Year: 2024

Family Council Invitation

Sep 3, 2024

Dear Family Members

The R. K. Family Council is a council of family members who meet regularly to provide feedback on our services and discuss ways to enhance the R.K. MacDonald Nursing Home community. The Family Council advocates on behalf of R.K. residents to acknowledge excellence in care, identify and respond to issues that affect residents’ quality of life, plan activities for residents, families, and staff, and support each other. As a Council, we function as an independent committee and work collaboratively with the Administration of the Home.

At present, the Council is recruiting new members and asks that if wish to join the Council or wish to receive information about the role of the Council, please contact the Administrative Executive Assistant at cathy.brouwer@rkmacdonald.ca or visit our website at https://www.rkmacdonald.ca/family-council/

Once we have received your contact information, we will put you in touch with the Chair of the Family Council for follow-up to inform you of the next Council meeting. Past Council minutes can be viewed at https://www.rkmacdonald.ca/family-council/

Years Of Service Awards Dinner

Aug 8, 2024

The RK MacDonald Nursing Home Years Of Service Awards Dinner was held on June 17, 2024. Fifteen staff members were celebrated with one having served 45 years, five celebrating twenty-five years and three twenty-years. Unfortunately we do not have pictures of everyone but please enjoy the below images of the events.

Present at the dinner were :

Chair Of The Board, Camilla Benoit
CEO, Terry MacIntyre
Director of Environmental Services & Food Services, Mark Chisholm
Director of Therapeutic Recreation & Spiritual & Volunteer Services, Kim MacDonald
Human Resource Coordinator, Jacqueline Delorey.

The Staff Members being honored were:

Ann Chisholm – 45 Years
Barb Connors – 25 Years
Lucy MacGillivray – 25 Years
Sheila MacNeil – 25 Years
Jolene Greencorn – 25 Years
Darlene Cameron – 25 Years
Mary Myers – 20 Years
Tracy Harris – 20 Years
Donnie Farrell – 20 Years
Erica Murphy – 15 Years
Kerry Butler – 15 Years
Mary Partridge – 10 Years
Emily Robinson – 10 Years
Rosemary Wallace – 10 Years
Gayle Marie Grant – 10 Years

We would like to thank everyone for their many years of service and the care and passion they bring to their jobs and the lives of the residents at The RK MacDonald Nursing Home.

The Annual Progress Report (2023-2024)

Jul 29, 2024

“Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success”

As we move forward from 2023 into 2024, on behalf of the Board of Directors, we welcome you to our AGM for the fiscal year ending March 2024. I want to extend a special thank you to all the RK MacDonald staffs, Senior Leadership team, and our stakeholders, that have made the commitment along with their dedication to improve the lives of our Residents and Families. Additionally, I would also like to thank the Board of Directors for their true heartedness and investment to the organization.

The Board is truly appreciative for the past and present RK Foundation members on their 30th Anniversary, and for their ongoing and generous support. The donor’s contributions have certainly impacted the lives of the residents and staffs. To the volunteers that support the Home and Residents we are very grateful for all you do.

The Board from post pandemic to resuming normalcy in 2023 marked the 65th year of our relationship with the Congregation of the Sisters of St. Martha. Although the Congregation has not been involved in the management of the Home since 1971, the Congregation continues to support the Corporation’s governing body. The Congregation appoints one-third (1/3) of the membership of the Board of Directors and continues to play an active role in reviewing amendments to the by-laws of the Corporation.

There are twelve (12) Board of Directors, four of which are appointed by the Municipality of the County of Antigonish and the Town of Antigonish and the Sisters of St Martha. The Board has five (5) working committees; Executive, Quality Safety & Governance, Finance, Infrastructure Renewal, Building & Grounds. Chairs of the Committee report to both the Board Chair and Directors monthly. The Board of Directors have a fiduciary duty to ensure the Cooperation is well managed and in a stable financial position.

The Board was thrilled with the Nursing Home’s award and recognition from the National Accreditation which was conducted in December 2023. The RK MacDonald received the award of full accreditation with commendation. This most certainly reflects the organization’s staff’s dedication and expertise that everyone on the team at the RK MacDonald Home brings with them in their role each and everyday. Planning for an onsite accreditation visit was a significant undertaking and required the whole organization and Board to come together to prepare.

