Benefits of NPAA Membership for Assistants in Nursing
As an Assistant in Nursing (AIN), your role in the healthcare system is invaluable. You provide essential support to Registered Nurses (RNs) and contribute significantly to the overall standard of patient-centred care. However, navigating the complexities of the healthcare environment can sometimes be challenging and AINs may encounter various issues that directly impact their work, health and well-being. This is where the Nurses Professional Association of Australia (NPAA) steps in as a vital support system for AINs.
Do AINs Need Union Membership?
While working under the supervision of RNs, AINs may face a myriad of challenges within their workplace such as:
- Pay & Rostering Issues
- Bullying & Harassment
- Workplace Health and Safety Issues
- Complaints with the Health Ombudsman
- Patient Care Problems/Injuries
Being a member of NPAA provides AINs with the assurance that they have access to support, assistance and advocacy when they need it the most.
Consider a scenario where an AIN is providing one-on-one care to an elderly patient and an unfortunate incident occurs, resulting in injury or even death.
In such cases, the AIN may find themselves in a complex and difficult situation and requiring legal support and guidance. This may leave you feeling isolated and vulnerable. However, with NPAA membership, AINs can rely on the expertise of our experienced case managers who have successfully defended members in similar situations.
Do AINs Need Insurance?
While insurance isn't mandatory for AINs, there are circumstances where having additional coverage provides you with peace of mind. The NPAA Professional Indemnity and Public Liability Insurance covers:
- Civil liability for loss arising from any negligent act, error or omission.
- Where you are summoned to give evidence before a coronial inquest and you require legal representation.
- Defamation claims including accusations of inappropriate cultural safety practices.
- Good Samaritan acts where a nurse voluntarily renders nursing, life-saving or life-extending services at the scene of a medical emergency or whilst doing voluntary community service.
Do AINs Need to Register with AHPRA?
One common question among AINs is whether they need to register with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA). While registration with AHPRA is not mandatory for AINs, there are certain processes they need to undertake, especially if they aspire to become registered nurses in the future.
This involves filling out this form with the Nursing and Midwifery Board. This process ensures that AINs are appropriately recognised for their contributions and sets a pathway for their professional growth.
Through NPAA membership, AINs gain access to resources and guidance that empower them to navigate the complexities of their profession with confidence. Whether it's addressing workplace grievances, seeking legal representation, or securing insurance coverage, NPAA empowers AINs to address workplace challenges with confidence.
If you’re an AIN join NPAA today so you can focus on delivering quality patient-centred care knowing that your professional interests are safeguarded.
