NCOSS welcomes Bill keeping Registered nurses in nursing homes

Last Thursday, a Bill reinstating the requirement for nursing home to have a Registered Nurse on duty at all times unanimously passed the NSW Upper House. It is due to be introduced to the Lower House tomorrow.

NCOSS welcomes this result, which prioritises patient safety over the regulatory burden on the aged care system.

As part of Aged Care Roundtable led by the NSW Nurses And Midwives Association, we have joined our members in their strong advocacy on this issue. Evidence shows that Registered Nurses on duty and ensure vulnerable residence with the standard of care they need, and prevent unnecessary presentations to emergency departments. This is particularly important in rural areas, where nursing homes may be far from the nearest hospital.

We hope the bill passes the Lower House tomorrow, bringing back a protection vulnerable people in nursing homes deserve.