Tasmanian Health Organisation – South InTHE NEWSLETTERfocus OF THO SOUTH SPRING – DECEMBER 2013 (EDITION No. 49)

(L-R) Lucy Davy, Tameka Ridgeway, Dr Emma Huckerby, Dr Richard Opening of the Emergency Ward (in background), Sandra Ahokas, Susan Melross, Tenille Johnson Medical Unit (EMU) in EMU.

The RHH’s new EMU is already playing an give patients an indication of their risk of developing diseases like important role in helping to reduce pressure diabetes and heart disease. “With hospital presentations around the country increasing, this on the Emergency Department (ED), enhance is an exciting opportunity for the Royal Hobart Hospital to be patient flow throughout the hospital and innovative in how we support and empower patients to improve their heath, potentially reducing pressure on hospitals in the future,” improve health outcomes for patients. Dr Huckerby said. The 10 bed Unit, funded by the Commonwealth as part of the $325 million Tasmanian Health Assistance Package, is co-located with the ED and is providing care for patients requiring four to 24 hours of hospital treatment. The unit was officially opened by the Health Minister, Michelle Contents O’Byrne in November. Learning Organisation 1 “The EMU allows patients to be moved into a more comfortable Appropriate, Response and Relevant to Our Community 4 ward environment, freeing up beds in ED, and also keeping beds available in other areas of the hospital for patients that need longer Redevelopment RHH 8 periods of care,” Minister O’Byrne said. RHH Emergency Department Director, Dr Emma Huckerby, said Governance, Leadership and Management of the RHH Emergency Medical Unit is going a step further than other THO-South is Effective, Innovative and Valued 14 EMU’s in the country. Safety and Quality are Priorities 16 “We are working closely with GPs and Community Nursing to help support patients improve their health, potentially avoiding the need Patient Centred Clinical Practice 16 for hospitalisation in the future. Patients admitted to the EMU will undertake an assessment called ‘How healthy are you?’ “This will

Tasmanian Health Organisation – South Learning Organisation

Sharing Midwifery Expertise PNG Midwives Julieanne and Teresita with staff at the RHH.

Midwives at the RHH were recently given the As our nearest neighbours, these experienced midwives have reached out to opportunity to share their expertise with Julieanna Australian midwives, not just for help and compassion, but also to share their unique experiences, skills and knowledge. and Teresita, Midwives from Papua New Guinea According to the most recent DHS data (2006), the neonatal mortality rate (PNG). in Papua New Guinea was 29 deaths per 1,000 live births and post-neonatal mortality rate was 28 deaths per 1000 live births. This is in contrast to Australia The Midwives were in Australia to attend the Australian College of Midwives where ABS data between 2002 and 2004 reported the neonatal death rate 18th Biennial national conference in Hobart. The trip was made possible among Indigenous babies was 5.8 per 1,000 live births and 2.7 among non- thanks to an AusAid study tour grant. Indigenous babies. Papua New Guinea women experience some of the worst outcomes of Staff said it was an amazing opportunity to meet the wonderful midwives and pregnancy and childbirth in comparison with most other countries in the realise how incredibly lucky we are in Australia to be able to provide such high world. Over the last 20 years midwifery in PNG almost disappeared. quality services.

The RHH Endocrinology Laboratory provides comprehensive testing of Endocrinology Laboratory samples needed for management of patients with Diabetes, Thyroid, Adrenal, Pituitary, Fertility, Growth and Parathyroid disorders. The laboratory also receives samples for neuroendocrine tumour testing and screening from Excellence in Service, throughout Australia, making the RHH Endocrinology Laboratory a national reference centre for endocrine testing. Professor John Burgess, Director Endocrinology Laboratory, said that the Research and Teaching laboratory’s expertise has resulted in strong collaborative research links with the University of Tasmania's School of Medicine and The Menzies Research Despite having a small team, the Royal Hobart Institute. The laboratory also has research commitments in the area of Hospital (RHH) Endocrinology Laboratory is punching Thyroid disease, Iodine Deficiency, Diabetes, Obesity, Vitamin D and inherited endocrine malignancies. The Laboratory's staff have a strong track record of above its weight. The highly skilled and dedicated staff publications in international medical research literature. are responsible for testing Tasmania’s most common, “The laboratory also plays an active role in both undergraduate and postgraduate as well a some of Australia’s most complex, endocrine teaching within the RHH by supporting both the University of Tasmania Medical School and postgraduate advanced training in Clinical Endocrinology,” Professor conditions. Burgess said.

