Registered Nurse (Behavioural Support)

The Role

Works collaboratively with staff teams, residents, families and external consultants to deliver person-centered registered nursing care. Supports care approaches that are evidence-informed, recognize the uniqueness of each person, and support an awareness of one’s contribution to each relationship, including personal attitudes, values, and actions. 

Duties/Responsibilities

• Works under the direction of the Assistant Manager of Care (or delegate) as the lead consultant for residents presenting with, or at risk for, expressive/responsive behaviours. 
• Works as part of a multi-disciplinary team to create a caring, person-centred, home-like environment where residents feel listened to and cared about.
• Receives referrals for BSO caseload; supports Registered Staff in ensuring that residents are properly assessed and appropriate for BSO intervention.
• Conducts and contributes to assessment of residents, in collaboration with residents, their family members, and staff team to recommend interventions and approaches. Supports the development and implementation of the behaviour support plan (BSP), including mentoring, modelling, and conducting huddles. 
• Reviews and updates raps and care plans quarterly for assigned residents, and writes a summary, as required. Prepares reports for Ontario Health Behaviour Supports, as required.
• Identifies non-pharmacological strategies that are abilities-focused and person-centered to prevent expressive behaviours and makes recommendations to maximize safety. 
• Develops and prepares staff, resident, and family education. Provides hands-on consultation, coaching, and mentoring.
• Ensures that information and BSPs are actively updated and shared with residents and families, using appropriate and accessible methods. Analyzes and evaluates effectiveness of plans and communicates suggestions for adherence. 
• Leads (weekly and as needed) interdisciplinary rounds. Attends all necessary care conference meetings and team meetings to liaise and problem solve.
• Advocates for and protects the individual rights of residents. Ensures the Resident’s Bill of Rights is upheld.
• Assists with welcoming residents on the BSO caseload to the Home. Participates in the development and delivery of a safe transfer plan.
• Engages with residents; promotes and participates with residents in programs and activities.
• Assists with serving meals, eating, and nourishment; transporting and transferring residents; and promptly responds to call bells, alarms, and requests for help.
• Upgrades and maintains skills by attending in-service programs, seminars, and courses. Reads distributed communications to stay current. 
• Performs other related duties, as assigned, according to the policies and procedures of Sunnyside Home.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Thorough practical knowledge of nursing methods and procedures, acquired as a Registered Nurse with current registration with the College of Nurses of Ontario, and current gerontological nursing experience.
• Knowledge of best practices for caring for persons with cognitive/mental health needs, normally acquired through education in Gentle Persuasive Approach (GPA), Mental Health First Aid, Validation Communication, Butterfly, Positive Approach to Care, U-First or Dementiability.
• Must have a tuberculosis (TB) test and required immunization(s).
• Proven skills in leadership, clinical nursing, and coordination of interdisciplinary care.
• Knowledge of and ability to comply with policy, procedures, person-centered care philosophy and related legislation (e.g., health and safety, privacy). 
• Communication strategies that demonstrate compassion, validate emotions, support dignity, and promote understanding. Ability to interact appropriately as an interdisciplinary team member through collaboration and cooperation with residents, their family members, and staff.
• Ability to read, participate in, and communicate as it relates to resident care plans, health status updates, daily reports, information forms, and case histories.
• Ability to operate mechanical lifts and transfer devices per policy.
• Must provide an acceptable vulnerable sector police check. 
• Ability to work day, evening, night, weekend, and statutory holiday hours when assigned to Sunnyside Home.
• Ability to support and demonstrate the Region’s values.