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Lights of Love Campaign

902- 863-2578 

R.K. MacDonald Nursing Home

Year: 2022

Lights of Love Christmas Campaign 2022 Begins

Nov 28, 2022

Join us in celebrating Christmas this year by helping the R. K. MacDonald Nursing Home light its tree with bulbs dedicated to love. This is the 25th year that our “Lights of Love” Christmas tree will be lit to honour individuals in whose name donations have been made. Those honoured do not have to be residents of the R.K.

Your donation will be used to “Enhance the Journey of Life” to the residents of the R. K. MacDonald Nursing Home. This will include comforts in the dining areas and comfortable furniture in the common spaces for residents and guests consistent with a home like atmosphere.

You can dedicate a bulb in memory of a deceased loved one or honour someone presently in your life. There is no limit to the number of bulbs you can purchase. In addition to a tax receipt for your donation, you can receive a card to send to anyone you have honoured.

It is at 7:00pm on Sunday December 4, 2022 and the tree on the front lawn of the RK MacDonald Nursing Home will be lit at that time. All dedications will be entered in a “Lights of Love Memorial Book” that will be on display in the R.K. Chapel throughout the upcoming year.

For more information or to donate in support of the campaign, please visit the Lights of Love page.

Clinical Support

Nov 22, 2022

Please note:  This is not a job listing, this is a job description. For current opportunities click here.

POSITION: Clinical Support
DEPARTMENT: Nursing
RESPONSIBLE TO: Director of Clinical Services

The Clinical Support develops and facilitates the supervision of current and future nursing students working in the role of CCA (Continuing Care Assistant).  Clinical Support will impart knowledge, experience, and skillset to nursing students to improve clinical practice in nursing. The provision of support to focus on the R.K. MacDonald’s Mission, Vision and Core Values as well as best and emerging practice in geriatric care. In keeping with our Mission, Vision and Values and our philosophy of Resident Centered Care, Clinical Support serves as a role model; as a partner in the provision of care and support of our Residents, and represents the home in a positive, professional, efficient and confidential manner.

KEY RESPONSIBLITIES

1. Facilitate and oversee nursing students clinical placement (orientation/ mentoring) based on skill needs of student.

  • Coordinates assignment of CCA Mentor with assistance of HR Coordinator.
  • Supervises and provides support to all student nurses during clinical placement to determine educational needs and growth opportunities.
  • Plans and coordinates extra one on one support or activities to enhance skills as required.
  • Provides clarification of clinical practices, documentation and treatment plans for residents.

2. Evaluates and documents training, mentorship, and educational process’s outcomes.

  • Ongoing shift supervision and provides support in the provision of Care as needed.
  • Provides constructive feedback on nursing student performance to decide on such things as: needs more mentorship, good fit can proceed, or not in the PLAR program
  • Conducts Performance Reviews as student progresses through i.e. PLAR (On site Education Program) students, mid-way and end of mentorship (2 mos. with CCA Mentor)
  • Upon a successful completion organizes date of placement on own rotation and submits CAT Tool signed to HR to start PLAR Phase I application.
  • Acts as a Proctor for Module Tests for PLAR Students as necessary onsite.
  • Assist HR to monitor and motivate the PLAR students to ensure completion all components of the CCA Program from a recognized education provider meet set deadlines and set them up to successfully pass the provincial certification examination.
  • Conducts Audits as required i.e. care, bath, etc.

3. Communication: through personal behavior and interactions, and consistently demonstrates a humanistic, affiliative approach to relationships:

  • Within department, with other team members and with union representatives
  • In all interactions, within and while representing the facility
  • With all Residents and families
  • While establishing and maintaining cooperative working relationships
  • Maintain confidentiality with resident, staff, and all matters concerning the Home.
  • Creates an effective and encouraging learning environment
  • Visible and accessible to staff
  • Build relationships with staff and assist them in identifying skill and educational needs and supports
  • Communicate person centered philosophy. That which is a holistic social model of care, which considers the person and their families to be at the center of the care and services provided.

