Simply Ducky

You Are Invited!

You Are Invited!

You are invited to attend the R.K. MacDonald Annual General Meeting!

Thursday June 27th, 2024
5:30 pm
The RK Chapel

This is a great opportunity to meet our Board of Directors who are Representatives of The Town of Antigonish, The Municipality of the County of Antigonish, and The Congregation of the Sisters of St Martha.

Our Guest Speaker will be Dr. Katie Aubrecht, Canada Research Chair in Health Equity and Social Justice and Associate Professor in the Department of Sociology at StFX.

There will be light refreshments served in the Main Dining Room following the AGM honoring the Foundation’s 30 year anniversary.

Due to space limitations we ask that you RSVP to Cathy.Brouwer@rkmacdonald.ca by June 24, 2024.

CCANS Annual Conference & AGM

CCANS Annual Conference & AGM

RK MacDonald staff were delighted to once again attend the Continuing Care Association of Nova Scotia’s (CCANS) Annual Conference and AGM at White Point Beach on June 12-14, 2024.

Topics of discussion were Emergency Management, Hot Topics in Health Care, and Culture Change From An Architectural Lens. Presenters included Noella Martin of law firm Burchell Wickwire Bryson, Adjunct Professor at Dalhousie University Benjie Nycum, the President/CEO for SHIFT Strategies Lori Anne Jones, and Evan Bunkis, Shawna Larade, & Megan Macpherson of Davis Pier Consulting.

The chance to network with other continuing care organizations across the province is invaluable and ensures the RK stays abreast of the latest developments in long-term care.

 

You Are Invited!

General Worker (Laundry)

POSITION:                           General Worker (Laundry)
DEPARTMENT:                  Environmental Services
RESPONSIBLE TO:            Director of Environmental& Food Services

 

Scope of Position

Reporting to the Director of Environmental Services, the General Worker (Laundry) is responsible for the safe and efficient operation of the heavy laundry equipment in the cleaning of all types of linens, clothes, etc.   As an employee of the RK Mac Donald Nursing Home, he/she 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 Supervisor 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. Work as a team with other departments in the Home.
  5. Attend monthly Department meetings and serve on other committees as required.
  6. Assist in training of new staff.
  7. Ability to organize and complete assigned workloads.
  8. Work under constant interruptions in daily work routines.
  9. Knowledge of the safe use of all department equipment.
  10. Report necessary repairs to Director or Supervisor.
  11. Assist Director or Supervisor in evaluating new equipment and chemical products.
  12. Attend and participate in education in-services, workshops, seminars, etc.
  13. Fold all linen and stack on carts for transport to care areas.
  14. Transport all linen carts daily to care areas.
  15. Knowledge of how to operate washers and dryers.
  16. Responsible for supply list on weekly basis.
  17. Remove waste from soiled linen area.
  18. Label Residents clothing as per request.
  19. Knowledgeable of the safe use of equipment and cleaning chemicals used in the laundry.
  20. Know the location of switches to shut down laundry equipment in emergency situations.
  21. Knowledgeable in the proper and safe cleaning of various materials/fabrics.
  22. Cleans isolation wash by following necessary guidelines.
  23. Cleans items such as bedspreads, pillows, comforters, curtains as needed.
  24. Be familiar with Department Policy and Procedure Manual.
  25. Annual in-servicing of WHMIS and Emergency Plan (Fire).
  26. Perform other related duties as required by the Director or Supervisor.
You Are Invited!

It’s lobster season again!

If you plan to bring any shellfish products for a resident, please contact the nursing staff on the respective floor in advance to make arrangements. The resident will be accompanied by a staff member to the Main Dining Room to enjoy their shellfish, preventing any cross-contamination or exposure within the residential areas.

You Are Invited!

Director of Finance

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

POSITION: Director of Finance
DEPARTMENT: Finance
RESPONSIBLE TO: CEO

As a member of the Senior Leadership Team, the Director of Finance provides the day-to-day financial services providing a vital link between the finance department, its staff, the leadership team and the Board of Directors. Reporting to the CEO, the Director of Finance must bring management experience with extensive finance and accounting knowledge with the ability to make data driven decisions.

In keeping with our Mission, Vision and Core Values and our philosophy of Resident Centered Care, the Director of Financial Services, as a partner in the provision of care and support of our Residents, represents the home in a positive, professional, efficient and confidential manner.

