The RPN in partnership with the RN and in collaboration with the patient/client, family and other staff:
Determines the scope of her involvement with a patient/client/family based on the College of Nurses standard for scope of practice for an RPN including the elements of predictability, acuity and provider skill set
Establishes a relationship in which the patient/client & family feels safe and respected. She/he advocates on behalf of the patient/client & family ensuring consideration of their perspective in all health care planning
Is aware of the medical history, needs, medications (effects and adverse effects) and plan of care for every patient/client in their care
Practices from a perspective that is based on patient/client centered principles of choice, self-determination, privacy, dignity and self-worth, autonomy and independent, self-expression, freedom and stimulation;
Systematically collects data about the health of the patient/client for initial screening and ongoing assessment, and collaborates with the RN to identify priorities, goals, target dates and strategies of interventions that contribute to the individualized care plan to achieve the best possible outcomes for each patient/client
Manages stable and predictable patient/clients and situations using critical thinking and the resources at hand and identifies early the need to conference with the RN for evolving patient/client instability or for support in determining next steps in a situation
Promotes and maintains patient/client independence and recovery through encouragement of their involvement in activities of daily living, rehabilitation goals and other activities
Clinical Documentation:
Documents in a timely and concise manner according to the current College of Nurses of Ontario standards and Providence Healthcare policies
Reports changes and concerns in a patient/client’s status or progress appropriately and in a timely way to the RN and/or the Physician and/or the Inter-professional team.
Transcribes medical orders within Providence Healthcare policy
Collaborates with the inter-professional team to complete relevant (e.g. NRS, MDS, Meditech RM&R) data entry and quality analysis as required
QUALIFICATIONS/SKILLS REQUIRED:
Membership in good standing with the College of Nurses of Ontario and have a current Medication Certificate (if applicable) which meets the College of Nurses Standards of Practice and Providence Healthcare’s requirements;
Current BCLS certification
Previous experience with an older adult population is desirable
A good understanding of major nursing and health issues and the ethical and legislative framework that influences the situations in which RPN functions
Good and effective communication skills, both verbal and written