Lutheran Services Queensland is growing its on-site team of highly qualified nurse practitioners across its aged care sites after the success of a trial of the expanded model of care.
The initiative to nurture its own dedicated team of specialist nurses was celebrated during Nurse Practitioner Week (December 9-15).
Lutheran Services Chief Executive Officer, Nick Ryan said the aged care provider had become an industry leader after expanding the program this year.
“Nurse Practitioner Week is an opportunity to pay tribute to and celebrate the high-level clinical skills and advanced care they deliver to our residents,’’ Mr Ryan said.
“They act as trouble-shooters particularly across our regional aged care sites, using their
specialised skills to enhance wellbeing and deliver high quality care.”
Mel Wagner, Lutheran Services’ first Nurse Practitioner, now leads and mentors the expanding team in the newly created role of Chief Clinician.
Ms Wagner said Lutheran Services was unique in the aged care sector with its program of providing highly qualified Masters-level nursing staff.
“We believe in the model of care and have witnessed many positive outcomes for residents with more complex health needs,’’ she said.
“Nurse practitioners provide high levels of clinically focused, autonomous health care for acute and chronic conditions in residential care that complement the care provided by the resident’s doctor.
“They are now part of the daily care of residents ensuring a higher quality of life, and as an aged care organisation, Lutheran Services is leading the way with a program to recruit and nurture nurse practitioners across its sites.’’
The trial began at two aged care sites in Toowoomba and one in Laidley and this year a second nurse practitioner was appointed.
By the end of January 2025, the program will be expanded to five nurse practitioners at Lutheran Services’ aged care sites in Gympie, the Sunshine Coast, Toowoomba and Brisbane.
Sabina Thakuri, an aged care registered nurse employed by Lutheran Services in Brisbane, is studying to become a nurse practitioner.
Mrs Thakuri, who has a Masters degree in advanced clinical nursing, says she was drawn to the role for the opportunity to upskill.
“I love nursing but have always aspired to be more than an RN. I am attracted to the diagnosis scope of the role as a nurse practitioner,’’ she said.
“I enjoy working in aged care because it allows me to create meaningful relationships with the residents. It is a blessing and a privilege to care for our elderly.’’
Registered nurse Regina Huang (pictured, above), who received a Federal Government scholarship to become a nurse practitioner, will begin her studies in 2025.
Ms Huang, who has a graduate certificate in palliative care, works as an acting site manager covering staff leave at Lutheran Services’ aged care sites in Queensland.
“Nursing is now a very professional career path and the advanced skills of a nurse practitioner are highly valued,’’ she said.
“This higher level of care is particularly important in regional areas where residents might need to travel long distances to see a GP. An on-site nurse practitioner can prescribe medication, undertake simple procedures and manage wound care.
“Nurse practitioners also provide advanced palliative care that allows our residents to remain where they are most comfortable rather than dying in a hospital.’’
Lutheran Services is one of Queensland’s longest established aged care and community service providers. For more information, call 1800 960 433 or visit lutheranservices.org.au.
