated with pre and post surveys which gave positive results.
Participants charted and graded their readiness to change and achievements on individual care
plans which, when reviewed, showed individual health goals were reached.
The success of the Yoga and Tai Chi pilot programs has opened the way for future
implementation and integration into
Community and Allied Health Services.
…My calmness & awareness of my body &
health has carried over from my classes, so
they have had ongoing benefits to me…
District Nursing
The KDHS District Nursing Service provides individualized in-home services for clients within the
Kyabram, Girgarre and Merrigum areas. Staff aim to improve the health status and maximize the
independence of their clients and carers.
Services include palliative care, hygiene care,
medication management, wound management,
and breast cancer care. Staff work closely with a
client’s general practitioner and other health
providers to ensure a combined approach to
achieving quality care and outcomes. Self-referrals
are accepted as well as referrals from hospitals, and general practitioners.
During 2016-2017, there have been improvements implemented in management systems,
equipment and storage and the provision of mobile communication equipment including:
Developed a clinical waste management policy for the community setting
Reviewed Medication Administration policy
Developed and implemented a policy for Cytotoxic Waste and Spills Management and Disposal
Introduced mobile tablets and phones for immediate offsite contact and access to data
Developed and implemented an observation toolbox for staff on home visits to ensure all client
clinical needs are able to be met safely and promptly by staff
New secure document storage and key safe systems installed
Primary and Allied Health Speech Pathology
A survey in clients in 2017 highlighted 86% client satisfaction with care and services – this was
a slight decrease of 7% from 2016 with further actions taken to ensure provision of information
on complaints handling and advocacy
During 2015-2016, Primary & Allied Health Speech Pathologists have worked extensively with
parents, kindergarten teachers and children to introduce a screening program for early
intervention for children prior to them commencing school.
The success of this program was dependent on Allied Health, parents and educators working
closely together to implement an innovative model for early intervention services. The program
has continued with developmental screening in early years education to assist in increasing
early identification and provision of therapeutic input for those at-risk. At this time, 36% of the
children screened have been recommended for referral to Speech Pathology Services.
Teachers and parents have participated in consultation throughout the process and further
focus groups are scheduled for feedback on the program, structure, content and evaluation for
further improvement. Teachers have also engaged with Speech Pathologists in education to
provide them with skills to identify concerns and feel more confident and equipped to
recommend referral pathways to families.
…I am very grateful to the Service
and the friendship of “the girls”.
Services are excellent…
Campaspe Early Childhood Intervention Service (CECIS)
The Campaspe Early Childhood Intervention Service
(CECIS ) is a program that provides support and assistance
to children and their families with a disability or developmental
delay from birth to schoolage. This service works with the child
and their family to provide the support, skills and knowledge to
meet the changing needs of their child’s development and to
optimise the child’s development.
During the past 12 months (CECIS) has undergone many changes in preparation of the
transitioning into National Disability Insurance Service (NDIS). All of our current families in our
service as well as the families that left our service last year, will all transition
across to the NDIS. The current ECIS staff have spent the past 12 months ensuring that we
have a sound understanding of this new model service delivery so that we can assist our
families through a smooth transition to ensure the best possible outcomes for our families.
To ensure that we can provide the highest quality service here at KDHS for our families under
the NDIS scheme, we will be extending our service, which is currently birth to school age, to a
accommodate the important transition into school environment and we will be now providing a
service from birth to 18 years of age.
In preparation for this change of service delivery, the current have reviewed many current
process’s to ensure that we are delivering an efficient and effective service. This includes the
introduction of a new process to allow for electronic documentation, service planning and
delivery, recording of statistical data as well as all recording all relevant information for the
client. The added benefit is that it will be available on to mobile devices so that the clinicians
will be able to use this program wherever the service delivery occurs.
In June this year, our annual satisfaction survey was completed with 100% satisfaction in all
areas Some of the comments provided to the team were as follows:
The team has been very good. They are helpful and very accommodating, they are easy to
get along with and are excellent with [my child].
The key Worker helped with accommodating our needs as a family and what best suited.
I am very grateful that they have the option off seeing me in my home town as I don’t
currently have car to drive to Kyabram
Another exciting aspect that the CECIS team has been working on in the last 12 months
is the development of various group sessions to offer to our families in the future.
Due to high demand one of the groups, “Skills for School” has begun running during term
3 this year and has been very well received by our families with high numbers attending
every week.
Advance Care Planning
The provision of a free Community Advanced Care Planning (ACP) service is promoted
to the community through education and information sessions with 100% of ACP’s
managed through the Health Service.
