SIRS Guide
Serious Incident Response Scheme
SIRS requires aged care providers to identify, record, manage and report certain serious incidents to the Aged Care Quality and Safety Commission (ACQSC). As an RN, you play a key role in identifying and documenting these incidents immediately.
Must be reported to ACQSC within 24 hours of becoming aware
Must be reported to ACQSC within 30 days of becoming aware
What to do when an incident occurs
Ensure the resident is safe and provide immediate care
Notify your NUM / facility manager immediately
Document the incident in the clinical notes and incident form
Preserve any evidence where possible
The provider must notify ACQSC within the required timeframe
Notify the resident and/or their representative
Document everything
Use objective language. Record time, date, what you observed, who was involved, and what action was taken. Use the Doc Vault for clinical phrases.
ACQSC Hotline
1800 951 822