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'Enhanced cleaning' cuts hospital-acquired infections by one-third

Fri, 09 May 2025 00:00:00 +1000

An estimated 7500 Australian deaths are associated with hospital-acquired infections each year, with the most common including pneumonia, urinary tract infections and wound infections after surgery. With extant research suggesting medical equipment such as blood pressure machines, dressing trolleys and drip stands could be a common source of infection, a team of Australian researchers, including from Monash University, ran an experiment — introducing a program of ‘enhanced cleaning and disinfection’ measures onto several NSW hospital wards.

Instead of clinical staff, who are normally responsible for the cleaning of shared equipment, the researchers deployed designated cleaners specifically trained to clean and disinfect sensitive medical equipment. Regular training and feedback was given throughout the program, and the start date for cleaning on each ward was randomly selected. Economic costs were to be considered as well, weighing the cost of the program against healthcare costs saved should there be a reduction in infections.

The researchers monitored thoroughness of cleaning before and after enhanced cleaning through the application of a fluorescent gel marker to shared equipment. The gel is easily removed if the surface is cleaned well and cannot be seen without a special light. Patient infections on the wards were also monitored before and after the introduction of the program. More than 5000 patients passed through these wards while the program was being run. Findings from the experiment being published last year in The Lancet Infectious Diseases (doi.org/10.1016/S1473-3099(24)00399-2).

With reference to the gel marker, it was found that the enhanced cleaning improved thoroughness by 24–66% and that hospital-acquired infections dropped by approximately one-third following the introduction of the cleaning program — from 14.9% of patients to 9.8%. A reduction in the range of infections was also observed. Factoring in the cost of the designated cleaners, their cleaning products and the saved costs of the reduced number of infections, the researchers estimate that the intervention could save a hospital $642,000 for every 1000 patients.

Image credit: iStock.com/kokouu

Perioperative nurses take on surgical escape room

Fri, 09 May 2025 00:00:00 +1000

Nursing staff at Calvary Adelaide ��ϳԹ�Ⱥ�� have taken part in a new perioperative escape room designed by University of South Australia (UniSA) nursing and perioperative nursing lecturer Dr Michelle Freeling. Set in a state-of-the-art operating room, the simulated patient experience puts experienced nurses to the test, requiring them to respond to perioperative emergencies and solve complex scenarios.

A patient lies ready on the table when an alarm sounds and the nurses must respond, needing to work together adeptly and efficiently to manage whatever challenges are put before them before they can successfully ‘escape’ — and its designer says the experience is transforming nursing education. “Perioperative nursing is a specialty that requires nurses to work quickly and efficiently, collaborating with surgeons and anaesthetists in high-pressure environments,” Freeling said.

UniSA graduate nurses undertake the escape room activity with creator Dr Michelle Freeling (third from left). Image courtesy Calvary.

“But with surgical advancements continually reshaping the field, perioperative nurses need to stay ahead of the latest techniques and practices — this is where experiences like our escape room can help,” Freeling added. “Participants will practise managing complex patient scenarios in the operating room, understanding and responding to perioperative emergencies, working cohesively with their team, and maintaining situational awareness, all of which are critical for success.”

Designed as an opportunity for perioperative nurses to learn or refine their expertise in a controlled-yet-realistic environment, the escape room is a chance to test skills safely, without risk, Freeling explained. The experience is also part of the new Calvary Scholarship Program, which was created to support nurses undertaking UniSA’s Graduate Certificate in Nursing with a focus on Perioperative Nursing — with Calvary having supported 12 scholarships for nurses to undertake the Perioperative Nursing course so far.

“UniSA’s perioperative nursing escape room demonstrates a contemporary, engaging and innovative approach to learning that will advance our team’s specialist perioperative skills while also developing their leadership capabilities, staff culture, and excellent person-centred care,” Calvary Adelaide ��ϳԹ�Ⱥ�� General Manager Tanya Brooks said. The inaugural cohort of scholarship recipients have now commenced their studies.

Top image: UniSA graduate nurses undertake the escape room activity with creator Dr Michelle Freeling (second from left). Image courtesy Calvary.

Victoria's Q3 median ED wait times the lowest on record

Fri, 09 May 2025 00:00:00 +1000

Victoria’s quarter three performance data (January–March) has shown improvement across the health system. In the state’s EDs, the median wait time is down to 14 minutes, which is the lowest on record and a five-minute improvement compared to before the pandemic. In a release on the data, the Victorian Government said this improvement comes amid continued demand — with more than 500,000 presentations in the last quarter, including a rise in complex presentations, with 8000 more high acuity patients compared to the same time last year.

Data reveals that the state’s paramedics continue to face high demand, with more than 95,000 time critical ‘lights and sirens’ cases — a figure that is more than 1000 cases every day and 31.8% higher than pre-pandemic levels. Also revealed by the data is that 65.6% of Code One cases were attended within 15 minutes. This is an increase from 64.9% in the previous quarter. There was also improvement in the average Code One response time, which is 15 minutes and 25 seconds.

Regarding planned surgery, the data shows that 100% of Category One patients once again underwent their procedure within the clinically recommended wait time, while faster care was recorded for semi-urgent Category Two and non-urgent Category Three patients. The state government cites 23 Patient Support Units, two new public surgical centres and 12 Rapid Access Hubs as investments geared towards driving down planned surgery waitlists.

“Our dedicated healthcare workforce should be proud of all they are doing — this quarter we have seen significant improvements across the system, even as we face record demand,” Victoria’s Minister for Health and Ambulance Services Mary-Anne Thomas said. “From faster emergency care, shorter planned surgery wait times and improvements in Code One ambulance response times — our investments in the workforce and alternative urgent care options are delivering better outcomes for patients across Victoria.”

Image credit: iStock.com/peakSTOCK

Biophilic healing: expanded Latrobe Regional ��ϳԹ�Ⱥ��, Traralgon

Thu, 08 May 2025 00:00:00 +1000

Latrobe Regional ��ϳԹ�Ⱥ��’s recent expansion is a biophilic design harnessing the healing properties of human connection in a rural setting.

