SRNA NewsBulletin Fall 2015

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SASKATCHEWAN ASSOCIAT N IO ANNUAL ENDS PROCESS Guiding the annual planning process to establish priorities for the SRNA. LONG-TERM CARE The challenging reality of caring for residents in long-term care. PRACTICE ADVISEMENT Continuous Quality Improvement Initiative for practice advisement. Vol.17 No.6 Fall 2015 News Bulletin Practice Edition

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Online version of the Fall 2015 SRNA NewsBulletin

Transcript of SRNA NewsBulletin Fall 2015

Page 1: SRNA NewsBulletin Fall 2015

SASKATCHEWAN

ASSOCIAT NIO

ANNUAL ENDS PROCESS

Guiding the annual planning process to establish priorities for the SRNA.

LONG-TERM CARE

The challenging reality of caring for residents in long-term care.

PRACTICE ADVISEMENT

Continuous Quality Improvement Initiative for practice advisement.

Vol.17 No.6 Fall 2015

News Bulletin

Practice Edition

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The Saskatchewan Registered Nurses’ Association (SRNA) is a professional licensing body established in 1917 by The Registered Nurses Act, 1988 of the provincial legislature. Its purpose is to set standards of education and practice for the nursing profession, and to license and support nurses as RNs to ensure the public receives quality nursing care.

The SRNA NewsBulletin is distributed three print and three electronic publications per year by the SRNA. Its purpose is to inform RNs about the Association’s activities, provide a forum for discussion and information of topical interest. Inclusion of items in the SRNA NewsBulletin does not imply endorsement or approval by the SRNA. A subscription is $21.40 per year, outside Canada, $30.00 per year. ISSN 1494-76668

Managing Editor: Shelley SvedahlE-mail: [email protected]

The SRNA office is located at 2066 Retallack Street, Regina, SK S4T 7X5Phone: 306-359-4200 FAX: 306-359-0257Toll Free: 1-800-667-9945E-mail: [email protected]: www.srna.org

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9Message fromYour President

Annual ENDs Process

Proud to BeContest Poem

RNs LeadingChange Update

Bylaw Change

SRNAUpdate

PracticeAdvisement

Challenging Reality Of...

Access to eHR Viewer

RN(NP)Update

InspirationalLeader

2016 SRNANominations

2016 Awardsof Excellence

DisciplineDecision

InvestigationCommittee

Leading Change Workshops

CCPReview

CAPNMConference

TuberculosisPrevention

PrescriptionReview Program

WHAT’S INSIDE

Copy deadlines:February 10; April 15; June 15; August 15; October 15; December 1. To place advertising in the SRNA NewsBulletin please contact: [email protected]

SRNA CouncilPresident: Linda Wasko-Lacey, RN 306-882-2359President-elect: Joanne Petersen, RN 306-354-2664Members-at-largeLynne Eikel, RN 306-241-5459Robin Evans, RN 306-337-3354Nicole Gerein, RN 306-843-2079

Warren Koch, RN 306-591-7719Betty Metzler, RN 306-782-5154Noreen Reed, RN 306-883-7751Bernadette Wright, RN 306-637-3635Public representativesJoanna Alexander 306-586-5939Jyotsna Custead 306-374-9376James Struthers 306-949-5608Acting Executive DirectorShirley McKay, RN 306-359-4235

SRNA DirectoryPhone/Toll-free (306)359-4200/1-800-667-9945Fax (306) 359-0257Email/Web: [email protected] /www.srna.orgInternationally Educated Nurses: [email protected] Registration: [email protected] RN Registration: [email protected] Examinations: [email protected] Assurance/Discipline/Investigations: [email protected] Links: [email protected] Practice: [email protected] Newsbulletin: [email protected] Directory: [email protected] Enquiries: [email protected] list please visit our website.

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The demographics of our province are changing. Our population is becoming more diversified and the number of seniors is steadily increasing. While such changes evolve, we know Saskatchewan continues to strive to provide an integrated health-care system that supports patient needs and expectations while ensuring timely, appropriate individual-centered care.

There is no question registered nurses make important contributions as members of any health-care delivery team. At the same time, we must always be mindful that the contributions of RNs are not limited to a particular skill or activity. RNs always bring their formal education, professional experience, knowledge and critical thinking to all situations, as they deal with many complex needs.

However, as health-care professionals, we also recognize that sometimes explaining the unique role of RNs and RN(NP)s within all domains of practice becomes complex. With that in mind, at the SRNA Council’s annual strategic planning session in September, we reviewed the statements that guide the work of the SRNA-the ENDs statements. We concluded that such an explanation should be included.

Additionally, during our time together, Council also spent time reflecting that RN and RN(NP)s should be proactive in advocating for evidence-informed decision practice. This means that new knowledge must be translated into clinically useful forms and effectively implemented across the entire care team to affect better patient outcomes.

Council further reflected that all RN and RN(NP)s should be leaders in influencing healthy public policy. We need to be directly and indirectly participating in the processes and acknowledge the important role of evidence, power and politics in advancing public policy.

Please be assured the SRNA Council is here to represent SRNA members’ views in the public interest. We want to supplement our considerations with your thoughts. Please see the draft of the ENDs summary on page four. From there, we look forward to further dialogue and finalizing the guiding ENDs statements for 2016. Within your comments, don’t hesitate to share your own vision for the future of nursing.

This is a unique time of opportunities to better utilize the RN knowledge and expertise to support a more patient-centered and patient safe health system. We need to be responsive to the province’s changing needs and economic challenges that affect how we work and assist in creating systems that are sustainable.

Your voice in designing the future of nursing is important.

A Messagefrom your PresidentLinda Wasko-Lacey, RN, SRNA President

Linda Wasko-Lacey, RN, SRNA President

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ENDs (DRAFT) – September 2, 2015Mission

RNs and RN(NP)s are leaders in contributing to a healthy population.

1. Accountable, effective, transparent profession-led regulation in the public interest.

2. Excellence in Professional Practice 2.1. RNs and RN(NP)s practice safe, competent, ethical, and culturally appropriate individual and family centred care. 2.2. RNs and RN(NP)s understand their role and practice to their full legislated scope.

3. RNs and RN(NP)s are integral partners in the health care system. 3.1. RNs and RN(NP)s articulate their role and explain their unique contributions in all domains of practice. 3.2. RNs and RN(NP)s are proactive in advocating for evidence-informed practice. 3.3. RNs and RN(NP)s are leaders in influencing healthy public policy.

These results are worth an annual membership fee of $530. plus GST.

*RNs - Registered Nurses*RN(NP)s - Registered Nurse (Nurse Practitioner)

Each year the SRNA Council conducts a visioning session that includes an environmental scan to review external and internal trends in health care. This information guides the annual planning process in establishing annual priorities for the SRNA. Council then reviews the SRNA’s previous goals and objectives (ENDs) and establishes priorities for the upcoming fiscal year.

The following ENDs have been identified by Council for 2016.

Member thoughts and ideas are welcome. Please send to [email protected].

SRNA AnnualENDs Process

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Proudto Be

Jeanette Hall, RN

SRNA NewsBulletin 2015 Fall 5

I am proud to be a Registered Nurse;Whether I work in the ER or LTC, it is so diverse.

I take my role as a RN quite seriously;Because of all the trust that you have given me.

Every shift I use the 5 C’s applicable to my nursing profession;Commitment, conscience, competence, confidence, andcompassion.

I always try to take the time to listen and really care; Byproviding a simple touch, a smile or just being there.

All this is more rewarding than one could ever know, because I am allowed where only few others go.

The impact I have on someone’s life may be small, but I wouldforfeit the chance, if I do nothing at all.

When my shift is over, and my charting is done, I smile to myself, because I am the one.

Who made a difference to someone that day; I am proud to be a RN and I would have it no other way.

