Year: 2023

Medical Director

POSITION                                       Medical Director
DEPARTMENT:                              Administration
RESPONSIBLE TO:                        CEO through contract with R.K. MacDonald Nursing Home

 

Functions and Responsibilities:

  1. To promote and maintain the safety of residents, staff, and visitors as a strategic priority for the home at all times.
  2. Must be familiar with the following documents related to the provision of medical care to residents of Nursing Homes/Homes for the Aged:

    1. the Homes for Special Care Act and the Regulations pertaining to the provision of medical care to residents of Nursing Homes/Homes for the Aged
    2. the policies of the Department of Health and Wellness related to the provision of medical care to residents of Nursing Homes/Homes for the Aged
    3. the by-laws of the Nursing Home and, in accepting the appointment as Medical Director, agrees to comply with the terms of those documents.

  3. Responsible for liaising with the resident’s physicians, and providing advice and consultation at the request of the physician.
  4. Recognizing that the resident’s physician has primary responsibility for the medical care of the resident, the Medical Director is responsible for ensuring that all residents receive an acceptable standard of medical care from their physician.

    Specifically;

    • Where a resident’s physician does not perform in keeping with the expectations of the Nursing Home as outlined in the documents listed above (2a, b, c), it shall be the responsibility of the Medical Director, working with the CEO, to resolve the situation with the physician.
    • Where a resident’s physician has not performed in keeping with the expectations of the Nursing Home as outlined in 2a, b, c, and the Medical Director is unable to resolve the situation with the physician, the Medical Director shall make a recommendation to the CEO that the services of the physician be terminated.
    • The Medical Director shall work with the CEO to ensure that the resident (or where the resident is incompetent, the resident’s legal representative or a designated family member) is consulted before the relationship between the resident and their physician is terminated.
    • The Medical Director shall work with the CEO to ensure that the resident has the services of another physician. In the event that the services of a physician cannot be secured immediately, the Medical Director will provide any necessary medical care to the resident until a physician is confirmed.
  5. Responsible for ensuring residents of the Home have access to medical care at all times.

    Specifically;

    • Where a resident does not have a physician on admission to the Home, the Medical Director shall assist the CEO in ensuring that the services of a physician are secured. In the interim, the Medical Director shall serve as the resident’s attending physician.


  6. Responsible for collaborating with the review and development of medical policies, procedures, and standards for the facility.

    Specifically;

    • The Medical Director shall identify needs in medical policy, procedure and standards for the facility, and initiating the discussion of these needs with the CEO and the Director of Care.
    • Where necessary, the Medical Director shall assist the facility administration and staff with preparation for accreditation by the Canadian Council on Health Services Accreditation.

     

  7. Shall participate in the Home’s quality assurance process.
  8. Shall participate in committee work required by legislation including attendance at meetings where the Medical Director’s membership on the committee is mutually agreed upon by the Medical Director and the facility.
  9. Shall hold meetings when necessary, with the medical staff to discuss topics of interest and concern related to the care of residents of the Nursing Home.

    Ward Clerk

    POSITION: Ward Clerk
    DEPARTMENT: Nursing
    RESPONSIBLE TO: Director of Clinical Services

    The Ward Clerk is responsible for clerical and related duties in all areas of the facility, as directed by the Director of Clinical Services. Every employee of the RK Mac Donald Nursing Home 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 Ward Clerk 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.

    Key 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

    Leadership

    • Supports vision – demonstrates the ability to support the image of the Home and to embrace the changes that enable our vision.
    • Values and Goals – demonstrates alignment of their values and goals with those of the organization
    • Communication – demonstrates well-developed communication skills, both verbal and written. Is able to communicate effectively at all levels and in a timely manner
    • Demonstrates accountability and integrity – acts with integrity and is accountable for outcomes contributing to the reputation and success of the organization
    • Promotes delivery of excellent service delivery – champions the delivery of sensational service as it is integral to the reputation and ongoing success of the Home
    • Diversity – Awareness and respect for the diversity of our resident and staff

