Employment Opportunities

Learn More: The New R.K. MacDonald Nursing Home

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902- 863-2578 

R.K. MacDonald Nursing Home

Year: 2024

Director of Clinical Services

Director of Clinical Services

Apr 8, 2024

POSITION: Director of Clinical Services
DEPARTMENT: Nursing and Rehabilitation Services
RESPONSIBLE TO: CEO

As a member of the Leadership Team, the Director of Clinical Services provides oversight of Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy and Nursing Services to ensure a coordinated and collaborative approach to resident care. The Director of Clinical Services works closely with the Assistant Director of Clinical Services to ensure clinical services are coordinated, collaborative across professional disciplines and all departments. Reporting to the CEO responsibilities include the day to day management and integration of clinical services throughout the organization. The essential functional areas of responsibility include the delivery of quality, safe clinical services that respects and enhances the quality of life for every Resident and their family by ensuring adherence to applicable Standards of Practice, delivery of person centred care. In keeping with our Mission, Vision and Values and our philosophy of Person Centered Care, the Director of Clinical Services 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:

Effectively manage Clinical Services through monitoring of the Rehabilitation and Nursing Department budgets ensuring that the annual budget is not exceeded

  • Monthly review and analysis of clinical services departmental financial data in collaboration with appropriate departmental mangers
  • Investigate variances, develop corrective action plan and report same to CEO
  • Participates in annual Capital equipment planning process in collaboration with other Senior Leaders
  • Submission of Capital equipment requests

Coordinate the provision of Clinical Services that are person centered and that support and reflect the Mission, Vision and Values of the RK Mac Donald Nursing Home

  • Ensure annual review of clinical policies by appropriate clinical staff or manager and ensure revisions are completed as required.
  • Develop yearly clinical services delivery goals and objectives that support the Strategic Plan and are in support of achieving/maintaining Accreditation Canada standards
  • Ensure Licensed staff as well as all clinical services support staff maintain care practices in accordance with standards of practice and care that comply with operating requirements of department, relevant federal, provincial and professional legislation, standards &/or regulations
  • Provide assistance and direction to employees that facilitates the highest quality of efficient, effective and safe care
  • Provides systematic monitoring and evaluation of resident needs and satisfaction with care through collaboration with Departmental Directors (ie rehab Services or Nursing)
  • Monitor program and resident outcomes, evaluate all aspects of the operation and assess and plan for the future
  • Identify any outstanding issue or concerns of family, residents or staff and implement any corrective actions as required in collaboration with appropriate departments
  • Annually review and update Job Descriptions

Effectively plan and oversee human resources in the rehabilitation and nursing departments in collaboration with the appropriate Departmental Director and Human Resources Coordinator

  • Actively participates in the departmental hiring process or appoints designate
  • Develops action oriented performance review systems
  • Ensures that probationary performance reviews with accompanying plan of development and goals are conducted as required by contract
  • Discipline, up to and including dismissal
  • Coaching, mentoring and empowering RN/LPN Team Leads, OT and PT
  • Supports and assists the RN/LPN Team Leads in coaching, mentoring and empowering their staff
  • Supports and assist the OT and PT in the development of leadership skills, collaboration and working to the full scope of their profession.
  • Approves vacation/LOA requests or appoints a departmental designate

Ensure the orientation and ongoing education of departmental staff including development and continuing education through collaboration with Clinical Service Directors and the Education Coordinator

  • Ensure educational provisions are made to meet required performance standards
  • Work with clinical service manager to identify and prioritize learning needs of clinical services staff
  • Ensures that all clinical staff participate in required annual educational safety programs
  • Identify best practices and associated educational needs of clinical services departments

Accountable for the Safety and Risk Management of Clinical services

  • Identification and management of potential risks in collaboration with Departmental Directors, RN / LPN Team Leads and other clinical support staff.
  • Participates as a Leader in the JOHS program and Risk Management Program
  • Monitoring and auditing of Departmental compliance as necessary

Communication: through personal behavior and interactions, will consistently demonstrates a humanistic, affiliative approach to relationships:

  • Within department, with other team members and with union representatives
  • In all interactions, within and while representing the facility
  • With all Residents and families
  • While establishing and maintaining cooperative working relationships

Ensures Continuous Quality Initiatives in all activities

  • Maintains clinical practice knowledge within professional designation
  • Ensures other Clinical Services Directors maintain practice knowledge
  • Establish and direct systems for evidence based practice/outcome measurement and improving quality of nursing care
  • Determine resident care quality improvement goals and objectives
  • Ensure that all staff maintain a current knowledge of trends and issues within the field and recommend changes in standards, policies and procedures, equipment and programs as appropriate
  • Analyze CQI data to identify solutions or improvements as required
  • Review relevant occurrences and ensure appropriate follow-up as required

