Building for a brighter future - GHA Central

Review of Operations: Aged Care Services
Continuous Improvement
Andrews House and Cooinda Lodge
were awarded three years accreditation
by the Aged Care Standards and
Accreditation Agency following the
accreditation site audit conducted
in October. Both facilities successfully
met all 44 outcomes as set down by
the Agency.
An innovative program to reduce
anxiety for residents displaying
‘sundowners syndrome’ was introduced
at Cooinda Lodge. The program
incorporates stimulating sensory needs
and touch. Relaxation and enjoyment
are the main benefits for residents.
The diabetic nurse visits residents
with diabetes to ensure their condition
is managed effectively and to provide
the best outcome for their care.
A clinical care pathway was developed
to provide optimum care to residents
suffering a fractured hip.
The carpet replacement project at
Cooinda Lodge commenced during
the year. Vinyl replaced all carpeted
areas to improve cleanliness and
general maintenance.
Staff Education
In line with the Group’s strategic plan
to attract, retain and develop quality
staff, Andrews House and Cooinda
Lodge continue to participate in a
Graduate Nurse Program specifically
for Aged Care.
Several staff have undertaken or
are undertaking advanced education
including medication management for
Division 2 nurses, Bachelor of Health
Science – Nursing and Certificate IV
(Nursing). Following the introduction
of the We Care paperless
documentation system, all resident
progress notes are now computerised.
Several special care training programs
and workshops have also been
undertaken.
Andrews House
A highlight at Andrews House this
year was the successful completion
of the 20 bed high care extension,
officially opened in November.
Maintaining high standards of
resident care and ensuring minimal
interruption to residents were a major
focus for staff throughout the building
works. New facilities provide the
infrastructure for additional lifestyle
programs specifically tailored to meet
the needs of residents. Happy hour,
the men’s shed program, and other
activities are conducted with the
A collage to commemorate the
50th anniversary of the Victory in
the Pacific was unveiled at Andrews House in
November. Picture are (L-R) Russell Broadbent
MP, RSL President Ron Blair and Andrews
House resident Cyril Scott.
assistance of the activities coordinator
and volunteers.
The innovative walking program
“Stretch It Out”, designed to enhance
the lives of residents and staff, was
recognised with a Better Practice
Award from the Aged Care Standards
and Accreditation Agency. The success
of this program continues thanks to
the support of Trafalgar High School
students who assist in running the
program.
A special collage to mark the 50th
anniversary of the WWII Victory in
the Pacific was unveiled in November.
The project was funded by a special
grant from the Department of
Veteran’s Affairs and features
memorabilia provided
by residents.
Enjoying a dance at the
Cooinda Lodge Royal Winter
Ball are staff member Carol
Stapenell and resident
Howard Rowe.
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