 

Key Responsibilities:

  1. Effectively oversee the facility budget
    • Flag any significant variances and ensure that these variances are brought to the attention of the CEO and Directors in managing variances.
    • Create policies that enable each department to work in the most organized way
    • Develop and monitor objectives for the financial department.
    • Allocate funds accordingly to ensure each department can function at an optimal pace.
    • Determine realistic goals and establish financial controls to maintain maximum productivity.
    • Manage and oversee all financial operations of the organization.
    • Ensure the conservation of the assets of the Home by planning, developing, implementing, managing, evaluating and monitoring financial policies and procedures, accounting systems and internal and external reporting and analytical systems.
    • Maintain the financial records of the RK MacDonald Nursing Home in accordance with Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (GAAP) including reconciliation of the Protected Envelope Budgets.
    • Prepare and assist as required in the required annual audit.
    • Ensure the timely and accurate recording of all financial and statistical transactions including bank reconciliation as well as providing supervision of Accounts Payable and Accounts Receivable, and trust accounts.
    • Provide monthly financial statement for the Department Directors and Board of Directors.
    • Ensure that accounting decisions are in the best interest of the Board and, in particular, its financial operations, by being fully aware of the home’s accounting requirements.
    • Working with CEO and Department Directors to analyze budget approvals from DOHW against budget requested.
    • Assist in development of home’s business planning process including preparation of an annual budget.
    • Assist all other Directors and HR & Education Coordinators in explaining budget variances and methods of expenditure reductions in areas of deficit.
    • Process the Home’s requests for funding to the Foundation upon approval from SL & Board. Maintains budget/ledger report of such transactions for CEO, Directors and Foundation review.
    • Coordinate submission of data and/or payments to various external agencies such as NSHEPP, Benefits, WCB, CRA, Stats Canada, DOHW, licensing and insurance, etc.
    • Coordinate submission of Nursing Strategy, Leadership and Education Premiums, etc. for recoveries.
    • EFT (Electronic Funds Transfer) with updates to Occupancy and Revenue Journals.
    • Process the EFT for payments to Resident accounts and Staff Benefits.
    • Accurate maintenance of data into Acc Pac with monthly reports to Directors.
    • Payroll transfer functions with Accounting Clerk.
    • Annual Vacation Level and Salary review for input into payroll and Benefits.
    • Generation of annual T4 for all employees.
    • Oversees Contracts and Rental agreements.

 

  1. Coordinate the provision of Finance Department services that are Resident centered and that support and reflect the Mission, Vision and Core Values of the RK Mac Donald Nursing Home
    • Develop, implement and annually review departmental policies and procedures.
    • Develop annual departmental goals and objectives that support the strategic plan.
    • As per licensing review and update departmental job descriptions every 4 years or when revisions are necessary.

 

  1. Effectively manage the human services within the Finance department
    • Manages staff performance on a daily basis and performs annual performance reviews on Finance Dept staff.
    • Coaches, mentors and empowers staff.
    • Conducts monthly Finance Departmental meetings.
    • Approves Finance Department LOA and vacation requests.
    • Utilizes progressive discipline process when warranted and upon consultation with HR and or CEO, up to and including dismissal.

 

  1. Effectively oversees the budget for Hiring, Orientation and Education.
    • Ensure the orientation and ongoing education of Finance Department staff Ensures all Finance Dept staff attend annual mandatory education.
    • Maintains an ongoing relationship with the HR Department in consultation as finances relate to Contract Letters of hire, i.e., rate of pay & terms, Union Contracts, Benefits, Pension, Education.
    • Works with Department Leaders, HR & Education Coordinators to identify Departmental specific needs and keeps them updated on funding opportunities or cuts including development and continuing education and other budgetary needs.

 

  1. Accountable for the safety and risk management of the financial department
    • Identify potential departmental risks and implement strategies to minimize risk
    • Participate as a leader in the JOHS and Risk Management programs
  1. Communication – through personal behavior and interactions, demonstrates a humanistic, affiliative approach to relationships
    • Within department, with other team members and union representatives
    • In all interactions within and while representing the facility
    • With all Residents and families and staff

 

  1. Continuous Quality Initiatives
    • Ensure that the independent accounting systems, policies and procedures meet the requirements of the board and government by adhering to CHA/MIS and CICA standards and guidelines and principles.
    • Ensure the efficient operations of the accounting branch through the organization of the work, delegation, setting standards, reviewing operations, conducting meetings, general observations, and implementing the concepts and visions of the quality management program.
    • Establishes and directs systems for measuring and improving quality of departmental services.
    • Encourages use of best practices.