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LeadingChangeRNs

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Role Clarity

The SRNA continues to receive and respond to emails and calls concerning RN scope and role clarity in working with others. The most frequent concerns continue to be about recertification, assignment, and supervision. The SRNA maintains its position of supporting having the right provider at the right time for the best patient outcomes by taking into account the complexity of the patient, the environment and the risk for negative outcomes and the right provider with the right skills.

Over the last number of months, Saskatchewan Association of Licensed Practical Nurses (SALPN), Registered Psychiatric Nurses Association of Saskatchewan (RPNAS), the Saskatchewan Registered Nurses’ Association (SRNA), and the Ministry of Health officials, have been working collaboratively to clarify roles and the responsibilities for each nursing profession and create a collaborative framework document to guide members and their employers.

In early October, a draft of the collaborative framework document was shared with a group of nine representatives of the three regulatory bodies and one non-nurse for feedback related to clarity and applicability to clinical situations. All parties acknowledged the need to clearly articulate their specific, non-interchangeable nursing roles. As in the past, the SRNA will continue to provide updates.

Until the document related to scope of practice and role clarity has been finalized, the three nursing regulatory bodies have agreed to use the following key documents:

• Guiding Principles for Determining the Appropriate Nursing Care Professional• Draft Decision-making Framework-Quality Nursing Practice• CNA Staff Mix Decision-making Framework for Quality Nursing Care

Other information has been consolidated on the SRNA website at www.srna.org under the RN Scope of Practice Role Clarity icon.

It is important for all RNs to know their professional responsibility and understand role clarity. This is also an opportunity to focus on this area for your continuing competence requirements for the 2016 licensure year.

Linda Muzio, RN, Project Manager

RNs Leading Change Update

• Guiding Principles for Determining the Appropriate Nursing Care Professional• Draft Decision-making Framework-Quality Nursing Practice• CNA Staff Mix Decision-making Framework for Quality Nursing Care

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RN with Additional Authorized Practice

In preparation for the Transfer of Medical Function process ending at the end of 2016, many northern RNs are choosing to access the SRNA Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition process or to complete the three courses offered through Saskatchewan Polytechnic, to apply for licensure as an RN with additional authorized practice. These are the only two approved processes to obtain this licensure.

RN Specialty Practices (RNSP)

Members and their employers around the province are reviewing the present activities of RNs and deciding where they fit related to the new RNSP framework-procedures or RN Clinical Protocols. The SRNA Practice Advisors have been meeting with a variety of members in particular practice settings providing decision-making guidance. Workshops on RNSPs with small group work were held as part of the Regional Workshops early October. We were pleased to partner with the Northern Intertribal Health Authority (NITHA) for the well-attended workshop day in Prince Albert. RN practice settings were well represented at the workshop in North Battleford. SRNA presentations are also planned for late November at the Health Canada Regional Nursing workshop in Saskatoon.

Delegation of Activities from Physician to RNs

The College of Physician and Surgeons of Saskatchewan’s (CPSS) Act and bylaws now support the delegation of specified activities within the scope of medicine, to select RNs, in specified settings, caring for a particular patient. SRNA documents to guide RNs in the process of delegation from physicians to RNs are being developed. RNs need to be aware of these changes and how they might affect their current practice. If you work in the following areas please review your practice in light of the changes to this delegation process.

• Neonatal Intensive Transport Team• Pediatric Transport Team• Air Ambulance• Shock Trauma Air Rescue (STARS)Team• Laser Radiation• Injection of agents which have an effect on or elicit a response from living tissue (bioactive agents)• Surgical assistant in an operating room • Saskatchewan Transplant Program

Additional information is on the SRNA website area RNs Leading Change.

Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition

The SRNA and the RN(NP) assessors continue to work with the RNs in northern Saskatchewan as they proceed with their Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR) process. As of the beginning of October, SRNA had received 35 PLAR applications. Four applicants have completed the process and have been deemed eligible for licensure as an RN with additional authorized practice.

Applicants have until November 30, 2016 to complete the PLAR process. Anyone interested in going through the PLAR process should get their application in early to ensure that they have sufficient time to meet all of the requirements prior to the 2016 deadline.

Visit the SRNA website to download the application package and view examples of how to complete the self-assessment and CDT forms. If you have questions or require assistance as you move through the process, please contact Cheryl Hamilton, RN at [email protected].

RNs that are not eligible for or do not wish to complete the PLAR process, will be required to successfully complete three courses: Clinical Drug Therapy, Health Assessment, and Clinical Decision Making. The courses are being offered through Saskatchewan Polytechnic. Please contact Joyce Bruce at Saskatchewan Polytechnic if you are interested. As with PLAR, RNs must successfully complete all three courses by November 30, 2016 to be licenced as an RN with additional authorized practice.

If you have any questions on the RNs Leading Change project, above please contact Linda Muzio, RN, Project Manager, [email protected] or 1 800 667-9945, 306 359-4231.

• Neonatal Intensive Transport Team• Pediatric Transport Team• Air Ambulance• Shock Trauma Air Rescue (STARS) Team• Laser Radiation• Injection of agents which have an effect on or elicit a response from living tissue (bioactive agents)• Surgical assistant in an operating room • Saskatchewan Transplant Program

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Criminal Record ChecksBarb Fitz-Gerald, RN, Interim Director, Regulatory Services/Registrar

New Bylaw change that affects Practicing LicensureOn July 28, 2015 the SRNA received notice from the Minister of Health regarding the approval of the bylaw for practicing members to immediately report a criminal conviction or a finding of guilt for any criminal offence under The Criminal Code (Canada) or any similar legislation in any province, territory, state, or country, or any offence in relation to the practice of nursing or another profession in any jurisdiction. This bylaw was passed by the SRNA Membership at the 2015 Annual Meeting.

These amendments adhere to the Canadian Nurses Association, Code of Ethics for Registered Nurses, 2008 and Sections 26 (l) and 26 (2) of The Registered Nurses Act, 1988. These changes are in the interest of public safety and public confidence in the nursing profession. Members have an obligation to notify the SRNA if an offence as stated in the bylaw occurs. This can be done by contacting the Registrar at [email protected] ; Phone: (306) 359-4200 (Regina); Toll Free: 1-800-667-9945.

Don’t work without a RN or RN(NP) licence! Check your email for notification from the SRNA.

Ensure you are licenced to practice before you commence work. Upon completion of the annual renewal, the SRNA will notify you only by email that you have met the requirements for licensure and are licenced for the upcoming year.

The SRNA does not issue paper licences. Each RN and RN(NP) is accountable and responsible to check the online verification service at www.srna.bz/verification-service to see if they are licenced.

Employers are also responsible to check to see if their nurses are licenced. If your name does not appear in the on-line verification service please contact [email protected]. Practicing without a licence is in violation of The Registered Nurses Act, 1988 and there is no professional liability protection through the Canadian Nurses Protective Society.

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PrescriptionReview ProgramLeland Sommer, RN(NP), Consultant, Prescription Review Program

Saskatchewan RN(NP)s began prescribing controlled drugs and substances (CDS) in January 2015. As the regulator of RN(NP)s in Saskatchewan, SRNA authorizes RN(NP)s to prescribe CDS medications and has the responsibility to monitor RN(NP) prescribing of these medications based on regulatory changes.

For background, all medications listed within the SRNA Bylaws Section 4(2) are subject to the Prescription Review Program (PRP). PRP is a prescription-monitoring program that is educationally-based and monitors for apparent inappropriate prescribing and inappropriate use of all PRP medications in the province.

Some definitions of communication you may receive from the SRNA regarding the Prescription Review Propram:

Alert Letter - sent to an RN(NP) when the PRP information indicates possible inappropriate prescribing and/or inappropriate use of PRP medications. No response is required from the RN(NP). This is simply an alert for awareness and education to improve prescribing safety. All PRP medications prescribers on the patient profile for that 30-day period will receive an alert letter. Double Doctoring - when a patient fills prescriptions for PRP medications from three or more prescribers in a 30-day period. Explain Letter - sent to an RN(NP) from the SRNA registrar when PRP information indicates apparent inappropriate prescribing and/or inappropriate use of PRP medications. A response is required from the RN(NP) within 14 days of receipt of the letter. The response will answer specific questions to clarify the clinical situation and care plan implemented by the RN(NP) to ensure safe prescribing. Again, education and awareness are the key objectives of the program. My role is to work collaboratively with the PRP program in the monitoring of RN(NP) prescribing of PRP drugs. This review process has been established and is well underway. As a practicing RN(NP), I will work to strengthen the educational component of the program and look forward to any feedback you have.

