Public Sector Updates – North West

North West Community Rapid Response Service

The ANMF met with members at North West Community Rapid Response Service (ComRRS) to discuss the initial process for a change proposal and also provided an opportunity to ask industrial questions. Once further details are available, the ANMF will be ready to assist members through the process.

Mersey Community Hospital (MCH)

Close Observation Unit

The ANMF met with members at the MCH Close Observation Unit (COU) to discuss the impact of 12 hour shifts and provide an opportunity to answer questions. The ANMF noted member questions and will provide answers via email to the Nurse Unit Manager (NUM) in late April 2023.

Emergency Department

The ANMF on behalf of members at the MCH Emergency Department (ED) have written to THS management seeking the following outcomes to workload and safe staffing concerns relating to overnight staffing levels when there are bed blocked patients. ANMF members have asked that management:

1. Clearly articulate what constitutes safe staffing taking into account the unique needs of ED patients and the unit.
2. Develop and trial a “matrix” document or similar that would support clinical decision making.
3. Instigate a daily formal process to identify and source additional nurses if required.

A member meeting will be convened to seek members direction once a response is received. Keep an eye out for the invite in your email.