September 2025
Pride at Ryde
Wear it Purple Day-Friday 29 August 2025 Ryde Hospital joined people across Australia to celebrate ‘Wear It Purple Day’ by wearing purple to show solidarity with LGBTIQ+ youth. This year’s theme, “Bold Voices, Bright Futures,” celebrated LGBTIQ+ youth openly and visibly achieving their dreams in sport, art, science and more!
LGBTIQ+ and Intersex Patient Information Form In more exciting news, NSLHD has launched the LGBTIQ+ and Intersex Patient Information Form. This form allows patients to record their preferred name, pronouns, sexuality, gender identity, sex at birth and intersex status in the electronic medical record (eMR). Forms have been ordered and will be distributed over the next couple of weeks as part of the initial rollout. A short 10-minute training video explains how to use the form, please watch and share with your teams.
LGBTIQ+ Health Symposium On Friday 10 October, NSLHD hosted its second LGBTIQ+ Health Symposium at Royal North Shore Hospital and online. The symposium’s theme was Healthy Ageing for LGBTIQ+ People, shining a light on the unique challenges faced by our ageing LGBTIQ+ community and how we can build more inclusive health and aged care services.
A/General Manager’s Message As we ease out of the winter busy period, we are evaluating our Winter capacity management strategies, and reflecting on what we can do differently next year. Thank you for everyone for your efforts over the peak activity period. As the redevelopment construction site changes every day, we are casting our thoughts forward to the detail of the services that will be provided inside the new building. The first eight models of care are well underway, with staff and consumers contributing to the design. Page 8 details the results of the latest BHI Adult Admitted Patient Survey, with encouraging results for Ryde Hospital about patients’ expreince of care, and in particular the caring nature of the staff and the respect that they were afforded during their stay. Areas for improvement include being involved in discharge decision making and communication between the care team. The Patient Journey Board project is designed to improve communication of the plan for each patient, working together towards a planned discharge date. Thank you to everyone who has participated in this project. Results to come next month….
Welcome to Ryde
Ryde Hospital welcomed the following new staff joining our wonderful teams making a difference in our patient care every single day
Contents Pride at Ryde
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Bushfire Session 2025
6 7 8
A/General Manager’s Message
2 2 3 4 5 6
Ryde Shines: Staff & Service Wins
Welcome to Ryde
Quality Corner
Ryde Redevelopment
Patient Experience / Staff Compliments NSLHD Outpatient Clinics Go Digital!
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Straight from the Nursing Station
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Allied Health All-Stars
Noticeboard
Hands that Help – Volunteers Update
Newsletter is for Ryde Hospital Staff by Ryde Hospital Staff. Please email items of interest to: sarah.ryrie@health.nsw.gov.au
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Ryde Redevelopment Interior Design
As part of the redevelopment, Ryde Hospital staff will benefit from a thoughtfully designed hospital interior that reflects the local identity and values. This work sits within the Arts and Health Strategy, shaped by the vision ‘A Place to Belong.’
The strategy is inspired by the hospital’s location beside the Blue Gum High Forest and by Ryde’s history as a place of care for the local community. By embedding thoughtful interior design into the new hospital, the redevelopment aims to create spaces that foster belonging, connection and shared identity. The interior design package, developed by Studio STH, is guided by Connecting with Country framework and four key principles:
1. Human-centred design – a place for the community to heal, gather and pause (‘A Healing Beacon connecting High and Low Country’). 2. Safe and inclusive healing environments – spaces for all. 3. Strong connections to nature – spaces with a strong connection to outdoor environments and daylight 4. Moments of surprise – tangible, unexpected moments built into the user experience.
The colour palette has been directly drawn from the Blue Gum High Forest, reinforcing connection to place and embed the healing power of Country within the hospital’s fabrics and finishes. Colours will also play a practical role, supporting wayfinding by distinguishing different areas of the hospital such as floor levels, inpatient units etc. Interior design elements will include specifications for finishes such as flooring, furniture, fixtures, paint and surface materials like carpet and vinyl. An Arts and Culture Working Group has been established for the project to help guide this process. The working group involves community and staff members using a co-design approach to help ensure that future spaces are calm, inclusive and healing. What does this mean for staff?
When the new hospital building opens, staff will be working in an environment carefully designed to reduce stress, improve wellbeing and create a sense of belonging. Interior design elements are just one way the project is delivering welcoming and restorative spaces for all who come through the doors.
Keep an eye on the upcoming General Managers Forum for an update on the arts program including a glimpse at the new colour palette.
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Neighbours BBQ
The redevelopment team hosted a barbecue as a way to thank the community for its continued patience and support during construction.
