Building for a brighter future - GHA Central

Review of Operations: Aged Care Services
Andrews House “Stretch it Out” walking
program volunteer Jacob Wilson (left)
and resident John Woodhouse (right) proudly
display the Better Practice National Award
presented to Andrews House for the ‘Stretch
It Out” program.
Photo courtesy of The Gazette.
Profile
Andrews House (Trafalgar) and Cooinda Lodge (Warragul) are committed to
providing quality residential care which reflects the Mission statement of the West
Gippsland Healthcare group. Andrews House and Cooinda Lodge provide ageing
in place for a total of 110 residents. A dedicated team comprising Registered
Nurses, Personal Care Workers, Allied Health, Food Services, Administration and
Environmental Services are committed to ensuring quality service. Care is provided
based on an holistic approach that meets the changing needs of residents.
Objectives
1. To successfully participate in round III accreditation with the Aged Care
Standards & Accreditation Agency
2. To upgrade the nurse call system at Cooinda Lodge
3. To implement a nurse managed foot care program
4. To integrate low care and high care services at Andrews House
Outcomes
Resident Focus
In consultation with residents and
families, individual lifestyle programs
are structured to meet the needs
of residents. This practice fosters a
resident focused environment, which
generates a sense of confidence that
residents needs are met. Consultation
includes meeting with residents,
support group meetings and
satisfaction surveys covering a range
of areas. The resident orientation
booklet is a valuable source of
information. A monthly newsletter
provides an update of activities
and special occasions. The
compliments/complaints register
provides a constructive tool to assist
in the continuous improvement
process. An open door policy is
promoted to encourage
communication between residents,
families and management staff.
1. Cooinda Lodge and Andrews House awarded three years accreditation
with the Aged Care Standards & Accreditation Agency
2. Upgraded the nurse call system in Cooinda Lodge
3. Implemented a nurse managed foot care program in Cooinda Lodge
with four staff specially trained in this area
4. Low care and high care services successfully integrated at Andrews House
following the completion of the 20 bed high care extension in November
Volunteers
With the increase in programs at
Andrews House and Cooinda Lodge,
nine new volunteers were recruited
to assist with a variety of activities
conducted each week.
The Cooinda Lodge Support Group
provides valuable support to residents
and families and fundraises to provide
the “extra things” for residents.
Fundraising activities included a
dinner, raffles, cinema night and
trading table. Funds raised this year
totalled $8,030. Equipment purchased
included pressure relieving equipment,
a tea trolley, leg protectors and
footstools. Funds are also provided
to assist with the activities program.
Since 1995 the Group has raised
$34,202.
Andrews House continues to be
generously supported by the Trafalgar
and District Community Opportunity
Shop. $12,673 was donated from shop
proceeds. Three new beds, teapots
and song books were purchased.
A shade sail for the outdoor area
will be installed in the near future.
Donations from the Trafalgar Lions
and Lioness Clubs, and the Drop-in
Day Centre of Trafalgar also provide
excellent financial support to purchase
much needed equipment for resident
use.
Activities staff proactively seek a
diverse range of visiting entertainers
for resident enjoyment. Strong links
with dance clubs, local service clubs,
church groups, schools and social
groups were maintained this year.
Future Directions
➤ To develop an innovative program to attract staff into Aged Care
➤ To strengthen the upskilling program of all staff in line with evidence
based practice
➤ To provide a Sunsmart outdoor environment that enables residents
to enjoy a welcoming, relaxed, sensory experience
➤ To market Andrews House and Cooinda Lodge and strengthen community
relationships
➤ To enhance the Volunteer program for Aged Care
Resident Pat Evans enjoyed the visit
by the Diamontes Circus to Cooinda
Lodge in May.
30