For PRP information please refer to the webpage on the SRNA website:http://www.srna.org/index.php/nurse-practitioner/prescription-review-program Prescription Review Program contact information: [email protected], 306.359.42481.800.667.9945 ext. 248

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InvestigationCommittee

Erika T. Vogel, RN Advisor, Competence Assurance

With Great ThanksAfter more than six years as a member of the Investigation Committee, the SRNA would like to extend its thanks to Joanne Blazieko, RN for her dedication and service to the registered nursing profession in Saskatchewan. Joanne served on the Investigation Committee as an RN member representing the direct care domain of practice, and in her final year was the Chairperson.

Joanne Blazieko, RN–Outgoing ChairInvestigation CommitteeIt is time to say good bye after serving six years on the Investigation Committee. I was asked to share some thoughts of my time on this committee and it has been an honour and privilege to serve the SRNA and profession of registered nursing. I couldn’t find a more caring and dedicated group of RNs, public representatives and staff to work with in my role as an RN member and Chairperson. Each month the members of the committee who come from diverse backgrounds (RN and Public Representatives) meet to review and discuss the investigations undertaken and ensure that decisions are fair, unbiased and the public was protected. These decisions are not to be made lightly and it was an honour to work with such a dedicated group who’s focus is professional registered nursing and safe patient care. I will cherish the six years I spent on the Investigation Committee and would encourage other RNs to join a committee at the SRNA.

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Sandy Weseen, RN–Incoming ChairInvestigation CommitteeAs the Regional Director of Home Care with Kelsey Train Health Region, Sandy is responsible for the home care program including palliative care, high risk foot clinics, and the regional skin and wound care program. Following completion of her Bachelor in Science in Nursing, she attained certificates in Administrative Nursing and Gerontological Nursing, and a Masters in Nursing Leadership from Walden University, USA. Sandy has previously been a SRNA Council Member (2008–2011), and has served as a member of the Investigation Committee since 2013 and effective November 1, 2015 will assume the role of Chairperson to support professional regulation. Sandy has expressed interest in participating on the Investigation Committee to support nurses in meeting the standards and competencies, to work towards ensuring safe nursing practice in the public interest in Saskatchewan, and to enhance her own professional practice.

Welcome Yvonne Wozniak, RNDirect Care DomainI have been a practicing Registered Nurse for 30 years and my passion for critical care nursing began in the Emergency Room in the Fraser Health Authority (BC), continued in Saskatchewan at the Regina General Hospital in the Surgical Intensive Care Unit, and currently the Intensive Care Unit at Moose Jaw Union Hospital. I have always thrived on the challenges of acute care, quick decision-making, teamwork, safe patient care, patient education, and compassionate, ethical care and treatment of all. It is important to me to continue to act as a mentor and preceptor to help ensure our current and next generation nurses are prepared for the challenges ahead. As part of the Investigation Committee I am able to ensure that all registered nurses are providing quality care according to standards, competencies, ethical responsibilities and best practice for patients. I look forward to working with the Investigation Committee and staff to take on new challenges with the SRNA and to give back to my profession.

Becoming a Member of the Investigation CommitteeThe Investigation Committee, a statutory committee name in The Registered Nurses Act, 1988, is made up of three RN members representing the domains of RN practice, and two public representatives. Members of the Investigation Committee are appointed by SRNA Council, and can serve two-three year terms. RN members can express interest in being considered for the Investigation Committee by completing an online interest sheet via the My SRNA Profile–Connect Icon. Public representatives are solicited from a general call for participation via the Member Relations department at the SRNA. For more information about the Investigation Committee and Competence Assurance, please review the SRNA website under the RN Competence tab.

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Catherine McHattie, RN, SRNA Member

SRNA Continuing Competence Program

The CCP’s main goal is to protect the public by ensuring nurses are aligning their knowledge, skills and judgement and personal attributes required to practice safely in a designated role and setting. It is a mandatory program for all RNs and RN(NP)s. It is essential that as nurses, our professional nursing practice would include, “life-long learning” in order for us to provide: good nursing practice with the best possible client outcomes; prevent poor practice; and enhance quality of nursing practice. It allows us to continually improve upon our nursing practice.

An individual nurse in any practice setting can better understand and apply their self-assessment by:

• Reflecting on how it applies to their nursing practice• Completing a self-assessment• Selecting competencies to focus their individual learning priorities• Obtaining feedback from the self-assessment• Formulating a learning plan to achieve learning goals• Evaluating the impact of learning activities. The four mandatory components include: A) Personal assessment: Allows the nurse to assess his/her own education needs by setting goals and objectives. This should be professionally meaningful to enhance his/her nursing practice.

B) Feedback (mandatory): This should be neutral and an opportunity to share openly between all involved who work in a similar area of practice. It must be linked to personal assessment and goals to accurately evaluate his/her own performance in the future. It must be both signed and dated by the peer.

C) Learning plan: It should include one to two competencies minimum and should be goal oriented... “flexible, reasonable and attainable.”

D) Evaluation: This is a tool to ascertain if the goals were met or should be carried over to the next year. It should answer questions such as, but not limited to: what went well; what could be improved; what still needs attention; and where do I need additional support or help.

To conclude, the SRNA Continuing Competence Program (2013) document and teaching video can be found on at www.srna.org under “Continuing Competency.” You call or email a nursing advisor at [email protected] for more information on how to complete these documents and ensure safe nursing practice is followed.

• Reflecting on how it applies to their nursing practice• Completing a self-assessment• Selecting competencies to focus their individual learning priorities• Obtaining feedback from the self-assessment• Formulating a learning plan to achieve learning goals• Evaluating the impact of learning activities.

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SRNA NewsBulletin 2015 Fall 13

SRNAUpdate

2015 Saskatchewan Registered Nurses’ Association Award

These awards are administered by the University of Regina on behalf of the SRNA for students attending nursing education programs leading to a RN designation.

• 2015 SRNA Award recipient Jackie Kiew-Gaco, RN

• 2015 SRNA Gold Medal for Excellence in Clinical Practice recipient Heather Thompson, RN May 1, 2014-December 31, 2014

• 2015 SRNA Gold Medal for Excellence in Clinical Practice recipient Chandra Lisitza, RN May 1, 2015-August 31, 2015

2015 Yvonne Brown Award for Nursing Excellence

This award is administered by the University of Saskatchewan on behalf of the SRNA for students attending nursing education programs leading to a baccalaureate in nursing. Congratulations to the following nursing students from College of Nursing 2014-2015 graduating class:

• Olya Kutsiuruba (Saskatoon site) • Rena Faucher, RN (Regina site) • Jennifer Catte, RN (Prince Albert site)

2015 Jean Goodwill Award

This award is granted to a nursing student of Aboriginal descent pursuing nursing education at the University of Saskatchewan. Congratulations to Taylor Raciborski, Saskatoon for receiving this year’s award.

NCLEX-RN® Exam results released for Canada

The Canadian Council of Registered Nurse Regulators (CCRNR) have released a report describing the performance of candidates educated in Canada on the new licensure examination (the NCLEX-RN®) covering the period of January to June, 2015.

For information please visit: www.srna.bz and select the How to Apply tab, then choose NCLEX-RN® Examination, and select the NCELX-RN® Exams Results link.

A briefing overview for the exam results is available at: www.srna.bz. Please select the How to Apply tab, then choose NCLEX-RN® Examination, and select the NCELX-RN® Exams Results link.