Participates in Committees/teams as required

  •  Ensure that all nursing committees are structured and focused on meeting the Goals established by the Strategic Plan
  •  Sits as a Chair of at least one organizational committee

Leadership Roles

  • Active participant on the leadership team
  • Demonstrates integration of the Mission, Vision and Values into practice
  • Participates in annual Strategic planning process
  • Participates in Succession planning
  • Evidenced based clinical decision making

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

  • Clinical practice knowledge
  • Delivery models/designs knowledge
  • Safe practice initiatives
  • Utilization
  • Quality improvement Initiatives
  • Risk management theory & practice
  • Sound understanding of Ethical practice
  • Consistently acts as a role model for advocacy
  • Sound understanding of Union Contracts & Negotiations
  • Possess the person centered qualities and attitudes that respect the spirit, dignity and individuality of the Resident/resident and their family
  • Understands and is able to integrate a philosophy of person centered care into the daily operations of the nursing department
  • Able to supervise staff including the ability to mentor, coach and empower staff
  • A working knowledge of budgeting
  • Able to work independently and as part of the Leadership Team

Educational Qualifications

  • Baccalaureate Degree in Nursing, Physiotherapy, or Occupational Therapy required. Masters Degree is preferred

Experience Required

  • 5 years management experience in nursing
  • Experience in gerontology nursing an asset

Approved by: CEO, Terry MacIntyre

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

Director of Clinical Services

Continuing Care Assistant (CCA)

Apr 8, 2024

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

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

Key Responsibilities

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

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

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

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

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

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

Task list of duties include but not limited to:

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

Documentation of Care

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

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

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

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

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

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

Resident centered focus (responds to resident/family requests)

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

Communication (fosters two way communication)

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

Conflict Management

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

Self & Community Awareness

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

Teamwork (fosters Teamwork)

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

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

Orientating & Mentoring

  • Participates in the orientation and mentoring of new staff

Adaptability/Flexibility (adapts to a variety of changes)

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

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

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

Initiative (addresses imminent issues)

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

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

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

Values & Ethics

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

EDUCATION

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

EXPERIENCE

Experience in geriatric setting an asset

Approved by: Director of Clinical Services (Care)

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

Director of Clinical Services

Human Resource Coordinator

Apr 8, 2024

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

POSITION: Human Resource Coordinator
DEPARTMENT: Human Resources
RESPONSIBLE TO: CEO