Latrobe Regional ��ϳԹ�Ⱥ�� is located 150 km east of Melbourne at Traralgon, serving rural health in Victoria’s Central Gippsland. Completed in 2024, the $217 million expansion was a substantial upgrade, with a new building and associated works that include expansion of the ED, Mental Health ED and the Operating Theatres. Additional works also increased capacity for Imaging, Inpatient, Intensive Care, Maternity, Paediatric and Pathology units.

Set among landscaped courtyards that reflect the wide open spaces in and around the site, an understanding that healing is a holistic process is built into this design; a process that should address emotional, mental, physical and spiritual needs and involve connections to culture, family and land.

Designed by Billard Leece Partnership for the Victorian Health Building Authority (VHBA), each landscaped area supports gathering and connection with the land — all patient rooms having views of the gardens — while spaces are bright and welcoming for all community and family members, inviting active participation in patient healing and enhancing the facility’s connection with place.

To foster a sense of belonging and connection to Country, VHBA led a community consultation process with First Nations Gunaikurnai elders. Inspiration from local land features and waterways together with key learnings from the consultation process informed the hospital’s design; its architecture, interior design and wayfinding strategy working together to communicate a cohesive, biophilic design.

Biophilic design harnesses healing properties of human connection to nature and can be found in the building through physical and visual connections to the courtyards and gardens — vistas to the adjacent rural landscape are also enjoyed from all wards and public areas. Earthy brickwork with ornate detailing references the existing buildings on site and provides a continued aesthetic on campus.

The base material palette comprises soothing neutral tones with accents of blue, green and ochre — distinguishing different departments and aiding in wayfinding. A local First Nations artist, Alfred Carter, was commissioned to create artwork for the foyer, while other internal fixtures and design details are drawn from the forms, palettes and textures of the Gippsland landscape.

Images: Courtesy Billard Leece Partnership

Nominations open for 2025 National Palliative Care Awards

Wed, 07 May 2025 00:00:00 +1000

Palliative Care Australia (PCA) has announced that nominations are now open for the 2025 National Palliative Care Awards.

The biennial awards recognise excellence, innovation and leadership in Australia’s palliative care sector and are an opportunity to celebrate the individuals, teams and organisations whose compassionate care and support to people at the end of life goes above and beyond.

2025 categories include:

emerging leader;
emerging researcher;
outstanding work by a team in delivering palliative care;
innovation in palliative care;
outstanding achievement in volunteering;
outstanding achievement in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander palliative care;
outstanding achievement by an individual in palliative care;
lifetime achievement award.

“These awards are an important opportunity to recognise the dedicated people working every day to ensure Australians receive high-quality, compassionate palliative care,” PCA CEO Camilla Rowland said.

Submissions close 19 June. More information, including how to nominate, is available here, via the PCA website.

Image credit: iStock.com/Bevan Goldswain

LINAK and TENTE revolutionise patient transport with WeAssist™

Tue, 06 May 2025 00:00:00 +1000

Moving hospital beds can pose real challenges for caregivers, especially when the bed and patient have to be manoeuvred over an incline. With WeAssist™, the companies LINAK® and TENTE® are presenting a ground-breaking solution that makes moving beds significantly easier: a powered castor that recognises movements and assists caregivers.

Innovative ergonomics for the healthcare sector

The most important resource in a hospital is the staff. For this reason, LINAK and TENTE are committed to improving working conditions in the healthcare sector. WeAssist is an innovative mobility system that recognises the user’s intentions and provides support for every driving manoeuvre. It ensures easy and comfortable driving, whether straight ahead or up and down inclines, and it actively assists with braking, thereby protecting the back, shoulders, knees, and hips of the caregiver.

Technology and functionality

The electric drive is provided by one of the four castors, the TENTE Integral assist castor. This castor is just as easy to install as any of the other castors. The castor is connected to a battery and control box from LINAK. The installation takes no time. No additional controls are necessary to operate the castor, and all parts are plug and play. That is also why upgrading beds that are already in use is a breeze.

Specially developed software ensures that the bed can be controlled with precision using only a little effort. It responds to how hard the caregiver pushes, recognises inclines, and provides the support needed for every movement. A special button to obtain driving assistance for the bed is not necessary.

LINAK and TENTE have collected user statements in a field test: “It was a huge relief. You only had to vaguely indicate a small direction, and then the bed practically drove by itself”, says Sylke Förster (59), Surgical Nurse.

Efficiency and relief for caregivers

Given the high-cost pressures experienced in healthcare, WeAssist offers a cost-effective solution: existing beds can be easily retrofitted, keeping the initial costs down. Beds that are already equipped with LINAK and TENTE systems can be upgraded in a matter of minutes. WeAssist can also easily be integrated into new beds with minimal effort and at an affordable price. The benefits for caregivers in terms of better and healthier working conditions are enormous.

WeAssist is the result of a powerful alliance between LINAK and TENTE.

LINAK A/S

Group Headquarters

Smedevænget 8, Guderup

DK-6430 Nordborg, Denmark

www.linak.com

TENTE-ROLLEN GmbH

Herrlinghausen 75

42929 Wermelskirchen Germany

www.tente.com

Improving success rates: lactic acid in IVF

Tue, 06 May 2025 00:00:00 +1000

The co-author of research published this year in Biomolecules explains how the metabolism of the embryo could be a major component determining the success of implantation in IVF.

The process of embryo implantation, a key process in the establishment of a successful pregnancy, is complex. With approximately one in six couples in Australia facing infertility, many turn to IVF as a pathway to parenthood. While IVF success rates have significantly improved over the last 45 years — since the birth of the first test-tube baby — and around 5% of Australian children are born via IVF, more than half of couples attempting IVF are unable to establish a pregnancy. Our recent research¹ suggests that the metabolism of the embryo could be a major component determining the success of implantation.

Invasion of the uterus by the embryo

Dr Kathryn Gurner — a clinical research embryologist and my co-author on this research — and I have been investigating how the unique metabolic functions of the late-stage preimplantation embryo (known as the blastocyst) can control events key in the uterus to promote implantation.

Implantation is a curious biological phenomenon as it represents the invasion of the mother’s uterus by the blastocyst stage embryo, an entity which is not considered as ‘self’ by the woman but rather is recognised as a foreign body. This raises fundamental questions like “how does the blastocyst prevent immune rejection by the woman” and “how does it then go on to create its own blood supply?” — a phenomenon referred to as angiogenesis.

