Tuesday, June 22, 2010

Nurses avoid squalid homes

By TORY SPHERD

REVOLTING squalor is stopping some of the state's most vulnerable people receiving crucial help.

Royal District Nursing Service staff avoid about 30 homes a year because of hygiene problems at the property, such as dead animals, decaying food and rubbish, and urine and faeces.

RDNS staff are also faced with potentially violent patients who may refuse to lock away firearms, weapons or aggressive dogs.

Chief executive officer Dale Cleaver said staff would always try to find another way to help people.

"Our nurses have developed skills to deal with challenging environments and behaviours," he said.

"We look for the most effective care environment for our clients whenever possible. However, we need to prioritise the health and safety of our nurses and care workers entering that home."..." More

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