4. Orientation and Skills/ Education

  • Coordinate an effective on boarding experience via Department Orientation and within the Clinical Experience.
  • Ensure Education is provided on Safe Lifting and Transfer Training and Transfer Codes.
  • Initiate, plan, training and educational programs as required for students in PLAR program based upon needs assessments conducted in each department
  • Ensures quality educational experiences to prepare the nursing workforce.
  • Clarification of Nursing Terms, Proper Bed Making, Equipment, Personal Care, Bathing, Documentation, and Transfer techniques, etc. as necessary.
  • Where necessary assists staff with one on one education in regards to performance, or policy or arranges same as deemed necessary by the Departmental Director.
  • Coordinates with IPAC Nurse training necessary for Infection Prevention.

5. Contributes to Continuous Quality Improvement Initiatives in the Nursing Department

  • Understands the CCA Scope of Practice and Competency Framework that defines the CCA Scope of Practice.
  • Provide feedback as need on CCA Program Framework as a resource for evaluating and refining the existing education to ensure the relevance of the CCA curriculum.
  • Establish systems to monitor effectiveness of clinical orientation program.

6. Participates in Committees/teams as required

7. Other duties as may be required.

CORE COMPETENCIES:

  • Resident centered focus (builds positive family relations)
  • Communication (adapts communication to others)
  • Conflict Management (anticipates and addresses sources of potential conflict)
  • Self & Community Awareness (recognizes emotions & being pro-active)
  • Teamwork (fosters Teamwork) Ability to work successfully with all levels in a team environment

SKILLS

  • Demonstrated Clinical Nursing skills
  • Must have good oral and written communication skills.
  • Must have great interpersonal skills.
  • Must possess critical thinking skills.
  • Must have organizational and mentoring skills.
  • Must possess relationship-building skills.
  • Ability to assess and identify the learning needs of staff and recommend appropriate educational programs to meet those needs
  • Experience in the MS Office suite of programs is an asset
  • Demonstrated leadership in a unionized environment
  • Knowledgeable in providing Personal Care
  • Scope of Practice and CCA Competency Framework
  • Recent training in Safe Lifting & Handling Transfer Training & knowledge of Transfer Codes

EDUCATIONAL QUALIFICATIONS

  • Graduate from CCA (Continuing Care Assistant) Program
  • Registered in CCA Registry of NS
  • Or Graduate of an accredited LPN school with pharmacological training
  • Licensed with the CLPNNS
  • Certification in CPR, WHMIS, Food Handlers, Dementia/Alzheimer, Palliative care courses and Gentle Persuasion Approach (GPA)
  • Minimum of three years clinical experience
  • Teaching experience would be an asset
  • Mentor or Instructor Certification an asset

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE

  • Recent clinical experience, including medication administration and leadership duties
  • Experience in geriatric LTC setting an asset

Dietary Aide

Aug 19, 2022

Please note:  This is not a job listing, this is a job description. For current opportunities click here.

POSITION: Food Services Aide (General Worker)
DEPARTMENT: Food Services
RESPONSIBLE TO: Food Services Director

Under the direction of the Food Services Director, the Food Services Aide supports the delivery of quality food services to the Residents of the Home. As an employee of the RK MacDonald Nursing Home, every person has a responsibility to be involved in providing a stimulating environment for the residents.  In keeping with our Mission, Vision and Values and our philosophy of Resident Centered Care, the Food Services Aide serves as a positive role model; as a partner in the provision of care and support of our Residents, and represents the home in a positive, professional, efficient and confidential manner.

Functions and Responsibilities:

  1. Understands that the Resident and family are central to all departmental activities, services and decisions
  2. Establishes and maintains working relationships and performs all work in keeping with the Mission, Vision, Values and philosophy of resident centered care of the RK Mac Donald Nursing Home
  3. To promote and maintain the safety of residents, staff, and visitors as a strategic priority for the home at all times.
  4. Prepare resident trays in an attractive manner and in accordance to dietary orders.
  5. Sets up-delivers meal cart(s) and resident trays to the unit dining areas in accordance to the rules of decentralized dining.
  6. Meal service of the residents: setting the tables for the breakfast, dinner, and supper meals; service of the meal(s) in a pleasant, efficient, and courteous manner; clearing and re-setting of the resident tables; directed sanitation duties in the respective dining areas.
  7. Cleans and sanitizes dishes and cutlery used by residents, staff, visitors, catering personnel and the activity department.
  8. Pot sink duty, as required and directed.
  9. Cleans and sanitizes tables, kitchen equipment, serving line, carts, and counters by: using proper cleaning equipment, procedures, and cleaning solutions. Follows daily cleaning list.
  10. Spot clean/sanitize designated areas of the utility room and main kitchen, as outlined in the job specifications.
  11. Keeps fridges and storage areas tidy and clean by removing all empty boxes and clutter, and disposing of the same in the appropriate manner. Mop up spills, as required.
  12. Daily meal offerings to be posted on menu boards.
  13. Deliver nourishments and supplies to nursing units and place in appropriate fridges and cupboards.
  14. Deliver night lunches to nursing units daily for distribution to residents.
  15. Must be familiar with Departmental Policies and Procedures Manual, WHMIS and EMO.
  16. Attend annual in services for WHMIS, Fire Safety; re-certify Food Handlers certification and Firs Aid/CPR as required.
  17. Perform additional related duties as outlined by Director of Food Services or delegate.

