Health NZ 24/7 Family Hospital Hours
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- What: Health New Zealand (Te Whatu Ora) is implementing a new national policy allowing family/whānau to stay with hospital patients 24/7 where appropriate.
- Health New Zealand (Te Whatu Ora) is introducing a new national Patient and Whānau Family Support Policy designed to prioritize compassionate care by allowing family members to stay...
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Health New Zealand to Allow 24/7 Family Support for Hospital Patients – Addressing Compassion & Staffing Concerns
Updated: October 26, 2023 (adjust as needed)
Health New Zealand (Te Whatu Ora) is introducing a new national Patient and Whānau Family Support Policy designed to prioritize compassionate care by allowing family members to stay with hospital patients around the clock. While presented as a move to value family support, the New Zealand Nurses Organisation (NZNO) suggests the policy is also a response to notable staffing shortages and the increasing need for patient monitoring.
The New Policy: Valuing Family Support
In a message to staff, Health NZ chief executive Dale Bramley emphasized the cultural shift the policy represents.He stated that the new policy is a step towards elevating compassion within the organization. The core principle is to support whānau (family) to be present with patients 24/7, working collaboratively with nursing and maternity teams. This support is contingent on respecting the privacy and recovery of all patients.
“We know from patients and their families that having the support of loved ones at the bedside is one of the things that matters most in their healing journey,” Bramley said.
Alongside the extended support access, Health new Zealand also plans to standardize visiting hours nationally, aiming for consistency across all facilities.
Nurses Union Raises Concerns: Staffing Shortages & Patient Watches
health New Zealand chief executive Dale Bramley.
Photo: Supplied / Living Know
While the NZNO supports family involvement in patient care – recognizing its cultural importance for many communities – delegate Al Dietschin believes the current policy shift is largely driven by practical constraints. Specifically, he points to the increasing demand for “patient watches” and a lack of sufficient staff to provide them.
What are Patient Watches? Patient watches are required when a patient is considered vulnerable, such as those experiencing dementia, delirium, or a high risk of self-harm. The purpose is to continuously monitor the patient to prevent injury or interference with their treatment. Traditionally, these watches are performed by Health Care Assistants (HCAs).