Blastocyst. ©Professor David Gardner

From biochemistry to the blastocyst

While many researchers around the world have considered the process of implantation from the perspective of uterine signalling, Gurner and I have instead considered the potential role of the blastocyst’s unique metabolism; that being its capacity to form lactic acid even when given ample oxygen to oxidise it, in this intricate process.

This unusual metabolic characteristic is referred to as aerobic glycolysis and is a metabolic trait also seen in invasive tumours. By examining the mechanisms employed by cancer cells, we were able to explore whether the blastocyst utilises similar processes for implantation — with findings suggesting that this indeed seems to be the case.

Lactic acid — more than a by-product of the gym

Often associated with the burn of an intense workout, lactic acid is widely regarded as a by-product of anaerobic metabolism, occurring when oxygen is in short supply — such as in muscles during a sprint or heavy exercise.

However, in the case of the embryo, it transpires that lactic acid produced by the blastocyst is used to deliberately create a specific microenvironment around the embryo characterised by low pH and high levels of lactate. Essentially, the blastocyst forms a small acidic cloud around itself, which facilitates a number of crucial events in the early stages of implantation.

The initiation of implantation by lactic acid

In the initial phases, this acidic environment helps transition the uterus into a receptive state for implantation, a process known as endometrial receptivity. By influencing the function and expression of key genes within endometrial cells, lactic acid promotes changes that allow the uterine lining to become more hospitable for the attaching embryo.

Lactic acid also facilitates the blastocyst’s invasion of the uterus by driving alterations in gene and protein expression that encourage its penetration into the endometrial tissue. This invasion is crucial for embedding the embryo deeply within the uterine lining, ensuring proper nutrient exchange and sustained development.

Additionally, as endothelial cells — progenitors of blood vessels — and various immune cells within the uterine environment absorb lactate produced from the blastocyst, their function/behaviours adapt to promote implantation. In endothelial cells, this leads to an increase in the formation of new blood vessels, ensuring the embryo secures a consistent oxygen and nutrient supply.

Meanwhile, lactate uptake by immune cells influences the maternal immune response by dampening immune activator cells and increasing molecules that suppress immune activity. This adjustment prevents the embryo from being recognised as a foreign entity, facilitating successful implantation.

In conclusion

These discoveries highlight the intricate role of lactic acid in shaping the uterine environment during the earliest phases of pregnancy. While this research provides exciting insights, there is still much to uncover about lactate signalling in the uterus — and consequently this will help create ways in which we can pretreat patients to enhance uterine receptivity.

^{1. Gurner KH, Gardner DK. Blastocyst-derived lactate as a key facilitator of implantation. Biomolecules. 2025;15(1):100. doi: 10.3390/biom15010100}

*Professor David Gardner AM is Scientific Director of Melbourne IVF and Director of ART, Scientific Innovation & Research at Virtus Health.

Top image credit: iStock.com/Tempura

"Damning statistics" from almost 1500 WA junior doctors

Tue, 06 May 2025 00:00:00 +1000

The AMA (WA) ��ϳԹ�Ⱥ�� Health Check 2025 surveyed close to 1500 junior doctors — or Doctors in Training — 30% who reported experiencing bullying, discrimination or sexual harassment; 44% who reported witnessing bullying, discrimination or sexual harassment; and 34% who reported fearing negative consequences from reporting inappropriate behaviour. “Such damning statistics demand urgent attention,” AMA (WA) said in the release of these findings.

Started in 2015, feedback on current working conditions and health policies is invited by junior doctors across the state, with this year’s participation up on last year’s record of more than 1110 junior doctors. AMA (WA) did note that this is the first year in the survey’s history that an ‘F’ employer/provider grade was not reported, and there is evidence of improvement in certain areas — Morale & Culture, for example, saw employers score A or B grades across the board.

Despite significant improvement in many areas, AMA (WA) said that there are also many areas of concern remaining. Key issues identified as in need of attention in the 2025 survey include ongoing workforce shortages and an apparent increase in workload — along with fatigue and burnout issues among junior doctors associated with this increase. Issues that, AMA (WA) said, a “critical need” exists for adequate measures to be put in place.

“The pressure our doctors are under is evident in the results of this survey, and can be directly attributed to our lack of health system capacity,” AMA (WA) President Dr Michael Page said. “Our doctors are burning out from the relentless workloads pushed onto them by perpetually over-full hospital wards and EDs. It points to the need for major capacity building by expanding our public hospitals, supporting our private hospitals and training more specialists.”

You can read the full report here, via the AMA (WA) website.

If you are affected by any of the issues in this story, support is available. Drs4Drs is a 24/7, free and confidential mental health support service for doctors and medical students in Australia. Please call 1300 374 377.

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Irregularities in a clinician's cases prompt 15-month lookback

Tue, 06 May 2025 00:00:00 +1000

St Vincent’s ��ϳԹ�Ⱥ�� Sydney has issued a statement detailing a 15-month lookback review of more than 1640 medical records in its cancer genetics service.

Genetic testing is offered at St Vincent’s for those interested in understanding whether they have gene mutations that carry a higher risk than others of developing into certain types of cancers. Often, these types of tests are used to help people learn about, or clarify, their potential cancer risk in the future. St Vincent’s stressed that these were not tests to detect if cancer is present.

St Vincent’s said that in September 2023 it became aware of some irregularities in the medical records of three patients in this service. The records related to a clinician who largely saw patients from his private office or rooms via telephone during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“As a result of those early irregularities, St Vincent’s initiated a formal ‘lookback’ review across more than 1640 medical records — a deeper and broader examination of the clinician’s cases — to understand the impact, if any, on patients, and which covered the period April 2022 to June 2023,” St Vincent’s said in its statement.

“To date, that review has determined there has been an adverse clinical health outcome for a single patient following the provision of incorrect advice by the clinician. The patient has been informed of the review. The process of confirming what took place and providing all necessary support for this patient is ongoing.”