As a member of the Leadership Team, the Human Resource Coordinator provides the day to day management of the Human Resources department and provides a vital link between the HR department and the leadership team. Reporting to the CEO, the Human Resource Coordinator is responsible for the overall management and delivery of human resource services. The essential functional areas of responsibility includes coordinating the delivery of human resource services including building the Home’s capacity by influencing culture, the need to change, and quality of change through practices that promote positive employee relations and create a work environment that promotes quality of care through employee satisfaction. In keeping with our Mission, Vision and Values and our philosophy of Resident Centered Care, the Human Resource Coordinator, 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. Develop and maintain HR policies
    1. Implement, review/revise Human Resource Policies/Handbook to complement the goals, mission, visions, and strategic plan of the Home and to align with union contracts, Human Rights, and Labor Laws as necessary.
    2. Review and revise HR policies on an annual basis
  2. Develop and maintain the HR plan
    1. In consultation with leadership team, develop a five year HR plan that supports the Strategic Plan of the facility
    2. Reviews and revises the HR plan on an annual basis
  3. Fulfill the Employment Functions
    1. Follows Hiring Process developed by CEO and Directors. Provides the lead of recruiting (advertising, career fairs, college visits, prepares postings), Receive and assist in screening of resumes, assist Directors when requested to set up appointments for interviews, participate on interview panel when required, performs reference checks, and compose award and decline postings and letters.
    2. Meets with all new hires for signing and gathering of all pertinent information for to complete as new hire i.e. payroll information, certificates, licenses, references, job description, pledge of confidentially and security checks and order name tags.
    3. Maintain accurate files on awarding of competition of all positions.
    4. Maintains accurate records reflecting approved LOA/Return to work.
    5. Ensures all job descriptions are accurate and up to date.
    6. Assist Directors with development and use of current forms, tracking and recording of completion dates of Employee Performance Appraisals/Yearly signing of Pledge of Confidentiality.
    7. Participates in setting up of new hire employee orientation.
  1. Maintains Positive Employee Relations
    1. Assists Directors in understanding the terms and conditions of Union Contracts (NSNU & UNIFOR).
    2. Supports positive employee relations in the Home, through listening, redirecting, educating, exit interviews, staff surveys, and education on HR policies,
    3. Provides data to Directors in the monitoring of Attendance Management.
    4. Organization of yearly Recognition of Service Awards.
    5. Confirm employment status for employees for outside relations i.e. Loans and Insurance, etc.
    6. Provides yearly updates to the Seniority List for all Union Staff
    7. Provides assistance and direction as needed to Directors in the management of difficult employee behaviors up to and including discipline. Provides confidential background file information and attends disciplinary meetings as requested.
    8. Participates on the Wellness Committee and conducts wellness surveys yearly with staff to indentify staff wants and needs. Address identifies needs as budget permits.
    9. Be visible throughout the facility including conducting walk-about couple times a week to gain feedback from staff, residents, and families to assist Leaders in identifying the culture and well-being of the Home.
  2. Employee Benefits
    1. Ensures LOA forms as well as other pertinent forms are filed before approved leave i.e. Benefits, Pension, and Record of Employment.
    2. Coordinates Return to Work of Employees with WCB and LTD (HANS) and the employee’s Director.
    3. Assists in Employee Retirement in ensuring retirement package provided and processed and provides Exit Interview forms to employees
    4. Provide employees with information and support on EFAP (Employee and Family Assistance Program), EASE (Employee Assistance & Support for Employees)
  3. Education
    1. Provides general orientation to new staff.
    2. Annual in-service printout for employee personnel files.
    3. Assists in Education training needs i.e., matters pertaining to HR
    4. Attends training sessions as required
  4. Maintain Personnel & work related medical records
    1. Maintain Personnel and Medical files of all employees.
    2. Insures confidentiality and security of personnel and medical records at all times
    3. Maintains a strict sign in/out.
    4. Storage of inactive files as per policies.
  5. Other Duties as Required – may include Back up for Payroll Processing/ Scheduling Issues. Participates in other duties related to HR or resident care as required.
  6. Communication: through personal behavior and interactions, will consistently demonstrates a humanistic, affiliative approach to relationships:
    • In all interactions, within and while representing the facility
    • With all Residents and families
    • While establishing and maintaining cooperative working relationships
  1. Participates on committees as required

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

Departmental Competencies & Skills:

  • General knowledge of Employment Law, Human Rights, WCB Act, Safety (Occupational Health and Safety Act)
  • Excels in organizational abilities
  • Ability to lead, develop and coach
  • Experience in Benefits, WCB Claims, Payroll an asset
  • Demonstrated ability to maintain absolute confidentiality
  • Excellent computer skills in Microsoft Windows, Data Management, Record Keeping, Statistical recording.
  • Attention to detail and accuracy
  • Ability to work as a member of a Team as well as an ability to work independently

Educational Qualifications

  • Minimum of Bachelor’s Degree, preferably in Human Resources and/or Business Organizational Development.
  • Human resource related education an asset

Experience required:

  • Minimum 3yrs Senior Management experience
  • Experience in the personnel/human resource field an asset
  • Familiar with Union Contracts an asset
Director of Clinical Services

General Worker (Housekeeping)

Apr 8, 2024

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

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

Reporting to the Director of Environmental Services, the General Worker provides general housekeeping services to maintain a clean, sanitary, comfortable and tidy environment for the Home.  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 General Worker 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 of ES 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. Participates with multidisciplinary meetings for residents in their working unit.
  14. General cleaning of specific areas such as Resident rooms, washrooms, common areas i.e., dining rooms, hallways and offices.
  15. Dry and damp mop floors and vacuum carpets.
  16. Wash and dust beds, furnishings, utensils, and equipment as per established procedures.
  17. Waste collection in all areas of home or Manor.
  18. Clean elevators, doors, walls, and floors.
  19. Houseclean all rooms and do high dusting with use of a ladder.
  20. Knowledge of how to operate all housekeeping equipment, i.e., auto scrubber, side-to-side, and other related equipment.
  21. Replenish supplies in the work area on a weekly basis.
  22. Keep janitor closets clean and tidy.
  23. Use proper care when using all department equipment and keep clean.
  24. When a Resident is deceased or discharged – responsible to pack and label all of the Residents’ belongings for family pick up. The room is given a final cleaning in preparation for a new admission.
  25. Deliver all Residents personal clothing daily
  26. Cleans isolation rooms as per guidelines.
  27. Familiar with Department Policy and Procedure Manual.
  28. Annual Update of required education in services via Surge and on site, i.e. WHMIS, Emergency Plan (Fire), etc.
  29. Perform other related duties as required by the Director or Supervisor.
  30. Assist in the transportation or removal of furniture or equipment as necessary.
  31. Keep walkways clean from litter, snow, etc. (R.K. & Manor).
  32. Transport laundry and Lab work to St. Martha’s Hospital twice daily and provide other transportation and pickup services as requested with Nursing Home vehicle.