    Clerical

    • Plans and implements the clerical needs of the nursing care areas in consultation with care staff. Duties include but are not limited to:
    • Establishes, maintains and updates Residents charts, forms and other related documents.
    • Ensures Administrative Assistant receives “Notification of Room Change” form
    • Ensure Residents charts are correctly identified by Name, Physician, Room Number, Allergies and Life Care Directive.
    • Ensures charts of Residents who are deceased, transferred or discharged are disassembled and forwarded to the Executive Administrative Assistant.
    • Prepares required photocopies, faxes and operates a variety of office equipment.
    • Files all pertinent Resident information on Resident charts and all documents are correctly identified using the addressograph.
    • Receives and sends emails and other material in a confidential manner.
    • Prepares blood requisitions, labels, armband identifications and other requisitions as required.
    • Maintains and distributes office supplies to all care areas.
    • Check calendars daily for appointments and makes arrangements as necessary.
    • Faxes schedules of Doctors visits to appropriate office.
    • Organizes bi-yearly pharmacy re-orders
    • Ensure all Residents provincial health and EMO cards are present and current.
    • Facilitates/completes the renewal of provincial health cards

    Communication

    • Communicates and maintains information in a timely and organized manner.
    • Communicates to all residents’ families, visitors, and staff in a professional manner.
    • Maintains confidentiality at all times in accordance with policy #1-20-80

    JOHS (Safety)

    • Contributes to a safe work environment by observing all procedures and safe work practices
    • Recognize and report any OH&S hazards, incidents and or near misses to care area licensed staff
    • Completes Hazard Requisitions

    Staffing

    • On weekends and holidays responsible for replacing nursing sick call-ins.

    Front Office reception

    • On weekends and holidays, may be required to provide a front-office presence to provide directional assistance to families and visitors

    Competencies required

    • Competent in using various computer software packages, Excel, Word and Microsoft Office
    • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
    • Excellent attention to detail
    • Excellent organizational skills and the ability to meet to deadlines
    • Demonstrated knowledge of medical terminology
    • Demonstrated professional / positive behavior
    • Data entry is accurate
    • Excellent customer service orientated with a professional and friendly approach
    • Display a proactive manner and ability to multi task.
    • Regular and consistent attendance is essential

    Education required

    • Minimal grade 12/GED
    • Medical Terminology Course
    • Basic Computer skills and experience with emails.

    Experience required

    • Preferably 2 years previous experience within a LTC or hospital environment

    Approved by: Director of Clinical Services

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

    Custodial Care

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

    POSITION: Custodial Care
    DEPARTMENT: Nursing
    RESPONSIBLE TO: RN – Charge Nurse, RN/LPN, DOC

    Scope of Position: The Custodial Care Attendant assists in providing non-nursing observation and supervision. They assist in the creation of a safe environment for residents. 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 Values and our philosophy of Resident Centered Care, the Custodial Care Attendant 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.

    Key Responsibilities

    1. To provide safe non-nursing supervision as directed by the Charge Nurse or RN/LPN supervisor
    2. Assisting to settle, redirect assigned resident to and from their own room and between care areas

    Skills & Competencies

    1. Capable of managing stressful situations
    2. Ability to foster relationships
    3. Develops and maintains positive working relationships with families and all members of the care team
    4. Ability to handle physically demanding work
    5. Demonstrated excellence in communication skills
    6. Demonstrated excellence in interpersonal skills
    7. Ability to work shift work
    8. Maintains confidentiality

    Major Job Functions

    1. Report to the Charge Nurse or RN/LPN supervisor at the beginning and end of your shift
    2. Receives resident specific direction from Nursing staff
    3. Stay with resident at all times. Breaks are to be arranged with the Nursing staff
    4. Offer companionship, physical assistance and continual observation aimed at maintaining safety and preventing injury
    5. Does not provide, participate in, or discuss any direct care related to the resident. Family discussion and/or conversations related to condition or care of the resident are to be redirected to the assigned care provider (CCA or LPN) or Charge Nurse
    6. Provides observation/supervision to their assigned resident only and completes hourly check form
    7. Receive consent from Nursing staff prior to leaving the unit with the resident.
    8. Communicate resident behaviors &/or concerns regularly with Nursing staff
    9. Under the direction of the Charge Nurse or RN/LPN supervisor follows RK MacDonald policies and procedures in relation to the resident’s care plan.
    10. Any documentation related to the resident will only be done on specific instructions of the Charge Nurse or RN/LPN supervisor.
    11. No personal &/or family notes are to be recorded at any time

    Education Required

    1. Ability to read and write at grade 10 level
    2. Training/experience caring for persons with dementia &/or challenging behaviors would be an asset
    3. Training in personal safety techniques and basic principles of behavior management would be an asset

