Brianna Armsworthy

Updated Scent-Free Policy

Updated Scent-Free Policy

Updated Scent-Free Environment Policy

Each spring, we witness the awakening of our lilac trees and with them come their purple, pink, and blue blossoms.  And with the blossoms, comes the aroma of blooming lilac flowers. Pretty nice to look at, however, to those living with environmental sensitivities, lilacs present a significant threat to their health.

Last year, two staff members experienced significant reactions to the scent of lilacs. In brief, when we can smell an odor, it implies chemicals or particles are in the air. So, perfumes, after shave, deodorants, hair spray, lilacs, or anything that has a scent to it –  please leave these outdoors.

For more about the RK MacDonald Nursing Home’s updated scent-free policy, please click here (pdf).

Resident Mobility Companion

Resident Mobility Companion

POSITION: Resident Mobility Companion
DEPARTMENT: Rehab Services
RESPONSIBLE TO: Director of Clinical Services

As a member of the Rehab Team, the Resident Mobility Companion enhances opportunities for the Residents to engage in both internal and external activities in their own Home, within the R.K. Community, and the larger community. Reporting to the Walking Stick Rehab Team, the Resident Mobility Companion is responsible for assisting residents and their family members to break up the boredom by attending a variety of social functions and creating opportunities to get outdoors. As an employee of the R.K. MacDonald Nursing Home, every person has a responsibility to be involved in providing a stimulating environment for the Residents – creating an alive and vibrant community based on meaningful relationships. In keeping, with our Mission, Vision, & Values and our philosophy of Resident Centered Care, the Resident Mobility Companion 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

  • In consultation with the Rehab Team, deliver opportunities for the residents to socialize with family members, attend Therapeutic Recreation Programming and activities within their RK Community, while maintaining contact with the larger community. (e.g., a trip down Main Street for coffee, etc.)
  • To be the physical strength that family / friends / spouses need to power a manual wheelchair on an adventure “over-town” – complementing the socializing family members would like to be apart of.
  • Hours will include weekends, holidays and early evenings ~ 11:00am – 7:00pm.
  • To empower residents and their significant others in getting outdoors and finding the fun.
  • To organize their time in a time effective manner so as to maximize resident socialization within the RK community.
  • To be engaged and be comfortable with residents in starting conversations, utilizing mobility aides, playing cards, as well as simple activities like kicking a ball or doing a puzzle
  • To motivate Residents and their families to participate in RK activities.
  • Collaborates with other staff, volunteers, and Residents to promote socialization within and outside the Home, i.e. an interdisciplinary approach.
  • Promote positive relationships with all the departments and with the local community.
  • Understands that the Resident and their family are central to all departmental activities, services, and decisions.

 

Educational Qualifications

  • The Resident Mobility Companion must be at least 18 years of age.
  • Be enrolled or completed a diploma / degree program in a health care related sector or have a keen interest in, and/or other related relevant education and experience.

 

Experience Required

  • Enrolled or having completed a diploma / degree program in a health care related sector.
  • Experience in Long-Term Care (volunteering, family member living in a Long-Term Care setting).
  • Proven leadership ability, and excellent oral and written communication skills.
  • Familiar with Resident Safe Handling, Lifting, and Transfer training.

 

Knowledge & Skills

  • Being able to play a musical instrument, and a willingness to sing are huge assets
  • Understanding of the value of the socialization for the elderly
  • Excellent interpersonal skills
  • Strong facilitation skills & organizational skills
  • An ability to work collaboratively within the team and independently and be accountable for all actions and decisions, with a high degree of initiative
  • Creative and innovative thinking – flexibility and adaptability is essential.
  • Must be physically able to perform all aspects of the work.
  • Adheres to Resident Safe Handling, Lifting, and Transfer training.
Resident Mobility Companion

Construction Start Date for the New RK MacDonald Nursing Home

The New R.K. MacDonald Nursing Home

Preliminary investigations and pre-mobilization work has begun on the Church Street Extension for the new RK Macdonald Nursing Home project. Neighbors and the public are advised that full mobilization of the project will begin in the coming weeks. The site will be fenced for safety and the construction team has been notified to minimize impacts to the residents in the neighboring properties. Please reach out to us with any concerns. Thank you.

For more about the new RK MacDonald Nursing Home project, please visit here.

Project Progress

  • Construction Start Date: Spring 2025
  • Opening Date: Winter 2028

Contact

Terry MacIntyre, CEO
902-863-2578 ext. 232
Terry.MacIntyre@rkmacdonald.ca

Time Slips Creative Storytelling

Time Slips Creative Storytelling

This is local artist Susan Walsh, trained in Time Slips Creative Storytelling, who meets weekly with Residents in the RK Rhubarb Patch to create stories together. These gatherings are delightful – with everyone thoroughly enjoying themselves, amazing imagination, and heaps of contagious laughter. Susan is keeping a record of the stories as part of the storytelling group’s future plans to create a printed collection containing all of the residents’ stories. Everyone is very excited.

