Understanding Specialist Training for NDIS Supports
In some cases, disability-related health supports require a trained professional to deliver them. This can include tasks such as:
Helping you eat safely
Re-positioning to prevent pressure areas and wounds
Managing specific medical equipment
These supports might be provided by a support worker, physiotherapist, or an appropriately qualified practitioner such as a nurse or therapist.
Example: Only a registered nurse can change a urinary catheter or train a support worker to safely use a percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) feeding system.
When Training Others is an Option
The NDIS may fund a qualified practitioner to train a support worker, family member, or friend to deliver disability-related health supports.
For example:
A registered nurse can train your support worker to prevent pressure sores and wounds.
The person receiving training must:
Be trained for that specific task
Have experience in that task
Be competent to perform the support
Funding depends on:
Your needs and type of support
Where the support is provided
State or territory rules on who can deliver the support
Whether specialist skills or qualifications are required
Whether the training is value for money compared to other options
Registered Nurse Delegation & Supervision
A registered nurse may be able to train and delegate certain tasks to a support worker or enrolled nurse when a family member or carer is unable to do them.
This is called delegation and supervision of care — the trained person performs the task instead of the nurse.
What Can Be Delegated?
Tasks can be delegated if:
They cannot be done by family or friends
They are identified in a nurse care plan or discharge summary
These documents must outline:
What tasks are needed
Who has the skills to provide care
Your needs and complexity
Any risks involved
Some tasks cannot be delegated, such as daily tracheostomy tie and dressing changes.
Registered Nurse Responsibilities
Even when delegating, the registered nurse remains responsible for:
Ensuring the person is trained specifically for your needs
Being available for supervision
Documenting and auditing training
NDIS funding may cover the nurse’s time for:
Health assessments
Creating and updating care plans
Training support workers
Assessments at multiple locations (e.g., home, school, workplace)
Ongoing supervision
How to Access This Support
If you believe you need specialist training or registered nurse delegation, speak to your:
my NDIS contact
Recovery Coach
They can guide you through the process and ensure funding is included in your plan if it meets the reasonable and necessary criteria.
Internal Links:
NDIS Health Supports Guide
External Links:
Contact Complete Money Management today to learn how we can help you navigate the NDIS and secure the supports you need.