NSW nurses warned against taking action

A western Sydney health boss has warned nurses at Nepean Hospital of “consequences” if they turn away pregnant women because of maternity staff shortages.

Fairfax Media reports that Nepean Blue Mountains Local Health District chief executive, Kay Hyman, issued the warning about the proposed action at Penrith’s Nepean Hospital.

Nurses reportedly plan to turn away pregnant women from the hospital from Monday due to concerns about staff shortages.

Nurses have assured the community that no emergency or “high risk” patients will be rejected from the hospital.

Special recognition for our life-saving nurses and midwives

DUBBO MP Troy Grant joined NSW Health Minister Jillian Skinner to mark International Nurses Day on Monday, by thanking the state’s 47,500 nurses and midwives for their dedication, skill and compassion.

Ms Skinner chose the day to announce the establishment of the inaugural NSW Health Awards for Excellence in Nursing and Midwifery, which was welcomed by Mr Grant whose mother spent many years as a nurse.

There will be nine categories for community members, patients, colleagues and professionals to nominate nurses deserving of the award.

Nominations will open online http://www.health.nsw.gov.au on Monday, June 3.