Download the Annual Progress Report 2023 – 2024

Other key milestones achieved last year:

Board Governance:

Board of Directors AGM was held June 2023 for the first time with residents and their families invited to attend.
All Board Policies were reviewed and approved by the Board of Directors.
By laws approved by the Ministry of Housing and Municipal Affairs.
Board self evaluations and results of the action plans completed in March 2024.
Agreement renewed with the Sisters of St. Martha.
The RK website now hosts the monthly meeting minutes of the Board of Directors, Family Council, Resident Council, and the Organization’s Quality Indicators.
Incorporated First Nation Land Acknowledgement is read at the start of each meeting.
Review and updated the Mission Statement.
Review and updated of Philosophy statement.
Review and updated the Committees’ Term of Reference.
Review Quality Indicator and Risk Management Reports quarterly.

Board Professional Development:

Review of Financial Statements-September 2023- Director of Finance.
Board’s role in Accreditation- October & November 2023 -Lead Tracey MacDonald-Accreditation Coordinator.
Indigenous Culture Training workshop- September 2023.
Roles of Social Worker- presented by Melissa Arnott 2023.
Board Succession Planning – presented by Terry MacIntyre January 2024.
Occupation Health & Safety – presented by Byron Donavan March 2024.
Board Governance and Professional Development – April /2024 by KPMG and Senior Long-Term Care.
Health Care Providers role in Caring for 2SLGBTQIA – presented by Suzanne Litke K.C. May 2024.

Culture:

The Indigenous Reconciliation Plan drafted.

Electronic Charting:

Inter_ RAI program is an electronic charting system for enhancing care plans for residents.

Financial Audit – 2023:

Auditor presented to the Board. Financial position was in good standing.
2024 Financial Statement will be presented at the June Board Meeting.

Infrastructure Renewal:

Completed Step 1-5 and was submitted to Senior and Long-Term Care -Facility Development Approval Plan (FDAP).
Site selection completed September 2023.
Site Investigations initiated in October 2023
Architect Firm -Fowler Bower & Mitchell initiated Concept Design, staffs, residents, and families recruited for feedback.
Step 6 approved with comments 2024.
Public announcement is anticipated in June 2024 pending Treasury Board and Government agencies approval of design and budget.

Medical Director:

Dr Steeves resignation accepted, in June 2023 and he was acknowledged at the AGM 2023.
Dr JaneAnn Howard accepted the Medical Advisor position for the Home May 2024.

Strategic Plan:

High level goals incorporated into the Operational Plan.
Quality indicators not meeting the benchmark have been integrated in the Quality Management Plan.
Quality Indicators are reviewed quarterly.

As the Chair of the Board, it remains an honour to work with the Leadership Team and Directors of the Board to strengthen the organization and deliver efficient governance and support the organization to strive and experience growth as a Long-Term Care facility, in providing care for our residents, their families and our valued staff.

Sincerely ,
Camilla Benoit,
Chair of the RK MacDonald Nursing Home

Download the Annual Progress Report 2023 – 2024

You Are Invited!

Jun 24, 2024

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

Jun 18, 2024

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.

General Worker (Laundry)

May 28, 2024

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

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
To promote and maintain the safety of residents, staff, and visitors as a strategic priority for the home at all times.
Work as a team with other departments in the Home.
Attend monthly Department meetings and serve on other committees as required.
Assist in training of new staff.
Ability to organize and complete assigned workloads.
Work under constant interruptions in daily work routines.
Knowledge of the safe use of all department equipment.
Report necessary repairs to Director or Supervisor.
Assist Director or Supervisor in evaluating new equipment and chemical products.
Attend and participate in education in-services, workshops, seminars, etc.
Fold all linen and stack on carts for transport to care areas.
Transport all linen carts daily to care areas.
Knowledge of how to operate washers and dryers.
Responsible for supply list on weekly basis.
Remove waste from soiled linen area.
Label Residents clothing as per request.
Knowledgeable of the safe use of equipment and cleaning chemicals used in the laundry.
Know the location of switches to shut down laundry equipment in emergency situations.
Knowledgeable in the proper and safe cleaning of various materials/fabrics.
Cleans isolation wash by following necessary guidelines.
Cleans items such as bedspreads, pillows, comforters, curtains as needed.
Be familiar with Department Policy and Procedure Manual.
Annual in-servicing of WHMIS and Emergency Plan (Fire).
Perform other related duties as required by the Director or Supervisor.