Education, Training and Experience

The work requires reading, writing, speaking and understanding English, sound comprehension and judgment. The work requires understanding and following simple work procedures. Work procedures are straight forward and are normally learned from demonstrations and from on-the-job experienced co-workers.  Minimum education level Grade 12.  Must have Food Handlers course or be willing to obtain the same shortly after employment begins and upgrade every 5 years.

Effort

Mental:            The work requires portioning and serving meals to residents and staff members.  Making sure residents receive proper diets.

Physical:         The work requires walking and standing, pushing food carts loaded with food, carrying dishes and trays, cleaning dishes and equipment.  The incumbent is required to lift up to 50 pounds without the assistance of another person.

Supervision:    The job requires no supervision of staff.

Personal Suitability

The work requires reliability, adaptability, effective interpersonal relations, and ability to work under pressure and good personal hygiene and neatness.

COVID Update – July 6th, 2022

Jul 6, 2022

As you are likely aware, the Nova Scotia Government is recommending further loosening of COVID management guidelines for long term care facilities. Before we can get into their recommendations, let’s have a look at what we learned during the latest COVID-19 outbreak:

  • Residents: 38 residents were COVID positive – fortunately, they were all vaccinated and most had very mild symptoms
  • Staff: 25 staff were required to isolate due to contracting COVID-19
  • Significant staff stress due to the necessity to fully gown, glove, mask and shield in order to provide care to our residents

Based on our recent experience, we acknowledge the impact a COVID-19 outbreak has on our residents, families and staff. Our response to today’s Government recommendations reflect our ability to support the safeguards we will continue to implement to reduce the likelihood of future outbreaks.

Outbreak Update:

  • Outbreaks have been declared over in Cobblestone, Thistledown, Tanglewood, Maple Ridge and Brambleberry
  • Martha’s Place remains in a Suspected Outbreak situation – see visitation guidelines below.

Screening:

  • Our Main Entrance screening practices are under review, however they will remain in place and include temperature checks and signing in

Visitation: Non Outbreak Care Area

  • DCG’s, family and friends are all welcome to visit your loved ones here at the RK
  • 3 visitors in a private living area, 2 visitors in a semi private resident room at one time
  • There are no restrictions on where your visits can take place – indoors or outdoors – our gardens are in full bloom!
  • Please do not bring food or drink for yourself as masks must remain on at all times for indoor visits
  • Mask are encouraged for outdoor visits while maintaining 6’ social distancing
  • Visitors no longer have to be vaccinated
  • Visitation hours are from 11:00am to 7:00pm, seven days a week
  • Masks are strongly encouraged for resident offsite outings

Visitation: Outbreak Care Area

  • Only Designated Care Givers are welcome to visit – full Personal Protective Equipment will be available for DCG’s – please complete the DCG education session
  • Please do not bring food or drink for yourself as masks must remain on at all times for indoor visits
  • Residents must remain in their care area to reduce the risk of spread

DCG Education

This initiative will enable DCG’s to safely visit during a suspected or an outbreak situation. DCG’s can sign up by calling either 902-863-2578 ext. 222 or 902-863-3458.

Important reminder

Managing COVID will be an ongoing challenge and we fully anticipate experiencing future outbreaks. Our goal is to minimize the risk to our residents and staff. We ask that when out in public please consider wearing a mask …. COVID-19 is still very active, very invisible, very contagious and has a significant impact on our ability to safely staff the Home in order to continue providing quality care to your loved ones!”

