Job Description

Ottawa Inner City health is seeking a Nurse Coordinator is to coordinate the health care of clients of the Ottawa Inner City Health Inc. This includes engaging clients in a therapeutic relationship, assessing the clients' needs, referring clients for admission, assisting clients to complete the admissions process, organizing a suitable plan of care, coordinating care activities and monitoring compliance with the care plan.

The Nurse Coordinator is an advanced practice nurse with experience in health care of the homeless or other marginalized populations. The Nurse Coordinator provides leadership to an interdisciplinary team of health and social services providers and coordinates their efforts to meet the clients' needs.

The Nurse Coordinator provides support and functional supervision to the Client Care Workers and collaborates with shelter and housing staff to ensure the highest possible quality of care to clients of the OICHI.

Responsibilities:

The Nurse Coordinator provides clinical care to clients who receive their health care through the OICHI by:Identifies homeless persons who may require health care and engages then in a therapeutic relationship, provides information to clients about OICHI so they are fully informed about services prior to applying for admission. Completes a comprehensive assessment of the needs of the clients using a holistic approach with special emphasis on the health, housing and social services needed. Facilitates the process of obtaining informed consent so the client can participate in their own health care. With the consent of the client, initiates the admission process and ensures that the documentation required is completed in a timely manner. Assessment and screening of health status as per admission form including screening and follow-up of infectious diseases. Formulates a plan of care in partnership with the client and other health professionals involved in the care of the client. Arranges for care and coordinates the efforts of the other service providers, ensuring good communication between members of the client care team. Monitors health status of clients and takes appropriate action to meet changing needs. Monitors compliance with the plan of care and ensures that the clients' wishes are understood and respected. Coordinates care and liaises between community agencies and services on behalf of clients. Acts as an advocate on behalf of clients and the program. Provides learning experiences for health care students. Participates in research and evaluation as appropriate. Collects data and reports to City of Ottawa Public Health Department. Utilizes the IT records system to record client information in accordance with the operational and evaluation system of the Ottawa Inner City Health Inc. and the employing organization. Assists the client to achieve the highest possible quality of life within the limitations of the resources available. Advocates for clients so that they receive services to which they are entitled. Ensures that the other members of the health care team and the client's family and friends understand the wishes of the client. Operates within a harm reduction modality but supports the provision of care which does not jeopardize the safety of clients, staff or other participants in the program. Provides day to day supervision of the PRNs, Client Care Workers and volunteers working within their program and assuring adherence to the policies, procedures and practices of the OICHI and partner agencies. Alerts senior managers (the OICH Management and Partner / Shelter Managers) of issues of concern especially those which impact on liability, staff or client safety. Keeps current and abreast of new developments within the care of homeless persons and persons requiring palliative care services. Practice according to the CNA Code of Ethics.

Required Qualifications:

Current license as an RN in the province of Ontario with the College of Nurses. 2-5 years' experience in working with the homeless or other vulnerable populations. Good knowledge of mental health and addictions, demonstrated competence in clinical nursing practice related to the care of adult homeless persons. Strong organizational skills. Good oral communication skills in English, French strongly preferred. Ability to communicate clearly and diplomatically, demonstrated ability to teach, consult and negotiate. Strong Organizational Abilities. Adopt an independent practice model of care delivery, be a self-learner and self-directed. Understand how to apply harm reduction strategies in the clinical setting. Act effectively in situations of profound loss, and suffering and with individuals who chose to live at risk. Familiarity and comfort with computer software such as EMR, email, word documents and spreadsheets. Have up to date vaccinations. Current CPR/AED certification.


Ottawa Inner City Health welcomes and encourages applications from people with disabilities. Accommodations are available on request for candidates taking part in all aspects of the selection process.

Proof of current vaccinations and a Vulnerable Sector Police Check will be required

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