Job Description

RVH's Residential Withdrawal Management Services is a 17-bed inpatient program located offsite from the main RVH campus. The RPN position will work in collaboration with a multidisciplinary team that includes the program Nurse Practitioner (NP), to ensure patients are provided with safe, effective and ethical nursing care in an effort to best support patient's recovery goals.

As the Full-Time Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) you are a professional caregiver who is responsible and accountable for providing quality patient care in accordance with the organizational philosophy, policies and standards of care of the Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre, the College of Nurses (CNO), and all relevant legislation.

Responsibilities will include but are not limited to:

• Conducting in-person and telephone screening of clients prior to admission
• Completion of comprehensive client admissions
• Monitoring of clinical condition, withdrawal symptoms, administration of personal medications and effective documentation of client care
• Completion of diagnostic tests and related assessments including Mental Status Exams, Urine Drug Screening, HCG testing, CIWA and COWS scales
• Providing health teaching to individuals and in group settings
• Utilizing crisis intervention techniques as required
• Work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team to ensure continuity of patient care and the completion of referrals to community partners, primary care providers and appropriate treatment settings for continuing care
• Completion of appropriate documentation as required
• Complete patient assessments and brief counselling in the Emergency Department or other departments of the organization as required to support patient care
• Completing duties related to client needs, including meal preparation and assisting with laundry
• Other duties as assigned

Education:

• Registered Practical Nursing Diploma
• Certification in Mental Health Nursing preferred
• Non-violent Crisis Intervention an asset
• Physical assessment certificate an asset
• Strong, working knowledge in addictions and the management of withdrawal symptoms required

Experience:

• A minimum of three years' experience in mental health and addiction (inpatient acute/tertiary) preferred
• Knowledge in Brief Solution Focused Therapy and the Recovery Model of care is considered an asset
• Skills in crisis de-escalation
• Ability to facilitate health teaching with individuals and in a group setting

Competencies:

• Demonstrated skills in leadership and change
• Exceptional written and verbal communication, interpersonal and organizational skills
• Knowledge of major psychiatric disorders and substance related/addictive disorders
• Ability to work in a harm reduction context; solid understanding of addictions including alcohol and opioid use disorders
• Working knowledge of diagnostic tests and tools used in the Mental Health and Addiction field, including therapeutic drug levels, Mental Status Exams, Urine Drug Screening and the use of CIWA and COWS scales.
• Sound assessment skills with regard to physical assessment, mental status assessment etc.
• Systems theory as it relates to family dynamics and addiction
• Knowledge of pharmacology in the treatment of major psychiatric disorders, alcohol use disorder, opiate use disorder and the management of withdrawal symptoms
• Strong problem solving skills and efficient time management skills
• Ability to make decisions regarding patient care both independently and as a part of an interprofessional team
• Working knowledge of the Mental Health Act and Health Care Consent Act
• Sound documentation skills and awareness of legalities related to documentation
• Strong commitment to ongoing education and professional development and a willingness to participate in continuing education related to Addictions and Mental Health
• Experience in acting in a preceptor role
• Ability to work collaboratively to develop appropriate discharge planning and a strong working knowledge of community resources
• Demonstrated knowledge of CNO Standards of Practice and commitment to maintaining reflective practice standards as described by CNO, with the ability to function independently within the one's scope of practice
• Computer literacy in current software applications
• Strong interpersonal skills and effective communication abilities
• Knowledge and skills in a range of therapeutic approaches, including brief therapies, motivational interviewing, general understanding of cognitive behavioural therapy with individuals and groups, stages of change as it relates to substance addiction

Unless otherwise stated applicants must have a minimum educational requirement of Grade 12 or equivalent and must demonstrate proven workplace excellence through commitment to strong job performance and attendance.

Please be reminded that as a Regional Health Centre, in order to provide the necessary patient care, our operations run 24/7. Therefore, depending on the program for which you are applying, it may be an expectation that you are available to work week days and weekends, as well as all shifts - days, evenings, and nights.

Employment Equity

RVH is committed to diversity and employment equity in the workplace and welcomes applications from all qualified individuals, including women, visible minorities, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, LGBTQ persons, and others who may contribute to a diverse workplace.

RVH COVID-19 Vaccination Policy

All job offers will require compliance with our COVID-19 Vaccination Policy for proof of full vaccination unless provided with a medical exemption or an accommodation under the Ontario Human Rights Code.

Accommodation in the Workplace

RVH offers accommodation for applicants with disabilities in the recruitment process, and is committed to the principles of the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA). RVH will work proactively through all stages of recruitment to create a barrier-free process and to provide accommodations as required. If you require accommodation during the interview process, please contact Human Resources at 705-739-5605.

Health & Safety Workplace Responsibilities

• Must adhere to the duties of workers, as stipulated in Section 28 of the Occupational Health and Safety Act.
• Must adhere to all RVH administrative and applicable departmental occupational health and safety policies, procedures and protocol.
• Must adhere to Bill 132 of the Occupational Health and Safety Act in regards to the Sexual Violence and Harassment Action Plan Act, and creating a work environment free of psychological harassment.
• Must be able to perform all bona fide essential duties in the position description, which may include lifting and moving patients, pushing, pulling, bending, stooping, etc.
• Must complete a pre-employment health assessment, including review of the Job Demands Analysis for the position, as a condition of employment.
• Must strive to continuously provide a safe and supportive environment for patients, staff, physicians, and volunteers.

Our Code of Conduct

All staff, physicians, volunteers, service providers and students are committed to creating a positive, respectful work environment for each other and our patients and families.

RVH is guided by its MY CARE strategic plan which puts patients and families at the centre of all we do.

Our Vision

Make each life better. Together.

Our Mission Statement

Exceptional care is our passion.

People are our inspiration.

Safety is our promise.

Our Values

Work Together | Respect All | Think Big | Own It | Care

If you are interested in joining our inspiring team, please apply online before 1100pm EST on the posting close date. Royal Victoria Regional Health Centre thanks all applicants, however, only those selected for an interview will be contacted. If interviewed, an accompanying portfolio may be required which will include documented evidence of course completion. An inclusive, barrier-free selection process will be provided as required under RVHs Employment Accommodation Policy. Applicants need to make their needs known to Human Resources in advance and information related to accommodation will be addressed confidentially.

As part of the mandatory screen process RVH requires professional references, verification of academic training, professional accreditation, plus a current Criminal Records Check and Vulnerable Sector Screening.