Please forward this update to your family members and any friends that visit the RK.

Terry MacIntyre, CEO
RK MacDonald Senior Leadership Team

Supervising Registered Nurse

Jun 30, 2022

POSITION: Supervising RN
DEPARTMENT: Nursing
RESPONSIBLE TO: Director of Clinical Services

The Supervising RN is accountable to the Director of Clinical Services in the provision of front-line leadership to the nursing and support staff and ensures that the mission, vision and core values, expected behaviors, leadership philosophy, ethics, safety, quality and inter-professional collaboration are integrated within the Home. The Supervising RN is responsible for monitoring the quality outcomes [see Appendix A] as they relate to the care provided by our nursing care partners.

The Supervising RN is accountable and responsible to role model our core values; demonstrate excellence in practice and to provide staff with assistance, support in the delivery of holistic, person-centered care. They must possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills to ensure effective communication with all members of the care team, especially the resident and their family.

Cultural Philosophy:

  • Constructive / Participatory Leadership

Cultural Norms:

  • Achievement based thinking
  • Self-actualized thinking
  • Humanistic – encouraging based thinking.
  • Affiliative based thinking –

Core Values:

  • Compassion Accountability Respect: Excellence Safety:

Key Responsibilities

Implicit in this role is the responsibility for supervising and participating in the day-to-day provision of quality care for all residents. The Supervising RN is responsible to utilize leadership and management skills to identify and solve problems. In supporting our vision of an alive and vibrant community built on meaningful relationships that celebrates and encourages a uniqueness of spirit and character the Supervising RN is responsible for building and developing, for supporting and encouraging the development and continuance of a cohesive, responsive, cooperative care team that maintains a continual focus on a holistic approach to living. As an employee of the RK Mac Donald Nursing Home, the Supervising RN has a responsibility to be involved in providing a stimulating environment for the residents. In keeping with our Mission, Vision and Core Values and our philosophy of person-centred care, the Supervising RN represents the home in a positive, professional, efficient and confidential manner.

Leadership: accountable to inspire care partners to role model our core values and to coach and build a team that will achieve the vision – “leading care partners to excellence”

  • Excellent attendance
  • Self –educator
  • Ability to host / Chair team meetings
  • Ability to present education sessions on a variety of care related topics
  • Knowledgeable of and monitors compliance with the provincial LTC Facility Program Requirements
  • Responsible for the efficient and effective day to day functioning of all nursing care areas
  • Supports staff and manages the first level of discussion with Incident Reports and care partner / family conflict and addressing resident unmet needs, i.e. behaviors
  • Models our core values creating an atmosphere that empowers staff to contribute to the delivery of high quality care
  • Provides a visible, identifiable presence that invites feedback and discussion
  • Contributes to the delivery of organizational objectives
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal relationships with staff, residents, families and other care providers
  • Enhancing staff satisfaction by creating a challenging and positive work environment

Clinical Care Coordination and Supervision: accountable for the delivery of safe and competent, resident focused care – “be the expert in geriatric nursing”

  • To be familiar with the resident population in order to make safe and appropriate decisions about care plans and care staff assignments
  • Provides safe and competent direct clinical care [e.g. assessments and treatment] to support/direct care delivered by the RN Team Lead / LPN / CCA care partners
  • Monitors resident care plans to ensure they are person-centred and focused on achievable goals and outcomes
  • Provides leadership, education, direction and coordination to staff ensuring safe & effective clinical practices are occurring
  • Enhances the resident experience by performing rounds and building relationships
  • Leads the admission process ensuring that the focus of care is holistic and person rather than medically centered

Human Resources: accountable to maximize employee performance in service to the Mission, Vision & Core Values of the Home – “promoting excellence in care”

  • Monitors skills and competencies of nursing care partners and ensures that the skills are kept current taking appropriate proactive or corrective action when required
  • Conducts annual performance reviews with all staff and assists each staff person in developing goals and action plans specific to their performance review and learning needs
  • Conducts care area staff meetings at least monthly, preferably bi-weekly

Family Relations: accountable for the recognition and inclusion of family as care givers. Responsible for establishing and maintaining compassionate and respectful relationships with family members and recognizing the critical role they continue to play in the lives of those entrusted in our care – “ensuring the resident’s voice is heard”.

