Open Disclosure and Apology in Aged Care

Cover image for: Open Disclosure and Apology in Aged Care
CPDTime.
29m
Updated 25 Aug 2026 Certificate65 Ratings

Open disclosure is the process of communicating openly, honestly and in a timely manner with an older person and their supporters after an adverse event occurs during their care. It’s not about assigning blame or admitting legal liability - it’s about treating the affected individual with honesty, respect and dignity, and ensuring they remain informed and involved throughout the investigation process.

This Training Module discusses the core principles and elements of open disclosure, the legislative and regulatory frameworks that underpin open disclosure in the aged care sector, and the practical communication skills and documentation strategies needed to conduct open disclosure conversations in an honest, person-centred and professional manner.

Content

8 Units • 12 Questions
Pre-reflection
1 Question
Unit 1: Introduction
1m
Unit 2: Understanding Open Disclosure in Aged Care
2 Questions
7m
Unit 3: Legislative and Regulatory Frameworks for Open Disclosure
2 Questions
2m
Unit 4a: How to Provide an Apology in Response to an Adverse Event
1 Question
5m
Unit 4b: Appropriate Language and Tone
1 Question
2m
Unit 5a: Applying Open Disclosure in Practice
2 Questions
3m
Unit 5b: Documenting an Open Disclosure Conversation
2 Questions
3m
Unit 6: Conclusion
1m
Post-reflection
1 Question

What you'll learn:

1

Describe what open disclosure is and when it is required.

2

Identify the relevant legislative and regulatory frameworks governing open disclosure in the aged care sector.

3

Apply communication skills and practical strategies to conduct open disclosure conversations in an honest, person-centred and professional manner.

4

Demonstrate effective documentation and follow-up of open disclosure conversations and outcomes.

Who it's for:

Any worker involved in the delivery of aged care services.

Topics

For Teams
Assign to your staff

Assign mandatory training and keep all your records in-one-place.

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Last updated25 Aug 2026

Published25 Aug 2026

Due for review30 Aug 2028
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