ADMISSIONS to Bendigo psycho geriatric centre Simpkin House have been suspended for at least two weeks as Bendigo Health and the nurses' union put in place new safety measures for staff.

The Australian Nursing and Midwifery Federation met with Bendigo Health on Friday and Monday to resolve the union's concerns about staff safety at the site, after they received 17 reports of patient violence against staff in one month.

The suspension of admissions is unlikely to have an immediate effect on patient care in Bendigo as the 40-bed Simpkin House provides long-term residential care for the elderly with severe psychological disorders.

Bendigo Health acting chief executive officer Liz Hamilton said discussions with the ANMF had been "positive" and ensured issues raised by staff were being addressed.

"These constructive discussions have centred around identifying and achieving the best outcomes for improved staff safety," she said.

"Several measures have already been put in place and all nurses at Simpkin House have received a letter from management assuring them of Bendigo Health’s commitment to staff and resident safety."

The union and management conducted an OHS inspection at Simpkin House on Monday, agreeing to six outcomes.

The outcomes included suspending admissions for at least two weeks, extra nursing care for aggressive residents, training for staff in handling occupational violence and changes to handover processes from nurses to psychiatrists.

Staff will also trial the Victorian Health Incident Management System and will form an occupational violence and aggression working party.

In its members update, the ANMF stated it was pleased to see progress being made at Simpkin House.

"We are pleased to advise that positive progress is being made and that the parties have agreed to continue to work together collaboratively to address the issues identified," it read.

The union and management will meet after two weeks to discuss a timeframe for re-opening admissions.