Supporting Aged Care RNs
Australia’s ageing population poses special difficulties for the healthcare system, especially in the aged care industry. RNs with a focus on aged care are frequently on the front lines of these issues, giving the elderly vital support. But the work is hard, and there is some stress and burnout associated with it. The assistance that family and friends provide to registered nurses in this vital role is something that is sometimes disregarded. In this blog, we examine the complexities of Australia’s aged care worker shortage, examine the responsibilities of an aged care registered nurse, and stress the value of friends and family in providing support for aged care registered nurses.
Australia’s Shortage of Aged Care RNs
There is a severe labour shortage in Australia’s aged care industry. The number of Australians 65 and older is predicted to double by 2050, according to recent statistics. However, the number of medical professionals is not increasing proportionately, especially aged care registered nurses (RNs). Existing nurses are under tremendous strain as a result of this discrepancy, which frequently leads to exhaustion, stress, and burnout. A multifaceted strategy is required to address both retention and recruitment in the aged care industry in light of the current circumstances. However, the support network that RNs receive from their friends and family is an important factor that can have a big impact on how long they stay in aged care.
What Part Does a Registered Nurse Play in Aged Care?
RNs in aged care play a variety of roles. In addition to performing medical procedures and giving medication, their duties also include tending to the emotional needs of the elderly. Typical tasks they perform are:
- Assessing the healthcare needs of the elderly
- Developing and implementing care plans
- Administering medication
- Wound care
- Assisting with daily activities
- Providing emotional and psychological support
- Liaising with families and doctors
- Monitoring and managing chronic conditions
With the breadth and depth of their duties, it’s understandable that an aged care registered nurse could become physically and psychologically exhausted. The support of their family members becomes crucial rather than just valuable in this context.
The Role of Family and Friends in Supporting Aged Care RNs
By supporting aged care RNs can benefit greatly from the assistance of friends and family in a number of ways. Let’s examine a few of these:
1. Emotional Support
It can be emotionally taxing to deal with ageing, illness, and end-of-life concerns. Supporting Aged Care RNs emotionally is essential—which is frequently much needed—by expressing their feelings in a safe space with friends and family.
2. Logistical Support
This can involve anything from childcare to helping with errands. Family and friends assist with daily tasks so that registered nurses can concentrate more on their demanding jobs.
3. Encouragement
An RN’s morale can be greatly increased by a loved one’s words of appreciation or affirmation. Acknowledging their contributions and hard work can often give them the drive to keep going.
4. Work-Life balance
By encouraging them to take breaks and participate in activities outside of work, friends and family can also assist RNs in maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
5. Professional Support
Family members who work in similar or related fields can provide insightful advice, professional support in the form of professional connections, or even just networking opportunities.
Conclusion
In Australia, the position of an Aged Care Registered Nurse is both vital and extremely taxing. These professionals are under more stress due to an ongoing labour shortage, so their support system of friends and family becomes even more important. Families of aged care registered nurses can support their loved ones in their roles by providing emotional support, practical help, and expert advice. This support system becomes not only advantageous but also essential in the face of the sector’s challenges, allowing registered nurses to carry out their vital role in providing care for Australia’s ageing population.
It takes a team supporting aged care RNs; this team consists of the communities that the RNs serve as well as governmental agencies and organisations. Let’s all do our share to help these indispensable members of our community.