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)

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.

Grade 12 Education, experience in housekeeping or laundry preferred, but not required.

 

Key Competencies

  • attention to detail
  • customer focus
  • reliability
  • listening skills
  • adaptability
  • planning and organizing
  • team work
  • integrity
  • honesty
  • high energy levels
Director of Clinical Services

Director of Recreation, Spiritual, & Volunteers

Apr 8, 2024

POSITION: Director of Recreation, Spiritual, & Volunteers
DEPARTMENT: Recreation, Spiritual, & Volunteers
RESPONSIBLE TO: CEO

As a member of the Leadership Team, the Director of Recreation, Spiritual, & Volunteer Services provides the day to day management of the Recreation, Spiritual, & Volunteer services operation and its personnel and provides a vital link between the department, its personnel, and the leadership team. Reporting to the CEO, the Director of Recreation, Spiritual, & Volunteer Services is responsible for the overall management and delivery of services of the department. The essential functional areas of responsibility include providing Recreation/Leisure, Spiritual, and Volunteer Programming opportunities for the Residents, leading, encouraging, and supporting staff and volunteers in the delivery of these programs and opportunities utilizing their strengths and expertise. In keeping with our Mission, Vision and Values and our philosophy of Resident Centered Care, the Director of Recreation, Spiritual, & Volunteer 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:

Effectively manage the Recreation, Spiritual, & Volunteer Services departmental budget ensuring that the annual budget is not exceeded.

  • Monthly review and analysis of financial data
  • Identify and investigate variances and implement corrective actions
  • Oversee completion of departmental payroll
  • Purchasing of departmental supplies

Coordinate the provision of Recreation, Spiritual, & Volunteer departmental services that are Resident centered and that support and reflect the Mission, Vision and Values of the RK Mac Donald Nursing Home.

  • Provide Recreation/Leisure/Spiritual, & Volunteer programs and opportunities for the Residents which allows for engagement with their own Home, their R.K. Community, and maintain contact with the larger community.
  • The Director develops, updates departmental policies and procedures respecting the Philosophy of Care of the Home.
  • Develops annual and long-term goals and objectives for the department.
  •  Promote positive relationships with all the departments and with the local community.
  • Maintains a co-operative team approach within the department and with other Departments in the organization.
  • Assists with maintaining and updating Resident profiles.
  • Assists the Recreation Programmers with the Programming where possible.
  • Participates in Multi-Disciplinary conferences for the Residents in the absence of the Recreation Programmers.
  • Participates in Resident/Management Meetings when necessary.
  • Co-ordinates the Volunteer Program including the selection, screening, placement, orientation, training, support, and recognition of Volunteers.
  • Develops programs and organize Volunteers to enhance the programs offered to the Residents.
  • Represents the Home by attending necessary meetings, seminars, and professional associations that are relevant to Recreation and Volunteerism.
  • Responsible for equipment utilized by the Recreation Department.
  • Actively research and explore new programming options to meet the needs of the Residents.
  • Develops, reviews and updates departmental job descriptions on an annual basis
  • Participation and membership in Nova Scotia Recreation Professionals in Health Association.

Effectively manage the human services within the Recreation, Spiritual, & Volunteer department

  • Lead, encourage, and support staff in the delivery of Recreation/Leisure, Spiritual, & Volunteer programs.
  • Interviewing and hiring of new departmental staff.
  • Coordination, orientation, and training of departmental staff.
  • Supervise and review performance of all departmental staff.
  • Scheduling of staff to reflect the programming needs and priorities of the Residents.
  • Plan, conduct, and participate in departmental meetings.
  • Responsible for the development of job descriptions for recreation staff.
  • Assignment of departmental staff duties and scheduling.
  • Assume responsibilities for student placements.
  • Coaching, mentoring and empowering staff

Direct the Volunteer program and provide a positive experience for both the Resident and the Volunteers.

  • Selection, screening, placement, training, support, and recognition of Volunteers.
    Provided to enhance Programming.

Support Spiritual Care Staff serving the spiritual and religious needs of the Residents in this Home, their families, and the staff, with respect for their faith traditions and the dignity of their persons.

Ensure the orientation and ongoing education of departmental staff including development and continuing education.

  • Promote staff engagement in professional development and lifelong learning activities.
  • Ensure all staff participate in safety training

Accountable for the Safety and risk management of the Recreation, Spiritual, & Volunteer department

Communication:

  • Through personal behaviour and interactions, will consistently demonstrate a humanistic, affiliative approach to relationships.
  • In all interactions, within and while representing the facility.
  • With all Residents & families.
  • While establishing and maintaining co-operative working relationships.