 

 

Thank you RK Foundation for making these very meaningful programs possible!

Resident Mobility Companion

Assistant Accounting Clerk

POSITION: Assistant Accounting Clerk
DEPARTMENT: Finance
RESPONSIBLE TO: Director of Finance

 

Scope of Position

Reporting to the Director of Finance, the Assistant Accounting Clerk supports the functions of the Finance Department. As an employee of the RK Mac Donald Nursing Home Corporation, every person is responsible for providing a stimulating environment for the residents.

In keeping with our Mission, Vision and Core Values and our philosophy of Resident Centered Care, the Assistant Accounting 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

  1. Understand that the Resident and family are central to all departmental activities, services and decisions. Establish and maintain working relationships which align with the Mission, Vision, Values and philosophy of resident-centered care of the RK Mac Donald Nursing Home
  2. Daily accounting and finance tasks include but are not limited to:
  • Accounts payable organization and reconciliation
  • Filing
  • Time card reconciliations
  • Resident accounts assistance (phone and cable)
  • Assist with billing
  • Scanning and organizing confidential documents
  • Organizing mail that relates to finance

 

Required Education and Experience

  • Proficient with Excel, Word, and Outlook
  • Working knowledge of accounting software (preference to Sage 300)
  • At least one of the following:
  • 2 years experience required in a finance setting (preference to long-term care experience)
  • Diploma in Accounting
  • BBA Accounting in progress, year 3-4

 

Job-Related Skills & Competencies

  • Proficient working knowledge of Excel, Word, and Outlook.
  • Working knowledge of accounting software.
  • Ability to communicate effectively with residents, visitors, and staff.
  • Ability to work appropriately and efficiently with minimal supervision.
  • Ability to maintain confidential integrity around confidential information.
  • Ability to provide excellent judgement, accuracy and detail in work performance.
Resident Mobility Companion

Clinical Services Manager

POSITION: Clinical Services Manager (CSM)
DEPARTMENT: Nursing
RESPONSIBLE TO: Director of Clinical Services

Reporting to the Director of Clinical Services, the Clinical Services Manager (CSM) plays a vital role in managing and integrating resident care services. Working closely with the Director of Clinical Services, the CSM ensures high-quality care throughout the organization.

In Keeping with our Mission, Vision, and Values and our philosophy of Resident Centered Care, the Clinical Services Manager, 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

  • Oversee daily operations of resident care services.
  • Foster an environment of clinical excellence, innovation, and professional growth.
  • Support quality outcomes and best practices through program assessment.
  • Demonstrate initiative, flexibility, and principle-based decision-making.
  • Promote a collaborative and organized work environment.
  • This leadership role is essential in maintaining resident health, quality of life, and continuous improvement in clinical services.

 

Functions and Responsibilities

  • To promote and maintain the safety of residents, staff, and visitors as a strategic priority for the home at all times
  • To collaborate closely with the Continuous Quality Initiatives team and plays an active role in planning, developing, organizing, implementing, directing, and evaluating quality improvement initiatives within the nursing department. This ensures alignment with best practices, enhances resident care services, and supports ongoing improvements in clinical excellence.
  • Role models our core values in carrying out the philosophy, objectives, policies, and standards for resident care and related nursing services.
  • Ensure compliance with Long Term Care Program requirements as established by Seniors in Long Term Care.
  • To collaborate with admissions team to support a smooth admissions process.
  • Consults and advises the Director of Clinical Services on concerns related to the Nursing Department and the Home.
  • Assists the Director of Clinical Services in the recruiting, hiring, performance appraisal, coaching and progressive disciplinary process of the nursing staff.
  • Promotes and maintains harmonious relationships among nursing personnel and with physicians, residents, families and the public.
  • Assists the Director of Clinical Services in tracking and analyzing monthly budget variances.
  • Assumes responsibilities in the absence of the Director of Clinical Services.
  • Willingness to pursue self-directed ongoing education.
  • Participates in Union/Management discussions.
  • Leads the attendance support program.
  • Participation on committees as required by the Director of Clinical Services.
  • To Collaborate with the Infection Prevention and Control Nurse to ensure Long Term Care Program Requirements are followed.
  • Responsible for carrying out other duties as may be required by the Assistant Director under the Homes for Special Care Act, Home’s by-laws and as determined by the Director of Clinical Services and/or CEO.