From the review, no errors or irregularities were detected in the records of approximately 1100 patients; matters such as poor clinical documentation, incomplete correspondence and a lack of genetic counselling were discovered in approximately 520 records; and errors that carried potential risk — even if, ultimately, there had been no harm to these patients — such as providing incorrect information and advice were discovered in approximately 20 records.

“St Vincent’s contacted the patients in this latter group as they were identified, to inform them of what had happened, to apologise, and to provide follow up support as needed,” the statement read. “St Vincent’s has been contacting the broader group of patients to inform them of the lookback, and apologise for any inconvenience and stress caused by the review or its outcomes.” St Vincent’s also said it is offering further advice and consultation to patients as required.

Having not worked at the hospital since mid-2023, St Vincent’s said it referred the clinician to the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency and first reported the matter to NSW Health in October 2023, shortly after becoming aware of the irregularities. St Vincent’s added that it has been regular updates on developments to NSW Health since then.

“St Vincent’s ��ϳԹ�Ⱥ�� Sydney is committed to reviewing all the clinician’s patient records to the beginning of the COVID pandemic, when he began making changes to the service model and seeing patients without the involvement of other clinicians,” it said in its statement.

“Since mid-2023 and the clinician's departure, St Vincent’s has re-established the model of care at its cancer genetics service that was in place prior to the COVID pandemic, to ensure these irregularities will not happen again. This includes re-establishing patient oversight by multiple clinicians to provide rigorous checks and balances.”

Image credit: iStock.com/Valerii Apetroaiei

Two researchers receive $899,000 in cardiovascular funding

Mon, 05 May 2025 00:00:00 +1000

In heart-related news this Heart Week (5–11 May), two University of Newcastle researchers have been awarded $899,000 in cardiovascular funding. Backed by NSW Health’s Cardiovascular Senior and Early- to Mid-Career Researcher Grants, Dr Erin Clarke — a researcher from University of Newcastle’s School of Health Sciences and the Hunter Medical Research Institute’s (HMRI) Food and Nutrition Research Program — has been awarded $449,000. Clarke will examine how changes to dietary advice, combined with an assessment of genetic risk, could lower blood pressure and improve heart health.

“Not all individuals respond to the same medical nutrition interventions and more research is needed on how we can improve and identify personalised treatments for those at risk of developing heart disease,” Clarke said. “We want to generate new knowledge about how we can use personalised nutrition to manage and prevent high blood pressure in people with an increased risk of heart disease, including people with type 2 diabetes.”

Awarded $450,000, Dr Carlos Garcia-Esperon — Conjoint Associate Professor in the University of Newcastle’s School of Medicine and Public Health, Director of Acute Stroke Services at the John Hunter ��ϳԹ�Ⱥ�� and part of HMRI’s Heart and Stroke Research Program — will evaluate new heart imaging techniques that could identify the cause of a stroke and prevent future strokes. Specifically, Garcia-Esperon will explore the benefit of adding a heart scan to routinely performed brain scans for people who present to hospital EDs with stroke-like symptoms.

Affecting nearly 50,000 Australians each year, ischaemic stroke occurs when a blood clot blocks a brain artery. The cause of stroke remains unclear in many of these patients, potentially increasing the risk of suffering a recurrent stroke. As many strokes are caused by a clot formed inside of the heart chambers, it is believed that expediting access to these scans may trigger an immediate change in how a patient’s symptoms are managed.

“The extra scan only adds a few minutes to the process and it could greatly improve the chances of finding out if the stroke was caused by a heart problem,” Garcia-Esperon said. “It then allows doctors to prescribe the most suitable medication and reduce the likelihood of another stroke.”

Heart Week resources for health professionals are available here, via the Heart Foundation website.

Image caption: Conjoint Associate Professor Carlos Garcia-Esperon. Source: University of Newcastle.

ACN calls on a re‍-‍elected Labor to fast‍-‍track health reform

Mon, 05 May 2025 00:00:00 +1000

In the wake of Labor’s federal re-election, the Australian College of Nursing (ACN) is calling for the government to fast-track its health reform processes, especially the recommendations of the Cormack Review.

“It is vital that the momentum for significant and much-needed health reform initiated by Health Minister Mark Butler, Assistant Health Minister Ged Kearney, Aged Care Minister Anika Wells and Assistant Minister for Indigenous Health Malarndirri McCarthy continues and picks up pace in this second term,” ACN CEO Adjunct Professor Kathryn Zeitz FACN said.

“The time to restructure the health system for the future is now,” Zeitz said. “We have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to truly reform Medicare and the health system to make it sustainable in the years and decades ahead — for our children and their children.”

Zeitz said Australia must move beyond doctor-only healthcare solutions, and that nurses, nurse practitioners, midwives, pharmacists, physiotherapists and other allied health professionals have more to offer in multidisciplinary teams. “Scope of practice reforms will allow all health professionals to work to their full capacity and potential — what they were trained and educated to do,” Zeitz said.

“New funding models, including blended payment systems, will create efficiencies and improve patient access to the care they need when they need it and where they need it. This will create equity of access for rural, regional and remote communities; First Nations communities; disadvantaged and vulnerable populations; and older Australians.

“The government has the blueprints for action — including the work of the Strengthening Medicare Taskforce, the National Nursing Workforce Strategy and the Scope of Practice Review.”

Zeitz said the Cormack Review outlines the funding and regulatory reform required to deliver real improvements to the delivery of primary health care.

“In an era of soaring rates of chronic conditions and an aging population, we need the multidisciplinary care these reports envision to address strains on our health system and preventable hospital admissions,” Zeitz said. “We need funding reform for primary care to increase the proportion of blended funding, which would allow funding of more multidisciplinary care in primary practice.”

Specific funding for innovative nurse-led models of care is also being called for by Zeitz, as is the need for workforce shortages to remain a critical focus. “We look forward to the release of the National Nursing Workforce Strategy this term. We require comprehensive measures to not only attract people to the profession, but to provide incentives to former nurses to return to practice, and for current nurses to remain committed to their vital roles,” Zeitz said.

“Overcoming resistance to change and doing the technical reform work will deliver enormous benefits to the health budget — and, most importantly, to patients.”