Infocus Page 2 Learning Organisation Overseas Health Professionals Visit ICU ICU staff at the RHH were recently given the opportunity to broaden their clinical knowledge and network with international experts, without having to leave Hobart. Our overseas visitors in ICU. The Australian and New Zealand Intensive Care Society (ANZICS) and the and Director, Department of Critical Care Medicine (DCCM) invited Australian College of Critical Care Nurses (ACCCN) Intensive Care Annual conference attendees from China, Singapore, Korea and Japan to visit the Scientific Meeting (ASM) (which incorporates the annual Paediatric and Royal Hobart Hospital DCCM. Neonatal Intensive Care Conference) was held in Hobart in November. Professor Turner gave the visitors an overview of the operation and services of Each year the meetings attract around 1,000 attendees from Australia, New the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and escorted the group on a tour of the newly Zealand and further afield, bringing together health care professionals working developed area. The visitors showed particular interest in the monitors and in intensive care, including medical, nursing and allied health. equipment used in ICU and the size of the cubicles. The overall consensus In recognition of their expertise in their specialised fields Mr Simon Foster, was that they were very impressed with the newly developed, light and Director Corporate and Support Services North West Regional Hospital, spacious unit. Associate Professor Peter Dargaville, Director Neonatal Paediatric Intensive Belinda Cooper, Clinical Nurse Consultant, and Felicity Geeves, Nurse Unit Care Unit (NPICU), and Dr Tony De Paoli, Staff Specialist Neonatologist, Manager, ICU, both said it was a great opportunity to learn about the nurse/ NPICU were invited to speak at the conference, along with other highly patient ratio, duties undertaken in intensive care units in overseas hospitals regarded international speakers. as well as network with others working in the intensive care field who are Clinical Associate Professor Andrew Turner (currently Vice President ANZICS striving to attain better patient outcomes.

Flying High with the Royal Sam in Broken Hill. Flying Doctor Service Sam Simpson, a dental trainee with Oral Health Sam visited New South Wales outback communities Wilcannia, Ivanhoe and Menindee during his stay in Broken Hill. “It was a great learning experience Services Tasmania, flew to Broken Hill in October to assist the Dentist,” Sam said. “I definitely want to go again. I got a different to join the Royal Flying Doctors Service (RFDS) for perspective of dental needs in rural communities.” two weeks work experience, after winning a much “My first experience on the RFDS plane was very interesting. The six seater plane was full and I had to sit in the cockpit with the pilot. It was very different sought after scholarship. and exciting to be sitting up front and see the countryside spread out before me.” “The Scholarship was a fantastic opportunity,” Sam said. “I gained valuable clinical experience and at the same time provided the local dentist with When his traineeship is completed next May, Sam, who is interested in health clinical assistance. I was very fortunate to work alongside RFDS dentist Dr promotion, would like to like to obtain placements in rural communities to Lyn Mayne, who established the Tooth Program dental clinics, to provide oral gain further experience in his chosen field. health services to remote communities, in 2012.”

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Celebrating Hospital Play Specialists Month Hospitals are not generally places associated with children’s parties, but in October the hospital’s Play Specialists took over the Paediatric Unit and threw a very special party for our young patients. RHH Play Specialist Jacqui Dawborn filled the halls of the Paediatric Unit with the sounds of her ukulele which quickly enticed some very excited young children to be part of the festivities which involved playing games, singing popular nursery rhymes and a special afternoon Play Specialist Jacqui Dawborn having fun at the party! tea. play to achieve developmental goals, and support families and siblings The children were enthusiastic, as were staff that joined in with the to engage with the child through play,” Jacqui said. singing and impromptu dancing. RHH Play Specialists also assist and advise other healthcare The RHH has four Play Specialists who provide a service from 8.30am professionals on preparing a child for medical procedures, with an to 5pm, seven days a week. They are part of the multi-disciplinary emphasis on reducing stress and providing appropriate diversion. team on the unit and their aim is to see all children during their hospital stay, as well as receiving specific referrals from the nurses and other Janine Sawford, Nurse Unit Manager, said the Play Specialists are members of the team. valued members of the multi-disciplinary team in Paediatrics. “They are vital in ensuring that children get to experience normal things such Jacqui said that Play Specialists have a valuable role in providing children as play even though they are in the hospital environment,” Janine in hospital with therapeutic play, art activities and creative expression said. “They are also important in assisting medical and nursing staff to enable them to cope with admission to hospital and treatment. with distraction whilst undertaking medical procedures to make the “We provide suitable play activities in the playroom and bed side, experience better for our patients.”

Our Talented Staff The Royal Hobart Hospital is now the proud owner of a portrait of Princess Mary painted by talented staff member Elizabeth Hunn. A nurse at the RHH for 35 years, Elizabeth is based at the Karingal Renal Education Centre training patients on home dialysis. The regal portrait, based on the painting Hazel in Rose in Gold, by Sir John Lavery. Elizabeth has cleverly added the logo of Taroona High School to the robe Princess Mary is wearing to reflect her connection to the school and Tasmania. “We are all so proud of Mary,” Elizabeth said. “I wanted other people to see my portrait and enjoy it.” Elizabeth is a latecomer to painting but said she had always been interested in art. After doing an adult education class three years ago, Elizabeth picked up the paintbrushes for the first time and the result was the lifelike portrait of Princess Mary. Staff, visitors and patients will have to wait for some time to enjoy the artwork. Due to its size the portrait will be kept in storage until the new inpatient precinct is built. We thank Elizabeth for donating her painting to the RHH and hope Elizabeth Hunn with Larraine Millar, Strategic Director, Redevelopment she continues to enjoy expressing herself through art. RHH.

