Professional nursing personnel are available to care for the residents on a 24-hour basis.
The nursing team consists of:
- Registered Nurses (RNs)
- Registered Practical Nurses (RPNs)
- Health Care Aides (HCAs [Also referred to as Personal Support Workers or PSWs])
The RN on shift has the responsibility for overseeing the care of the residents and the supervision of staff on the nursing units. The RN provides advice, support and supervision to residents, families and staff. The RPN on each unit coordinates the resident care.
The HCAs (PSWs) on the units provide personal care and assistance as outlined in the resident’s Plan of Care and work under the direction and supervision of the RN and RPN. Families are requested to direct information about the resident’s health and to direct questions about the resident’s health to the RPN who is working on the unit for that shift or the RN in charge for the shift.
Upon admission, the team will develop a plan of care that takes into consideration the resident’s individual needs. Families are asked to continue taking care of the resident’s appointments that are outside of the facility; such as dental, vision and hearing. It is important for the resident and family to keep the RPN on the unit up to date on the planning and results of these appointments.
When the resident has a significant change in health status the RN will coordinate the necessary care. Where hospitalization is required for assessment or treatment, the RN will make arrangements and will notify the resident’s substitute decision maker as soon as possible. The RN also notifies the contact person at least 24 hours in advance of any pre-planned admissions to hospital.
Medications are prescribed by the resident’s physician and administered by the home’s nursing staff. The resident is not to take any medications other than those prescribed by the physician in order to avoid possible side effects when mixing prescription drugs with over the counter medications.
Palliative Care
In situations when death is expected residents often want to remain in the home rather than being sent to a hospital. Nursing staff are trained and experienced in providing excellent end of life care. This is called palliative care. A comfort cart and serenity room is available to families at Princess Court. A comfort cart, recliner chairs in the resident’s room as well as one room sleeping quarters are available at Pinecrest Home. Families and Clergy may visit whenever they wish. Information booklets are also available for family members, to assist with their understanding and preparation for the dying journey.
Pharmacy Services
A community-based pharmacist provides prescription medications and pharmacy services. The Pharmacist provides in-service training to nursing personnel and participates in the home’s Pharmacy and Therapeutics Committee on a regular basis to collaborate in the coordination of the medication program for the facility.
Short-Stay Respite Program
The short-stay respite program is designed for individuals who may require or benefit from a short stay in the home. These individuals are expected to return to their residential home in the community within a specified period of time. This program is designed for the benefit of caregivers by providing a period of relief. Each client can use up to 90 days of respite care per calendar year. All arrangements to access this program are made through the Community Care Access Centre (CCAC) at 1-877-661-6621. This program is available at Pinecrest Home and Princess Court.
Spiritual Care
Qualified spiritual care providers can offer spiritual and emotional support for residents, families and staff. The homes maintain a directory of community services for your reference.
Dementia Care Unit
Pinecrest Home offers a Dementia Care Unit for residents with special behavioural needs. This 23 bed wing of the Home provides an environment that supports people with memory problems or dementia. This Unit is ideal for people that may enjoy the benefits of walking, but may be unable to judge their own safety. Homes’ staff are trained in gentle care approaches to support the residents’ needs in a caring and secure environment.
“Safe Wandering”
People with memory problems can enjoy an excellent quality of life when their safety needs are met. The Dementia Care Unit affords the freedom to walk about the Unit safely without the need for restraint. Visitors and family are welcome, however residents may only leave the ‘pass-coded’ doors with an approved escort. Families and visitors are welcome to participate in the activities that take place within the Unit, the enclosed gardens, or outside the Unit.
“Least Restraint”
The Home uses the concept of “least restraint”, where all options are explored before any restraining action is taken. This means that restraining devices like seat belts and table trays cannot be used until the staff have proven that no other option is available to ensure resident safety. The Home adheres to the strict monitoring guidelines set by the Ministry of Health & Long Term Care.
“Family Participation”
The decision to move into a dementia care unit can be difficult. The Home supports the person and their family, during admission or when a residents’ condition changes, by meeting and together discussing all possible options.