Call for Nominations 2016 Canadian Nurses Association

The CNA Board of directors is seeking nominations for the 2016 Jeanne Mance and CNA Order of Merit Awards for the following categories: clinical nursing practice, nursing administration, nursing education, nursing research and nursing policy. More information available on the CNA website under Awards & Recognition.

Announcement of New Executive Director of the SRNA

The Saskatchewan Registered Nurses’ Association welcomes Carolyn Hoffman, RN to the position of Executive Director with the SRNA, effective December 1st, 2015.

Ms. Carolyn Hoffman will join the SRNA from a senior level position with Alberta Health Services. Her career spans more than 30 years as she has contributed as a Registered Nurse in both Saskatchewan and Alberta. Her frontline nursing career included positions in general and cardiac surgery, coronary care, emergency and home care. In 1995, she became a clinical nurse educator for the three emergency departments before moving into the Quality Improvement /Risk Manager role in Regina Health District.

Her educational background includes a Diploma of Nursing (WIAAS); Bachelor of Science in Nursing (University of Victoria) and Master of Nursing (University of Athabasca).

Carolyn is excited to join the SRNA team and engage with over 11,000 RNs and RN(NP)s in the province to ensure effective regulation and advancement of the profession!

SRNA Council and staff commend interim Executive Director Shirley McKay, RN for her leadership and exceptional commitment during this time of transition.

• Olya Kutsiuruba (Saskatoon site) • Rena Faucher, RN (Regina site) • Jennifer Catte, RN (Prince Albert site)

• 2015 SRNA Award recipient Jackie Kiew-Gaco, RN

• 2015 SRNA Gold Medal for Excellence in Clinical Practice recipient Heather Thompson, RN May 1, 2014-December 31, 2014

• 2015 SRNA Gold Medal for Excellence in Clinical Practice recipient Chandra Lisitza, RN May 1, 2015-August 31, 2015

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RNs Leading Change Workshops

Michelle James, Senior Assistant, Customer Relations

Opportunities to share experiences or ask questions about collaborative care and coordination of client care, were held in Prince Albert and North Battleford on October 6 and 7.

In Prince Albert, the SRNA held a session at the Northern Inter Tribal Health Authority (NITHA) Nursing Conference and had more than 75 RN and nursing student attendees. In North Battleford, approximately 35 RNs and nursing students attended.

The workshop in Prince Albert included Council members Warren Koch, RN and Lynne Eikel, RN. All sessions were led by Terri Belcourt, RN, SRNA Nursing Advisor, Learning and Engagement, Anika Clark, LLB, Legal Advisor, Canadian Nurses Protective Society (CNPS) and Linda Muzio, RN, SRNA Project Manager and Nursing Advisor.

One session outlined the role and mandate of CNPS, discussion about RN Scope of Practice, assignment and professional liability. The presentation highlighted the importance of documentation for RNs, gathering information for assessments, communicating when coordinating client care within health-care teams and how the coordination of client care begins with the initial assessment. Discussions included areas such as RN accountability (who RNs are accountable to: the public, client, profession, public and employers), RNs as advocates for their patients and the importance of collaboration and communication within the health-care team including the patient and their family.

A second session, led by Linda Muzio, RN, focused on RN Specialty Practices. This interactive session outlined the three situations in RN Specialty Practices where a RN clinical protocol can be utilized: 1) a health condition in an emergency, 2) a health service/program and 3) an advanced RN intervention. Attendees broke out into groups and reflected on their own practice setting to identify areas where RN clinical protocols could be implemented.

SRNA thanks everyone who joined us for the workshops and engaged in the excellent discussion.

LeadingChangeRNs

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SRNA NewsBulletin 2015 Fall 15

CAPNM National Conference Carol Kostiuk, RN, Saskatchewan Co-Chair and Caroline Bykowy, RN, Secretary/Treasurer PNPPG

The annual Canadian Association of Parish Nursing Ministry (CAPNM) national conference and AGM was held in Saskatoon June 11 to 14, 2015 and continues to provide thoughtful information for participants to reflect upon.

The theme of the conference was Ethnic Diversity–Mirror of God’s Creativity, and focused on several areas. One such focus was that throughout Canada we are identifying the need to bridge cultural differences not only between ourselves, but also between the immigrants we encounter. Often, misunderstanding of culture and tradition erects barriers to one’s heath and healing. Of key significance at this year’s conference were the key educational learning points highlighted by an accomplished group of presenters and through our shared professional experiences.

Conference highlights began with a welcome event where participants sampled ethnic foods while being serenaded on classical guitar. Another evening included entertainment by Russian dancers/singers, hoop dancers, drummers, steel pan drums and Megan McKenna’s ethnic stories.

Participants were enriched throughout the retreat by personal testimonies of Sudanese, Congolese and Metis women who touched everyone’s hearts.

Guest speakers included:

Bishop Lavoie who spoke on the many aspects of the Medicine Wheel; Pastor Toti who discussed relationships of faith/health within our health institutions and faith communities;Michelle O’Rourke who addressed end of life spiritual care and diversity; Father Millar who discussed ethical issues arising from awareness of different cultural practices; Father Ampani, from Nigeria, who discussed cultural awareness and integration; Denise Heppner who advocated for victims of human trafficking;. and Alison Uitti who presented personal reflections and a story from her book Wall of Tears, about children sent to residential schools.

Thank you to Pastor Bestvater, Alison Uitti, and the volunteers who donated their time and to Father De Margerie, who donated his book In God’s Reconciling Grace, for all attendees.

We also want to acknowledge the SRNA for their support and contribution in making our conference a success.

Left to right: Sr. Carol Borreson, RN, Ruth Black, RN, Bev Rapko-Young, RN, Ethna Martin, RN, Caroline Bykowy, RN, Carol Kostiuk, RN, Laura Van Loon, RN, Clara Freitag (non-member), Deb Bauche, RN

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Tuberculosis PreventionRuth Anne Appl, RN, RN Manager, Tuberculosis Prevention and Control Saskatchewan

The third biennial interdisciplinary Tuberculosis (TB) Symposium was held on June 11 and 12, 2015 in Saskatoon. Health-care professionals learned that Saskatchewan has higher rates of TB than the rest of Canada with a greater incidence in First Nation and Metis populations in Northern Saskatchewan and the proportion among the foreign-born population is increasing as immigration to the province increases. Social and economic determinants of health were noted as having a co-relationship with TB rates. Interventions need to focus on reducing risk factors, eliminating barriers, improving health education and reducing stigma.

The risk factors of diabetes, HIV and anti Tumor Necrosis Factor (TNF) therapy were described along with their implication on nursing care and the development of active TB.

The management of TB is supported through advances in emerging laboratory technologies that facilitate the diagnosis of active TB and understanding of the transmission of disease and changes in the treatment regimen according to the 2013 Canadian TB Standards 7th Edition.

The use of remote and mobile technologies is improving access to care and facilitating patient health education.The use of motivational interviewing can support patient adherence to treatment.

Corrections Service Canada has a rigorous TB program involving initial and ongoing assessment, treatment, and surveillance.

The implementation of isolation and airborne precautions for facilities and in the community is challenging and key to interrupting the transmission of disease.

Immigrants and refugees undergo an Immigration Medical Exam prior to entry into Canada during which time they are screened for active TB. There is, however, an increased risk of developing active TB in the first three to five years after arrival in Canada. Healthcare professionals need to maintain awareness that disease may develop in newcomers during this time and to identify those who would benefit from treatment of latent TB infection.

The objectives of contact Investigation is to identify and initiate treatment for individuals who have developed active TB as a result of exposure to someone with infectious TB and to identify those who have been infected and would benefit from treatment of latent TB infection.

The team approach to treating TB through appropriate medication regimens and the delivery of medications by Directly Observed Therapy helps to overcome challenges in medication therapy. Understanding the RN role is supported by the SRNA document, The Medication Management for Registered Nurses: A Patient Decision-Making Framework, draft, May 20, 2015.