Continuous Quality Initiatives

  • Actively research and explore new programming options to meet the needs of the residents.
  • Ensure ongoing, active development, and involvement in the Home’s CQI initiatives.
  • Maintains visibility through the facility including walkabouts to gain feedback from staff, residents, and families to assist Leaders in identifying the culture and well-being of the Home.

Participates in Committees/teams as required

  • Responsible to attend Senior Leadership Meetings and other committee meetings as appointed by the CEO.

Leadership Role

  • Active participant on leadership team
    Demonstrates integration of Mission, Vision & Values into practice
  • Participates in annual strategic planning and review

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

Departmental Competencies & Skills:

  • Ability to work as a member of a team as well as ability to work independently
  • Excellent computer skills in Microsoft Windows, Word, QHR & Microsoft Publisher
  • Organizational skills
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Supervisory Skills

Educational Qualifications

  • Baccalaureate Degree in the Social Sciences or Recreation

Experience required:

  • 3-5 years Senior Management experience in the health care/geriatric field.

Approved by: CEO

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

Director of Clinical Services

Custodial Care

Apr 8, 2024

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

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

Scope of Position: The Custodial Care Attendant assists in providing non-nursing observation and supervision. They assist in the creation of a safe environment for residents. As an employee of the RK Mac Donald Nursing Home, every person has a responsibility to be involved in providing a stimulating environment for the residents. In keeping with our Mission, Vision and Values and our philosophy of Resident Centered Care, the Custodial Care Attendant serves as a positive role model; as a partner in the provision of care and support of our Residents, and represents the home in a positive, professional, efficient and confidential manner.

Key Responsibilities

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

Skills & Competencies

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

Major Job Functions

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

Education Required

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

Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)

Apr 8, 2024

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

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

Key Responsibilities

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

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

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

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

Task list of duties include but not limited to:

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

Documentation of Care

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

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

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

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

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

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

Resident centered focus (builds positive family relations)

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

Communication (adapts communication to others)

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

Conflict Management (anticipates and addresses sources of potential conflict)

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

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

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

Teamwork (fosters Teamwork)

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

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

Adaptability/Flexibility (adapts to a variety of changes)

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

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

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

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

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

Initiative (addresses imminent issues)

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

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

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

Values & Ethics

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

Education

  • Graduate of an accredited LPN school with pharmacological training
  • Licensed with the CLPNNS
  • Certification in CPR, WHMIS, Food Handlers, Dementia/Alzheimer, Palliative care courses and gentle persuasion approach

Experience

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

Approved by: Director of Clinical Services

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

Director of Clinical Services

Social Worker

Apr 8, 2024

POSITION: Social Worker
DEPARTMENT: Clinical Services
RESPONSIBLE TO: Director of Clinical Services

Reporting to the Director of Clinical Services, the Social Worker is responsible for planning, developing and implementing services to meet the emotional and social needs for our residents and their families that are in keeping with the philosophy of RK MacDonald Nursing Home and its established policies and procedures.

This will involve assessing resident’s needs, and planning, implementing and documenting Social Work services while working as part of a multi-disciplinary team. 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 Social Worker, 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. Reviews applications for admission and coordinates admissions to the Home. Obtains and documents personal and family histories upon admission. Orients residents/families to Home and its philosophy.

2. Prepares for and participates in Resident Care Conferences. Consults with family prior to review and invites residents’ families as appropriate. Identifies social/emotional needs and takes appropriate action in consult with the Health Care team.

3. Develops and maintains liaison with the recreational and community resources.

4. Participates in departmental and staff committee meetings. Maintains records, and documents interventions on charts. Submits a monthly report to the Director of Clinical Services.

5. Coordinates discharge planning.

6. Provides in-service instruction.

7. Provides individual consulting and group services to residents and their families. Acts as a consultant to residents vis-à-vis financial and/or personal problems.