  • Maintain open and respectful lines of communication with family by ensuring family is invited and welcomed as a partner in care planning
  • Welcomes and encourages family feedback

Continuous Quality Improvement & Occupational Health and Safety: accountable for the continuous quality improvement and safety initiatives that will make every important aspect of the resident’s experience better. Responsible for ensuring standards of practice, codes of ethics and health and safety are understood and followed – “driving continuous growth creating a safe and healthy environment”

  • Investigates Safety Event and Fall Reports involving residents to ensure corrective strategies are implemented in care planning in an effort to reduce reoccurrences.
  • Participates in implementing and evaluating quality initiatives – see (Appendix) Quality Outcomes
  • Ensures safe work practices are adhered to at all times
  • Ensures staff adherence to infection control practices

Supports

The RN Supervisor will have the support of the Director of Clinical in administering their roles and responsibilities as outlined in this job description

Educational Qualifications

  • RN, B.Sc.N. preferred
  • Current registration with CRNNS
  • Certificate in gerontology nursing [or willingness to obtain]
  • Current CPR, WHIMIS ,CPI
  • Certificate in Gentle Persuasive Approach
  • Certificate in P.I.E.C.E.S.

Experience Required

  • Five years nursing experience in Geriatric Nursing
  • Previous supervisory experience an asset

Knowledge & Skills Required

  • Demonstrated flexibility
  • Demonstrated leadership abilities
  • Evidence of the ability to motivate others
  • Strong resident focus and ability to build relationships
  • Commitment to supporting a culture that supports and lives our mission, vision & values
  • Demonstrated self confidence in protecting the rights and well-being of residents as opposed to those of our care partners
  • Demonstrated critical thinking & problem-solving skills
  • Demonstrated commitment to self-learning and continuous professional education
  • Effective and compassionate communication & interpersonal skills
  • Self-confidence in addressing conflict and securing resolution

Competencies

Competence means the ability to integrate and apply the knowledge, skills and judgement required to practice safely and ethically in a designated role and practice setting.

  • Ongoing professional development and competence is required
  • Maintains an awareness of current trends and issues in gerontological nursing care
  • Identifies, achieves and maintains own professional development needs

Please note:  This is not a job listing, this is a job description. For current opportunities click here.

Approved by: Director of Clinical Services

Closed to All Visitation

Jun 1, 2022

Due to an outbreak of COVID-19, all care areas in the Home are closed to all visitation effective June 2, 2022 until further notice.

Rehabilitation Assistant

May 27, 2022

POSITION: Rehabilitation Assistant
DEPARTMENT: Walking Stick Rehabilitation Services
RESPONSIBLE TO: Director Rehabilitation/Clinical Services

The Rehab Assistant is responsible for implementing rehabilitative strategies for improving residents’ quality of life through the provision of prescribed therapeutic programs, related documentation and communication. All services provided are in accordance with residents’ personal choice and preferences with the aim of achieving excellence in the care and well-being of those living in the RK MacDonald community. As an employee of the RK Mac Donald Nursing Home every person has a responsibility to be involved in providing a stimulating environment for the residents. In keeping with our Mission, Vision and Core Values and our philosophy of Resident Centered Care, the Rehab Assistant, as a partner in the provision of care and support of our Residents, represents the home in a positive, professional, efficient and confidential manner.