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Melbourne Victory Players Spread Happiness There was great excitement on the Paediatric Unit recently when Melbourne Victory players Archie Thompson, Adama Traore, Connor Pain, Gui Finkler, Jesse Makarounas and Pablo Contreras came to visit. As the players walked into their rooms the children’s faces beamed Play Specialist Jacqui Dawborn having fun at the party! with big smiles, as did some staff and parents! When Jesse, Archie and Goi stopped at Chloe Smith’s bedside there were smiles all round, although Chloe was a little shy at first. Chloe did not know much about football but when Archie gave her Chloe and her mum Cassandra enjoying the visit with Jesse, Archie an autographed team poster and chatted, she quickly lost her shyness and Gui. and enjoyed the visit. Cassandra Hooper, Chloe’s mother, said she appreciated the visit and thanked the team for taking time out of their The Melbourne Victory A League team was in town to play a pre- busy day to visit. season friendly game against Western Sydney Wanderers at the Two Ovals at Kingston. Archie, who is passionate about giving back to the community, said it was a pleasure for him to visit. “I have two kids of my own, it The visit was a great success and we thank the Melbourne Victory obviously makes you appreciate that they are healthy,” he said. players for taking the time to stop by.

Victory for Stephen Turner at the World Rally Championship Stephen Turner, RHH electrician, proved he is a man of many talents, achieving success in round 10 of the World Rally Championship (WRC), held in Coffs Harbour in September. Stephen, who began racing rally cars in 2009, and his co-driver Daniel Willson pulled off an incredible result, finishing 14th outright. They were also the first Australian team home and the first 2wd class 6 in their Ford Fiesta R2. Their outright placing in this event is the highest place an R2 specification car has ever finished a WRC round. Starting from 27th place on the road, the pair quickly moved up the start order and after the first full day of competition had moved into Stephen (right) and Daniel celebrating their success. 17th place outright. “We knew it was going to be a tough event so we decided we would attack from the start while the car was fresh,” ever, to continue his success at an international level. “I think this Stephen said. proves that Daniel and I have what it takes,” Stephen said. “We were “Our strategy worked perfectly, we could back off on the last day, punching well above our weight all weekend and came out on top so conserve the car and let the others take risks trying to catch us,” I hope this leads to big things for us.” Stephen said. We congratulate Stephen on his success at an international level and Looking to the future Stephen said he is now determined, more than wish him well in future rallies.

Page 5 Infocus Appropriate, Response and Relevant to Our Community

Community Expo – Shining a Light on Postnatal Depression A highly successful community expo was held at the City Hall in November to raise awareness about Postnatal Depression.

The aim of the community expo, held during Post Natal Depression Awareness Week, was to shine a light on postnatal depression so that women and families know support is available, and to reduce the stigma so that they are more likely to seek that support. Children were entertained by an Alice in Wonderland live performance and a tea party with characters from the show, including Alice and Alice in Wonderland performers take the stage at the community expo. the Mad Hatter. There was also face painting and lots of giveaways. Adults and parents were able to browse over 30 stalls featuring a diverse range Women who are experiencing depression and anxiety can get help by calling of government, non-government, and community support available. the Mental Health Helpline 1800 332 388 or their GP. Pregnancy and the year following a baby’s birth is a time of great change in a Further information can be found on the Post and Antenatal Depression woman’s life, placing her at much higher risk of developing depression and other Association website www.panda.org.au mental health disorders. The event was hosted by Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services and Research shows that depression and/or anxiety are experienced by at least 1 the Conception to Community collaboration, with the support of the National in 10 women during pregnancy and 1 in 6 women in the year following birth. Perinatal Depression Initiative.

Clarence High School’s Huge Effort The Paediatric Unit has received more than 500 children’s books from Clarence High School student group, Clarence Community Care Club (C4), as part of a community awareness initiative. Rosie Gumley, RN, with Clarence High School students Abbie Witts, Tanisha Boland, Laura Newell, Olivia Crawford, Courtney Pregnell and Designed to coincide with Book Week in August this year, the group were keen Alex Todeschini. to raise awareness within the school of the needs of others in the community addition to the library on the unit and they will bring a great deal of enjoyment and decided to make our young patients their focus this year. to many children during their stay with us,” Rosie said. “The books will also Rosie Gumley, RN, thanked the students for their efforts on behalf of our provide a distraction from hospital life, especially for children who are often patients. “This fantastic selection of books, suitable for all ages, is a welcome admitted for a lengthy period.”

Infocus Page 6 Appropriate, Response and Relevant to Our Community

Thanks for Care in NPICU Mark, Sonia, Kate and Matthew with Oliver as he presents the cheque.

Kate and Matthew Oates were so impressed “Oliver was in hospital for 94 days,” said Kate. “The staff were wonderful. with the care their baby Oliver received in the They supported us through the roller coaster ride of Oliver’s time in NPICU and we wanted to give something back.” Neonatal & Paediatric Intensive Care Unit they Nine month old Oliver handed the cheque to Sonia Gallahar, NUM, raised $14,270 to purchase equipment. who said the donation was amazing because it allows the unit to buy much needed equipment for the precious babies in their care. The money was raised from a car rally organised by 'proud pop' Mark Hughes, and a donation of $3,000 from Mark’s colleagues at Aurora. The RHH thanks Oliver, family and friends who contributed toward the purchase of a Bilisoft blanket (used to treat jaundice), a vein finder, Oliver was born at 32 weeks, weighing just 1.5 kg. Although premature, five portable breast pumps and a pump for delivering intravenous Oliver was healthy when born, but two weeks later he was diagnosed with medications. necrotizing enterocolitis (an infection of the bowel), which required surgery.