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A Day in the Life of a rehabilitation physician and burnout coach

Fri, 02 May 2025 00:00:00 +1000

06:00 I love waking while the house is quiet, for reflective time with a hot coffee and my journal. I’ll put music on and often light a candle. A great start to the day with a brain dump (journalling) then Wordle.

06:30 Movement is something I love to bring into my day — if I’m commuting to Bathurst (45-minute drive), I’ll do a 20-minute yoga flow before getting ready for the day. The time to move and meditate sets me up well for the day ahead and whatever comes.

07:00 Time to get the kids ready for school — lunch boxes, support with any homework or music practice. We like to run ‘ahead’ of schedule. The kids really prefer time to play before school starts rather than rushing in last minute before the bell.

07:30 Time to leave for clinic in Bathurst or drop the kids to before-school training.

08:00 Drive time.

08:30 If I’m coaching (virtual from home), I start my day with a session at the gym, once a week with my personal trainer. Keeping my body strong as I age healthily is a priority.

09:30 I often have a coffee with a friend before starting my workday as a coach and podcaster. It’s time to connect, listen and catch up. Human relationships are so important for any of us, and I make sure I have one to two coffee catch-ups per week.

10:00 If I’m in clinic… we have our team meeting to discuss clients for review, those who are referred to our service (Mid Western Brain Injury Rehabilitation Program, covering a vast geographic area) and journal club. If I’m coaching… I’m on time with a glass of water, distractions turned off and ready to connect with my client for a 45-minute coaching session, working on any challenges and using our brains to find the solutions. I always ask my clients to celebrate what is going well and name a couple of takeaways from the coaching session to reinforce the tools we have used.

Jo at Bathurst Health Service, where she works part-time in the Mid Western Brain Injury Rehabilitation Program.

10:30 Following our team meeting, we all walk down to the cafe at the hospital for a walk and talk. Valuing movement and time to connect in our workdays.

11:00 I see between five and seven patients in clinic with lengthy appointment times to cover their recovery from brain injury with a comprehensive approach. Often, we are discussing memory and fatigue strategies, the process to return-to-driving and return-to-work plans.

12:30 Lunch is something light, usually outside with my team in Bathurst avoiding the swooping magpies. At home I’ll eat lunch by the pool with the black Labrador salivating beside me!

13:00 I plan out my podcast schedule on The Burnout Recovery podcast to have a guest on the first episode every month. This involves invitations, scheduling, recording, and publishing with social media and a weekly newsletter. I love the opportunity to interview people I might not have met in my life otherwise and hear their wisdom and stories of recovery and fulfilment. I outsource help with editing and publishing my podcast and do the rest myself. It’s one of my favourite creative spaces I have in my schedule and I time block it to think, draft, record and share my podcast episodes. To date, I have released over 120 podcast episodes with over 30,000 downloads — that’s a big auditorium of people listening to this niche area of burnout recovery in health care!

Jo in her home office, where she meets virtually with clients and works on The Burnout Recovery podcast.

14:00 I’m one of the facilitators in the Schwartz Rounds at Bathurst Health Service. We piloted this social and emotional wellbeing program in 2024, and it was such a success we are continuing it in 2025. It’s a space to connect for all hospital staff — from the kitchens to porters to clinicians. We hold the rounds once a month and discuss important topics like ‘The patient I’ll never forget’ or ‘What keeps me up at night’ or ‘Leading through stress and uncertainty’. It’s such a great program and connects us all as humans in the healthcare system, recognising the emotional challenges we all have. The rounds go for an hour; we do prep beforehand and debrief as facilitators after.

15:00 Collecting the kids is a part of my day I love and aim to do on the days I am in Orange. We have great conversations on the way home and I enjoy the connection time with my two sons in primary school. My eldest is in boarding school and we chat a couple of times per day.

18:00 We eat together as a family — an important connection time and space where we all contribute. Often, I will go for a walk around the block with my middle son and the dog for a chat.

19:30 Time to read with the kids before lights out.

20:30 My preferred time to read.

21:00 Digital sunset — time to wind down for the evening and turn off all screens.

21:30 I love my sleep and prioritise it! Head on the pillow before 10 pm on a regular basis. I name three things I’m grateful for before I close my eyes. The day ends well.

22:00 Sleep.

Images: Supplied

'Fake psychologist' who provided NDIS assessment convicted

Fri, 02 May 2025 00:00:00 +1000

A New South Wales woman who posed as a psychologist has been found guilty of two offences in contravention of section 116 of the Health Practitioner Regulation National Law 2009. Tina Hansen — who has never been registered as a psychologist and is not eligible for registration — told the mother of a child she was providing online maths tutoring services to in June 2022 that she was also a qualified psychologist. The mother asked Hansen if she could complete a cognitive assessment report for her daughter so that she could access NDIS funding and other assistance for the child at school.

Hansen performed an online assessment of the child and provided a report, for which she charged $800. It was submitted to the school. In it, Hansen was described as a ‘Clinical Psychologist’ and a ‘Reg’ number was quoted. Hansen provided another copy of the report two days later, with an additional cover page; she was described with the title ‘Clinical Psychologist PSY000758652’. This second report was lodged with the National Disability Insurance Agency by Hansen on behalf of the child’s mother — along with an NDIS Access Report Form.

It was discovered that Hansen was not listed on the register of practitioners after a registered psychologist who worked with the school received a copy of the reports and had a number of concerns about the content and quality — and looked up Ahpra’s online register of practitioners. When the registered psychologist who worked at the school challenged Hansen’s qualifications via email, Hansen replied that she had “just re-applied for my registration due to having had terminal adrenal cancer and then not dying when expected”. This was untrue.

A senior inspector from Ahpra contacted Hansen in February 2023 at the conclusion of his investigation, offering her the opportunity to attend a voluntary record of interview. Hansen stated that she was suffering from terminal adrenal cancer and was in hospital in palliative care; subsequent enquiries indicated this to be also untrue. Hansen pleaded guilty to one count of holding herself out as a registered psychologist and one count of describing herself as a psychologist on 8 January 2025 in the Campbelltown Magistrates Court.

