RCN in Wales gives evidence to the Wales’ Committee’s Inquiry into Residential Care for Older People in Wales

Published: 16 May 2012

RCN in Wales gives evidence to the National Assembly for Wales’ Health and Social Care Committee’s Inquiry into Residential Care for Older People in Wales

The Royal College of Nursing in Wales today gives evidence to the National Assembly for Wales Health and Social Care Committee. Ensuring the highest possible standard of care for older people is a significant issue and the RCN in Wales has welcomed the Committee’s Inquiry.

The contribution of high quality nursing care is a significant factor in supporting retention of independence and autonomy for older individuals in all settings including residential care.

Registered Nurses (RNs) are essential for monitoring and assessment of residents’ health and wellbeing; recognising cues to problems, anticipating problems; acting to prevent problems developing; preventing deterioration. RNs also manage acute illness and emergencies; prevent crisis situations and unnecessary hospitalisation.

RNs are registered and regulated professionals, accountable for evidence-based practice in accordance with their professional code.

Sue Thomas, Primary Care and Independent Sector Adviser at RCN Wales said: "The real danger is the development of a poorly rewarded workforce with a lack of training opportunities which will in turn result in poor care. We feel that there needs to be an investment in the care workforce, as well as regulation. We also want to promote the benefit that high quality nursing can bring. Nursing promotes residents’ independence through proactive, rehabilitative care. Nurses can provide expert care for chronic conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, arthritis, they can help with preventing falls and give medication reviews. Some local health boards have employed nurse practitioners to do this. We hope the committee will listen to our concerns and subsequent suggestions on this subject."

ENDS

Notes to editors

· The RCN is the largest professional body for qualified, registered nurses and nursing students with 400,000 members in the UK including over 24,000 in Wales. The Royal College of Nursing represents nurses and nursing, promotes excellence in practice and shapes health policy.

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