Pindara Private: Voluntary twelve hour shift trials

Published: 12 August 2011

The management of Pindara Private Hospital is proposing a trial of twelve hour shifts in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU).

The purpose of this newsletter is to inform all QNU members of their rights and the correct procedure in relation to the commencement of twelve hour shift trials, as it is understood that there is some confusion around the issue.

The arrangements are contained in full in the Ramsay Health Care Australia Pty Ltd and Queensland Nurses Union Enterprise Agreement 2009 at Schedule A.

The following are the key points to be aware of:

  • In order for a trial to take place, a secret ballot must be held and successfully voted on with a 70 per cent “Yes” vote from nurses in the unit who will be directly affected by the trial.
  • If there is a successful ballot, management can introduce the twelve hour shift trial.
  • Nurses do not have to participate in the trial. Participation is voluntary and nurses do not have to change their hours. In order to participate, nurses have to complete and sign the form contained in Schedule A.
  • If there is not a “Yes” vote of over 70 per cent, the ballot is unsuccessful and the trial cannot be held.
  • The introduction of a twelve hour shift is only a trial. Affected nurses and the NUM will monitor and evalute the trial to decide whether it is successful or not. The evaluation criteria shall include but not be limited to the factors as per Schedule A.
  • The findings of this evaluation will be sent to the Local Hospital Consultative Team every six months for their information and review.
The introduction of any twelve hour shift must follow this procedure in Schedule A, whether it is proposed for an existing or new ward or unit.

If you have any questions about the process please contact QNU Organiser Kate Snowball on 3840 1444.

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