Returning to court for sentencing on 1 May 2025, Magistrate Peter Thompson noted the offending was serious, involving care for a child, and that there was a need for both specific deterrence and general deterrence. Hansen was sentenced to 18 months’ imprisonment to be served in the community by way of an Intensive Corrections Order (ICO), the most serious sentence that a person can serve in the community in NSW; should Hansen breach the conditions of the ICO, she will be required to serve the remainder of her sentence in custody. Hansen was also ordered to pay Ahpra’s legal costs of $2000 and to refund the child’s mother the $800 paid for the report.

“Using a title like psychologist to blatantly profit off of vulnerable families is not only irresponsible but can cause serious damage,” Ahpra CEO Justin Untersteiner said. The outcome was also welcomed by the Psychology Board of Australia. “There is an inherent trust that people place in psychologists and by abusing that trust, Ms Hansen not only damages the profession’s reputation but puts the safety of the public at risk,” Psychology Board Chair Rachel Phillips said. “Psychologists are extremely qualified practitioners and to call yourself one without having the necessary skills or expertise has consequences.”

If you have concerns about whether an individual is registered, you can check the online Register of Practitioners maintained by Ahpra or call 1300 419 495.

Image credit: iStock.com/Yuliya Taba

Supporting Nurses this International Nurses Day… and Every Day

Thu, 01 May 2025 00:00:00 +1000

This May, we mark International Nurses Day, celebrating the people at the heart of healthcare. The nurses who show up, day and night. They listen, they lead, they adapt, and they deliver care when it’s needed most.

Nurses are there for every turning point. And behind every great nurse is a team, a system, and the right tools to help them do their job with confidence. At Medline, we believe that the best way to care for patients is to take care of the people who care for them.

Today, nurse leaders are navigating more than just care. They’re balancing staffing, training, compliance, and supply needs. It’s a lot — and we’re here to make it easier. We do more than just deliver products. We support you with the training and practical help that ensures your team is ready for what’s next. Whether that’s implementing a new product or improving day-to-day efficiency.

With over 200 years of combined experience in the operating theatre, our Clinical Nurse Team — many of whom are still actively serving in hospitals — understand the issues that you face. In 2024, we delivered over 250 hours of education sessions to hospitals and healthcare providers across Australia.

We know that every facility faces different challenges, so we shape our education and support around what you need.

Here’s how we help:

Application and Product Training: Available onsite and virtually, this training ensures staff are fully equipped to use Medline products efficiently and safely.

Product In-Services: Practical, hands-on support and refresher sessions to new and existing team members to maintain best practice.

Ongoing Support: Our clinical and account teams work alongside yours.

Saying thank you matters. But real appreciation means giving nurses what they need, to do what they do best. That’s why Medline works in partnership with hospitals and healthcare teams to help implement products, offer hands-on training and provide local support so that your team can focus on what matters most: the patient in front of them.

If you’re looking for the right products, along with the tools and training to implement them in line with how your facility runs, reach out or visit medline.com.au to see how we can support you.

Contact us today

1800 110 511

au.customers@medline.com

www.medline.com.au

Smarter, Safer, Cleaner: The Future of ��ϳԹ�Ⱥ�� Floor Care is Robotics

Thu, 01 May 2025 00:00:00 +1000

Tennant Australia is proud to introduce the X4 ROVR Robotic Scrubber, a powerful new solution purpose-built for hospitals and healthcare facilities. This next-generation autonomous floor scrubber brings advanced automation, intelligent navigation, and consistent cleaning performance to environments where hygiene can directly impact patient outcomes.

As hospitals face increased pressure to maintain strict infection control standards, manage staff shortages, and reduce operational costs, the X4 ROVR steps in as the smart and efficient cleaning solution that supports both cleaning teams and frontline healthcare workers.

Why the X4 ROVR Works for Healthcare

From emergency departments to corridors, patient rooms, and operating theatres, hospitals need cleaning equipment that can adapt quickly and work consistently, without getting in the way. The X4 ROVR’s compact size and agility allow it to navigate tight, high-traffic areas, ensuring spotless floors without disrupting patient care. Additionally, the advanced BrainOS^® powered AI allows the X4 ROVR to navigate safely around obstacles while cleaning.

Designed with hospital-grade cleaning in mind, the X4 ROVR features:

A dual disk scrub path and high-performance vacuum system for deep, reliable cleaning across a range of hard floor types common in healthcare settings.
A cleaning productivity rate of up to 1,860 square meters on a single full tank.
A fast charging, low maintenance lithium-ion powered battery providing up to 2.5 hours of continuous cleaning allowing for productivity across cleaning schedules during peak and off-peak hours.

These features empower healthcare facilities to elevate their hygiene standards while allowing cleaning teams to focus on high-value cleaning tasks.

Driven by Intelligence, Built for Compliance

At the heart of the X4 ROVR is the next-generation BrainOS Clean Suite, a powerful AI platform that delivers real-time insights, improved navigation, and seamless control. Cleaning teams can track progress, schedule tasks, and access reporting tools via a mobile app and operations portal, making it easier than ever to meet internal audits, prove compliance, and document proof-of-clean.

This digital-first approach is especially valuable in healthcare, where traceability, transparency, and accountability are essential.

Lisa Atherton, Tennant Australia’s Head of Sales, shared:

“��ϳԹ�Ⱥ��s and healthcare facilities are under constant pressure to maintain high cleaning standards while navigating workforce challenges. The X4 ROVR offers an intelligent, high-performance solution that delivers consistent, data-backed results — day in and day out.”

A Clean Future for Healthcare

With over 9,500 robotic floor cleaning machines already in operation globally, Tennant continues to lead the charge in autonomous cleaning. The X4 ROVR is the latest advancement in this journey, one that brings hospital cleaning into the future by merging smart automation with Tennant’s trusted floor care expertise.

The X4 ROVR is available in Australia from May 1, 2025.

To learn more or request a demo for your facility, visit: www.tennantco.com.au

LiveLife Alarms fall-detecting watch alarm

Thu, 01 May 2025 00:00:00 +1000

The LiveLife Alarms fall-detecting watch alarm is designed to fit easily into daily life, matching cutting-edge technology with style. Beyond its advanced features, the LiveLife Alarms watch enables wearers to remain active and independent.