8. Supervises student practicum and participates in community education and research.

9. Develops resources to meet the social and emotional needs of our residents and their families.

10. Participates in the Home’s Continuous Quality Indicator and Strategic Planning programs.

11. Performs other related duties as assigned.

Qualifications: Education, Training and Experience

  • Minimum of 3 years recent experience in a Long Term Care setting, geriatric and/or Community setting
  • B.S.W. or recognized equivalent from an accredited School of Social Work
  • Member of, or eligible for, membership with the Nova Scotia College Social Workers (NSCSW)
  • Eligible for registration with the Nova Scotia Association of Social Workers.
  • The Social Worker adheres to the NS Board Registration for Social Workers Code of Ethics and the Canadian Association of Social Workers Standards of Practice.
  • Safety courses such as, BCLS, CPR, CPI and WHIMIS
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
  • Ability to organize, develop and initiate ideas and programs.
  • Commitment to working in an interdisciplinary approach.
  • Demonstrate good communication skills, verbally and in writing.
  • Demonstrated physical ability to perform the duties of the position.
  • Good attendance
  • Alzheimer and Related Dementia course
  • Criminal Records check including Vulnerable Sector Search

Skills and Abilities

  • Ability to work under minimal supervision.
  • Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
  • Ability to deal with others effectively.
  • Ability to organize and prioritize workload.
  • Ability to recognize needs and develop appropriate resources to meet social/emotional needs.
  • Ability to empathize with elderly, emotionally and/or physically handicapped persons. Maturity and dependability required to gain resident, families and staff confidence.
  • Ability to deal with confidential matters in a professional manner.

Professional Accountability

  1. Carries out assessments, plan implementation, plan evaluation and education in accordance with RK policies and procedures
  2. Conducts self within legal/ethical/professional obligations and requirements.
  3. Performs beyond entry level competencies Works as a champion of resident centered care.
  4. Respects the individuality, autonomy and confidentiality of the resident and ensures the resident is treated respectfully and uses a person-centered approach involving shared decision making and responsibility with the resident and Substitute Decision Maker.
  5. Demonstrates professional integrity and a commitment to the well-being of all residents.
  6. Engages in professional development and lifelong learning activities.
  7. Orientation of new employees and mentoring /preceptoring of new and existing employees as appropriate.
  8. Acts as a mentor / preceptor for student clinical internships.

Communication and Collaboration

  1. Establishes and maintains effective communication with residents, relevant others and professional colleagues.
  2. Maintains an accurate account of care given through clear, concise, written and verbal communication and evaluates, communicates and documents resident response to care in a timely manner.
  3. Develops and maintains information systems to ensure appropriate access to accurate, objective and relevant information about the resident.
  4. Collaborates, partners, and communicates with the resident, family, and external service providers when there is a difference between the care plan and the wants, needs and abilities of the resident.
  5. Demonstrates effective collaboration and inter-professional teamwork by consulting and sharing information with other health professionals, family and community organizations in a timely manner, provided resident consent is obtained where required, to ensure comprehensive, safe service delivery.
  6. Facilitate admission planning and transitions across the health care continuum, ensuring the resident’s needs are met in appropriate setting.
  7. Participation in staff meetings or working group meetings.
  8. Participation in and /or leadership of program planning, research, continuous quality improvement initiatives, committees, staff education, safety initiatives, and accreditation as requested.
  9. Demonstrates effective verbal and non-verbal communication abilities to prevent adverse events.
  10. Communicates effectively in special high-risk situations to ensure the safety of residents.

Other Related Duties

  1. Other duties as assigned by Director of Clinical Services.

Judgement and Initiative

Identifies the need for and coordinates Social Work services to maintain and enhance the emotional and social performance and engagement of the resident.

  1. Continuously engages in critical thinking, and evaluates plan of care and makes revisions to plan as necessary in consultation and collaboration with the resident, his/her support system and other members of the health care team.
  2. Articulates rationale for decisions that are based on clinical best practice, current theory and research
  3. Intervenes when standards of practice are violated or not upheld.
  4. Refers to appropriate professionals for issues beyond the profession’s scope of practice and the individual’s personal competence.
  5. Seeks direction or assistance from other health care professionals as required.

Safety (resident, worker & workplace)

Demonstrates good stewardship in the identification, reporting & mitigation of unsafe acts or conditions

  1. Contribute to a culture of resident safety.
  2. Work in teams for resident safety.
  3. Communicate effectively for resident safety.
  4. Manage safety risks.
  5. Optimize human and environmental factors.
Director of Clinical Services

Director, Rehabilitation Services

Apr 8, 2024

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

POSITION: Director, Rehabilitation Services
DEPARTMENT: Walking Stick Rehab
RESPONSIBLE TO: CEO

As a member of the Leadership Team, the Director of Rehabilitation Services, either an Occupational Therapist or Physiotherapist provides the day to day management of the Walking Stick Rehabilitation services operation and its personnel and provides a vital link between the Rehabilitation Services department and its personnel and the leadership team. Reporting to the CEO, the Director of Rehabilitation Services is responsible for the overall management and delivery of services of the department. The essential functional areas of responsibility include the provision of Occupational Therapy and Physiotherapy services to the Residents of the RK MacDonald Nursing Home, and provide educational in-services to the families and staff. In keeping with our Mission, Vision and Core Values and our philosophy of Resident Centered Care, the Director of Rehabilitation 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.

