Year: 2024

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.

POSITION: Staffing (Scheduling) Clerk
DEPARTMENT: Nursing
RESPONSIBLE TO: Director of Care

Under the direction of the Director of Clinical Services is responsible for the accurate and timely data entry of staff scheduling and payroll submission. Using a manual or computerized scheduling application, the Staffing Clerk works as a team member to support the staffing needs of the RK Mac Donald Nursing Home. 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

Scheduling

• Implements approved schedules for unionized staff
• Accepts Director approved requests for scheduling changes and implements as staffing replacement allows
• Discusses any variances with Director
• Follows the appropriate collective agreements in addressing requirements
• Follows direction of Directors with replacement of staff and overtime authorization

Staffing

• Replaces unionized staff as directed for illness, approved LOA, vacations, and statutory holidays
• Ensures this process is accurate and timely and following the applicable collective agreement
• Verifies staffing requirements against current schedule including but not limited to, accepting staff call-ins
• Ensures confidentiality at all times
• Inputs, maintains and updates data utilizing the computerized scheduling system
• On a daily basis, reviews time sheets to insure adequate staffing
• Monitors casual relief list for need and notifies appropriate Director when required
• Maintains casual staff information and availability records
• Assists Charge Nurse/RN, staff, & Ward Clerks with information and resources to develop appropriate staffing plans/decisions during times when staffing office is closed

Payroll

• Accurately records and verifies schedule in preparation for bi-weekly payroll submission

Planning

• Consult with and advise managers on any concerns regarding staffing levels
• Maintain staffing levels as per Department of Health & Wellness guidelines
• Suggest alternate scheduling patterns that meet the resident care and staff needs

Required Education

• Completion of Academic Grade 12
• Completion of post-secondary business/administrative assistant/office management or related health care course.

Required Experience

• Previous experience in scheduling and staffing an asset

Required Competencies

• Demonstrated proficiency in computer applications
• Demonstrated critical thinker and ability to multi-task
• Demonstrated ability to work independently and under time constraints
• Demonstrated positive interpersonal & communication skills.
• Constructive communication skills
• Demonstrated problem solver.
• Excellent organizational skills.

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

Approved by: CEO/Director of Clinical Services

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.

POSITION: Podiatry Technician
DEPARTMENT: Nursing
RESPONSIBLE TO: Director of Care

Reporting to the RN-Charge, the Podiatry Technician provides prophylactic and therapeutic care activities related to podiatric care and treatment involved within the scope of podiatry certification. 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, Podiatry Technician 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.
• Care and cutting of nails & drilling when necessary
• Foot soaks
• Manual or electric massage
• Corn and callus removal and treatment.
• Cream massage and application of protective padding.
• Regular foot examination of all residents on a routine basis.
• Recommends appropriate footwear, when indicated.

Education, Training, and Experience

• RN/LPN
• Registered with licensing body (CRNNS, CLPNNS)
• Advanced Foot Care Certification

Key Competencies

• Attention to detail
• Customer focus
• Reliability
• Listening skills
• Adaptability
• Planning and organizing
• Team work
• Integrity
• Honesty
• High energy levels

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

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

POSITION: RN – Charge Nurse
DEPARTMENT: Nursing
RESPONSIBLE TO: Director of Care

The RN-Charge Nurse provides front-line leadership to the nursing and support staff and ensures that the mission, vision and values, expected behaviors, leadership philosophy, ethics, safety, quality and inter-professional collaboration are integrated within the Home. The RN-Charge Nurse is responsible to the Director of Care for the overall quality improvement of resident care and is responsible for the planning, directing and coordinating of resident care and for monitoring the quality outcomes as they relate to the care provided by staff.

The RN-Charge Nurse is accountable and responsible to model the way, to demonstrate excellence in practice and to provide staff with assistance, support and confidence in the delivery of holistic, person-centered care. They must possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills to ensure effective communication with all members of the care team, including the resident and family.

Key Responsibilities

Implicit in this role is the responsibility for managing and participating in the day-to-day provision of quality care for all residents. The RN-Charge Nurse is responsible to utilize leadership and management skills to identify and solve problem. In supporting our vision of an alive and vibrant community built on meaningful relationships that celebrates and encourages a uniqueness of spirit and character the RN-Charge Nurse is responsible for building and developing, for supporting and encouraging the development and continuance of a cohesive, responsive, cooperative care team that maintains a continual focus on a holistic approach to living. As an employee of the RK Mac Donald Nursing Home the RN-Charge Nurse 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 RN-Charge Nurse, as a partner in the provision of care and support of our Residents, represents the home in a positive, professional, efficient and confidential manner.

1. Leadership: accountable to inspire staff to engage with our vision and to coach and build a team that it is more effective at achieving the vision.