Equipped with fall detection technology, GPS tracking and hands-free communication, the watch ensures that help is always within reach. When a fall is detected, it automatically sends an SMS with the wearer’s location to their elected emergency contacts, followed by a call sequence.

The wearer can communicate with contacts in speakerphone mode directly through the watch, ensuring quick assistance and reducing the risk of long lie times, which can lead to health complications and emotional distress. The LiveLife Watch is designed to offer total flexibility, with monitoring options of family and friends or LiveLife’s 24/7 professional monitoring centre. With no lock-in contracts, wearers can easily switch monitoring models as required.

Additional features include geofencing, which alerts elected contacts if the wearer enters or exits a designated safety zone; multiple language functionality; as well as daily reminders for medication or activities. The watch monitors steps and heart rate, and comes with a choice of bands in silicone, leather and Velcro. Lightweight and comfortable for all-day wear, it is designed to help wearers stay active and reassured, whether at home or out in the community.

Ambu single-use medical devices

Thu, 01 May 2025 00:00:00 +1000

With its Danish heritage dating back to 1937, Ambu’s medical devices exhibit Scandinavian progressiveness and the company has made significant contributions to sustainable single-use medical devices.

Ambu offers a range of single-use medical devices within endoscopy, anaesthesia and patient monitoring. The products are designed to optimise workflows, save lives and improve patient care through intelligent, functional solutions.

The portability, sterility and instant availability of Ambu’s single-use solutions aim to provide reliable patient visualisation. They are engineered as a more sustainable and reliable alternative to many conventional medical devices used in anaesthesia, pulmonology, urology, ENT and gastroenterology.

With single-use endoscopy, users always have a scope available. Disruptions to workflow can be reduced as there is no need to wait for reprocessed scopes or repairs, or feel restricted by risk of breakage. A wide array of endoscopes and functionalities allows users to react, pivot and make decisions quickly as situations change.

Ambu’s ambition is to deliver solutions that help its customers reduce their carbon footprint. As one of its sustainability initiatives, in 2024 Ambu’s entire endoscope range moved to bioplastic handles. Bioplastic is a plastic made from 50% second-generation bio-based feedstock, blended with 50% fossil-based raw materials. This reduces the carbon footprint of the handles by 70% when compared with standard ABS plastic.

Ambu was recently awarded the Ecovardis Sustainability rating of “Committed”.

For more information, visit www.ambuaustralia.com.au or call 1300 233 118.

Protecting Patient Health

Thu, 01 May 2025 00:00:00 +1000

Air purifiers are essential for maintaining clean air by effectively removing even the smallest particles. Camfil HEPA filters are so efficient that air must pass through the ventilation system three times to achieve the same level of purification that our air purifiers provide in just one circulation. This not only results in significantly cleaner air but also enhances heating efficiency and reduces energy costs. By utilising an air purifier alongside your existing ventilation system, you can recirculate and clean the already heated air in the room, rather than drawing in and heating cold air from outside.

Incorporating air purifiers into heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems in hospitals can effectively reduce the microbial load in the air and on surfaces, thereby minimising hospital-acquired infections.

Creating Positively Pressurised Rooms

The goal of positively pressurised rooms is to ensure that the air introduced is clean, preventing any escaping air from affecting other patients or staff.

How Are Positively Pressurised Rooms Created?

To create a positively pressurised environment, clean, fresh air is introduced from external sources. The quality of this air is crucial not only for the patients but also for the healthcare professionals working within the room. Ensuring that both the incoming external air and the air within the room are filtered to the highest standards is key to creating optimal conditions.

Benefits of Using Camfil Air Cleaners

Patented Dual Inlet Filtration: Allows for simultaneous introduction of external air and cleaning of internal air.
EN1822:2009 Certified HEPA Filters: Guarantee optimal performance.
Energy-Efficient Fan: Reduces overall energy consumption.
Low Noise Levels: Ensures that patient rest is not disturbed.
Timed Controller: Enhances system activity during peak hours.
AirImage Intelligent Sensor System: Monitors air quality in real-time.

Creating Negatively Pressurised Rooms

Negatively pressurised rooms are essential in hospitals to protect the health of patients, staff, and sterile equipment.

How Are Negatively Pressurised Rooms Created?

In negatively pressurised rooms, contaminated air is extracted, cleaned, and then distributed to non-critical areas, ensuring that hazardous air does not escape to other parts of the facility.

Areas That Require Negatively Pressurised Rooms Include:

Emergency Room (ER) waiting areas
Radiology waiting rooms
Triage areas and restrooms
Airborne Infection Isolation (AII) rooms
Laboratories (e.g., cytology, histology, microbiology)
Soiled workrooms and holding areas
Decontamination rooms for medical supplies
Janitorial closets

Removal of Odours and Gases for Improved Air Quality

��ϳԹ�Ⱥ��s often contend with various odours and gases that can affect both patient and staff health, as well as productivity.

Odours and Gases Requiring Treatment in ��ϳԹ�Ⱥ��s:

Formaldehyde: Used in laboratory and mortuary/pathology settings
Hydrogen Peroxide: From operating theatre cleaning processes
Canteen Odours
Hematological Areas

Removing Odours and Gases

In general HVAC applications, odours and gases are typically addressed through molecular filtration. Different absorbents can be employed based on the specific application to ensure an odour-free environment.

Benefits of Camfil Air Cleaners

Preinstalled Molecular Filtration: For low-level odour removal.
Range of Molecular Add-Ons: Available to tackle various issues.
Mobile Units: Allow for easy movement between hospital areas.
Compact Design: Facilitates convenient storage.
AirImage Intelligent Sensor System: Monitors air quality effectively.

Camfil Air Cleaner Products

CC400 Concealed: Ideal for patient room upgrades, integrating seamlessly into ductwork or suspended ceilings.

Area Coverage: Up to 70 m²
Filtration Solution: Combination of Pre-Filter, HEPA Filter, and Molecular Filtration options

CC410 Concealed: Suitable for small to medium-sized areas such as offices, hotels, restaurants, and hospitals.

Air Volume: Max 490 m³/h
Filtration Solution: Pre-filter + Molecular filter + HEPA filter

CC1000: Designed for medium-sized areas in hospitals, food and beverage facilities, bakeries, and supermarkets, effectively eliminating VOCs, ozone, smoke, bacteria, and ultrafine particulate matter.