On Saturday 6 September, the project team welcomed approximately 60 nearby residents for a neighbours’ BBQ. Guests soaked up the sunshine with a classic sausage sizzle and morning tea, while the kids enjoyed a dedicated kid’s zone. It was a chance for neighbours to meet the project team, ask questions and see the construction site up close.
Neighbours were thrilled to see the new Ryde Hospital taking shape. The event was a relaxed, family-friendly way to connect with locals and thank the community for their patience and support during construction. Straight from the Nurses Station Supervision v’s Stand By Assist (SBA) – what is the difference? A snap survey of Ryde Hospital clinicians as well as recent SAER investigations related to patient falls, identified inconsistencies in understanding what is meant by ‘Supervision’ and ‘Stand By Assistance’ in the prevention of patient falls. The ‘Clinical Excellence Commission Safe and Early Mobilisation Program’ involves getting patients out of bed where possible to sit in a chair, march on the spot, walk to the end of the bed or toilet and have a mobility plan in place so as to prevent further patient complications. Safe and early mobilisation reduces the risk of: • Functional decline–further deconditioning • Muscle wasting • Increased length of stay • Further medical issues such as DVT, pneumonia, delirium/increased confusion, infection • Pressure injuries • Incontinence and constipation ‘’The Safe and Early Mobilisation Program includes standardised mobility terminology for use across NSW. This is available at: Standardised Mobility Terminology. It includes the difference between ‘Supervision’ and ‘Stand-By-Assistance’. When providing Supervision, the patient is not likely to need any hands-on assistance but must remain within view of, but not necessarily close to, the person supervising. Patients who are at high risk of falls and require supervision should not be left unattended in the bathroom, including during toileting and showering. During Stand By Assistance, the patient may require hands on assistance in case they may lose their balance. The staff member therefore needs to be always standing directly next to the patient and ready to assist if needed. This means being at arms reach to the patient so physical assistance can be provided as needed. Patients who are at high risk of falls and require standby assist should not be left unattended in the bathroom, including during toileting and showering.
Other resources available at: Safe and Early Mobilisation Resources. There are also videos on Safe Mobilisation, Safe use of mobility aids and Balance and Strength test videos.
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Allied Health All-Stars Celebrating Physiotherapy in September
World Physiotherapy Day was held on Monday 8 September 2025. The theme focuses on the role of physiotherapy and physical activity in healthy ageing, with a special spotlight on preventing frailty and falls. Physiotherapists play a key role in helping people maintain mobility, independence and quality of life as they age. Preventing frailty and falls is essential for keeping older adults active, confident and connected to their community.
To support this year’s theme, introductory information sheets are available on:
Healthy Ageing
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Activities for Healthy Ageing
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Falls Prevention
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Healthy Ageing & Frailty
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These resources can be shared with patients, families and carers to promote awareness and practical steps for healthy ageing. More information and downloadable resources can be found at: World PT Day 2025: information sheets (English) | World Physiotherapy A big thank you to our Physiotherapy Team at Ryde Hospital for the invaluable role you play in patient care every day, supporting recovery, promoting independence and empowering healthier futures.
Did You Know?
• 1 in 3 adults over 65 experiences a fall each year, physiotherapy-led exercise programs can cut this risk by up to 40%. • Just 30 minutes of moderate physical activity a day can help maintain muscle strength and balance well into older age. • Physiotherapists don’t just treat injuries, they design preventive programs that keep people active, mobile and living independently longer.
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Hands that Help–Volunteers Update Celebrating our Volunteer Finalist – Diana Mc Phail We are delighted to share that Ryde Hospital volunteer, Diane McPhail, has been named a finalist in the NSW Health Awards 2025 for Volunteer of the Year . This recognition is a testament to Diane’s remarkable dedication, compassion, and the positive impact she has made through her volunteer work. Diane is an exceptional volunteer who supports nurses and engages warmly with patients, offering a calming presence, advocating for their needs, and providing valuable feedback to staff. She is also a respected leader in her role as Chair of the Ryde Hospital Consumer Participation Committee, where she mentors other consumer advisors and contributes invaluable insights to strengthen patient care and experience.
The NSW Health Awards ceremony will take place on 30 October 2025, and we wish Diane every success on this well-deserved achievement.
🌟 Congratulations Diane — your contribution makes Ryde Hospital a better place for patients, staff, and the community.
