Northern Health’s Residential In-Reach (RIR) service hosted a highly successful Education Day on 30 April, bringing together 81 nursing staff from Residential Aged Care Facilities (RACFs) across the Northern catchment.
As part of its ongoing commitment to enhancing aged care, the RIR team, a seven-day service supporting 37 RACFs, provides rapid, in-home medical responses aimed at reducing avoidable emergency department presentations. In 2023, the service expanded with a virtual model (VRIR), extending support to aged care facilities across the Hume region and other parts of regional Victoria.
The Education Day featured a series of engaging presentations and practical workshops led by RIR Geriatricians, a Nurse Practitioner, and Clinical Nurse Consultants. Topics covered included:
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Diabetes and heart failure management
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Managing behavioural and psychosocial symptoms of dementia
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End-of-life symptom management
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Structured clinical communication using the A to E Assessment Framework
The sessions combined lectures with hands-on clinical skills training, equipping attendees with practical tools to apply in their daily practice.
Feedback from 65 participants highlighted the event’s success, with attendees reporting increased confidence in clinical assessment, communication, and intervention strategies. Many expressed a strong desire for similar education opportunities in the future.
Janet Cain, RIR Clinical Nurse Consultant, reflected on the day, stating, “The Education Day provided a fantastic opportunity to build our confidence in delivering education and sharing knowledge with our aged care colleagues.”
Katherine Jones, RIR Nurse Practitioner Candidate, added, “The skills day allowed us to strengthen our relationships with facility nursing staff across the Northern catchment. It really felt like one big team working together—even though we represent different organisations.”
Participants also shared positive feedback:
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“I’ve gained confidence and knowledge in assessing patients.”
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“All the topics were valuable, especially in palliative care and wound management.”
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“It’s empowering to truly know your residents and effectively communicate their care needs and goals.”
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“I’ll remember to always do proper handovers using ISBAR.”
The event fostered collaboration between RACF nurses and the RIR team, while providing insight into existing knowledge gaps. This deeper understanding will help ensure that care is delivered safely, effectively, and at the right time and place—reinforcing Northern Health’s dedication to excellence in aged care.
Pictured in featured image: Residential Aged Care Nursing staff in the NCHER Lecture Theatre