    Registered Nurse

    POSITION: Registered Nurse
    DEPARTMENT: Nursing
    RESPONSIBLE TO: RN – Charge Nurse and Director of Clinical Services (Care)

    Reporting to the Charge Nurse and Director of Clinical Services, the Registered Nurse is responsible to provide direct and indirect patient care and professional nursing services required in the nursing care of residents. In collaboration with other health care providers, the RN assumes primary responsibility for the development, maintenance and compliance with the individualized plan of care. In the absence of the RN-Charge Nurse, the senior RN in the facility will assume Responsibility roles such as staffing, resolution of conflict and facility management. Every employee of the RK Mac Donald Nursing Home has a responsibility to be involved in providing a stimulating environment for the residents. In keeping with our Mission, Vision and Values, our Strategic Plan and our philosophy of Resident Centered Care, the registered nurse 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.

    Key Responsibilities

    Leadership

    • Understands and supports the Resident Care Standards and a resident centered philosophy of care
    • Demonstrates the ability to treat other people (including, residents, families, and staff) with dignity, honest and respect so that they may reach their full potential
    • Demonstrates accountability, reliability and initiative in adhering to professional standards
    • Supports and applies a resident-focused approach to care
    • Knows and follows departmental and organizational policies and procedures and monitors staff compliance with same.
    • Interacts with residents and families in a professional and compassionate manner, effectively managing questions, concerns, and suggestions as they arise, towards satisfactory outcomes
    • Models behaviours that promote a positive, dynamic, professional, caring, interested, motivated and pro-active work culture Actively works to maintain a positive unit climate in which staff are encouraged to reach full potential by recognizing their achievements, providing corrective instruction, coaching and supporting staff, and celebrating success
    • Actively participates in and seeks out, educational opportunities in nursing and leadership for continued learning and development
    • Demonstrates the ability to use resources responsibly and to look for more efficient and effective ways to ensure the future of quality support and care for residents
    • Demonstrates respect for the personal, cultural and spiritual beliefs and needs of others
    • Demonstrates commitment to working as part of a team environment where people support each other through teaching, mentoring and by example

    Delivery of Competent Nursing Care

    • Assesses, plans, implements and evaluates resident care
    • Conducts and documents comprehensive assessments of residents
    • Maintains timely and accurate documentation
    • Supports best practices and quality improvement initiatives
    • Assigns, gives direction and delegates tasks and care to LPN/CCA staff based on licence/ certification and scope of practice
    • Conducts regular nursing assessment rounds during the shift
    • Makes evidence-based, best-practice decisions
    • Utilizes a critical-thinking process to problem solving
    • Participates in the delivery of care to residents who are outside the LPN Scope of Practice, (medically unstable, unpredictable)
    • Employs innovation and creativity in day-to-day activities on unit
    • Communicates in a positive, clear, professional manner with all in-house departments
    • Carries out clinical assessments and procedures such as dressings, treatments, medications, oxygen therapy, catheterizations, subcutaneous and intramuscular injections, bowel sounds, lung sounds, vital signs, venipuncture, immunizations, tube-feedings etc. including approved procedures under the Homes for Special Care Act according to established policy and procedures
    • As a member of the nursing team is required to respond to bells, alarms, etc and to meet residents needs as indicated

    Team Coordination

    • Receives and relays relevant information using effective communication skills
    • Promotes and supports culture change
    • Demonstrates and encourages flexibility
    • Acts as a mentor and support for staff
    • Provides feedback on staff performance to RN-Charge Nurse
    • Participates in Multidisciplinary Conferences, Team Meetings, and other staff coordination activities as required

    Quality & Risk Management

    • Ensures completion and analysis of monthly audits and indicators as required, and identifies corrective action;
    • Assists with completion of incident reports and appropriate follow-up
    • In the absence of the Charge Nurse, ensures there is on-going communication with families on issues pertaining to non-clinical matters
    • Assists with the evaluation of all non-clinical resident programs and services for relevance, quality and effectiveness
    • Identifies potential liability issues and takes action to minimize risks
    • Serves on committees as designated by the Director of Care
    • Actively participates in research programs where applicable

    Occupational Health and Safety

    • Observes work patterns and ensures safe working practices are adhered to at all times;
    • Implements and monitors the lift and transfer policy;
    • Conducts safety audits as required
    • Conducts or assists with investigations of employee work related accidents;
    • Ensures staff adheres to infection control practices.

