Background 

Residential Aged Care Facilities (RACFs) were the second most common place of death accounting for 29.5% of all deaths in 2019. The number of people with complex care needs in residential aged care has grown rapidly to 53 % in 2017-18. The Royal Commission Aged Care Quality and Safety 2021 identified the capacity to deliver palliative care by the aged care workforce is presently lacking.

 

Calvary Health Care Kogarah as the leading specialist palliative care provider within St George and Sutherland areas includes 60 RACFs. Community Palliative Care Team (CPCT) has 10 specialist palliative care nurses working with complex cases at people’s home who can share their expertise in providing face-to-face evidence-based palliative care education within RACFs.

 

·       To improve the availability in delivering palliative care education in RACFs

·       Providing better care for older Australians diagnosed with a life-limiting illness, engaging palliative care prior end of life.

·       To promote evidence based practice by improving understanding and increase confidence among RACF staff

 

Measure:

·       A pre and post education Survey to aged care staff before and after the education session to examine their understanding, confidence, and future learning need.

·       Explore the level of interest for on-going palliative care education for those working in RACFs. 

 

Results:

16 RACF consist of 130 RACF staff had received Palliative care education in last 6 months.  

61% participants indicated increase in knowledge and understanding in palliative care.

56% participants increase confidence in delivering palliative care 

94% shown interest in receiving further palliative care education 

 

Conclusions:

 

Many facilities welcomed education and have approached CPCT for further sessions. It is evident that the demand for palliative care education remains high. CPCT staff participation in education is recognized as an essential component to their clinical role. The opportunity for professional development within the team helps to establish relationship building and engagement with RACFs.