Functions And Responsibilities

  • Understands that the Resident and family are central to all departmental activities, services and decisions
  • Establishes and maintains working relationships and performs all work in keeping with the Mission, Vision, Values and philosophy of resident centered care of the RK Mac Donald Nursing Home
  • Assists the PT / OT with the assessment of residents to obtain data necessary for treatment planning and implementation.
  • Assists in transfer and walking code assessment and posting
  • Provides supervision to residents utilizing Walking Stick or Front Porch accessing:
  • exercise equipment
  • paraffin wax
  • hot packs,
  • ice packs
  • massage table
  • TENS units
  • Administers treatment plans (exercise class, Front Porch and Walking Stick programs) , as prescribed by the PT / OT with resident’s consent and direction, respecting personal choice and preference including goals and methods to achieve identified goals.
  • Co-ordinates treatment plan with residents, and care team, involving family as necessary.
  • Monitor resident’s response to interventions and notifies PT / OT of changes in clinical presentation
  • Maintenance and cleaning of Red Cross equipment prior to returning to Red Cross
  • Transports residents to and from the Walking Stick / Front Porch area
  • Participants in monthly safety audit of the Walking Stick and Front Porch
  • Participates in safety audits – wheelchairs, mattresses, slings, transfer and mobility codes, roho cushions, mat alarms and rolators
  • Tracking and maintenance of Red Cross Specialized Equipment
  • Administers staff and student Resident Safe Lifting, Handling and Transfer In-services
  • Seeks out, attends and participates in personal and professional education programs.
  • Works to create a culture of safety for all
  • Provides verbal encouragement and support to any resident to maintain independence,
  • Supports interventions designed by other members of the interdisciplinary team
  • Documents result of resident’s treatment according to approved format
  • Checks and cleans equipment, maintains treatment sand storage areas, orders necessary supplies
  • Conducts group exercise classes weekly tailored to meet resident needs

Educational Qualifications

  • Graduation from a recognized Community College Rehabilitation Assistant Program or recognized OTA or PTA College program
  • Basic Medical Terminology
  • Has or willingness to obtain safety programs such as WHMIS and CPR

Experience required

  • Minimum of 3 years recent experience in a Long Term Care and/or Community setting

Skills or Competencies

  • Ability to foster, demonstrate and maintain good public relations with residents, families, visitors, and the public.
  • Ability to develop and maintain positive working relationships with coworkers and other members of the health care team.
  • Ability to work independently and complete assigned work
  • Excellent interpersonal communication skills.
  • Must be physically able to perform all aspects of the work.

Other Duties

Other related duties as assigned

Approved by: Director Rehab/Clinical Services

Please note:  This is not a job listing, this is a job description. For current opportunities click here.

Martha’s Place Re-Opened

May 12, 2022

Dear Family members,

We are pleased to announce that Martha’s Place will open for general visitation effective today, Thursday May 12th at 11am. We want to thank you for your ongoing cooperation and support and look forward to welcoming you back.

Sincerely,
RK MacDonald Senior Leadership Team

Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC) Nurse

Apr 13, 2022

Reporting to the Director of Clinical Services, the Infection Prevention and Control (IPAC) Nurse is accountable for the planning, development, implementation and coordination of the Infection Prevention and Control Program.

Key Responsibilities:

Pandemic planning and management. Liaison with various partners and agencies.  Education to staff, residents, families, students and volunteers on IPAC policies, programs and practices.  Collaboration with teams, committees, families, residents and volunteers to develop best practice solutions to IPAC issues.  Auditing and surveillance of the IPAC program within the facility. Various quality improvement initiatives related to IPAC throughout the facility. Development and updating of IPAC related policies and procedures.  COVID-19 Vaccines and audits. Consistent resource for staff.

Qualifications:

  • Certification or current enrollment in an approved IPAC Canada recognized program is an asset
  • Proficient in use of various computer programs (Excel, Word, Outlook)
  • Current knowledge in concepts and trends in nursing and continuing care
  • Excellent clinical, communication, interpersonal and leadership skills
  • Demonstrated advanced knowledge and clinical competence in IPAC
  • Skilled in policy development and utilizing evidenced-based practice
  • Knowledge in quality improvement initiatives, including outcome measures
  • Demonstrated experience in dealing tactfully with difficult situations

Education Requirements

Current registration with the Nova Scotia College of Nursing (NSCN)

Current CPR, CPI, WHIMIS certification required.

Required Experience

Recent clinical experience in IPAC including leadership duties

Recent experience in geriatric (Long Term Care) setting preferred.

Competencies specific to position

Resident focused, Communication, Conflict Management, Self-and community awareness, Teamwork, Adaptability/flexibility, Decision making, Initiative, Leading & Developing others, Stress management,

And Values & Ethics

Hours of Work:                 
Non-union Regular Temporary full-time (1.0 FTE) – Typically 40 hrs per week Monday – Friday (hours may flex as necessary i.e. weekend and afterhours).

Salary:
Competitive Salary commensurate with education and experience

Benefits:
Health (Travel), Dental Life, and Pension Plan (Manulife/NSEHPP (HANS), Corp rate for Gym