    Responsibility Role

    • In keeping with the NSNU contract, in the absence of management staff, the senior RN in the facility will be designated to be responsible for the facility.
    • Responsibility duties include but are not limited to: staffing, conflict management, problem solving, resident and family issues and other issues as arise in the delivery of safe and competent care to the residents

    Maintains and continually develops core competencies

    • Resident focused
    • Communication
    • Conflict Managements
    • Self-and community awareness
    • Teamwork
    • Adaptability/flexibility
    • Decision making
    • Initiative
    • Leading & Developing others
    • Stress management
    • Values & Ethics

    Education Requirements

    • RN or BScN at an accredited School/College of Nursing
    • Current registration with the College of Registered Nurses of NS.
    • Current CPR, CPI, WHIMIS certification required

    Required Experience

    • Recent clinical experience including leadership duties
    • Recent experience in geriatric setting preferred

    Approved by: Director of Clinical Services (Care)

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

    Continuing Care Assistant (CCA)

    POSITION: Continuing Care Assistant (CCA)
    DEPARTMENT: Nursing
    RESPONSIBLE TO: RN-Charge Nurse and Director Clinical Services (Care)

    Under the direction and supervision of the RN Charge Nurse &/or LPN, the Continuing Care Assistant (CCA), provides resident –focused, holistic care, within an interdisciplinary team consistent with the Mission, Vision, Values and philosophy of care of the RK Mac Donald Nursing Home. 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 and to serve as a positive role model; as a partner in the provision of care and support of our Residents, and to represent the home in a positive, professional, efficient and confidential manner.

    Key Responsibilities

    1. To deliver Safe, Competent Personal Care: Responsible to deliver resident focused care within the full scope of practice of a CCA, in a home-like environment respecting the individuality and dignity of each resident and family

    • Performs the responsibilities of the position within the legislative and regulatory standards set out by the Health Association of Nova Scotia and the
    • CCA Program Advisory Committee document Scope of Practice of the continuing Care Assistant in Nova Scotia (2009)
    • Demonstrates a clear understanding that this facility is the Home of our Residents and we have been honored with the privilege are being invited to participate in the delivery of care to meet their needs
    • Demonstrates a clear understanding of the recognition of the vulnerability of the resident and their family as they entrust themselves to our care
    • Required to be are aware of and follow the RN-developed care plan for each resident
    • Responsible to communicate suggested changes/preferences to RN so that care plans can be updated and followed with consistency
    • Participates in all aspects of personal resident care to ensure the physical, psychological, social and spiritual needs of each resident/family are met
    • Utilizes therapeutic communication by establishing a working relationship with residents/families and coworkers for the purpose of meeting the residents needs; ensuring respect, dignity and individuality of each resident and staff person
    • Knowledgeable of and provides for the “simple pleasures” of each resident ie. Knowing that the resident likes to have the morning paper with coffee;
    • knowing that the resident likes to sit in the sun in mid afternoon.

    Participates with other team members in formulating, delivering and reporting the daily resident care needs and personal preferences by:

    • Attending and gathering pertinent data from report
    • Seeking direction from the professional staff
    • Delivers personal care and attends to the ADL’s of all residents in a respectful, private, dignified and professional manner
    • Delivers effective and efficient care that promotes resident/family choice and acknowledges the resident’s strengths, limitations as well as their need for safety and the safety of others
    • Observation of residents to monitor their responses to their environment, behaviors and abilities to perform ADL’s
    • Observes residents for any changes and reports these changes immediately to the RN/LPN
    • Respects the knowledge, awareness, dignity and the right to choose of the individual resident and their family

    Consistent with a resident-focused approach will meet resident needs by:

    • Assisting with serving meals, feeding, providing nourishment supplements to all residents until the needs of all residents are met
    • Assisting with the transporting and transferring of residents as required
    • Actively promoting resident and family involvement in activities within the Home
    • Accompanying and actively participating with residents, in activities of their choosing
    • Responding to any resident in need by answering bells, alarms telephones and by assisting every employee until all care is complete

    Task list of duties include but not limited to:

