Registered Practical Nurse (RPN)

UNIT PROFILE:
The Alternate Level of Care (ALC) unit is committed to providing high quality care to a diverse spectrum of patients with simple to complex medical issues. Patients are transferred to the ALC unit once they have been deemed medically stable and are awaiting transfer to alternative facilities or programs (ie. Long-Term Care Homes or Rehabilitation). The main focus of the ALC unit and our interdisciplinary team is special assessment, treatment and rehabilitation of elderly patients with special needs in order to achieve optimal wellness before they are discharged or while awaiting alternate levels of care in the community.

POSITION SUMMARY:
The Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) provides nursing care for clients to promote health and assess need for provision of care and treatment of health conditions by supportive, preventive, therapeutic, palliative and rehabilitation means in order to attain or maintain optimal function. The RPN role models professional values, beliefs and attributes, and practices in accordance with the SJHH mission and values, policies and procedures, and College of Nurses Standards and Guidelines. A high level of collaboration between RPN and RN is required to ensure safe and effective care. The RPN provides care for less complex clients whose outcomes are more predictable and risk for negative outcomes is low. The RPN is accountable to recognize changes in acuity and/or complexity in client needs and consulting with a Registered Nurse (RN) in determining next steps in provision of care.

QUALIFICATIONS:
•Current registration with the College of Nurse of Ontario required.
•Education in one of the below categories is required:
a) Practical Nursing Diploma from an accredited Community College program with evidence of IV medication administration as part of the basic educational curriculum.
b) Practical Nursing Diploma from an accredited Community College program and IV medication administration certificate from an accredited Community College program if not included in basic diploma curriculum.
c) Practical Nursing Certificate from an accredited Community College program, a medication administration certificate and an IV medication certificate from an accredited Community College program.
•Current BCLS/HCP certification required
•Demonstrated knowledge, sensitivity and expertise in the care of seniors and their families
•Gentle Persuasive Approach training preferred
•Demonstrated ability to function to the full scope of nursing practice per the College of Nurse of Ontario.
•Demonstrated ability to communicate effectively (written and verbal) with patients/clients, families and other members of the health care team.
•Demonstrated ability to set priorities and organize work in response to client/patient needs.
•Demonstrated knowledge of transfers and lifts.
•Demonstrated commitment to ongoing learning, professional development, and continuous quality improvement.
•Basic skill level with computers, MS Word, Internet searches, data entry and patient information systems.
•Excellent work performance and attendance record is essential.

Alternative Level of Care (ALC)-specific Qualifications:
•Minimum 1 year recent related clinical nursing experience working with older adult, dementia, and cognitively impaired patient populations preferred.

St. Joseph’s Nursing Vision is to make a difference in the lives of those we care for, our organization, and the future of our community through achievement of excellence in nursing and commitment to a culture of nursing innovation, empowerment, leadership and accountability.