 

  1. Participates in Committees/ad hoc teams as required
    • Lead or member on committees

 

  1. Other duties as required
    • Liaison role with external IT services.
  1. Leadership Roles
    • Active participant on the Leadership Team
    • Demonstrates integration of Mission, Vision and Values into practice
    • Active participant in Strategic Planning process
    • Commitment to excellence and moving the organization forward

 

Safe Work Practices/Responsibilities

The R.K MacDonald Occupational Health and Safety policy establishes employee expectations for working safely.  To achieve these expectations employees at all levels of the organization must adhere to Core Values of Safety and the Safety Responsibilities listed below:

  • Demonstrate leadership commitment to safety.
  • Communicate hazards and controls.
  • Conduct inspections & investigations.
  • Provide Training / Communicate / Lead / Coach.
  • Provide necessary tools / equipment / PPE.
  • Monitor Compliance to SOPs & SWPs.

 

Leadership Competencies Required

  • Leading Others as demonstrated by the ability to establish focus, to provide motivational support, fostering teamwork, empowering others.
  • Managing Change as indicated by the ability to demonstrate support for innovation and for organizational changes needed to improve the organization’s effectiveness
  • Managing Others as demonstrated by the ability to work with others to coach and mentor them to develop their capabilities
  • Managing Performance as demonstrated by ability to take responsibility for one’s own or one’s employee’s performance by setting clear goals and expectations, tracking progress against goals, ensuring feedback and addressing performance issue promptly.
  • Communication as demonstrated by the ability to ensure that information is passed on to others who should be kept informed as well as the ability to express oneself clearly in conversations and interactions, in writing and to be able to plan and deliver conversations that have an impact and persuade their intended audience.
  • Interpersonal Awareness as demonstrated by the ability to notice, interpret and anticipate others concerns and feelings and to communicate this awareness empathetically to others
  • Influence Others as demonstrated by the ability to gain others’ support for ideas, proposals, objectives, projects and solutions
  • Building Collaborative relationships as demonstrated by the ability to develop, maintain and strengthen partnerships both internal and external to the facility
  • Customer Service Orientation perspective as demonstrated by the respectful, positive manner in which one responds to expressed concerns and the strong desire to find resolution and meet people’s needs
  • Information Gathering as demonstrated by the ability to identify information needed to clarify a situation and using skillful questioning to draw out information from reluctant sources
  • Thinking abilities including analytical, forward, conceptual and strategic abilities to enable one to tackle a problem, anticipate implications and consequences, find effective solutions and planning for the future direction of the Home
  • Initiative to identify what needs to be done and take action before being asked or the situation requires it
  • Results oriented to enable one to focus on the desired results, sets challenging goals and meeting or exceeding them
  • Thoroughness as demonstrated by ensuring that one’s own work, the work of employees and all information collected and shared is complete and accurate. Ensuring that commitments are fulfilled
  • Decisiveness as demonstrated by the ability to make difficult decisions in a timely manner
  • Self Confidence
  • Stress management
  • Personal Credibility
  • Flexibility

 

Position Specific Competencies, Skills & Abilities

  • Sound knowledge of financial management concepts and systems.
  • Ability to effectively use personal computers, including word processing and spreadsheet programs.
  • Ability to think creatively, develop policies, terms of reference, implementation plans and result evaluations to continually improve operations.

 

Educational Qualifications

  • Undergraduate degree in Bachelor of Business Administration with Accounting
  • Secured or in the process of securing Chartered Professional Accountant designation

 

Experience Required

  • Minimum of three years financial management experience at the senior level, preferably in health care.

 

Congratulations Michelle!

Congratulations Michelle!

On May 5, 2024, Michelle Tinio is set to graduate from St. Francis Xavier University, achieving her Master of Adult Education and Health. This marks her second time crossing the stage for a significant academic milestone, the first being a decade prior when she earned her Bachelor of Science in Nursing.

Michelle’s journey began as a student nurse at RK MacDonald Nursing Home, progressing to become a Registered Nurse upon licensure by the Nova Scotia College of Nursing. Over the years, she advanced to the role of Nursing Supervisor, and eventually, to Assistant Director of Clinical Services, now holding the title of Clinical Services Manager.

Michelle’s presence at RK MacDonald Nursing Home is invaluable. With a warm smile and a genuine passion for geriatric nursing, she engages with residents daily, extending personal greetings and showing genuine concern for their well-being. Her commitment is evident as she readily lends a hand whenever needed.