    • Providing an environment that welcomes resident and family interaction with staff and each other
    • Providing personal care (bathing, dressing, grooming, mouth care, toileting, shaving, hair styling, jewelry)
    • Providing assistance with meal set-up, serving, feeding
    • Hourly resident checks and rounds (including but not limited to vitals, incontinent rounds, safety rounds)
    • Performing light housekeeping duties daily (tidy room, hang clothes, wiping up spills when they occur, maintaining daily cleanliness of personal equipment such as walkers, wheelchairs, etc, tub room, utility rooms & kitchen area)
    • Participating in recreational activities
    • Completes nightly safety & equipment checklist
    • Participating in care conferences as directed
    • Participating in unit meetings, general staff meetings and CCA meetings

    Documentation of Care

    • Responsible to clearly, legibly and objectively document care delivered according to facility standards (ie. Nursing notes, bowels records, Q1H checks, EOR and/or any other form as required)

    2. To maintain and enhance KNOWLEDGE: to practice safely and competently every CCA must demonstrate understanding and compliance with:

    • Gentle persuasion approach
    • Teepa Snow Approach to Care of Persons with Dementia
    • Resident Centered Philosophy of Care
    • Crisis Intervention methods
    • Fall prevention methods
    • Lift/transfer techniques & Body mechanics
    • Infection Control Procedures
    • All Emergency plans
    • Risk management/CQI program
    • Environmental Hazards (WHIMIS)
    • Food Handlers safety
    • Occupational Health & Safety
    • Palliative care guidelines

    3. To maintain and practice those skills, abilities and attributes required on hiring:

    • Critical thinking
    • Interpersonal skills
    • Problem solving
    • Organizational skills
    • Stress management
    • Confidentiality
    • Patience
    • Supportive of residents and co-workers
    • Time management
    • Compassion
    • Integrity
    • Maturity
    • Positive attitude
    • Respectful

    4. Responsible to maintain and continually demonstrate in practice the following CORE COMPETENCIES:

    Resident centered focus (responds to resident/family requests)

    • Identifies needs and expectations
    • Responds efficiently and effectively
    • Takes action beyond explicit request
    • Refers complex questions to charge nurse or designate
    • Meets needs in a respectful, helpful and responsive manner
    • Seeks feedback to develop a clear understanding of residents needs
    • Uses resident/family satisfaction monitoring methods to ensure resident satisfaction

    Communication (fosters two way communication)

    • Elicits comments or feedback
    • Maintains continuous open and consistent communication with others
    • Openly and constructively discusses diverse perspectives that could lead to misunderstanding
    • Communicates decisions and recommendation that could be perceived negatively, with sensitivity and tact
    • Supports messages with relevant data, information, examples and demonstrations

    Conflict Management

    • Listens to differing points of view and emphasising points of agreement as a starting point to resolving differences

    Self & Community Awareness

    • Recognizes the situations that arouse strong emotions and personal bias or preference, but resists temptation to act on them immediately
    • Accepts feedback from others without being defensive
    • Communicates clearly, minimizing misunderstandings
    • Uses accurate observation and understanding of local culture contexts to improve overall performance
    • Seeks out, recognizes and uses creatively what different people have to offer
    • Recognizes when a social “mistake” has been made and takes steps to avoid long term negative impact

    Teamwork (fosters Teamwork)

    • Assumes responsibility for work activities and coordinating efforts
    • Promotes team goals
    • Seeks others input and listen to their perspectives
    • Acknowledges the work of others
    • Shifts priorities, changes style and responds to new approaches as needed to meet team goals

    5. Responsible to maintain and demonstrate in practice the following Job-Specific Competencies:

    Orientating & Mentoring

    • Participates in the orientation and mentoring of new staff

    Adaptability/Flexibility (adapts to a variety of changes)

    • Adapts to new ideas and initiatives across a wide variety of issues or situations

    Continuous Learning (seeks to improve personal effectiveness in current situation)

    • Tries new approaches to maximize learning
    • takes advantage of learning opportunities (courses, in-services, watching others, etc.)
    • Integrates new learning into work methods
    • Understands the role of culture in the helping process

    Initiative (addresses imminent issues)

    • Takes action to avoid problems
    • Looks for ways to achieve greater results or add value
    • Works persistently as needed and when not required to do so

    Quality, Risk and Safety Management (employees at every level are responsible and accountable for safe work practices & adhering to the practices outlines in the NS OH&S Act)

    • Strives for excellence
    • Makes decisions based on risk analysis
    • Reports safety issues to supervisor
    • Supports a culture of safety by following safe work practices and policies
    • Actively participates in quality initiatives
    • Completes safety audits as assigned
    • Is familiar and adheres to policies and procedures related to lifts and transfers
    • Participates and promotes usage of personal protective equipment
    • Forwards any unresolved safety concerns

    Values & Ethics

    • All interactions, care delivered and presentation of self to others is congruent with the Mission, Vision and Values of the Home
    • Recognizes how professional and personal may conflict and seeks assistance to avoid &/or resolve presentation of this conflict
    • Identifies and considers different ethical aspects of a situation when making decisions.