1. Effectively manage the Walking Stick departmental budget ensuring that the annual budget is not exceeded

  • Monthly review of annual budget and implementing corrective action as appropriate
  • Oversees submission of departmental payroll
  • Annual review of equipment / supplies
  • Purchasing, ordering, stock and inventory control
  • Capital equipment procurement

2. Coordinate the provision of Walking Stick departmental services that are Resident centered and that support and reflect the Mission, Vision and Values of the RK Mac Donald Nursing Home. This will involve a yearly process of developing, reviewing, evaluating, revising and implementing

  • Departmental policies and procedures
  • Departmental goals and objectives
  • Ensure Standards of Practice that comply with operating requirements, relevant legislation, professional licensing bodies
  • Weekly Resident Priority Setting

3. Effectively manage the human resources within the Walking Stick department

  • Coaching, mentoring and empowering staff
  • Weekly review of schedules
  • Monitors sick leave, overtime and vacation scheduling
  • Annual Performance Reviews of Staff
  • Arrange annual staff 360 degree feedback of Director
  • Responsible for the recruitment of new staff
  • Responsible for the discipline and conflict resolution
  • Reviews Union Contracts to ensure departmental compliance
  • Monthly staff meeting

4. Ensure the orientation and ongoing education of departmental staff including development and continuing education

  • Annual WHMIS
  • Annual Person in Protected Care
  • Annual Emergency Plans Exercise
  • Orientation to Student Volunteers
  • Reviews Walking Stick staff education goals at monthly meetings
  • Provide in-servicing as a component of staff orientation program

5. Accountable for the safety and risk management of the Walking Stick department

  • Investigate and trend Resident fall reports
  • Completion of monthly Safety Reports
  • Monitoring Safe Resident Lifting and Transfer Procedures
  • Equipment Audits
  • Co-Chair Joint Occupational Health & Safety Committee

6. Communication :through personal behavior and interactions, will consistently demonstrates a humanistic, affiliative approach to relationships:

  • Attends Monthly Walking Stick Meeting
  • Attends Senior Leadership Meetings
  • Meet with families to discuss areas of concern
  • Supports Walking Stick staff to attend weekly Care Conferences

7. Continuous Quality Initiatives

  • Responsible for the Facility Continuous Quality Improvement Plan
  • Establishes and directs systems for measuring and improving the quality of Walking Stick services
  • Provides annual Safe Lifting and Transferring In-services for CCA staff

8. Participates in Committees/teams as required

  • Represents Walking Stick staff on Joint Occupational Health and Safety Committee
  • Supports Walking Stick staff on the Dementia care Team
  • Supports Walking Stick staff on Incident Trending Team

9. Leadership Roles

  • A – Role Models the RK’s Core Values
  • B – Attend Monthly Senior Leadership Team Meetings
  • C – Actively participates on the Joint Occupational Health and Safety Committee

Other Duties

  • Assume the Walking Stick duties as identified in the Occupational Therapy or Physiotherapy job description.
  • Other duties as requested by the CEO

Educational Qualifications

  • Bachelor of Science Degree in Occupational Therapy or Physiotherapy or Masters of Science in a related field from an accredited University
  • Registered member of the provincial college
  • Current membership of a national professional agency – with active participation in professional activities preferred
  • Certificate or Diploma in Leadership Development an asset
  • Certificate or Diploma in Dementia Education an asset

Experience Required

  • Minimum of 3 years recent experience in a Long Term Care setting and/or Community
  • Previous management experience an asset

Competencies & Skills Required

  • Demonstrate good communication skills, verbally and in writing.
  • Ability to work independently with minimal supervision
  • Ability to organize, develop and initiate ideas and programs
  • Commitment to working in an interdisciplinary approach
  • Demonstrated physical ability to perform the duties of the position.
  • Good Attendance and Work Record.
  • Conflict Resolution Training Skills

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
Director of Clinical Services

Clinical Lead

Apr 8, 2024

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

POSITION: Clinical Lead
DEPARTMENT: Nursing
RESPONSIBLE TO: Director of Clinical Services

The Clinical Lead develops and facilitates the supervision of current and future nursing students working in the role of CCA (Continuing Care Assistant).  Clinical Leadwill impart knowledge, experience, and skillset to nursing students to improve clinical practice in nursing. The provision of support to focus on the R.K. MacDonald’s Mission, Vision and Core Values as well as best and emerging practice in geriatric care. In keeping with our Mission, Vision and Values and our philosophy of Resident Centered Care, Clinical Lead serves as a 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 RESPONSIBLITIES

1. Facilitate and oversee nursing students clinical placement (orientation/ mentoring) based on skill needs of student.

  • Coordinates assignment of CCA Mentor with assistance of HR Coordinator.
  • Supervises and provides support to all student nurses during clinical placement to determine educational needs and growth opportunities.
  • Plans and coordinates extra one on one support or activities to enhance skills as required.
  • Provides clarification of clinical practices, documentation and treatment plans for residents.

