ANMF'S AGED CARE STAFFING AND SKILL MIX PROJECT

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Healthcare Management
• Nursing Studies

Background:

• The Australian aged care sector faces challenges in staffing and skill mix.
• Ensuring adequate nursing and personal care staff is crucial for resident well-being.
• Previous research highlighted a need for evidence-based staffing models.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the required nursing and personal care staff levels in aged care facilities.
• To inform the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation's national aged care campaign.
• To provide data supporting improved aged care staffing and skills mix.

Main Methods:

• Commissioned study conducted over two years.
• Analysis of staffing requirements based on resident care needs.
• Data collection and synthesis for national aged care campaign development.

Main Results:

• The report provides a comprehensive analysis of aged care staffing needs.
• Identified specific requirements for nursing and personal care staff.
• Results form the foundation for the ANMF's advocacy efforts.

Conclusions:

• Adequate staffing and appropriate skill mix are essential for meeting aged care residents' needs.
• The study's findings support the ANMF's campaign for better aged care.
• Evidence-based recommendations for staffing are crucial for quality care.