    EDUCATION

    • Provincial CCA certification required for permanent employment.
    • Current member of the CCA Registry (Continuing Care Assistant Program – HANS)
    • Willing to consider partial completion of LPN (completion of 1st year) &/or BScN (completion of 1st clinical in 2nd year) programs for casual/temporary employment
    • Certification in CPR, WHMIS, Food Handlers, Dementia/Alzheimer, Palliative care courses and gentle persuasion approach

    EXPERIENCE

    Experience in geriatric setting an asset

    Approved by: Director of Clinical Services (Care)

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

    Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

    POSITION: Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)
    DEPARTMENT: Nursing
    RESPONSIBLE TO: RN-Charge Nurse and Director of Clinical Services

    Under the direction and supervision of the Supervising RN, the LPN the provides resident focused, holistic care, within an interdisciplinary team consistent with the Mission, Vision, Values and philosophy of care of the RK Mac Donald Nursing Home. Within the LPN Scope of Practice, the LPN is accountable for the coordination and delivery of quality nursing and personal care on the care team. Through the use of the nursing process, therapeutic relationships, and collaboration, the LPN delivers, oversees, and participates in the planning, implementation, evaluation, and modification of resident care to medically stable and predictable residents. Every employee of the RK Mac Donald Nursing Home has a responsibility to be involved in providing a stimulating environment for the residents and to serve as a positive role model; as a partner in the provision of care and support of our Residents, and to represent the home in a positive, professional, efficient and confidential manner.

    Key Responsibilities

    To deliver Safe, Competent Personal Care: Responsible to deliver resident focused care within the full scope of practice of an LPN, in a home-like environment respecting the individuality and dignity of each resident and family

    • Performs the responsibilities of the position within the legislative and regulatory standards set out by the College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Nova Scotia
    • Demonstrates a clear understanding that this facility is the Home of our Residents and we have been honored with the privilege of being invited to participate in the delivery of care to meet their needs
    • Demonstrates a clear understanding of the recognition of the vulnerability of the resident and their family as they entrust themselves to our care
    • Required to be are aware of, participate in the development of and follow the Registered Nurse developed plan of care for each resident
    • Provides basic assessments and treatments, personal care and medication administration to ensure the physical, psychological, social and spiritual needs of each resident are met
    • Utilizes therapeutic communication by establishing a working relationship with residents / families and coworkers for the purpose of meeting the residents needs; ensuring respect, dignity and individuality of each resident and staff person
    • Knowledgeable of and provides for the “simple pleasures” of each resident such knowing a resident likes to have the morning paper with coffee or likes to sit in the sun in the afternoon.
    • Participates with other team members in formulating, delivering and reporting the daily resident care needs and personal preferences by:
      • Attending and gathering pertinent data from report
      • Administers medications in a safe and competent manner.
      • Assists in the delivery of personal care and attends to the ADL’s of all residents in a respectful, private, dignified and professional manner
      • Delivers effective and efficient care that promotes resident/family choice and acknowledges the resident’s strengths, limitations as well as their need for safety and the safety of others
      • Respects the knowledge, awareness, dignity and the right to choose of the individual resident and their family, i.e. SDM

    Consistent with a resident-focused approach will meet resident needs by partnering with the Continuing Care Assistant to:

    • Transport and transfer residents as required
    • Actively promoting resident and family involvement in activities within the Home
    • Accompanying and actively participating with residents, in activities of their choosing
    • Respond to any resident in need by answering bells, alarms telephones and by partnering with all staff until all care is complete
    • Assist with serving meals, feeding, providing nourishment supplements to all residents until the needs of all residents are met
    • Hourly resident checks and rounds (including but not limited to vitals, incontinent rounds, safety rounds)