2. Evaluates and documents training, mentorship, and educational process’s outcomes.

  • Ongoing shift supervision and provides support in the provision of Care as needed.
  • Provides constructive feedback on nursing student performance to decide on such things as: needs more mentorship, good fit can proceed, or not in the PLAR program
  • Conducts Performance Reviews as student progresses through i.e. PLAR (On site Education Program) students, mid-way and end of mentorship (2 mos. with CCA Mentor)
  • Upon a successful completion organizes date of placement on own rotation and submits CAT Tool signed to HR to start PLAR Phase I application.
  • Acts as a Proctor for Module Tests for PLAR Students as necessary onsite.
  • Assist HR to monitor and motivate the PLAR students to ensure completion all components of the CCA Program from a recognized education provider meet set deadlines and set them up to successfully pass the provincial certification examination.
  • Conducts Audits as required i.e. care, bath, etc.

3. Communication: through personal behavior and interactions, and consistently demonstrates a humanistic, affiliative approach to relationships:

  • Within department, with other team members and with union representatives
  • In all interactions, within and while representing the facility
  • With all Residents and families
  • While establishing and maintaining cooperative working relationships
  • Maintain confidentiality with resident, staff, and all matters concerning the Home.
  • Creates an effective and encouraging learning environment
  • Visible and accessible to staff
  • Build relationships with staff and assist them in identifying skill and educational needs and supports
  • Communicate person centered philosophy. That which is a holistic social model of care, which considers the person and their families to be at the center of the care and services provided.

4. Orientation and Skills/ Education

  • Coordinate an effective on boarding experience via Department Orientation and within the Clinical Experience.
  • Ensure Education is provided on Safe Lifting and Transfer Training and Transfer Codes.
  • Initiate, plan, training and educational programs as required for students in PLAR program based upon needs assessments conducted in each department
  • Ensures quality educational experiences to prepare the nursing workforce.
  • Clarification of Nursing Terms, Proper Bed Making, Equipment, Personal Care, Bathing, Documentation, and Transfer techniques, etc. as necessary.
  • Where necessary assists staff with one on one education in regards to performance, or policy or arranges same as deemed necessary by the Departmental Director.
  • Coordinates with IPAC Nurse training necessary for Infection Prevention.

5. Contributes to Continuous Quality Improvement Initiatives in the Nursing Department

  • Understands the CCA Scope of Practice and Competency Framework that defines the CCA Scope of Practice.
  • Provide feedback as need on CCA Program Framework as a resource for evaluating and refining the existing education to ensure the relevance of the CCA curriculum.
  • Establish systems to monitor effectiveness of clinical orientation program.

6. Participates in Committees/teams as required

7. Other duties as may be required.

CORE COMPETENCIES:

  • Resident centered focus (builds positive family relations)
  • Communication (adapts communication to others)
  • Conflict Management (anticipates and addresses sources of potential conflict)
  • Self & Community Awareness (recognizes emotions & being pro-active)
  • Teamwork (fosters Teamwork) Ability to work successfully with all levels in a team environment

SKILLS

  • Demonstrated Clinical Nursing skills
  • Must have good oral and written communication skills.
  • Must have great interpersonal skills.
  • Must possess critical thinking skills.
  • Must have organizational and mentoring skills.
  • Must possess relationship-building skills.
  • Ability to assess and identify the learning needs of staff and recommend appropriate educational programs to meet those needs
  • Experience in the MS Office suite of programs is an asset
  • Demonstrated leadership in a unionized environment
  • Knowledgeable in providing Personal Care
  • Scope of Practice and CCA Competency Framework
  • Recent training in Safe Lifting & Handling Transfer Training & knowledge of Transfer Codes

EDUCATIONAL QUALIFICATIONS

  • Graduate from CCA (Continuing Care Assistant) Program
  • Registered in CCA Registry of NS
  • Or Graduate of an accredited LPN school with pharmacological training
  • Licensed with the CLPNNS
  • Certification in CPR, WHMIS, Food Handlers, Dementia/Alzheimer, Palliative care courses and Gentle Persuasion Approach (GPA)
  • Minimum of three years clinical experience
  • Teaching experience would be an asset
  • Mentor or Instructor Certification an asset

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE

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