Paddling for RHH Cancer Patients Congratulations to the Dragons Abreast Boobialla crew who won a bronze medal in the Women's Breast Cancer Survivor 20's race at the Australian Masters in Geelong. The Tasmanian team, which includes staff member Sue Sanderson, has joined the Dragon Boat elite! Ann Allanby with Dragons Abreast crew and RHH staff. patients undergoing chemotherapy as this is one method of calculating The crew raised $5,260 from entry fees at their Corporate Regatta, held dosage,” Louise said. “These scales are excellent, as patients can hold on in April, and unanimously decided to ask wards treating cancer patients at to the support rails and still be weighed accurately.” the Royal Hobart Hospital to name an item of equipment on their ‘wish list’. Staff decided on a portable ECG machine for the Oncology Inpatient After a tour of the newly redeveloped oncology outpatients clinics the Unit and electronic scales for the Oncology Outpatient Clinic. members joined Ann Allanby, Inpatients to see the portable ECG machine and to enjoy morning tea with the staff.. Staff member Sue Sanderson, herself a breast cancer survivor, and fellow paddlers joined Ann Allanby, Assistant Director of Nursing Cancer Ann gave members a demonstration of the ECG machine, explained its Services at the Royal Hobart Hospital (RHH) recently to see equipment clinical features and said the ECG machine would be in daily use on the they purchased to benefit patients undergoing treatment for cancer. ward. Louise Nicholson, NUM Oncology Outpatients Clinics, thanked the team Our thanks go to the crew who paddle to keep fit and have fun, but at the for their support of cancer patients. “It is vital to have accurate scales for same time assist other people undergoing treatment for cancer.

Page 7 Infocus Redevelopment RHH The Shape of Things to Come Staff and patients are already benefiting from As a result, patients now have access to more modern, patient-centred improved facilities and services delivered by the Royal services and facilities. 2014 will be a big year for the Redevelopment with major construction Redevelopment in 2013. work to begin later in the year, following the approval of the guaranteed construction sum. Early works to prepare the site for construction will start During the year, the Redevelopment has delivered improved outpatient early in the New Year. clinics in the Wellington Centre, the new Medical Imaging Facility, redeveloped Department of Critical Care Medicine and the THO South The project’s achievements for 2013 include: Cancer Services Centre.

2013 Achievements March $11 million Wellington Clinics opened. April $9.3 million New Medical Imaging Facility opened. May $9 million upgrades of electrical infrastructure completed. July Improved project management and governance arrangements implemented. August Improved redesign receives clinical sign off. September Managing Contractor signed for stage one of the final phase of the Redevelopment. October Managing Contractor advertises early works tender to prepare site for construction. October Redevelopment webpage goes live – increased community information. November Tender called for women’s health outpatient clinics called. November Updated construction method announced to reduce the disruption of the build on patients and staff. November Three redevelopment tenders announced including the main works package. December $14 million redeveloped Department of Critical Care Medicine. December $25 million THO South Cancer Services fully commissioned

Appropriate, Response and Relevant to Our Community

Hidden Talents The artistic talents of the Clozapine Clinic clients have been showcased at their 13th annual art exhibition.

The exhibition showcased the talents of the new and emerging artists who attend the Clinic. Coordinated by Tanya LaPaglia, artist and RHH nurse, the art group is encouraged to explore the art world, experiment and try new things. Regular visits to TMAG, MONA and other galleries inspire the group and help in developing the social aspects of the group. Tanya LaPaglia (second left) and Penny Sushames (second right) with This year’s exhibition featured a wide range of techniques, from the artists. watercolours, pastels and pen and ink to mosaics, woodwork and block prints. “I’ve been coming here for years, and I love it”. Cathy Nettlefold tried her hand at printmaking this year to great success, Ben’s artwork has a gentle humour that is sometimes much needed in with all three of her artworks sold at the exhibition. the clinical setting. “The Art Group is great, it gets you out of the house, and the space is a “Last year I had penguins in submarines, this year it’s cats and dogs in haven for us,” said Cathy. planes!” Artist Ben French is proud of the work displayed on the walls of the Clinic. Clozapine is an atypical antipsychotic used for treating schizophrenia.

Infocus Page 8 Appropriate, Response and Relevant to Our Community

A Diamond Jubilee of Working and Giving A Diamond Jubilee celebration is a milestone in any organisation’s life. Graeme Houghton, Chair of the Tasmanian Health Organisations recently had the pleasure of joining members of the Statewide Auxiliary movement to celebrate their 60th Golden Jubilee Conference.