    Task list of duties include but not limited to:

    • Medication Administration
    • Completes nightly safety & equipment checklist
    • Participating in care conferences as directed
    • Participating in care area meetings, general staff meetings and LPN meetings
    • Other tasks as required

    Documentation of Care

    • Responsible to clearly, legibly and objectively document care delivered according to facility policy / practices

    To maintain and enhance KNOWLEDGE: to practice safely and competently every LPN must demonstrate understanding and compliance with:

    • Gentle Persuasion Approach
    • Teepa Snow Approach to Care of Persons with Dementia
    • Resident Centered Philosophy of Care
    • Crisis Prevention Intervention methods
    • Fall prevention methods
    • Lift/transfer techniques & Body mechanics
    • Infection Control and Prevention Procedures
    • All Emergency plans
    • Risk management / Quality program
    • Environmental Hazards (WHIMIS)
    • Occupational Health & Safety
    • Palliative care guidelines
    • Medications Administration

    To maintain and practice those skills, abilities and attributes required on hiring:

    • Critical thinking
    • Interpersonal skills
    • Problem solving
    • Organizational skills
    • Stress management
    • Confidentiality
    • Patience
    • Supportive of residents and co-workers
    • Time management
    • Compassion
    • Integrity
    • Maturity
    • Positive attitude
    • Respectful
    • Communication Skills
    • Nursing Skills
    • Mentoring
    • Flexibility

    Is able to consistently demonstrate proficiency in practice the following CORE COMPETENCIES:

    Resident centered focus (builds positive family relations)

    • Follows up on services, solutions &/or products to ensure that the needs of residents and their families have been met. Makes adjustments as required.
    • Understands issues from the resident’s perspective
    • Responds efficiently and effectively
    • Takes action beyond explicit request
    • Meets needs in a respectful, helpful and responsive manner
    • Understands the dynamics that result from cultural differences and similarities

    Communication (adapts communication to others)

    • Seeks comments or feedback to continually move towards excellence in care
    • Adapts content, style, tone and medium of communication to suit the target audience’s language, cultural background and level of understanding
    • Takes others perspectives into account when communicating, negotiating, or presenting arguments
    • Openly and constructively discusses diverse perspectives that could lead to misunderstanding
    • Responds to and discusses issues/questions without being defensive and while maintaining the dignity of others.
    • Supports messages with relevant data, information, examples and demonstrations

    Conflict Management (anticipates and addresses sources of potential conflict)

    • Anticipates and takes action to avoid/reduce potential conflict by encouraging and supporting the various parties to get together and attempt to address the issues themselves
    • Refocuses team on the work and end-goals and away from personality issues
    • Listens to differing points of view and emphasizing points of agreement as a starting point to resolving differences

    Self & Community Awareness (recognizes emotions & being pro-active)

    • Recognizes the situations that arouse strong emotions and personal bias or preference, but resists temptation to act on them immediately
    • Accepts feedback from others without being defensive
    • Communicates clearly, minimizing misunderstandings
    • Uses accurate observation and understanding of local culture contexts to improve overall performance
    • Seeks out, recognizes and uses creatively what different people have to offer
    • Recognizes when a social “mistake” has been made and takes steps to avoid long term negative impact

    Teamwork (fosters Teamwork)

    • Assumes responsibility for work activities and coordinating efforts
    • Promotes team goals
    • Seeks others input and listen to their perspectives
    • Acknowledges the work of others
    • Shifts priorities, changes style and responds to new approaches as needed to meet team goals

    5. Responsible to maintain and demonstrate in practice the following Job-Specific Competencies:

    Adaptability/Flexibility (adapts to a variety of changes)

    • Adapts to new ideas and initiatives across a wide variety of issues or situations
    • Seeks guidance in adapting behaviors to the needs of a new or challenging situation
    • Accepts alternative ways of doing things

    Decision making (guided by interpreting policies, standards & guidelines)

    • Through interpretation and application of policy able to consider exceptions
    • Able to consider the risks and consequences of a decision(s)
    • Communicates decision(s) in a straight forward, clear manner
    • Able to provide clear support for decision(s)

    Leading & Developing (seeks to improve personal effectiveness & individual development)

    • Orientation and mentoring of staff
    • Provides feedback and participates in performance reviews of CCA staff
    • Reinforces strengths and identifies areas for improvement for self and CCA staff
    • Tries new approaches to maximize learning
    • Takes advantage of learning opportunities (courses, in-services, watching others, etc.)
    • Integrates new learning into work methods
    • Understands the role of culture in the helping process