May 27, 2024

R.K. MacDonald Nursing Home

64 Pleasant Street, Antigonish, NS. B2G 1W7

Competition # 420-18-05-27-24 Temp PT .20 FOOT CARE NURSE

(Cover Sick to Mat Leave 18-21 mos.) Subject to change (Post date May 27, 2024) Unifor Position

The Home is seeking a dynamic, compassionate person; committed to excellence and quality practice environments; with demonstrated team leading skills; and enthusiastic about a profession in Long Term Care to fill the role of Foot Care Nurse. Reporting to the Director of Clinical Services, the Foot Care Nurse is responsible for ensuring that the quality of the Foot Care services of our residents compliant with legislation and standards

Key Responsibilities:

Demonstrates the ability to support the image of the Home and to embrace the changes that enable the homes vision. Demonstrates alignment of values and goals with those of the organization. Demonstrates well-developed communication skills, both verbal and written and is able to communicate effectively at all levels and in a timely manner. Acts with integrity and is accountable for outcomes contributing to the reputation and success of the organization. Promote and maintain the safety of residents, staff, and visitors as a strategic priority for the home at all times. Promotes excellent service delivery, as it is integral to the reputation and ongoing success of the Home. Awareness and respect for the diversity of our residents and staff.

Educational Qualifications:

Valid registration with a provincial nursing College, as a Registered Nurse (RN) or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN).
Advanced foot care nurse training and certification preferred.
Experience working in a multidisciplinary team environment or clinical setting an asset.
Experience in caring for individuals with diabetes and/or vascular disease, compression therapy an asset.

Experience Required:

Experience in a health care setting, preferably 2 years previous experience within a Long-Term Care or Hospital environment.

Competencies specific to position:

Excellent communication, interpersonal and listening skills, Excellent attention to detail, Excellent organizational skills and the ability to meet to deadlines, demonstrated professional and positive behavior, Professional and friendly approach, display a proactive manner, ability to multi task, and adaptability, and reliable, with regular and consistent attendance is essential.

Hours of Work: Unifor Union Position: Regular Part-time .20 FTE Hours (16 hours biweekly) and Days (Flexible) as to meet requirements.

Salary: Competitive Salary commensurate with education and experience based on Current Unifor Scale

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

Gym membership (Good life)

Deadline June 3, 2024

Start date: Immediately

Apply by: Submit cover letter and resume to Human Resource Coordinator by email or fax: jobs@rkmacdonald.ca or fax 902 863-4437

For more information, please contact HR at (902) 863-2578 ext. 292.

Job description: Can be viewed in its entirety on the home’s website @ www.rkmacdonald.ca

================================================================================The R.K. MacDonald Nursing Home provides patient centred care to 136 residents with approximately 290 care partners. The home is filled with people who care deeply about providing excellent resident care and who are committed to creating a safe work environment. If you are looking for an opportunity in a patient centred home than we are the place for you. The R.K. MacDonald Nursing Home is proud to provide a smoke free and scent free environment. We are committed to upholding the Human Rights of all R.K MacDonald employees, including the right of all people to enjoy a physically and psychologically safe work environment; the right of all people to just and favourable terms of employment; and the right of all people to be respected and valued for their differences with equitable opportunities and outcomes in an inclusive environment where all can thrive. We thank all applicants, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. Successful Applicants are required to provide a criminal record check (including Vulnerable Sector Search) to Human Resources before starting employment and assume any associated costs as a condition of employment. In addition, proof of applicable education and or certification is required as a condition of employment.