23 out of a total of 30 Tasmanian Auxiliaries were represented at the conference, which was an important opportunity for members to re- connect with friends from all over the State and to discuss important matters relevant to community health needs. Graeme Houghton said he was delighted to be invited to attend the conference and see so many delegates present from all over Tasmania. “Your tireless hard work makes a difference to the State’s hospitals and healthcare facilities,” said Graeme. “I have been told that in the last financial year, well in excess of $1million has been raised by the network of 30 Statewide health auxiliaries. “I am amazed by this figure. This is a major commitment and a serious effort. Your dedication to help others shows the strong commitment you have to the wellbeing of your community and your fundraising efforts play a crucial role in assisting Tasmanian hospitals and healthcare facilities to purchase additional pieces of equipment.” For more than 60 years, the commitment of Auxiliary members to provide additional equipment for the care, comfort and welfare of patients has not wavered. The Auxiliary movement has a great tradition of serving the community and the Tasmanian Health Organisations thank members for their dedication and years of service to benefit the people of Tasmania. Graeme Houghton and Maureen Miller cut the celebratory cake.

The Wonder of Never Never Land Benefits the Hospital Children on the Paediatric Unit have benefited from the generosity of the Huon Valley Theatre Company (HTC) and its successful production of the famous J.M. Barrie play, Peter Pan. Carl, Brittany and Alex presenting the cheque to Kelly Grant, RN. Alex Donnelly (Captain Hook), Brittany Watson (Peter Pan) and Carl The HTC followed the tradition of J. M. Barrie and donated a Lawton, Director, visited the hospital to donate a cheque for $1,260 percentage of the ticket sales (and gold coin donations for photographs to the Paediatric Unit. The donation will be used to purchase craft and taken with Peter Pan and Captain Hook) to the Paediatric Unit. patient comfort items which will benefit many of our young patients The first performance of Peter Pan took place in London in December over time. 1904. It was an immediate hit. Famous for his generous nature, J M Carl said the cast and crew were delighted to donate to the Paediatric Barrie entrusted the copyright of Peter Pan to the Great Ormand Unit. “The play was extremely popular, well received by the public Street Hospital in London. The hospital still retains the rights. Theatres and we had packed houses,” said Carl. “We are very pleased that we all over the world continue to donate part of their proceeds from are able to help others at the same time.” productions of Peter Pan to their local hospitals.

Page 9 Infocus Appropriate, Response and Relevant to Our Community

Christmas isn’t Christmas without a Christmas Tree It’s not every day you see a truck carrying a 4 metre high Christmas tree parked in the front forecourt of the hospital. The generous staff at Forestry Tasmania did not hesitate when they received a call from the RHH asking could they help us create a festive atmosphere at the hospital by donating a Christmas tree. They went to great lengths to select a suitable tree, to take pride of place in the Liverpool Street foyer. A splendid specimen was selected from a pine plantation in the Tyenna Valley and when it was delivered it came complete with a drum to stand in and rocks to hold it steady. Visitors are surprised to see such a thing of beauty in the hospital setting. The tree, which is now dazzling with silver and blue decorations, has bought joy to patients, staff and visitors at this special time of the year. The tree looks fabulous and we thank Forestry Tasmania for helping Robyn Cohen, Community Relations Unit staff member, us bring Christmas cheer into our hospital. decorating the tree.

Spreading the Joy of Reading The Australian Literacy Educators’ Association (ALEA) marked International Literacy Day in September by presenting books to expectant mothers attending the Young Mothers’ Clinic at the Royal Hobart Hospital. International Literacy Day promotes reading to children as early as possible and aims to raise the standard of literacy throughout Australia. Kelli Parker (a new mum herself) representing ALEA, presented mum- to-be Chelsie and her partner Anthony with a book for their baby and a tiny tee shirt with the message ‘read to me’ on it. “Parents who read stories aloud to their children provide a strong, positive influence and reading together is a special and enjoyable way to take time out from busy schedules and focus on the family,” Kelli said. “Parents are a child’s first and most important teacher and Chelsie and Anthony with Kelli. this time presents a rich opportunity to develop the literacy skills of listening, speaking, reading and comprehending.” purposes any time the clinic is on rather than wait for their scheduled appointment. The RHH Young Mothers’ Clinic offers specific programs for teenagers to support their physical, mental and emotional preparation for birth Fiona Savory, Childbirth and Parenting Educator, thanked ALEA for its and parenting. The clinic offers support, programs, antenatal checks continued support of young mothers. “Thanks to their generosity this and visits from various groups including social workers and lactation large donation of books will enable us to give many parents what may consultants. Expectant mothers are able to drop in for educational be their first baby book,” said Fiona.

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'Best Day Ever' on the Paediatric Unit According to staff, Tuesday 3 December has gone down in the record book as being the most exciting day ever on the Paediatric Unit! In the morning Father Christmas and his elf made a flying visit from the North Pole. The children were waiting excitedly and when Father Christmas arrived on the unit many took a peek from their doorways to make certain it was really him. Freycinet Bissell enjoying a visit from Father Christmas. Father Christmas visited every child and handed out Christmas teddy bears, calendars, Santa books, stickers and antlers. Father Christmas made every child feel special and a big thank you goes to the Centrepoint Shopping Centre for arranging the visit and providing the gifts. Thanks also to Mick and Jane, 7HOFM breakfast presenters, who accompanied Father Christmas. In the afternoon The Wiggles arrived. The playroom was filled to capacity with children, parents, staff and visitors. In fact, there was barely any wiggle space left when The Wiggles burst into the room in a blaze of colour. The playroom came to life and after many hellos and high fives the Wiggles sang all their favourite songs which were accompanied by enthusiastic clapping, singing, hands in the air and much laughter, which echoed through the corridors. The Wiggles were determined that nobody would be left out of the fun and they visited every child unable to leave their beds, signed autographs and posed for photographs. Before leaving Blue Wiggle Anthony promised that the next time they were in Hobart they would visit again. We are looking forward to it already! The Wiggles meeting our young patients.

Spreading Christmas Cheer

Chelsie and Anthony with Kelli.

Father Christmas, and his elf, visited the In December, Southern Council of Auxiliary members spent the morning wrapping more Paediatric Unit in December to present gifts, than 200 gifts to give to patients on Christmas Eve. donated by Bunnings at Rosny, to children in hospital. Jacob Chettle (pictured) absolutely loved his present!

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ED Staff Inspiring Students Dr Jen Macqueen and Melinda Rose, CNC, recently visited Glenora District High School, to inspire primary and secondary students to become, one day, Emergency Department nurses and doctors. Their visit was part of the school's Life Design Program, which applies from Kindergarten to year 10. It was implemented in order to widen the students understanding of the world of work, and what it is to be 'work ready'. “The program is focused on combining social skills, career skills and industry visits to better prepare the students for when they leave Year 10,” said teacher Rachael Downie. “The aim is to create students who are better prepared for Jen and Melinda with students. life and the world of work through exposing them to a wide range of career wonderful opportunity to give them an overview of how challenging and options from industry visits.” rewarding a career in a medical field can be. Melinda and Jen both said it was a pleasure to meet the students and a

Josh Palaya and Simon Heron discussing foot care with staff member ‘Podiatrists LOVE your Feet’ Katherine Marsden.

Did you know that your foot has more than acting quickly if you notice a problem. 25 bones, a network of muscles, joints and Staff also used “Annie,” an Arterial Insufficiency Leg, recently purchased by the Northern Suburbs Auxiliary, to demonstrate foot problems ligaments? The average moderately active such as arterial ulcers, necrotic toes, cellulitis, fungal nails, calluses and person takes about 7500 steps a day or about heel fissures. “Annie” is very graphic and gave staff and visitors a visual 174,000 kilometres in their lifetime! reminder of the importance of foot care. “Many problems can affect our feet and foot pain can reduce our The theme of national Foot Health Month in October was ‘Podiatrists capacity to exercise or move around,” said Toni Nash, Manager LOVE your feet.’ Podiatry South staff recently put foot health in the Podiatry. “Many of our staff are on their feet for hours at a time and spotlight by holding an information stall in the Liverpool Street foyer the display a timely reminder of the benefits of looking after our feet.” to raise awareness. Should you experience problems with your feet, schedule a visit to a The display attracted much interest from staff and visitors. The podiatrist. We all need to love our feet! podiatry team were kept busy providing information about ways to avoid foot problems by taking care of your feet and the importance of

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76 Years of Exemplary Service to the Royal Northern Suburbs Auxiliary members recently gathered with Podiatry Department staff to celebrate 76 years of service to Royal Hobart Hospital (RHH) patients, and to say farewell, following their decision to disband due to low membership. Auxiliary member Gwen Brooks said it had not been an easy decision for members to make as the Auxiliary had been fundraising to assist Auxiliary members and Podiatry Department staff. patients at the RHH since 1937. “We are very sorry that the Auxiliary has dispersed but are happy at the same time that we have been able “Without you we would not have been able to purchase an extensive to purchase so many items of equipment to help patients of all ages,” range of important teaching aids.” said Gwen. The RHH greatly appreciates the Northern Suburbs Auxiliary's support Toni Nash, Podiatry Department Manager, thanked Auxiliary members over the past 76 years. We thank them sincerely for the many items of for their unwavering support to podiatry patients over the past five equipment they have purchased, and for so generously donating their years. “We are incredibly grateful that you have knitted, sewed, precious time to assist patients in our care. We wish them a happy and baked and held raffles to raise funds to assist our patients,” Toni said. well deserved ‘retirement’.

The Leg Club First Birthday Eastern Shore Community Nursing recently celebrated the 1st birthday of its successful Leg Club. Over 40 members turned out for the celebrations, which fittingly featured a birthday cake covered in legs. The Leg Club provides community based treatment, health education and ongoing support for people of all ages with an emphasis on social interaction, participation, empathy and peer support. This has been Ellie Lindsay, founder of the Leg Club model, cuts the cake surrounded shown to impact positively on healing, reduce recurrence rates and help by members of the CICC auxiliary and community nurses who work in isolated people reintegrate into their communities. the Leg Club. Lea Young, a Community Health Nurse with Eastern Shore Community Nursing, had been researching alternative models of care and discovered Lea modestly laughs off the miraculous tag, “we’re not miracle workers, that the community based model for treating leg ulcers has been used in we’re just nurses”. England since the 1990s with great results. “However, it’s widely accepted that social isolation and depression are With the construction of the Clarence Integrated Care Centre, Lea saw a major cause of wounds not healing, this model of care addresses that. an opportunity and grabbed it. This Club reduces that isolation, once their wound has healed they don’t “Because we had the new building, we had the space, it was the perfect have to stop coming, they can act as support to others who attend.” venue to do it, and it’s great to see, one year on, that it’s working so Traditional models of care – whether it be going to the doctor or a clinic well,” she said. - would mean that once the wound had healed, that socialisation aspect People are ‘members’ of the Club, not ‘patients’ – it’s not a clinic. They would come to an end, but the Leg Club encourages its members to can come along to have their wound assessed or dressed, and advice is continue the social interaction. A variety of board and card games are provided on how to prevent further wounds. made available and the ongoing community spirit means that members also become aware of other community groups that are available such as Members of the Club cannot speak highly enough of its benefits and knitting and walking clubs. the work of the nursing staff. Many members related long histories of stubborn leg wounds resisting traditional models of care, but amazed at The Leg Club is located at the Clarence Integrated Care Centre and can the ‘miraculous’ cures they experienced while attending the Leg Club. be contacted on 6282 0350.

Page 13 Infocus Governance, Leadership and Management of THO-South is Effective, Innovative and Valued

CEO Jane Holden presenting Sandra with a plaque recognising Farewell Sandra Risely her service.

After 36 years of service to the Central Sterilising seen many staff come and go but I have made a many lifelong friends Department at the RHH, Sandra Risely is retiring along the way. I have been here so long I am part of the furniture!” to begin the next chapter of her life. Sandra said she had seen many changes at the RHH in her 36 year career. "When I began only four surgical trays were used for total hip Her colleagues recently gathered to celebrate her career and wish her replacement surgery, now up to 25 trays are used!” well in retirement presenting her with a beautiful quilt, signed by all her When asked how she would spend retirement, Sandra said she was friends. planning to move to Adelaide to be close to her daughter who was Carol Barber, Nurse Unit Manager, thanked Sandra for her valuable studying law. “I will find plenty to do, I love reading and knitting,” she contribution over the years and said she would be greatly missed. said. “In fact I will become a lady of the manor.” “I thought I would only be in the job for five years,” Sandra said. “I have We wish Sandra good health and happiness in her retirement.

THO-South Inaugural Annual Report THO-South released its inaugural Annual CEO said she was confident that through the strategies put in place Report in October, showing strong gains across the organisation we can continue to improve our performance. “Our dedicated and talented staff are at the centre of the gains that in reducing the budget deficit, developing have been achieved this year. Many go above and beyond to ensure innovative models of care and leading the way our community receives the best possible care, and I am incredibly with research and education. grateful for their ongoing commitment.” Other achievements in the 2012-13 financial year included: CEO Jane Holden said services have faced unprecedented demand • RHH achieved continued four year accreditation status through the this year, with emergency department presentations increasing by Australian Council on Healthcare Standards 5.5% to 50,794, and admissions to the RHH increasing 2.6% to 65,244. • Over 115 research projects being undertaken “In the face of this, we have reduced the elective surgery waiting list • The opening of the Clarence Integrated Care Centre by over 500 and improved our performance across all key indicator • Creation of the state’s first oncology room for adolescents and categories. We have also achieved significant financial improvements, young adults reducing the cash deficit by $11.4 million, to $5.6 million.” “Our mission is to work together to deliver safe and compassionate The RHH redevelopment also achieved several milestones including patient care founded on excellence in practice, teaching and research construction of the Cambridge Production Kitchen, the Wellington within the bounds of the resources entrusted to us by the community,” Clinics and the bunker for the new Linear Accelerator. Jane said. There is still considerable work to do, and areas to strengthen, but the

Infocus Page 14 Governance, Leadership and Management of THO-South is Effective, Innovative and Valued Celebrating 40 Years of Service Colleen Hart is the definition of dedication and commitment, having recently reached the impressive milestone of 40 years continuous service to the Royal Hobart Hospital (RHH). Colleen, RHH Diet Supervisor, started work as a cook at the RHH in 1973 and then specialised as a Diet Cook, preparing special meals and desserts. Back in the day bulk meals were delivered to wards in hot trolleys for the Colleen celebrates with her colleagues. nurses to plate. Work practices have changed considerably since then! Individual meals are now delivered to patients in B Pod carts which deliver She met her husband Greg, a carpenter in the Engineering Department at meals with a ‘straight from the oven’ quality. the RHH in 1979. In the 1980s and 90s her focus remained on inpatients in her role as Diet Colleen is a proud member of staff at the RHH and her colleagues enjoyed Supervisor. Colleen also worked in conjunction with food service staff celebrating her amazing achievements over the past 40 years with a special to assist with the implementation of systems to deal with unusual diets, afternoon tea recently. ensuring they were correctly prepared. She continued to support Food Jean Symes, Manager Nutrition and Dietetics said that the RHH is very Service staff with the special needs of inpatients and also coordinated the fortunate to have such a committed staff member. “Nutrition plays an Home Nutrition Service which helps to keep patients out of hospital. important role in a patient’s recovery and Colleen has made a positive Amongst her various roles, Colleen clearly had time to get out and socialise. contribution to patients at the RHH over the past 40 years.”

Pretty Impressive Management Skills (PIMS) There are organised, efficient and dedicated managers in this world - and then there's PIMS Manager Mark Upton. According to Bridget Jones, Director Strategy, Planning & Performance, Mark is “an exemplary manager who continually strives to improve his own professional development and that of his staff.” Mark began his career in Food Services as the Manager of Food Production, before moving to Medical Records where he became Mark at work. PIMS Manager in 2007. His commitment to improving his skills and those of his staff, began in A member of the Health Information Management Association of Food Services when he introduced Vocational Education and Training Australia (HIMAA), Mark was recently appointed Senior Associate (VET) for Food Services staff. Many staff had never undertaken formal Member. He is a Certified Health Information Practitioner and is training and after completing VET courses gained nationally recognised progressing through a postgraduate health administration course. qualifications. Mark’s goal is to complete his Masters in Health by the end of 2014. Mark has continued his philosophy of encouraging staff to better According to Mark the biggest accomplishment of his career to date themselves by undertaking formal training for professional has been his involvement in the development and installation of the development. PIMS staff are offered opportunities to develop their DMR system. He said he was so keen to get it right he spent many skills and several have completed business certificates. hours scanning, in his own time, to gain an understanding of how the DMR system works. In addition, Mark provides a new action in his frontline manager’s PDAs to keep them engaged. “This year I have asked them to review Mark has been an inspiration to many employees over the years. themselves based on the five criteria of the National Health LEADS It is challenging to balance training with work and we congratulate Australia framework,” said Mark. "They are required to undertake Mark and his team for their commitment to ongoing learning and assessment and review by their own staff as part of this." professional development.

Page 15 Infocus Safety and Quality are Priorities

Renal Unit Caring for the Environment The Renal Unit at St John’s Park is already well known for it's successful cardboard recycling program. But now the team are stepping up their efforts to make sustainable changes to their health care practices, and help the environment, by introducing another two streams of recycling. Dialysis units use a large quantity of consumables, and the recycling of packaging waste was seen as something which could easily be incorporated Liz Campton showing how to recycle. into daily practice with little impact on patient care time. There were also many items of a general household nature being discarded to general waste emission of 15.83 tonnes of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.” that staff felt should be recycled. “This is the equivalent of 3.96 cars being removed from the road for a year or Consultation and education sessions were held with Rob Wise, from Veolia saving 18.62 employees a flight from Sydney to Hong Kong or planting 59.06 Environmental Services, to identify items that were able to be recycled, and trees. Another benefit has been a cost saving estimated at $3,000 per year.” an audit of their General Waste collection stream was undertaken. “The project has also allowed our staff to become inventive with recycling Following this, patient rooms, which contained ‘General Waste’ and ‘Clinical practices and to think outside the square during the process. Our Hospital Waste’ bins only, had additional colour-coded bins added for ‘Co-Mingle’ and Assistant Glen Cowley has even reused the single use bicarbonate cartridges ‘Soft Plastic’ collection. A big thank you goes to Glen Seabourne from the to make fish tank filters!” RHH Supply Department who scoured Hobart to obtain the correct colour. Staff are continuing to make sustainable changes to their healthcare practices The whole team got on board, including patients, to support this new initiative with planning underway for phase two of the project (to be introduced in which, according to Colin Banks, NUM, has now become ingrained in their early 2014) to reduce their ‘Clinical Waste’ stream. practices. A huge thank you to staff, patients and families at the Renal Unit for adopting “The results have been fantastic. At Nephrology South alone in the 2012 recycling practices into their day-to-day work and really making a difference – 2013 financial year, the enhanced recycling program prevented the to the environment.

Patient Centred Clinical Practice

‘Hear Me’ – The Importance Newsletter of Patient Contributions Centred Care Please email your newsletter Over 150 staff members attended contributions to: [email protected] the moving performance of ‘Hear Tel ext. 8846 Me’ at the RHH in November. The actors (front row) getting in the Summer deadline 31 January 2014. zone while the audience arrives. ‘Hear Me’ is an intense 30 minute play which explores the life and death importance of patient The play provided the audience (staff and Many thanks to the staff who contributed centred care following a medication error. consumers) with the opportunity to think to this issue. Infocus is produced by the and openly reflect on current practices within It was written specifically for the healthcare Community Relations Unit Royal Hobart the healthcare system. industry by nationally renowned playwright Alan Hospital. Hopgood, in collaboration with Dr Catherine The feedback from a forum, which was Crock from the Australian Institute for Patient held after the performance, is being collated ISSN 2203-2207 and Family Centred Care and the Centre for and will be provided to RHH to implement Health Communication at the University of further initiatives to strengthen patient and Technology, Sydney. family centred care.

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