    Initiative (addresses imminent issues)

    • Takes action to avoid problems
    • Looks for ways to achieve greater results or add value
    • Works persistently as needed and when not required to do so

    Quality, Risk and Safety Management (employees at every level are responsible and accountable for safe work practices & adhering to the practices outlines in the NS OH&S Act)

    • Strives for excellence
    • Makes decisions based on risk analysis
    • Reports safety issues to supervisor
    • Supports a culture of safety by following safe work practices and policies
    • Actively participates in quality initiatives
    • Completes safety audits as assigned
    • Is familiar and adheres to policies and procedures related to resident safe lifting and transfers
    • Participates and promotes usage of personal protective equipment
    • Forwards any unresolved safety concerns

    Values & Ethics

    • All interactions, care delivered and presentation of self to others is congruent with the Mission, Vision and Values of the Home
    • Recognizes how professional and personal views may conflict and seeks assistance to avoid &/or resolve presentation of this conflict
    • Identifies and considers different ethical aspects of a situation when making decisions.

    Education

    • 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

    Experience

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

    Approved by: Director of Clinical Services

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

    InterRai Update

    LTC Digital Transformation (interRAI)

    We are pleased to share a project update about the LTC Digital Transformation (also known as the interRAI Project). The goal of this project is to implement an assessment that will identify a resident’s needs and can be used to develop more effective care plans and interventions leading to improved resident care and health outcomes.

    Project Background

    The interRAI-LTCF assessment is considered best practice for assessing the needs of our residents. The assessment is embedded in a technology application, making the resident’s assessment and care plan accessible in an electronic format at the point of care. By completing an interRAI assessment, staff can assess the function, mental and physical health, social support, and service use to gather the full picture. This assessment will improve access to accurate, timely client information and increase use of evidence-based care plans all while improving communication between staff and facilities.

    Project Go-Live

    • The implementation of the interRAI assessment will “go-live” on February 14, 2023
    • Staff will begin using the assessment and leveraging technology and IT services from this date

    Message from the CEO

    Reflecting on 2022, each one of us has contributed to our mission of “providing loving, dignified quality care and enabling people to love full and abundant lives”. Over the past year, there have been many instances where the word “awesome” was used to describe our efforts, our services and our annual Continuous Quality Indicators provides amble evidence of your awesomeness!

    According to the staff based Accreditation Survey on Well-Being, Quality and Safety, 80% of responses were positive. I am very pleased to note that 96% of responses regarding diversity, equity and inclusion were positive … which tells me the RK is a respectful and welcoming place for staff, residents and their families representing a variety of ethnic and cultural backgrounds! Well done!

    Our annual Family Satisfaction Survey and Resident Satisfaction Survey also provide evidence of our collective awesomeness! Family satisfaction surveys revealed 87% of responses to be positive and 82% of Residents responses were positive!  Although each of these surveys are very positive, they provide critical feedback in terms of where we can improve.

    The past year has certainly thrown us a few curves; COVID made its presence felt, we braved several storms and staffing was a challenge. Yet, our quality indicators are all very positive and I feel the root of our success lies in our everyday commitment in role modelling our core values!

    Our strengths are a dedicated staff, continuous family feedback, generous Foundation support, strong Board leadership and Government support. Special thanks to the Hon. Barbara Adams, Minister, Dept. of Seniors and Long Term Care and the Hon. Michelle Thompson, Minister, Dept. of Health and Wellness for your financial support, advice, team building and leadership!

    For 2023, a few goals…

    1. Accreditation: To maintain our status as a nationally accredited Long Term Care Facility
    2. Diversity, Equity and Inclusion: To continue to support a culture that welcomes, promotes and respects diversity, equity and inclusion
    3. Infrastructure Renewal: To implement a process where all stakeholders have the opportunity to meaningfully contribute to the future of the RK MacDonald Nursing Home

    I truly believe our 2022 quality indicators support our claim of “awesomeness”; they substantiate our commitment to our core values and reflect the RK family is well positioned to meet the exciting challenges that await us in 2023!

    We have a great team …. thank you for being you!

    Most sincerely,

    Terry MacIntyre, CEO
    RK MacDonald Nursing Home