The responsibility and accountability of the RN is key in the early diagnosis and successful management of TB. Assignment and delegation are important RN functions and the RN scope of practice is supported by the SRNA document, Interpretation of the RN Scope of Practice February 10, 2015. The RN responsibilities in patient-centered medication management encompass coordination of care, collaboration, communication and managing clinical risks and safety. For further information on TB, its management, prevention and control, contact TB Prevention and Control Saskatchewan at 1-866-780-6482.

Increasing Knowledge and Awareness of Tuberculosis Prevention“ ”

Page 17: SRNA NewsBulletin Fall 2015

SRNA NewsBulletin 2015 Fall 17

Practice Advisement Cheryl Hamilton, RN, Interim Director, Practice

” The SRNA Practice Team has developed a Continuous Quality Improvement (CQI) initiative for its practice advisement service. Any caller who utilizes the practice advisement service is provided with a link to an evaluation survey so that they have an opportunity to provide feedback.

The results of the survey (November 2014 to August 2015) have been collated along with the feedback obtained during a focus group conducted at the 2015 Annual Meeting. Some themes include:

• Majority of respondents are direct care RNs working in rural or urban acute care settings• 83% of respondents believe that it is very or extremely important for the SRNA to provide

practice consultation services• Practice Advisors are knowledgeable, professional and accessible• Information and resources provided are useful in addressing queries• Practice advisement service needs to be more visible on the SRNA website• Practice advisors need to have a higher visibility with stakeholders.

The other theme that has emerged is that at times, there seems to be a disconnect between what callers expect of the practice advisement service and what it is intended to provide. Often callers would like immediate black and white solutions to their queries. However, this is not the role of practice advisement. Practice advisement provides the advice, tools, and resources to enable the caller to resolve the issue with those involved. Practice Advisors may continue to support callers in the resolution of their issues (for example, being involved in agency consultations or joint meetings).

With the feedback received, the SRNA team is currently working to enhance SRNA practice advisement and support. This will include:

• Improved visibility on the website • Development of a communication strategy to better serve our members and stakeholders• Review of internal practice advisement processes to ensure ongoing timely, evidence-

informed information/resources • Continue to use the survey and input from members going forward..

If you have any questions or need any information, please contact a SRNA practice advisor at [email protected] or call 1-800-667-9945.

• Majority of respondents are direct care RNs working in rural or urban acute care settings• 83% of respondents believe that it is very or extremely important for the SRNA to provide

practice consultation services• Practice Advisors are knowledgeable, professional and accessible• Information and resources provided are useful in addressing queries• Practice advisement service needs to be more visible on the SRNA website• Practice advisors need to have a higher visibility with stakeholders.

• Improved visibility on the website • Development of a communication strategy to better serve our members and stakeholders• Review of internal practice advisement processes to ensure ongoing timely,

evidence-informed information/resources • Continue to use the survey and input from members going forward.

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18 SRNA NewsBulletin 2015 Fall

This paper was submitted as part of the requirements for CNUR 400: Social, Political and Economic Perspectives in Nursing in the Saskatchewan Collaborative Bachelor of Science in Nursing (SCBScN) program by Jelea Tyndall, Nursing Student; Leslie Buschow, Nursing Student; Shelbie Babyak, Nursing Student; Melissa Bishop, Nursing Student and Ann-Marie Urban, Assistant Professor, Faculty of Nursing, University of Regina.

The Challenging Reality of Caring for Residents in Long-Term Care Facilities

Recent news reports have outlined that long-term care facilities are not providing quality care for their residents (Ombudsman Saskatchewan, 2015). Several issues have led to diminishing levels of the quality of care including chronic understaffing in long-term care (LTC) facilities, high resident-to-nurse ratios and a mismatch of education and skill mix within the healthcare team. As students in the Saskatchewan Collaborative Bachelor of Science in Nursing (SCBScN) program that will soon be graduating, this is a concern for us because it jeopardizes patient safety and increases the risk for Registered Nurses (RNs) and other healthcare providers to experience burnout since we cannot provide the optimal care that we have been taught to provide to all patients. In order to change these issues, we believe policies must be implemented that address staffing issues and resident-to-staff ratios, thereby directly improving the quality of care for those living in LTC facilities.

The ChallengingRealityOf...

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SRNA NewsBulletin 2015 Fall 19

Challenging Reality Of...

The Issues in Long-term Care Facilities

Recently, reports have surfaced in Canada and particularly in Saskatchewan regarding concerns about the quality of care received by residents in LTC facilities (Harrington et al., 2012; Ombudsman Saskatchewan, 2015). Many LTC facilities are dealing with issues that negatively affect the care of the residents, the most common being understaffing, high resident-to-staff ratios, and staff with mixed educational backgrounds and skills experience (Harrington et al., 2012; Splisbury et al., 2011).

Because staffing standards in Canada are the responsibility of each provincial government, the gap between standards expected and the demands in LTC facilities to meet required staffing levels is problematic (Tak, Benefield & Mahoney, 2010). Sub-standard care outcomes have been linked to low numbers of nursing staff, which makes it difficult to meet increasing resident care needs (Harrington et al., 2012). Research demonstrates that increasing the number of nursing staff decreases the number of pressure ulcers experienced by residents, the use of physical restraints (e.g. groin restraints), and the use of urinary catheters (Harrington et al., 2012). The benefits associated with increased staffing levels underscore the importance of adequate nurse staffing standards and levels.

Staffing becomes a challenge when the number of nurses required to meet the multidimensional and complex needs of LTC residents are unknown (Splisbury et al., 2011). RNs also have to manage an increasing resident workload, and on one occasion, it was reported that there was one RN to 147 residents in one Regina LTC facility (Ombudsman Saskatchewan, 2015). In spite of resident requirements, a finite number of staff members are available. Saskatchewan has a legislated two-hour per resident minimum staffing standard, however, this is less than half of recommended number for safe quality care (Canadian Federation of Nursing Unions, 2012).

To add, guidelines surrounding staffing do not establish the skill-mix that LTC homes require (Ombudsman Saskatchewan, 2015). There is usually a team of RNs and/or Registered Psychiatric Nurses (RPNs), Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) and Continuing Care Aides (CCAs) who care for LTC residents (McGregor et al., 2010). Due to a shortage of CCAs, who typically provide personal care to residents, there was a provision made by the Ministry to have “conditional” hires, allowing individuals a set time period to earn their CCA certificate (Ombudsman Saskatchewan, 2015). Although the Special Home Act specifies that an RN or RPN must be present to supervise care, some LTC facilities require only that an RN or RPN be on call overnight instead of having a presence in the building (Ombudsman Saskatchewan, 2015; Saskatchewan Regulation, 2011). This presents a daily challenge to ensure that there is a sufficient number and mix of healthcare providers to provide care, even in cases where this is less than the required standard.

Another challenge is recruiting and retaining staff in long-term care facilities (Splisbury et al., 2011). High turnover rates, employee stability, training and/or experience (or the lack thereof ) of available staff, and the physical layout of LTC facilities are all factors in determining the quality of care received by LTC residents (Splisbury et al., 2011). Delivering resident care in LTC facilities is labour intensive; Canadian workers have frequently reported feeling physically and mentally exhausted after their work day due to a combination of high demands and little control over their daily work requirements (Daly & Szebehely, 2012).

Research demonstrates that increasing the number of nursing staff decreases the number of pressure ulcers experienced by residents

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Challenging Reality Of...

Significance to Registered Nurses

The impact of sub-standard staffing levels on nurses can result in not completing some important tasks, for example, that promised conversation with a resident or a family member or taking the necessary time to chart specific details of a dressing change–not just the measurements and products used but the impact that particular wound is having on that resident. As a result, nurse burnout and moral distress is common, because they cannot provide the care that they would like too. It is difficult to proclaim job satisfaction when nurses can’t identify that they did one thing well, in their opinion, in that shift. As potential RNs who currently work in the CCA role, we have witnessed and experienced these effects.