 

Safe Work Practices / Responsibilities

The R.K MacDonald Occupational Health and Safety Home 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 Safety Responsibilities listed below:

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

 

Key Leadership Competencies

  • Leadership & Teamwork – Inspires, motivates, and empowers others while fostering a collaborative work environment.
  • Change Management – Supports innovation and adapts to organizational changes for improved effectiveness.
  • Coaching & Performance Management – Guides, mentors, and holds individuals accountable for performance and growth.
  • Effective Communication – Ensures clear, impactful, and persuasive communication in both verbal and written forms.
  • Interpersonal Awareness & Influence – Understands and responds empathetically to others while gaining support for initiatives.
  • Collaboration & Relationship Building – Develops strong internal and external partnerships to enhance teamwork and service delivery.
  • Customer Service Orientation – Addresses concerns respectfully, seeking resolutions that meet people’s needs.
  • Problem-Solving & Strategic Thinking – Analyzes challenges, anticipates outcomes, and develops forward-thinking solutions.
  • Initiative & Results-Driven – Proactively takes action and strives to exceed performance goals.
  • Attention to Detail & Accountability – Ensures accuracy, thoroughness, and follow-through on commitments.
  • Decisiveness & Resilience – Makes timely decisions, manages stress effectively, and maintains confidence under pressure.
  • Integrity & Adaptability – Demonstrates credibility, flexibility, and a commitment to ethical leadership.

 

Position-Specific Competencies

  • Clinical Knowledge & Care Delivery – Strong understanding of clinical practice standards, care delivery models, and safe practice initiatives.
  • Quality & Risk Management – Ability to implement and evaluate quality improvement initiatives, risk management strategies, and utilization practices.
  • Ethical Practice & Advocacy – Commitment to ethical decision-making, patient advocacy, and acting as a role model for resident-centered care.
  • Union Relations & Staff Management – Knowledge of union contracts, negotiations, and the ability to effectively mentor, coach, and empower staff.
  • Person-Centered Care Philosophy – Ability to integrate a person-centered approach into daily operations, respecting the dignity and individuality of residents and families.
  • Leadership & Team Collaboration – Skilled in supervising staff, fostering teamwork, and working independently or as part of a leadership team.
  • Financial & Operational Understanding – Working knowledge of budgeting and resource management to support efficient department operations.

This role requires a proactive leader who can uphold clinical excellence, drive quality initiatives, and support a collaborative, resident-focused environment.

 

Qualifications & Requirements

  • Education: Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) – Required
  • Leadership Experience: Demonstrated previous leadership experience – Required
  • Accreditation & Quality Initiatives: Experience in accreditation processes and quality improvement initiatives – Required
  • Technical Skills: Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook – Required
  • Communication Skills: Strong written and verbal communication abilities – Required
  • Conflict Resolution: Training in Conflict Management/Resolution is an asset (or willingness to complete training)
  • Any clinical and specialized geriatric care certifications will be considered an asset.

Candidates should demonstrate strong leadership, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills while supporting a culture of quality care and continuous improvement.

Resident Mobility Companion

Food Services Supervisor

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

POSITION: Food Services Supervisor
DEPARTMENT: Environmental Services
RESPONSIBLE TO: Director of Environmental & Food Services

 

Scope of Position:

Reporting to the Director of Environmental Services/  Food Services the Food Services Supervisor assists the Director in the day-to-day supervision of staff, including assignment of staff and the arranging for replacement when required. Under the direction of the Director, the supervisor co-ordinates and support all relevant activities of Food Services.

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 MacDonald 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.
  11. Assist Director in evaluating new equipment and chemical products.
  12. Attend and participate in education in-services, workshops, seminars, etc.
  13. Familiar with Department Policy and Procedure Manual.
  14. Annual in-servicing of WHMIS and Emergency Plan (Fire).
  15. Perform other related duties as requested by Director.
  16. Assists with payroll and replacements for call-ins.
  17. Assist Director with interviewing potential new staff, performance reviews on current staff and disciplinary meetings.
  18. Order supplies when required using Purchase Orders (P.O.s).
  19. Meet and orientate new staff to the department and home.
  20. Perform audits and temperature checks for food, fridges and freezers.
  21. Coordinate with vendors and maintenance on any equipment breaks or malfunctions
  22. Assist in coding and approving of invoices.
  23. Keep all forms updated, WHMIS, supply lists, etc.
  24. Listen to family/staff concerns.

 

Education, Training, And Experience:

Good physical health (physical stamina and mobility including ability to reach, kneel, and bend; ability to lift, push, and pull required load (usually about 30lbs)).

Demonstrated ability to work independently and with others, ability to follow verbal and written instructions, ability to learn the operation of equipment, ability to perform repetitive tasks, and ability to work in a warm congested area.

Grade 12 Education, minimum 2-5 years experience in Food Services Environment in a healthcare facility. Experience in supervision in a healthcare facility preferred but not required.

