We wrote to Matthew recently asking him to clarify the assessment for medication-endorsed care staff.

I told Matthew I’m aware that workers used to be assessed by a registered nurse when they got their medication endorsement, then did a refresher every 12 months, but it now appears that Devonfield are conducting their own audits on those medication-endorsed carers.

It also seems that workers are being assessed even though they’ve made no medication errors.

Matthew said Devonfield used to do a medication refresher every 12 months but changed that to every 3 years last year to align with the medication framework.

Matthew also said that he has recently sent an email to employees explaining the process and the reason behind the assessment. According to his email:

• Those who are assessing staff have been certified as workplace medication assessors

• The assessment is aimed at helping staff to improve their compliance with the procedure

• Those who are struggling with any aspects of the procedure will be supported to learn how to complete it

If you find the assessments are not being conducted in a supportive manner or you are not being provided with support to help you complete any future assessments, please let us know by contacting HACSUassist on 1300 880 032.