🔗 Learn more about the NSW Health Awards 2025
Bushfire Season 2025 Stay Alert, Stay Prepared
As the weather warms, bushfire season is upon us. While the statutory bushfire danger period runs from 1 October – 31 March, this year’s outlook from the NSW Rural Fire Service shows a late-onset season is expected due to predicted wet spring conditions. But don’t be complacent, fuel loads across NSW are increasing, with above-normal grass growth, regenerating forests, and uneven rainfall creating higher risks in different regions. Importantly, hazard reduction has been limited by wet conditions, meaning significant bushfire activity is more likely from late summer into autumn. At Ryde Hospital, our Bushfire Plan is ready. It sets out how we will prevent, prepare, and respond to fires, with a strong emphasis on sheltering in place and internal relocation before any site evacuation is considered. How you can stay vigilant • Re-familiarise yourself with the Emergency Procedures Manual and evacuation points. Ryde Emergency Procedures • Keep windows and workspaces secure, and remove clutter or combustible material. • Ensure patient records have up-to-date family contact details. • Report early if you notice blocked exits, combustible build-ups, or malfunctioning cooling systems. Bushfire risk may be delayed, but it will not be avoided. By staying alert and following the plan, we can keep our patients, visitors, and colleagues safe throughout the season. Ryde 2025 Bush Fire Plan please click here 2025 Ryde Bush Fire Plan
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Ryde Shines: Staff & Service Wins Go Live Update: ePJB and EDD Relaunch
On Wednesday 24 September, Ryde Hospital relaunched the Electronic Patient Journey Board (ePJB) format across wards 5, 6, 7 & 8, the first of five Sprint projects to Go Live, marking a key milestone in hospital-wide improvement. Highlights • Stronger, more consistent Estimated Discharge Date (EDD) conversations. • Doctors actively using scripting guides to support consistency. • Allied Health staff volunteering as scribes to ensure real-time EDD updates and referrals. Next Steps Maintaining momentum is critical, it takes 66 days to embed new practices. Please continue reinforcing EDD discussions and recognise great staff contributions via the Compliment Portal
Measuring Progress
Quantitative KPIs: ✓ 100% of patients with an EDD within 24 hours (currently 92%) ✓ EDDs updated throughout admission (currently 45%, with a goal to improve) ✓ PJB rounds ≤20 minutes ✓ Reduction in Acute Length of Stay (target TBC) Qualitative KPIs: ✓ Improved staff experience and focus on EDDs — feedback to be captured in an upcoming staff survey
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Beyond Ryde Our approach is now being considered for adoption across the Local Health District (LDH), a reflection of the leadership, collaboration and innovation of Ryde staff. Staff Treat Corner 🍫 Mars Bar Slice
Because every Go Live deserves a sweet reward! Ingredients • 50g unsalted butter • 1 tbsp golden syrup • 4 x 47g Mars Bars, finely chopped • 3 cups (60g) Rice Bubbles • 200g milk chocolate • 20g copha
Method 1. Grease and line a 19 x 29cm slice pan with baking paper.
2. Melt butter, golden syrup and 3 Mars Bars in a saucepan over low heat, stirring until smooth. 3. In a large bowl, combine Rice Bubbles with the remaining chopped Mars Bar. Stir in melted mixture, press firmly into the pan, and let cool for 1 hour. 4. Melt chocolate and copha in a heatproof bowl over simmering water, stir until smooth, and spread over the slice, place in fridge to firm, cut and enjoy!
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Quality Corner Adult Admitted Patient Survey – 2024 results The Bureau of Health Information (BHI) coordinates the NSW Patient Survey Program. Each month, thousands of people are asked to complete a survey reflecting upon their recent experience with the NSW public healthcare system. The 2024 Adult Admitted Patient Survey (AAPS) was completed by 25,658
patients who received care in one of the 86 NSW public hospitals. Of the 278 patients who responded about their care at Ryde Hospital: • 72% rated their overall care while in hospital as ‘Very good’ • 81% ‘Would Speak Highly’ if asked about their hospital experience by family and friends
Areas of High Performance
Opportunities for Improvement
• 95% always had identification bands checked
• food quality
• 90% always treated with respect and dignity
• patient involvement in discharge decisions
• 88% told who to contact if worried after leaving hospital
• teamwork among health professionals
• 86% cultural and religious beliefs were always respected
• patient privacy
• 85% staff were polite and welcoming
• adequate discharge services arranged
• 84% health professionals were always kind and caring.
• 84% received the right amount of information
The survey results are very pleasing and a testament to the wonderful care and services provided by all staff at Ryde Hospital. Thank you and well done !! Ryde Hospital results are available on the intranet HERE The full NSW report can be found HERE Applied Safety & Quality Program 2026 Are you passionate about improving safety and quality in healthcare? Applications are now open for the 2026 Applied Safety & Quality Program. This year-long program connects participants with subject matter experts in safety, quality, and improvement, and empowers staff to create sustainable improvements, enhance clinical governance, and drive a culture where safety and quality are embedded in everyday practice. Graduates may earn 4-8 credits towards postgraduate study with partner universities.