The Need for Change

No one benefits from staffing shortages in LTC facilities. Shortages affect not only the nursing and support staff but more importantly, the quality of care patients in LTC facilities are receiving. Staffing shortages cause nurses to have increased workloads, longer working hours, and more overtime shifts ultimately leading to fatigue, restlessness, inadequate sleep, pain, and deficits in performance and reaction time (Keller, 2009; Bae, 2012). These working conditions cause a stressful environment for nurses and more importantly, an unsafe place for residents. The quality of care is also influenced by poor team communication which leads to mistakes, not toileting residents in a timely manner which causes skin breakdown, and ineffective pain relief due to missed medications. Resident care is suffering due to the lack of staffing and other priorities within care facilities.

Both nursing staff and family members of loved ones receiving care in nursing homes have advocated for an increase in staffing. While everyone benefits from nursing shortages being resolved, however, we believe the focus should be on improving patient care. Sufficient nursing positions in LTC facilities would not only improve patient outcomes, but it would reduce burnout rates and increase job satisfaction (Aylward, Gaudine & Bennett, 2011). Health care organizations and government would benefit as well because they would pay less overtime therefore decreasing their budget and spending that extra money on supplying graduate nurses with full-time jobs (Lobo et al., 2013). Most importantly, patient care would improve if the staffing shortage was resolved. Nurses would be able to spend the appropriate amount of time with residents thereby improving their quality of life.

However, the best outcomes of the residents in LTC, is often not considered. The quality of care these patients deserve gets lost in debates about funding and staffing issues. While it is important that nurses feel satisfied with their work, the focus should be on the quality of care the residents deserve and are not getting because nurses do not have sufficient time to care for them.

the focus should be on the quality of care the residents deserve and are not getting

Page 21: SRNA NewsBulletin Fall 2015

SRNA NewsBulletin 2015 Fall 21

Challenging Reality Of... Challenging Reality Of...

Strategies for Change

We believe that there are several strategies that should be considered to successfully improve the quality of care given in LTC facilities. One key strategy focuses on increasing the number of caregivers in the work force, which would help to benefit the entire healthcare team. This strategy has two subcategories according to Wiener (2002), which include staffing ratios and staff training.

As stated previously, adequate staffing is crucial in order to successfully maintain an LTC facility, as “poor quality care has been associated with inadequate nurse staffing and poor skills mix” (Spilsbury et al., 2011). However, facilities are unable to increase nursing staff because of limited funding from the government and the expense of increasing labour costs. The shortage of staff also results in other issues about supervising unregulated workers. “High nurse staffing costs have raised concerns about the roles and responsibilities of RNs and support workers in nursing homes to ensure efficient use of the available workforce resource” (Spilsbury et al., 2011).

Given the recent number of incidents reported in Saskatchewan where staff members and families have expressed concern about the level of care residents are receiving due to the lack of staff on duty and the training of those caring for residents, something must be done. There is potential for necessary action and new legislation regarding appropriate staffing and staff- to-patient ratios. We suggest a letter writing campaign; and if that is not enough for the Ministry of Health to comply with the needs of the growing senior population then further lobbying and advocating for LTC residents must be done.

Conclusion

Since the provincial government determines staffing policies, such policies must support and promote effective change in order to ensure adequate staffing. In order to influence policy change, there must be contact with political officials that outlines the current staffing issue and how it is affecting the LTC population. Currently, there are unsafe resident-to-staff ratios in many LTC facilities; this imbalance places resident safety in jeopardy and contributes to increased staff fatigue. Due to the growing need for LTC placements within Canada, it is crucial for nurses and those in political positions to recognize the safety risks overshadowing staff and patients. As nurses advocate for improving the quality of care in LTC facilities they will also be improving patient safety and wellbeing.

policies must support and promote effective change

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Challenging Reality Of...

References

Aylward, M., Gaudine, A., & Bennett, L. (2011). Nurse recruitment and retention in rural newfoundland and Labrador communities: The experiences of healthcare managers. Online Journal of Rural Nursing & Health Care, 11(1), 54-69.

Bae, S. (2012). Nursing Overtime: Why, How Much, and Under What Working Conditions? Nursing Economic$, 30(2), 60-72.

Canadian Federation of Nursing Unions. (2012). Continuing Care: Canadians Federation of Nursing Unions backgrounder. Retrieved from https://nursesunions.ca/sites/ default/files/2011.backgrounder.continuing_care.pdf

Daly, T., & Szebehely, M. (2012). Unheard voices, unmapped terrain: Care work in long-term residential care for older people in Canada and Sweden. International Journal of Social Welfare, 21(2), 139-148. doi:10.1111/j.1468-2397.2011.00806.x

Harrington, C., Choiniere, J., Goldmann, M., Jacobsen, F. F., Lloyd, L., McGregor, M., & ... Szebehely, M. (2012). Nursing home staffing standards and staffing levels in six countries. Journal of Nursing Scholarship, 44(1), 88-98. doi:10.1111/j.1547- 5069.2011.01430.x

Keller, S. (2009). Effects of extended work shifts and shift work on patient safety, productivity, and employee health. American Association of Occupational Health Nurses Journal, 57(12), 497-502. doi:10.3928/08910162-20091116-01

McGregor, M. J., Tate, R. B., Ronald, L. A., McGrail, K. M., Cox, M. B., Berta, W., & Broemeling, A. (2010). Trends in long-term care staffing by facility ownership in british columbia, 1996 to 2006. Health Reports, 21(4), 27.

Ombudsman Saskatchewan. (2015). Taking care: An ombudsman investigation into the care provided to Margaret Warholm while a resident at the Santa Maria Senior Citizens Home. Retrieved from https://www.ombudsman.sk.ca/uploads/ files/news/81//taking-care---report.pdf

Saskatchewan Regulation. (2011). The housing and special-care homes regulations. Retrieved from http://www.qp.gov.sk.ca/documents/English/Regulations/Regulations/ SR34-66.pdf

Spilsbury, K., Hewitt, C., Stirk, L., & Bowman, C. (2011). The relationship between nurse staffing and quality of care in nursing homes: A systematic review. International Journal of Nursing Studies, 48(6), 732-750. doi:10.1016/j.ijnurstu.2011.02.014

Wiener, J., (2002). An assessment of strategies for improving quality of care in nursing homes. The Gerontologist. 43(2), 19-27. doi: 10.1093/geront/43.suppl_2.19

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SRNA NewsBulletin 2015 Fall 23

Easy Access to eHR Viewer

eHealth Saskatchewan (eHealth) has created a new feature that will give health care providers quick and easy access to the a province-wide view of patient information, including lab results, medications, immunizations, discharge summaries, medical imaging reports and much more.

“Easy Access to eHR Viewer” will provide direct access to the Electronic Health Record Viewer (eHR Viewer) for those who use Sunrise Clinical Manager (SCM) or an Electronic Medical Record (EMR). SCM users will connect to the eHR Viewer through a new tab and EMR users will connect through a new icon.

eHealth is currently working with a number of health regions to implement the Easy Access to eHR Viewer for SCM users and the Accuro and Med Access vendors are working to implement the tool for their EMR users. It is expected that Easy Access to eHR Viewer will be available in the late fall/early winter time frame.

How will you benefit? The Easy Access to eHR Viewer will:

• Launch the eHR Viewer directly from Sunrise Clinical Manager, Accuro and Med Access, without the need to separately log in.

• Enhance provider efficiency through quicker access to patient information with a single click.

• Create a smoother workflow that improves the clinician and patient experience.

• Enhance patient safety and the potential for better care by accessing the wide range of information in the eHR Viewer.

Many nurses are already aware of the value that eHealth’s eHR Viewer brings to health care across Saskatchewan. eHealth is working to ensure that all eligible nurses are signed up for the eHR Viewer in order to access it within SCM and the EMRs.

Watch for more information coming soon. In the meantime, if you have any questions, please call Melissa at 306-337-0957.