A comprehensive review of the ACP program has been completed against the DHHS
ACP key priorities (Advance care planning: have the conversation – a strategy for
Victorian health services 2014 -2018) with 100% compliance against expected outcomes
in the third year of a four year requirement.
Advance Care Planning Policy is comprehensive and current for all clinical areas. 100%
of ACPs are documented in the healthcare record with scheduled monitoring, auditing
and reporting mechanisms in place to identify any required improvement
A complete and comprehensive Information Pack is in place to assist patient and family in
decision making processes. In 2016, at the suggestion of a family member, any person
wishing to make an appointment and discussion Advance Care Planning is provided with
a letter of what to think about, what will be discussed and the steps of the process prior to
their first appointment. Inpatients are provided with information to enable them to make
informed decisions and appointments are made on request to meet with the ACP
Coordinator following discharge or during their admission
In September 2016, ACP became part of the Primary Health team as it fits well within our
community care model. A survey of a randomly selected group of clients was completed
in March 2017 with 18 of 20 responses. Results identified that 100% of clients are very
satisfied with the process.
2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 YTD
No. of ACP's 0 41 151 262 327 405
0
50
100
150
200
250
300
350
400
450
No. of ACP's
Volunteers
Volunteers are Vital!
At Kyabram District Health
Service we value the
contribution volunteers
make across all sections of
our organisation.
Working in a wide range of
areas including Sheridan
Aged Care, Social Support
Group (SSG), Acute,
Primary Health and Support
Services, volunteers bring a
wealth of knowledge, skills and
abilities that are greatly
appreciated by staff and consumers.
Our dedicated group of 43 volunteers are a vital part of the KDHS team and we are
grateful for their ongoing support.
In the last financial year our volunteers have contributed in excess of 4,845 hours of
volunteering across our organisation - this does not include the contribution of the Ladies
Auxillary, Heart Group and members of our Consumer Partnerships.
KDHS volunteers played a vital role in the development of a Youtube Campapse Region
Volunteering Story which was launched in June and is available on our website at
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IBSPM55Bz-E
They have also enjoyed a movie night at the Plaza Theatre to celebrate National
Volunteer Week and have participated in the two wellness days which showcase the
services available through Primary Health and included yoga and exercise classes.
This year we have farewelled one of our long time Sheridan volunteers, Val Sartori who
has retired after 30 years. We also acknowledge Shirley Carmody, Jeanette Mc Gregor
and Helen Hearn who celebrate 10 years of volunteering at PAG / Social Support Group
Education and Training
Education continues to be delivered to over staff at KDHS by internal and external
facilitators with a range of topics provided against the National Quality and Safety
Standards , Aged Care Standards, legislation and best practice. External education
provided has included Advanced Life Support Safe Medication Management, Assessment
of the Older Person, Care of the Deteriorating Patient, ECG Interpretation and Mental
Health Education.
Many staff have also completed education externally specific to their individual role.
A comprehensive review was completed during the year on training and education units
for all staff and changes were introduced in May 2017. With continued staff diligence,
clinical competency, currency and relevance to practice has been maintained. There has
been a slight increase in staff competency attainment, with an improvement of 11%
completion as at 30th June 2017
Students
KDHS has provided support for approximately 100 students from a range of disciplines
including nursing, physiotherapy, occupational therapy and speech pathology in the last
financial year. Strong relationships also continue with a number of Universities and
Registered Training Organisations including La Trobe University and GOTAFE with new
partnerships created with other Training Providers
KDHS also supports Work Experience placements in conjunction with local schools for
Year 10 – 12 students. Areas of placement include Nursing and Allied Health. Affiliated
schools are St Augustine’s College, Moama Anglican Grammar, Rochester Secondary
College and Kyabram P12 College
Graduate Nurse Program
In 2017, KDHS welcomed 3 Graduate Nurses Who work on a rotational basis across the
organisation spending time in Acute and Aged Care with the ability to gain experience in
both Theatre and the District Nursing Service. There is also a Graduate Physiotherapist
and Exercise Physiologist on the staff who work directly with their Department Managers
and staff.
www.kyhealth.org.au
35 Birdwood AvenueStanhope VIC 3623
Phone: (03) 5857 0451 Email: [email protected]
37 Mangan StreetTongala VIC 3621
Phone: (03) 5857 0245Email: [email protected]
Fenaughty StreetKyabram VIC 3620
Phone: (03) 5857 0200Email: [email protected]