Food Handler Certification (NS) or willing to obtain.

Experience with HACCP (Hazard Analysis Critical Control Point) or willing to obtain.

 

Key Competencies:
Attention to detail, customer focus, reliability, listing skills, adaptability, planning and organizing, team work, integrity, honesty, and high energy levels.

Resident Mobility Companion

Resident Support Facilitator

POSITION: Resident Support Facilitator
DEPARTMENT: Clinical Services
RESPONSIBLE TO: Director of Clinical Services

Reporting to the Director of Clinical Services, the Resident Support Facilitator plays a vital role in supporting residents in navigating the complexities and emotional journey of being admitted and living in a long-term care facility. The Resident Support Facilitator will work within the clinical services department to find opportunities to best support the emotional and social needs of residents and their families. With the goal of providing care in alignment with the philosophy, mission, vision, and core values of RK MacDonald Nursing Home. This position involves assessing residents’ needs and providing services such as counseling, advocacy, admissions coordination, care planning, case management, and documentation, all while working in collaboration as part of an inter- disciplinary healthcare team.

The Resident Support Facilitator focuses on delivering resident-centered care, ensuring services align with personal preferences and choices, and promoting a Specialized Palliative Care approach in Long Term Care (SPA-LTC) during the admission process. By fostering a stimulating and supportive environment, the Resident Support Facilitator contributes to the overall excellence in care and well-being of those living in the RK MacDonald community. Representing the home in a positive, professional, self-directed, resident centered, and confidential manner, this role is essential to achieving the highest standards of support for residents and their families.

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 Resident Support Facilitator, 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. Admissions Coordination:

  • Coordinate admissions to the home working closely with families and residents.
  • Conduct and document personal and family histories.
  • Orient residents and families to the home and its philosophy.

2. Counseling and Emotional Support:

  • Provide individual and group counseling for residents and families.
  • Act as a resource and advocate for emotional and financial challenges.
  • Identify and address social and emotional needs in collaboration with the healthcare team.

3. Care Planning and Case Management:

  • Lead resident care conferences and collaborate on care planning.
  • Provide insight on care plans, that they align with resident preferences and personal goals.
  • Coordinate discharge planning and transitions across the healthcare continuum.

4. Collaboration and Advocacy:

  • Work as part of an inter- disciplinary team comprised of RN’s, LPN’s, CCA’s, Nurse Practitioner, Occupational Therapist, Physiotherapist, Pharmacist, Wound Care Consultant, and Dietitian to achieve excellence in care.
  • Advocate for residents’ needs while respecting their autonomy and dignity.
  • Develop and maintain community partnerships and resources.

5. Professional Contributions:

  • Participate in staff education, safety initiatives, quality improvement, and strategic planning programs.
  • Maintain accurate records and documentation of interventions.

Qualifications: Education, Training and Experience

  • Formal training in counseling or a related field (e.g., social work, psychology, or other human services disciplines) is required, with preference given to candidates holding an undergraduate degree in social work or a similar discipline.
  • Experience in a long-term care, geriatric, or community setting (minimum 3 years preferred).
  • Strong interpersonal, communication, and organizational skills.
  • Safety courses such as, BCLS, CPR, CPI, and WHIMIS
  • Ability to work independently and collaboratively within an interdisciplinary team.
  • Commitment to professional development and resident-centered care.
  • A current criminal record check, including a vulnerable sector search.

Other Related Duties

  • Other duties as assigned by Director of Clinical Services.

Approved by: Director of Clinical Services

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

RK Family Council Meeting

RK Family Council Meeting

Good afternoon everyone!

The RK Family Council will be hosting a meeting Feb. 6, 2025 at 1:00 pm in the Main Dining Room here at the RK. The guest speaker will be Joanne MacKenzie and she will discuss “How can family enhance the quality of life for their loved one, who is living in long term care?” All family and friends are welcome to attend and I ask that you please consider joining the Family Council… it’s 1-2 hours a month.

For more information on the RK Family Council, please click here.

Thanks everyone,

– Terry, CEO

Resident Mobility Companion

2024 Resident & Family Satisfaction Survey Results

The Resident and Family Satisfaction Surveys were carried out in November / December of 2024 and are utilized as an annual continuous quality indicator ensuring the voice of the service users (i.e. our Residents and their families) is heard by the service provider (i.e. the Home). Surveys were completed by 17 family members (SDM’s) and 54 residents – where some were completed independently or with the support of Recreation staff.

As a “service provider”, we are always looking for opportunities to secure valuable feedback from our “service users”, our residents, and their families and our challenge is to be open to the feedback, respond to it, and grow!

Very special thanks to everyone that has contributed to our feedback highway…. your insights / experiences are greatly appreciated!

Download the full survey (pdf) here.