Public Statement - Ms Leanne Powderly – Assistant in Nursing / Care Services Employee – Prohibition Order

18 November 2021

The Health Care Complaints Commission (the Commission) investigated a complaint concerning Ms Leanne Powderly, an unregistered health practitioner, who provided services as an Assistant in Nursing / Care Service Employee at the Young Residential Aged Care Facility operated by Southern Cross Care (the Facility).

The Commission’s investigation found that on 11 April 2020, Ms Powderly demonstrated a lack of appropriate care and inappropriate intimidating behaviour towards a dementia patient who was exhibiting challenging behaviours.

The Commission considered that based on Ms Powderly’s conduct, she has breached clause 3(1) of the Code of Conduct, in that she failed to provide health services in a safe and ethical manner. The Commission also considers that Ms Powderly poses a significant risk to the health and safety of members of the public.

In providing health services in an aged care facility, Ms Powderly was afforded significant trust by the residents and their families, to provide a safe environment and to deliver appropriate health care to residents who were particularly vulnerable.

Accordingly, the Commission has prohibited Ms Powderly from providing any health services in any capacity.

This prohibition order will remain in place until Ms Powderly can satisfy the Commission that she has:

1. Demonstrated that she acknowledges and understands the risks posed to vulnerable patients if intimidating behaviour occurs during their care; and
2. Completed an appropriate training course in the provision of care and treatment for persons with dementia. The course must have an Assessment component.

Further Information

Access the Commission’s Statement of Decision here. 

Access the Commission's media release here.

For further information, contact the Executive Officer of the Health Care Complaints Commission, on 9219 7444 or send an email to media@hccc.nsw.gov.au.