SRNA NewsBulletin Spring 2012

Volume 14, Number 2, spriNg 2012

SaSkatchewan RegiSteRed nuRSeS’ aSSociation

Competent, caring, knowledge-based registered nursing for the people of Saskatchewan

Supporting RN Practice • National Nursing Week

• Work-related Fatigue • Dermatomyositis • Competence Assurance Survey

• Nurses to Know • Checklists and Healthcare • Health Quality Council

• Annual Meeting & Conference • Ethics Corner • SRNA Elections and More

Get Involved!The SRNA is YOU.

The Saskatchewan Registered Nurses’ Association

(SRNA) is a professional licensing body established in 1917 by the Registered Nurses Act of the provincial legislature. Its purpose is to set standards of education and practice for the nursing profession, and to license and support RNs and RN(NP)s to ensure the public receives quality nursing care.

The SRNA Newsbulletin is published four times a year by the SRNA. Its purpose is to inform RNs about the Association’s activities, provide a forum for discussion and information of topical interest. Inclusion of items in the SRNA Newsbulletin does not imply endorsement or approval by the SRNA. A subscription is $21.40 per year, outside Canada, $30.00 per year.

ISSN 1494-76668

Managing Editor: Shelley SvedahlE-mail: [email protected]

The SRNA office is located at 2066 Retallack Street, Regina, SK S4T 7X5Phone: 306-359-4200 FAX: 306-359-0257Toll Free: 1-800-667-9945E-mail: [email protected] ●Website: www.srna.org

SRNA COUNCILPresident: Kandice Hennenfent, RN 306-694-3949President-Elect: Signy Klebeck, RN 306-659-4289Members-at-LargeJeannie Coe, RN(NP) 306-425-2174 (Ext. 3)Sherry Culham, RN 306-766-8484Robin Evans, RN 306-337-3354Janice Giroux, RN 306-842-8652Noreen Reed, RN 306-883-4471Mark Tarry, RN(NP) 306-554-3363Sandra Weseen, RN 306-752-1781Public RepresentativesKaren Gibbons 306-729-4306James Leach 306-244-4800Heather McAvoy 306-652-5442Executive DirectorKaren Eisler, RN 306-359-4200

Copy Deadlines:

November 15 for Winter; February 10 for Spring; May 15 for Summer; and August 15 for Fall. The complete rate sheet is available online at: http://www.srna.org/images/stories/srna_2012_nb_ad_rates.pdf

To place advertising in the SRNA Newsbulletin please contact:SRNA at: [email protected] Free: 1-800-667-9945

SPRING 2012 Vol.14 N0. 2

President’s Message 3

Executive Director’s Message 4

SRNA Council Highlights 6

Supporting RN Practice 7

Connections 8

Happy National Nursing Week 9

Work-related Fatigue: What Can You Do About It? 10

I Want to Make a Difference 11

NursiNg poliCY upDATe “A Good Fit” 12

Dermatomyositis 13

Survey Says: 2011 Competence Assurance Process Information 14

HeAlTH QuAliTY CouNCil What Factors Influence Patients’ Rating... 16

Nurses to Know 17

RQHR Healthcare Teams Measure Up in Phone Surveillance 18

Checklists and Healthcare 19

eTHiCs CorNer Ethics and Professionalism 22

SRNA Elections 2012 24

SRNA Awards Committee 28

Canadian National Nurses Association President Elect 29

SRNA Update 30

Upcoming Events 34

SRNA Directory 36

Contents

2 SRNA NewsBulletin SPR ING 2012

On the Cover:

Candidates for the 2012 SRNA Elections

First paragraph first paragraph first paragraph first paragraph first paragraph first paragraph

first paragraph first paragraph first paragraph first paragraph.

Indent paragraph indent paragraph indent paragraph indent paragraph indent paragraph indent paragraph indent paragraph

De partm e nts

Head 1

by barb Fitz-gerald, rN Nursing Advisor, member relations

Get Involved with Your Professional Association

Spring is fast approaching and before you know it SRNA’s Annual Meeting and Conference

will be here. I would like to encourage you to come and share your success, experience, expertise and resources to make this the best event ever. Professional-led regulation is a privilege, responsibility and opportunity for each of us.

Be sure to check out my blog and join me in the countdown to the Annual Meeting and Conference (http://khennenfent.wordpress.com/?ref=spelling). We have a terrific lineup of guest speakers including Maureen McTeer, respected Canadian lawyer and author and leading health advocate and symbol of gender equality in Canada, Mario Trono, PhD, professor of English, Film and Popular Culture Studies at Mount Royal University and Paula Davies Scimeca, RN, MS, author of Unbecoming a Nurse and From Unbecoming a Nurse to Overcoming Addiction.

I hope to see many of you at the upcoming Member Night on May 1, 2012 and again at the Annual Meeting, Award Banquet and Conference events. The SRNA election will be online again this year. Please check out the candidate information on pages 24 – 27 of this publication and cast your vote online. Are you interested in running for Council in the 2013 election? If you have questions about how to get

involved please contact one of your Council members. We’d love to talk to you.

