Registered Nurse - Senior’s Mental Health - Full Time

Purpose

To provide holistic nursing care in accordance with the College of Nurses of Ontario, organizational and unit standards, as well as participate and collaborate with other health care providers in provision of patient care in the community. Responsible for making clinical decisions and exercising judgment to ensure the best possible nursing care is provided within available resources.

Duties

• To facilitate liaison between the Mental Health and Addictions Program and local long term care units/facilities.
• To participate, collaborate with other health care providers and community partners, in the provision of patient care.
• Effectively use the Best Practice Guidelines in assessing, planning, implementing, and evaluating the care of the senior with Mental Illness.
• Provide leadership in developing and implementing care plans, for individuals in Long-term care facilities and the Mental Health Program, through team and family meetings, discussions with staff.
• Use evidence based practice in the provision of education and patient care.
• Conduct detailed assessments of the seniors with mental illness in hospital, long term care facilities and the community
• Work closely with the psychiatrists/delegates, emergency physicians, emergency nurses, Crisis Intervention, family physicians, other interdisciplinary team members and long term care facilities to provide care to the senior with mental illness.
• Provide assistance in planning corrective actions to ensure safety for patients and staff.
• Is compliant with legislation, organizational and departmental, regulations, standards and procedures related to occupational health and safety
  
  

Qualifications

• Registered Nurse in good standing with the College of Nurses of Ontario.
• Possession of a valid Ontario Drivers License and a reliable vehicle required as job involves visiting patients at various locations throughout the community.
  
  

Experience

• Minimum 5 years’ experience in assessing and treating adults/seniors with mental illness
  
  

Skill/Ability

• Knowledge of Mental Health conditions affecting the elderly.
• Working knowledge of the psychological, physical and functional implications of the aging process.
• Demonstrated ability to assess cognitive functioning and mental status in the elderly.
• Sound knowledge of psychotropic medications.
• Extensive knowledge of community resources
• Proven ability to liaise with referral sources, community agencies and other team members to enhance positive patient outcomes.
• Excellent organizational, written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and as a member of an interdisciplinary team in a consultative role.
• Ability to utilize Microsoft Office and programs such as word, excel and outlook.
• Demonstrated behaviour consistent with the hospital’s mission statement and core values.
  
  

Note: Because of the changing nature of the work and work to be done, other responsibilities and duties may be assigned and qualifications may be adjusted from time to time.