• Knowledgeable of and monitors compliance with the provincial LTC Facility program Requirements, the Home’s philosophy of care, accreditation standards, policies & procedures
• Responsible for the efficient and effective day to day functioning of the unit
• Actively involved in the concerns process, providing resolution to concerns as close to the issue as possible
• Acts as a Role Model by creating an atmosphere that empowers staff to contribute to the delivery of high quality care
• Provides a visible, identifiable presence that invites feedback and discussion
• Contributes to the delivery of organizational objectives
• Facilitates change to overcome problems and/or weaknesses identified through observation, feedback or audits as well as in response to changes in policy/procedure
• Acts as a professional role model/mentor and resource person including the orientation of all new staff
• Monitors skills and competencies of all staff and ensures that the skills are kept current taking appropriate proactive or corrective action when required
• Demonstrates and promotes excellent communication and interpersonal relationships with staff, residents, families and other care providers
• Identifies learning needs and liaisons with Education Coordinator to develop a plan to meet these needs
• Supports staff as they advocate for their residents and families
• Takes initiative, identifies opportunities for improvement and finds innovative ways to change and grow
• Recognizes and shows appreciation for the contribution of others
• Supports staff and manages the first level of discussion with staff difficulties and undesirable behaviors
• Manages conflict on the unit
• Enhancing staff satisfaction by creating a challenging and positive work environment
• Performs duties of Supervising RN when required

2. Clinical Care Coordination and Supervision: accountable for the delivery of safe and competent, resident focused care

• To be familiar with the resident population in order to make safe and appropriate decisions about assignments
• To assign and reassign resident care appropriately
• Responsible for ensuring standards of care and practice are achieved
• Provides safe and competent direct clinical care when required
• Performs nursing assessments to support/direct care delivered by LPN/CCA staff
• Performs nursing treatments as required
• Active in the bi-annual medication review
• Develops and maintains a current plan of care that is resident centered and focuses on achievable goals and outcomes
• Provides leadership, education, direction and coordination to staff  ensuring safe & effective clinical practices are occurring
• Ensures completion of monthly audits and safety inspections are complete
• Enhances the resident experience by performing rounds and building relationships
• Develops and participates in CQI initiatives for unit and facility
• Acts as a resource for staff, physicians, family, residents
• Leads the admission process ensuring that the focus of care is holistic and person rather than medically centered

3. Human Resources: Accountable to maximize employee performance in service to the Mission, Vision & Values of the Home and in keeping with the strategic plan.

• Monitors and evaluates performance of staff
• Conducts annual performance reviews with all staff
• Assists each staff person in development goals and action plans specific to their performance review and learning needs
• Meets with staff quarterly to review progress on goals & assists in revising plan as required
• Supports staff so that expectations can be met
• Provide guidance and direction to staff
• Mentors staff in their role
• Acts as a coach to enhance or modify behaviors
• Acts as a Role Model for constructive behaviors such as affiliative, self-actualization, humanistic-encouraging and achievement oriented attitudes
• Conducts staff meetings at least monthly, preferably bi-weekly
• Assists education Coordinator in the planning of clinical orientation of new staff
• Monitors the orientation and progress of new staff
• Ensures new staff are assigned a ‘buddy’ for the probationary period of employment
• Ensures that probationary performance reviews are conducted

4. Family Relations: Accountable for the recognition and inclusion of family as care givers. Responsible for establishing and maintaining compassionate and respectful relationships with family members and recognizing the critical role they continue to play in the lives of those entrusted in our care.

• Maintain open and respectful lines of communication
• Ensures family is invited and welcomed as a partner in care
• Welcomes and encourages family feedback
• Monitors and responds to email on a daily basis
• Investigates and responds to feedback as per policy
• Encourages involvement in Family Council
• Ensures that all staff foster positive service relationships with residents and their families in their day to day work
• Ensures on-going communication with family to inform them of issues, changes etc.

5. Continuous Quality Improvement & Occupational Health and Safety

• Investigates incident reports
• Participates in monthly safety checks
• Participates in implementing and evaluating quality initiatives
• Actively involved in Committees as required by DOC
• Ensures safe work practices are adhered to at all times
• Ensures staff adhere to infection control practices

Educational Qualifications

1. RN, BScN preferred
2. Current registration with CRNNS
3. Certificate in gerontology nursing preferred
4. Current (or willingness to obtain) CPR, WHIMIS ,CPI

Experience Required

1. Five years nursing experience in Geriatric Nursing
2. Previous supervisory experience an asset

Knowledge & Skills Required

1. Demonstrated flexibility
2. Demonstrated leadership abilities
3. Evidence of the ability to motivate others
4. Strong resident focus and ability to build relationships
5. Commitment to supporting a culture that that supports and lives our mission, vision & values
6. Demonstrated Self Confidence duty to protect well-being of residents not to please co-workers
7. Demonstrated Critical thinking & problem solving skills
8. Demonstrated commitment to self-learning and continuous professional education
9. Effective and compassionate communication & interpersonal skills
10. Conflict resolution

Competencies

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

1. Ongoing professional development and competence is required
2. Maintains an awareness of current trends and issues in gerontology nursing care
3. Identifies, achieves and maintains own professional development needs