I for one love the eHR Viewer; I use it on a daily basis and for each patient I see. It is not only beneficial in that I can look up labs quicker for patients rather than wait for paper copy, but I can also see what labs have been done by other providers, which helps in reducing repetition, have patients return (and be) more efficient. Patients often don’t know when their last test results were; ie. Pap, cholesterol, etc. This is information at my fingertips.

” Holly Samuel, RN(NP)Nurse PractitionerPrince Albert Parkland Health Region

“Easy Access to eHR Viewer” will provide direct access to the Electronic Health Record Viewer (eHR Viewer) for those who use Sunrise Clinical Manager (SCM) or an Electronic Medical Record (EMR). SCM users will connect to the eHR Viewer through a new tab and EMR users will connect through a new icon.

• Launch the eHR Viewer directly from Sunrise Clinical Manager, Accuro and Med Access, without the need to separately log in.

• Enhance provider efficiency through quicker access to patient information with a single click.

• Create a smoother workflow that improves the clinician and patient experience.

• Enhance patient safety and the potential for better care by accessing the wide range of information in the eHR Viewer.

Page 24: SRNA NewsBulletin Fall 2015

24 SRNA NewsBulletin 2015 Fall

RN(NP)UpdateBrenda Mishak, RN(NP), Communications Director, Nurse Practitioners of Saskatchewan

The executive of the Nurse Practitioners of Saskatchewan (NPOS), a professional practice group of the SRNA, recently met to develop its 2015-2016 strategic plan.

The executive team, along with two guests, had rich dialogue regarding the current and future states of RN(NP)s in Saskatchewan. Barbara Puckett, a neonatal RN(NP) provided the perspective on the role of the neonatal RN( NP) who works in an acute care setting while Donna Cooke RN, provided the SRNA perspective on the day’s discussions.

A SWOT analysis of the RN(NP) status within Saskatchewan and Canada was conducted and the previous years’ goals and operational plans reviewed.

To recap last year’s activities, the executive met with health care and community leaders across the province:

• NP Awareness Day was held on April 27 and included an evening gala at the Lieutenant Governor’s House and a flag raising at the Legislature Building.

• The NPOS and the Saskatchewan Association of Nurse Practitioners (SANP) collaborated to host the 11th annual NP Education Day.

• The NPOS worked with a public relations consultant to develop a communications strategy whereby key messages were developed and subsequently endorsed at the planning meeting.

The NPOS continues to strive to improve access to health care services through developing collaborative relationships and integrating RN(NP) services throughout the health care system.

NPOS 2016 strategic goals have been established:

1. To educate the public on the scope of practice and role of the RN(NP).

2. To advocate for accessible health care services. 3. To influence public policy through collaboration with SRNA

Professional Practice Groups, nursing and interprofessional stakeholders, and governmental agencies.

For more information, please contact [email protected]

Left to right Back row: Brenda Mishak RN(NP), Communications Director; Mary Ellen Andrews RN(NP), Past President; Heather Keith RN(NP), Education and Research Co-ordinator; Guest: Barbara Puckett, RN(NP); Angela Robinson RN(NP), Treasurer; Donna Cooke RN, SRNA Nursing Advisor Front row: Deanna Barlow RN(NP), President; Karen Loveridge RN(NP), Vice-president: Shannon Chernoff RN(NP)(absent), Secretary; Student reps-Kim Veronneau RN, Rena Sutherland RN

• NP Awareness Day was held on April 27 and included an evening gala at the Lieutenant Governor’s House and a flag raising at the Legislature Building.

• The NPOS and the Saskatchewan Association of Nurse Practitioners (SANP) collaborated to host the 11th annual NP Education Day.

• The NPOS worked with a public relations consultant to develop a communications strategy whereby key messages were developed and subsequently endorsed at the planning meeting.

Page 25: SRNA NewsBulletin Fall 2015

Mavis (Kyle) Evans 1931-2015

SRNA NewsBulletin 2015 Fall 25

Nursing Loses Inspirational LeaderAnna Pacik, College Relations Officer, College of Nursing, University of Saskatchewan

Nursing has lost a great leader, educator, advocate and mentor. On June 9, 2015 with her husband Peter by her side, Mavis (Kyle) Evans passed from this world. Known for her professionalism, passion for nursing, big heart, dry wit and love for the Saskatchewan Roughriders, Mavis will be missed.

After graduating from the Regina General Hospital School of Nursing, Mavis became an operating room nurse and later held supervisory positions in Calgary, AB. She received her Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from the University of Saskatchewan in 1969, and later her Master of Health Service Administration from the University of Alberta.

In 1969 Mavis joined the College of Nursing (U of S) where she was a popular teacher of administration, management and research. She was instrumental in the development of the Post Registration program enabling practicing nurses to achieve their BSN degree. She was assistant dean in 1980-86, acting dean in 1986-87, and president of the Saskatchewan Registered Nurses’ Association from 1981-83.

Mavis was well-respected and an inspiration to her students and colleagues. She wrote and/or presented more than 50 technical reports and papers on nursing practice, education, trends and issues. In 1994, she co-edited Nursing Management in Canada. She helped establish nursing administration as a new and increasingly important aspect of health care in Canada. She retired as professor emerita in 1996.

A scholarship, called the Mavis Kyle Evans Nursing Leadership Scholarship has been created and funded by friends, and former students and colleagues. To donate towards this scholarship, contact Anna Pacik at 306-966-1399, [email protected] or mail your cheque made out to the University of Saskatchewan (noted in the memo line “Mavis Evans”) to: College of Nursing, U of S, ATTN: Donations, 104 Clinic Place, Room 4128, Saskatoon, SK S7N 2Z4.

leader, educator, advocate and mentor

Page 26: SRNA NewsBulletin Fall 2015

The Nominations Committee is seeking RNs and RN(NP)s to stand for 2016 election.

Call for 2016 SRNA Council & Nominations CommitteeMember-at-large Positions

Members are elected to these positions to represent registered nursing in Saskatchewan.

Nominations Committee

The role of the Nominations Committee is to provide a slate of candidates to fill the Registered Nurse positions on Council and the Nominations Committee.

Candidate nominations must comply with requirements stated in The Registered Nurses Act, 1988, SRNA Bylaws (2014) and SRNA policies. More information is available at www.srna.org.

Positions for Election

Member-at-large (three year terms)

Electoral Region 3–Prairie North and Prince Albert Parkland Health RegionsElectoral Region 7–Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region

Nominations Committee (two year term)

2015-2016 SRNA Nominations Committee

Signy Klebeck, RN, ChairSherry Culham, RNJoan Wagner, RNBob Friedrich, Public Representative

When and Where

The 2016 election is in May at the SRNA Annual Meeting in Regina.

Deadline for Nomination Submissions

4:30 pm February 2, 2016

Submit completed nomination forms by email [email protected]; fax 1-306-359-0257 or by mail 2066 Retallack St, Regina, SK, S4T 7X5

Page 27: SRNA NewsBulletin Fall 2015

SRNA NewsBulletin 2015 Fall 27

Call for Nominees for the SRNA 2016 Awards of Excellence

Celebrate Registered Nursing in SaskatchewanExcellence

The SRNA Awards of Excellence are an opportunity for members to formally recognize and celebrate many of the outstanding contributions of individual members and groups of RNs and RN(NP)s.

Award recipients are honoured at the SRNA Awards of Excellence Banquet in conjunction with the SRNA Annual Meeting in May.

• SRNA Awards celebrate members who are in the clinical, administration, education, research and policy areas; employers of RN and RN(NP)s; and students in the Nursing Education Program of Saskatchewan

• SRNA Mentorship Award celebrates the significance of mentorship and its extraordinary influence in the relationship between two RNs.

Award guidelines and nomination forms are available at: www.srna.org under the Communications tab/Annual Meeting & Conference or contact the SRNA at [email protected]

• SRNA Life Membership is granted to an individual who is retiring or is retired from the nursing profession and has rendered outstanding service to registered nursing in Saskatchewan.

