Caregivers working in rest homes are often performing tasks outside of their skill areas and more suited to registered nurses, a survey by the New Zealand Nurses Organisation (NZNO) has found.
The survey of 1000 of NZNO's 5000 caregiver members found there was confusion about routine tasks, such as giving out medication, which required a registered nurse's expertise.
Medication was "very frequently" given out without clinical supervision, and blood glucose monitoring and catheterisation were "frequently undertaken" without supervision, NZNO researcher Leonie Walker said.
Many caregivers reported feeling anxious about doing work they felt they weren't trained or paid to take responsibility for, but there was often no alternative.
Dr Walker said two NZNO surveys since 2005 had indicated staffing levels in aged care facilities were well-below the minimum levels indicated for safety.
Without the right mix of staff with appropriate clinical training and professional oversight and accountability, the quality of care was compromised, putting staff and residents at risk, she said.