Amidst the challenges posed by the pandemic, Michelle demonstrated exceptional leadership by spearheading the IPAC (Infection Prevention and Control) team. She dedicated countless hours and remained accessible round-the-clock to provide support.

With her Master’s degree in Adult Education, Michelle is poised to contribute significantly to the realization of our vision for a center of excellence, laying the groundwork for future success.

Seniors and Long Term Care (SLTC) Road Show 2024

Seniors and Long Term Care (SLTC) Road Show 2024

Mark Chisolm, Dir. of Environment along with Maintenance staff , Eric Tulkens and Donnie Farrell attended the recent Seniors and Long Term Care (SLTC) ROAD SHOW 2024: Nova Scotia LTC Facility Information Event. The event hosted information sessions on such topics as HANS Bed and Mattress Program, Developing Your Building Maintenance Plan, Interpreting Facility Condition Assessments, Hazardous Materials in LTC Facilities, Opportunities for Saving and Reducing your Carbon Footprint and a presentation from the Office of the Fire Marshall related to safe exits and common code concerns. Unfortunately, nobody from the RK Team won a door prize.

Occupational Health and Safety: Awareness and Engagement Session

Occupational Health and Safety: Awareness and Engagement Session

Byron Donovan, OHS Consultant lead the RK staff in education sessions capturing the RK’s safety goals of: 1) Respect the autonomy of our residents including the right to risk within an informed and collaborative decision-making process and; 2) fostering a culture of safety and respect for all who come in contact with our facility.

Our commitment to a culture of safety is founded in always thinking about safety, which determines how we safely carry out our duties and in turn, defines our culture. The OHS Internal Responsibility System states: “All persons employed by the R.K. MacDonald Nursing Home share responsibility for their personal safety and that of their co-workers”. Safety is important to us!

During the presentation, Mr. Donovan touched on the OHS Act, Regulations, Standards and Code of Practice.  As well, he laid out our responsibilities as Senior Leaders and staff. Such responsibilities include a commitment to work safely, adhere to safety rules, conduct inspections, report incidents and hazards, wear PPE as required and to apply our safety training.

The topics covered during this presentation can be reviewed at the “Right to Know Board” located at the staff entrance.

You Are Invited!

Rehabilitation Assistant

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.

You Are Invited!

Occupational Health and Safety Coordinator

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

POSITION: Occupational Health and Safety Coordinator (Contract Position)
DEPARTMENT: Administration
RESPONSIBLE TO: CEO

To provide Occupational Health and Safety support to the RK MacDonald Nursing Home. This position works with all RK employees, residents and their family members to promote a positive work environment and a culture of safe work practices across the organization.

JOB SUMMARY

The Occupational Health and Safety Coordinator is responsible for planning, implementing and overseeing the Home’s Occupational Health & Safety program. The Coordinator will provide advice to the Home as it relates to employee safety, Health and Safety legislation, reporting requirements, and best practices. This position requires strong attention to detail, organizational skills, excellent communication and research skills, and the ability to evaluate the impact of Health and Safety activities/programs.

PRIMARY DELIVERABLES

  • Complete the WCB Certification Program
  • Address 2023 Occupational Health & Safety Inspection deficiencies including a review of the Home’s Health & Safety Program
  • Lead in policy / procedure review and staff training meeting Accreditation Standards pertaining to Occupational Health & Safety
  • Review and revise Incident Reporting policy and procedures

JOB DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

  • Participates as a member of the Joint Occupational Health and Safety Committee
  • Participates in the development of safe work policies and procedures
  • Recommend and facilitate safety training
  • Ensure company adherence to Provincial and Federal Safety legislation
  • Performs all duties and responsibilities in accordance with the RK MacDonald Nursing Home policies and procedures
  • Develop new employee on-boarding safety education

ADMINISTRATIVE DUTIES

  • Prepares bi-weekly Briefing Notes for the CEO on deliverable progress
  • Submits bi-weekly invoices noting hours of work

QUALIFICATIONS

Education

  • Diploma in Business Administration or Occupational Health and Safety

Experience

  • 2 years direct experience in Occupational Health and Safety
  • Experience writing policies and procedures
  • Experience in the Accreditation process

Competencies

  • Strong communication skills orally and written
  • Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment
  • Ability to exercise sound judgment and diplomacy
  • Self-motivated and engaged

WORKING CONDITIONS

  • Necessity to be able to work effectively from Home
  • Shared office space onsite
  • Own computer
  • RK will provide remote access to RK Cloud