• SRNA Honorary Membership is awarded to a non-RN or a RN registered outside of the province, in recognition of distinguished service to the registered nursing profession or for valuable assistance to registered nursing in Saskatchewan.

• SRNA Memorial Book is a historical record established to honor deceased members who during their career have provided exemplary service to the nursing profession and health care for the people of Saskatchewan.

Deadline for nominations is 4:30 p.m. January 15, 2016.

• SRNA Awards celebrate members who are in the direct clinical care, administration, education, research and policy areas; employers of RN and RN(NP)s; and students in Nursing Education Programs.

• SRNA Mentorship Award celebrates the significance of mentorship and its extraordinary influence in the relationship between two RNs.

• SRNA Life Membership is granted to an individual who is retiring or is retired from the nursing profession and has rendered outstanding service to registered nursing in Saskatchewan.

• SRNA Honorary Membership is awarded to a non-RN or a RN registered outside of the province, in recognition of distinguished service to the registered nursing profession or for valuable assistance to registered nursing in Saskatchewan.

• SRNA Memorial Book is a historical record established to honor deceased members who during their career have provided exemplary service to the nursing profession and health care for the people of Saskatchewan.

Page 28: SRNA NewsBulletin Fall 2015

28 SRNA NewsBulletin 2015 Fall

Summary of the Discipline Decision and Penalty Decision for Gregory W. Pittman RN #0034554, Saskatoon Saskatchewan.On September 29, 2014 a Stage One Hearing was held for Gregory W. Pittman with a decision rendered by the Discipline Committee on November 21, 2014. The Stage Two Penalty Hearing for Mr. Pittman was held on May 11, 2015 with a decision rendered by the Discipline Committee on July 31, 2015.

The complete discipline decision is available at: www.srna.org under the Hearings link found under Essential Links on the homepage.

Charges

The Notice of Hearing consist of one charge of professional misconduct with the essence of it being that Gregory Pittman engaged in “sexually inappropriate conduct, verbally and physically, towards a number of (your) co-workers both at the workplace and outside of the work environment.” There were 15 particulars for the charge.

Decision

The November 21, 2014 decision found Gregory Pittman guilty of professional misconduct contrary to section 26(1) and 26(2)(1) of The Act, along with certain Standards and Code of Ethics provisions that had been set out in the Notice of Hearing.

Penalty Order Decision

(a) Pursuant to section 31(1)(a) of the Act, Gregory Pittman shall be expelled from the Association and his name be struck from the register;

(b) Pursuant to section 31(2)(a)(ii) of The Act, Gregory Pittman shall pay the costs of the inquiry and hearing fixed in the amount of $25,000.00 to be paid on or before December 1, 2019. In the event that Mr. Pittman is reinstated before that date and the costs remain outstanding as of December 1, 2019, Mr Pittman shall be suspended for the Association pursuant to section 31(2)(b) of The Act.

Additional penalty orders are found in the decision.

Page 29: SRNA NewsBulletin Fall 2015

Learn Where YOU LiveOur programs are available distributively.

usask.ca/nursing

*Program is offered as face to face instruction at the Saskatoon Campus only.

Take it to

the Next Level… … with U of S College of Nursing Graduate Studies.

. Master of Nursing (MN)

. Primary Health Care Nurse Practitioner (NP)

. Post-Graduate Nurse Practitioner Certificate (NP)

. Doctor of Philosophy in Nursing (PhD)*

WNRCASN

20 6Western & North-Western Region Canadian Association ofSchools of Nursing

Annual ConferenceFebruary 17-19, 2016Delta Bessborough, Saskatoon, SK

Nursing Education: The Synergy of Teaching, Research, and Practice

Learn more at uregina.ca/nursing/wnrcasn/

Hosted by:

SRNA NewsBulletin 2015 Fall 29

Page 30: SRNA NewsBulletin Fall 2015

From the day you’re bo .

Registered nurses make the difference. Registered nurses are there to care for us in the delivery room and well into our old age. Their unique combination of knowledge and education allows them to make life-saving decisions every day. Studies show that the expertise of registered nurses reduces health care costs, improves patient care, and speeds recovery. When it comes to Saskatchewan’s health, registered nurses are making the difference.

Get involved at makingthedifference.ca

www.pbcnhealthservices.org

PRIMARY CARE REGISTERED NURSESFull Time/Part Time & Relief • Pelican Narrows and SouthendThe RN’s primary responsibility is to provide nursing treatment and the planning and implementing of Community Health Programs to the community.

HOME CARE NURSE/ASSESSOROne (1) Full Time • SouthendThe Home and Community Care Assessor/Nurse will use nursing, teaching and assessment skills effectively assist clients to attain their optimum level of independent functioning.

For complete job description and qualifications information, see: http://www.peterballantyne.ca/health/employment.html

Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation Health Services is an incorporated non-profit First Nations health organization delivering holistic health programs in the communities of Pelican Narrows,

Deschambault Lake, Southend and Sturgeon Landing.

Peter Ballantyne Cree Nation Health Services Inc. offers a competitive salary and benefits package.

Submit Resume, Security Clearance and three references to:Yvonne Highway • [email protected]

P.O. Box 339, Prince Albert, SK S6V 5R7 • Telephone: (306) 953-4425 Fax: (306) 922-4979

30 SRNA NewsBulletin 2015 Fall

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sasknursingdegree.ca

Collaborative Nurse Practitioner Program

BECOME A PRIMARY CARE NURSE PRACTITIONER

The University of Regina and Saskatchewan Polytechnic are proud to o�er the Collaborative Nurse Practitioner Program (CNPP) – leading to a Master of Nursing (Nurse Practitioner) degree.

This online master’s program will provide you with a graduate-level nursing education in both theory and practice, and prepare you to become a primary care nurse practitioner within the province.

Full-time students can complete the program within two calendar years; part-time students in four. Graduates of the program are eligible to write the national nurse practitioner exam and seek registration as a registered nurse (nurse practitioner), primary care.

Registered nurses with a minimum of two years clinical practice experience are encouraged to apply. Detailed admission requirements are available at www.sasknursingdegree.ca/cnpp.

Deadline to apply for fall 2016 is April 30, 2016

Where knowledge

& practice meet.

CNPP

SRNA NewsBulletin 2015 Fall 31

Page 32: SRNA NewsBulletin Fall 2015

DISTANCE EDUCATION PROGRAMS FOR REGISTERED NURSES

Offering RNs Flexibility Through Distance Education

•  Opportunity to advance professionally while working •  All courses offered online through a distance format

using Moodle •  Learn and interact with peers across Canada •  Certificate courses are transferable into our degree

program

Distance Nursing ProgramsToll-free: 1-800-565-4371 Email: [email protected] http://sites.stfx.ca/continuingeducation/distance_nursing

•  Post-RN Bachelor of Science in Nursing degree

•  Certificate in Gerontological Nursing •  Certificate in Continuing Care •  Speciality Nursing courses, including:

•  DNUR 202: Community Mental Health Nursing II •  DNUR 483: Hospice Palliative Care Nursing •  DNUR 490: Forensic Nursing •  DNUR 497: Computers in Nursing

Applications are now being accepted for Fall enrollment  The Post RN-BScN program was awarded accreditation by the Canadian Association of Schools of Nursing (CASN) in 2013.  

Return to: Saskatchewan Registered Nurses’ Association2066 Retallack St. Regina, SK S4T 7X5

Publication Agreement #40005137

Education Day & Awards Banquet May 3, 2016

Our education session runs from 13:00-16:30pm. In the evening, celebrate your nursing colleagues at the SRNA Banquet and Awards of Excellence.

SRNA Education Day & Annual Meeting Save the Date

Delta Hotel–Regina–May 3 & 4, 2016

Annual Meeting Day May 4, 2016

Member Links Meetings 12:00-13:00Join us in Regina for our Annual Meeting. SRNA members and the public are invited to attend the all-day annual meeting. This is your opportunity to participate in the business of the SRNA.

SASKATCHEWAN

ASSOCIAT NIO