STUDENT NURSES (RN & LPNs & CCAs with clinical placement) CCA Employment Opportunties

May 25, 2024

STUDENT NURSES (RN & LPNs & CCAs with clinical placement)

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNTIES

STUDENT NURSES JOB OPPORTUNTIES FOR YOU:

Nursing Students to work as CCA’s (Continuing Care Assistants)

$22.23/hr plus premiums (night & weekend)

WE LOVE TO SEE NEW FACES ON OUR TEAM!

The R.K. MacDonald Nursing Home is a 136 bed Nursing Home located in the center of the Town of Antigonish with connections to the Town and County. We are looking for Nurses to support our team in providing the best person centered care to our valuable residents.

Things we can provide you:

We can pair you with skilled RN’s or CCA’s to give you a great orientation to the Home
Provide assignments to use your skills and gain new ones
Provide you with opportunities to work with our RNs or CCAs and gain experience within our (4) Care Areas
Develop Leadership and Care skills in Geriatric Care
Form lasting relationships with residents & families and staff

INTERESTED?

Let’s schedule an interview as soon as possible, and start the paper work process.

By forwarding your resume to email: apply at jobs@rkmacdonald.ca

For your Successful hire we will need the following:

Resume
Void cheque (banking information)
Social Insurance #
Health card #
2 References from former employers/ or clinical placement supervisor
Copy of your Criminal records Check with Vulnerable Sector (Police Check) dated within 6 mos. (request is required by HR to get request a new one at RCMP
Confirmation Letter of enrollment in Nursing Program or License to work as RN or LPN

Competition #:490-04-05-15-2024 Casual General Worker (Maintenance)

May 25, 2024

R.K. MacDonald Nursing Home, 64 Pleasant Street, Antigonish NS B2G 1

Competition #:490-04-05-15-2024 Job Title: General Worker (Maintenance)

Dept.: Environmental Services Start Date: Immediately

Posted Date: May 15, 2024 Close Date: open until filled

Reg./Temp: Temporary Full/Part: Casual

(Subject to change)

Applications accepted until 4:00 PM on the Closing Date

Opening Statement

The R.K. MacDonald Nursing Home is a Long-Term Care Home to 137 Residents and employs 250 staff in various Departments.

Qualifications/Skills Required: Must have a valid Nova Scotia Driver’s License. Good physical health, 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, ability to operate and run computerized maintenance monitoring system (Honeywell). Must be willing to be on call, for maintenance issues after hrs. Grade 12 education, carpentry, painting, and boilers experience preferred. Any certificates in these areas are an asset.

Minimum 2-5 years’ experience in a large building complex required. Regular & consistent attendance is essential.

Training/Work Experience: Work experience in some of the following trades; plumbing, carpentry, painting, boiler maintenance, refrigeration, electronics, and phone and cable hook up with a recognized employer is required. Any certificates in these areas considered an asset.

Please: refer to General Worker (Maintenance) Job Description Complete listing on our website @ www.rkmacdonald.ca

Hours of Work

Casual

Hours – Days/Evenings/Weekends (6-2 pm 7-3pm/8-4 pm) (subject to change). Hours may vary as per project needs (i.e. (evening –nights) repair call- ins, etc.)

Salary

$22.7182-$23.1044 per hour

Benefits/Pension Information

Pension – (NA)

Vacation & Holiday% (as per Department of Labor Standards for Casual employment)

Sick benefits- (NA)

Health Benefits (NA)

Closing Statement

Thank you for your interest in this position. Only those Applicants selected for an interview to be contacted. Interviews held within two weeks of closing date. The R.K. MacDonald Nursing Home is proud to provide a smoke free and scent free environment. We are committed to upholding the Human Rights of all R.K MacDonald employees, including the right of all people to enjoy a physically and psychologically safe work environment; the right of all people to just and favorable terms of employment; and the right of all people to be respected and valued for their differences with equitable opportunities and outcomes in an inclusive environment where all can thrive. Internal applicants to apply by using the Internal Application Form, External Applicants to submit cover letter and resume to: email: jobs@rkmacdonald.ca or fax 902 863-4437 attention HR A successful hire is dependent on submission of references checks, certifications, and Clear Police (Security) Check that includes a vulnerable sector check. Disclaimer: Please refer to nursing home website for complete job posting www.rkmacdonald.ca .

It’s lobster season again!

May 24, 2024

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.