Applications close on 14 November 2025. Further information can be found HERE.
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Patient Experience / Staff Compliments
• The treatment that I received both in Emergency, ICU and CCU was brilliant. Every single member of staff I had that cared for me did so professionally, efficiently, respectfully and genuinely. I cannot think of a single fault with the care that I received. My only feedback would be to limit the use of perfumes and strong-smelling aerosol deodorants that would trigger asthmatics and anyone with respiratory issues. – ICU • My entire experience at this hospital was outstanding. Everything from admission to surgery and discharge went smoothly, and the staff were kind, professional, and attentive. I felt well cared for at every stage, and I’m truly grateful for the excellent treatment that helped me recover and return to my daily life. – Ward 6
• The whole experience was wonderful and excellent in every way the staff and hospital are 1st class – Ward 6
• The staff were all amazing and very helpful. They made sure everyone was taken care off. – Ward 6
• Staff in all departments were most professional and caring for my wife and for us in our dealings. General feeling of mutual respect for all parties involved. – Ward 7
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NSLHD Outpatient Clinics Go Digital! Big news! From 1 September 2025, Northern Sydney Local Health District (NSLHD) has gone digital for managing non-admitted outpatient clinics. We’re saying goodbye to the old paper-based NSHN1618806 Form and moving to the Outpatient Clinic Applications Portal — a faster, smarter, and more transparent way to manage clinic changes. Access the portal Here Note: This change applies to all services except Mental Health Drug and Alcohol (MHDA) and Affiliate Health Organisations like Royal Rehab and HammondCare. Why This Matters? • Switching to the digital portal brings big benefits: - Clearer Oversight & Accountability: A standardised approval process ensures decisions are made with the right executive and operational input. - Better Data Governance: Digital workflows reduce errors and improve reporting accuracy. - Smarter Collaboration: The portal supports structured planning, ensuring clinics are patient- centred and strategically aligned. - Ready for the Future: This move sets us up for the Single Digital Patient Record (SDPR) rollout in 2026 — helping deliver seamless, integrated care. What’s Next? Training and support materials are available on the NSLHD Outpatient intranet page: Outpatient- Opening, modifying or closing a form This is a big step forward in delivering high-quality, patient-focused care — and we’re excited to take it with you! Noticeboard
Expressions of Interest (EOIs) are being sought for temporary work secondments.
Current employees of NSLHD are eligible to apply. Please ensure you have received approval from your current manager to be released for secondment prior to applying for any of these roles.
EOIs and Internal Vacancy Notices (IVNs) are available to be viewed on the Employee Services intranet page.
This page will be updated regularly and communicated weekly via the Weekly Bulletin. EOIs and IVNs will no longer be emailed to all staff separately.
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Wellbeing Support is Always Available
At Ryde, we recognise that our people are our greatest strength. To continue providing the best care to others, it’s important to look after ourselves too. That’s why all staff have access to the Employee Assistance Program (EAP), delivered by PeopleSense.
The EAP is a free, completely confidential service that offers: • Counselling and coaching to support your mental health and wellbeing • Guidance for work-related challenges such as stress, workload, or conflict • Support with personal matters, including relationships, financial pressures, grief, or lifestyle changes • Practical strategies to build resilience and manage life’s ups and downs
You don’t need to wait until things feel overwhelming, the EAP is here as a safe, supportive space whenever you need it.
📞 For confidential support, call 1300 307 912 at any time. Your wellbeing matters. Reaching out for support is a strength, not a weakness.
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Boost your take-home pay with Salary Packaging
Did you know NSW Health staff have access to a salary packaging program that could put more money in your pocket each pay cycle? Through SalaryPackagingPLUS, eligible staff can use part of their pre- tax salary to pay for everyday expenses. This lowers your taxable income and means more take-home pay for you. What can I package? • Living expenses–up to $9,009 (e.g. mortgage, rent, car repayments, credit cards) • Meal entertainment–up to $2,650 (dining out, catering, events) • Additional benefits–such as novated vehicle leasing, relocation costs, or remote area housing (depending on your role and award) • Why consider it? • More take-home pay without changing your salary • Use pre-tax dollars for things you already spend on • Access vehicle leasing and other benefits • Safe, secure, and fully compliant with ATO guidelines
Ready to get started? •
Visit Intranet link What is salary packaging? And other FAQs
Don’t miss out on a chance to take home more of what you earn–salary packaging is available to you now!
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