31 October 2018

The resolution to refuse overtime in the Royal Hobart Hospital (RHH) continues, with members at the Launceston General Hospital (LGH) joining with the same action. ANMF wish to congratulate all members within the RHH main theatre for their sustained push back on overtime.

ANMF notes that cardiac theatre nurses have found it difficult to participate in the overtime ban due to a shortage of experienced nurses. The ANMF wish to acknowledge the cardiac theatre nurses ongoing commitment to the campaign despite their staff shortages and the sustained pressure to continue working overtime. As a result of this action it has become evident that the RHH main theatres have been operating for some time on significant goodwill from the nursing staff.

A number of concerns have been raised with the ANMF that represent workload and operational issues for members. The ANMF are currently writing to Surgical and Perioperative management in response to these concerns. Solutions to some of these issues have been included with this letter and the ANMF hope to provide a response to members when available.