The nursing staff was affected by Covid and being short-staffed, while visiting at Waratah, I came into the shared room my family member was in and noticed the nurse call button was out of reach of not only my family member, but the other resident sharing the room.
They both couldn't reach their call buzzer. Both are full assist and unable to mobilize without manual help from staff, they are very vulnerable and both soft-spoken, I believe unable to project their voice in a way that a nurse up the other end of the corridor could hear them. I alerted the nursing staff, was told they had a busy morning and it was just an oversight. But it happened at least 4 times that I'm aware of with just my family member.
On another occasion, I came to visit just after my family member was given a shower a dressed for the day. I was chatting and asked how they were feeling and then got told their shin area felt sore. I looked and noticed a dint in the shin where the nurse had tucked a plastic drain tube inside the sock. I told a nurse on duty at once, the nurse said it will be passed on for nursing staff to be more aware as if left could break down the very thin skin and turn into a pressure sore or (ulcer). Perhaps more training is needed.
On a positive note, I want to praise the Diversional Therapy team member (Laura) who has gone above and beyond to help keep the family in contact through video chats. The family & I can't praise her enough. I believe Laura is the right person for this role she is caring and thoughtful.
"Staff care"
About: Waratah Lodge Waratah Lodge Orbost 3888
Posted by chachabs57 (as ),
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