Air Volume: Max 1000 m³/h
Filtration Solution: Pre-filter + Molecular filter + HEPA filter

A Camfil air purifier is characterised by high-efficiency cleaning, energy saving and almost silent operation. In contrast to other air purifiers on the market, our HEPA filters have a degree of purification that can remove even the smallest particles which are the hardest to reach.

Contact your local Camfil specialists or visit our website for more information: https://www.camfil.com/en-au/products/air-cleaners--air-purifiers

Hep C point-of-care test helps marginalised populations

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +1000

There are 74,000 people living with hepatitis C in Australia, most of whom are unaware that they have it. Marginalised population groups (such as people who inject drugs and people who are incarcerated) are among those at particular risk of hepatitis C and are groups that are often neglected by traditional health services. Further, while hepatitis C treatments are effective, challenges arise in the case of people not adequately engaged with the health system, including remotely located population groups. A program using diagnostic technologies at the ‘point of care’ could hold the answer.

UNSW Sydney’s Kirby Institute together with Flinders University International Centre for Point-of-Care Testing have been funded by the Australian Government Department of Health to establish a National Australian Hepatitis C Point-of-Care Testing Program, designed to engage across all priority populations highlighted in hepatitis strategies, including people who inject drugs and/or are accessing drug treatment programs, people who previously injected drugs, people in custodial settings and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. (Continuation and expansion funding has also been provided for another Kirby Institute-led program, the First Nations Molecular Point-Of-Care Testing Program, led by Professor Rebecca Guy.)

As Professor Jason Grebely — National Australian Hepatitis C Point-of-Care Testing Program lead — explains, those not adequately engaged with the health system benefit from point-of-care testing “because it allows us to bring the lab to the places where people who are at-risk already are, such as drug treatment clinics, needle and syringe programs, community health centres, prisons and community-led organisations”. Grebely adds that the program “is designed to scale-up point-of-care hepatitis C testing to get these people onto curative treatment and ultimately eliminate hepatitis C in Australia”.

Close to 40,000 tests have been performed, 3613 people have been diagnosed with hepatitis C, and 2557 people have initiated treatment in the first phase of this program, with additional funding now facilitating the expansion of the program to 110 sites (at more than 400 testing locations) across Australia. This will result in approximately 100,000 tests by 2026. This includes diverse locations such as Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations, drug treatment clinics, homelessness services, mobile outreach clinics, mental health facilities and prisons.

“Before, test results could take weeks to be returned to patients, at which point they may no longer be engaged in the health system,” Grebely said. “Using this highly accurate testing technology, we can test for an infection or infections, interpret the results and, if needed, initiate treatment, all within one visit. This is a game changer when working with marginalised or remotely located population groups. It simplifies the pathway to treatment, and interrupts transmission by getting people onto treatment quicker.”

Top image caption: Point-of-care testing in these Kirby Institute-led programs involves collecting either a finger stick blood specimen, a swab from the oral or genital area, or in this case a urine test — and placing it into a GeneXpert cartridge for testing in the machine, which takes around an hour to process the specimen and deliver a result. Image: Kirby Institute

Residential eating disorder treatment centre is a Victorian first

Wed, 30 Apr 2025 00:00:00 +1000

Bridging a gap between community and hospital treatment, Victoria’s first public residential eating disorder treatment centre in Armadale is now complete. The 12-bed centre will be operated by Alfred Health and offer a unique 24/7 residential model of care for Victorians aged 18 and over in a therapeutic, home-like environment. It is backed by a $16.9 million Victorian Government investment and $13 million Australian Government investment.

“Victoria’s first public residential centre for eating disorders is going to be life-changing — providing critical care in a welcoming, home-like setting that bridges the current gap between community and hospital treatment,” Victorian Minister for Mental Health Ingrid Stitt said. Moving beyond short-term hospital stays, the centre offers 24/7 residential care with stays expected to average 12 weeks.

The centre is expected to ease pressure on EDs, hospitals and GPs, while improving coordination across eating disorder, health and mental health services — ensuring people get the right care, at the right time.

The centre is named Ngamai Wilam, from the Boonwurrung language, inspired by the story of Nala, a wise spirit who created the first sunrise and sunset; sunset being a reminder that as the day fades, so too can difficulties, and where sunrise brings the promise of fresh beginnings and renewed strength to confront challenges.

“Eating disorders are complex, with a range of risks and physical complications that make recovery difficult — Ngamai Wilam will transform the way care is delivered and the Albanese Labor government is proud to help deliver it,” Federal Assistant Minister for Health Ged Kearney said.

Ngamai Wilam will progressively open to a 12-bed capacity across 2025. More information on referral pathways is available here, via the Alfred Health website.

Image source: Victorian Department of Health

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Contact us today

Smarter, Safer, Cleaner: The Future of ���ϳԹ�Ⱥ�� Floor Care is Robotics

Why the X4 ROVR Works for Healthcare

Driven by Intelligence, Built for Compliance

A Clean Future for Healthcare

LiveLife Alarms fall-detecting watch alarm

Ambu single-use medical devices

Protecting Patient Health

Creating Positively Pressurised Rooms

How Are Positively Pressurised Rooms Created?

Benefits of Using Camfil Air Cleaners

Creating Negatively Pressurised Rooms

How Are Negatively Pressurised Rooms Created?

Areas That Require Negatively Pressurised Rooms Include:

Removal of Odours and Gases for Improved Air Quality

Odours and Gases Requiring Treatment in ���ϳԹ�Ⱥ��s:

Removing Odours and Gases

Benefits of Camfil Air Cleaners

Camfil Air Cleaner Products

Hep C point-of-care test helps marginalised populations

Residential eating disorder treatment centre is a Victorian first

��ϳԹ�Ⱥ�� + Healthcare RSS Feed

Biophilic healing: expanded Latrobe Regional ��ϳԹ�Ⱥ��, Traralgon

Smarter, Safer, Cleaner: The Future of ��ϳԹ�Ⱥ�� Floor Care is Robotics

Odours and Gases Requiring Treatment in ��ϳԹ�Ⱥ��s: