Excellence in palliative care: A new approach to supporting aged residential care facilities

The need for palliative care in Aged Residential Facilities is projected to increase 84.2 percent by 2038. This work aims to build capacity, strengthen knowledge and expertise in palliative care in aged residential care (ARC), and to ensure equity of access for all those with a life limiting illness. The Palliative Aged Residential Care Service was formed with the appointment of seven Clinical Nurse Specialists who worked closely with facilities to identify and fulfill learning needs. In addition to staff education and collaboration, these nurses liaised with general practice and families to create a non-referral based service and a seven day a week support rostered service. As a result, 95 percent of ARC facilities were contacted each month and education has been held at 97 percent of facilities. Staff have provided positive feedback on how education has improved confidence and clinical practice. This is supported by audits result showing appropriate referrals for residents with complex needs.

Entry by the Hospice Palliative Care Service, Nurse Maude, for the Canterbury Health System Quality Improvement Showcase 2018.