In my professional role as RN educator, I have the opportunity to meet and talk with students, our future RNs. Working with our future RNs is inspiring and I feel very privileged to

learn and grow with them. Annual Meeting and Conference time is a wonderful opportunity to network and I encourage you to introduce yourself to any of the students who are attending this year’s event.

pr e s i De nt’s me s sag e

So how can you get involved in your professional association? I encourage you to check out the SRNA website, participate in the online elections, review the bylaw changes and watch for new events.

Kandice Hennenfent, RNSRNA President

Working with our future RNs is inspiring and

I feel very privileged to learn

and grow with them.

SRNA NewsBulletin SPR ING 2012 3


Profession-led regulation is not a right, but a privilege granted by government to a profession

to govern themselves. To fulfill their mandate to protect the public through regulation, our profession has the responsibility for establishing the standards for registered nursing practice and the code of ethics.

Determining the competence of those applying for a license to practise as RNs is the exclusive role of the RN regulatory bodies. It is their responsibility to choose legally defensible and valid tools, such as exams, to measure competence to practice. The SRNA takes the responsibility of ensuring RN candidates meet the entry to practice competencies and are qualified to provide safe and ethical care very seriously.

The SRNA, along with nine other regulatory bodies in Canada issued a formal Request for Proposals to partner in the development of a new state-of-the-art, computer-adaptive

entry exam for future RN candidates. After a rigorous review with the assistance of an expert in the theory and techniques of exam development, they announced in December 2011, that the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) had

been selected as the successful vendor.

Contract negotiations have begun with the NCSBN in the development of the RN entry exam. This represents a significant milestone for our registered nursing profession. The RN exam will be transitioned from paper-and-pencil delivery to computer-adaptive testing and is scheduled to be available in 2015.

The partnership with NCSBN will enable

the use of their depth of experience and expertise to develop a legally defensible, valid, and accessible computer-adaptive exam to reliably assess Canadian entry-level nursing competencies and candidates’ readiness to practice.

The new computer-adaptive exam will be more accessible, offer a variety of item formats which can be easily adapted to address changes in entry-to-practice competencies and state-of-the-art security features to verify candidates’ identities and protect items in the examination bank.

The RN regulators are committed to:

1 ensuring that a study of nursing practice, including

entry level competencies across Canada, informs the exam development.

2 providing Canadian RNs, including new graduates,

educators, and clinicians, the opportunity to participate as subject matter experts in all aspects of exam development.

exec ut ive Di r ector’s up Date

Significant Milestone for our Profession – Computer-Adaptive RN Entry Exam

The new computer-

adaptive exam will be more

accessible, offer a variety of item formats …and protect items in the examination

bank.


SRNA STANDARDS AND FOUNDATION

COMPETENCIES FOR THE PRACTICE OF

REGISTERED NURSESREVIEW UPDATE

thank you to all who participated in the online survey. Your feedback will

assist the SRna in obtaining valuable information to review the SRna

Standards and Foundation competencies for the

Practice of Registered nurses (2007). during the spring of 2012 we will hold focus

groups with SRna members to gain more insight into

common themes established from the survey. if you are interested in having

input into our foundational document for Rn practice in Saskatchewan, please

contact debbie or Brenda at [email protected] and

provide her with your name and contact information.

every attempt will be made to include respondents in a focus group, however

there will be limited spaces available. if you require

additional information, please contact debbie or Brenda.

clients globally and, to date, has never had any data subpoenaed nor witnessed any extraordinary access to exam or candidate information by any government.

As regulators develop the contract with NCSBN, SRNA’s role in upholding the public interest by ensuring that RN candidates possess entry-level competencies and are qualified to practise safely and ethically in Canada is paramount.

Karen Eisler, RN

We will provide regular updates on the development of the new RN entry exam. Please visit our website at www.srna.org and our Newsbulletin. You can also contact us directly at [email protected] . For information on the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN), visit www.ncsbn.org .

3 providing Canadian RNs from expert panels to

conduct sensitivity and translation reviews.

4 ensuring measures are in place to protect the security

of the exam and candidates’ personal information.

5 ensuring nurse educators and students have the

opportunity to learn about the new exam.

Partnership with the NCSBN includes access to their world-class level of test security and data protection through their partner, Pearson Vue. Advanced security features employed for the new exam include controlled testing environments and global identity management to make sure that only authorized/verified individuals are able to take the exam.

Pearson Vue has worked with the Office of Privacy Commissioner in Canada and is compliant with Canadian privacy legislation, as well as other industry standards. Any contract with the NCSBN will include all requirements to ensure that national and provincial privacy legislation is respected and upheld. Pearson Vue has worked on data storage issues with more than 300


At the February meeting Council approved the appointment of Joanne

Blazieko, RN, for a second three-year term with the Investigations Committee and approved Pat McLean, RN, BN, LLB for the SRNA Honorary Membership.

Other highlights of the meeting included: passing a motion to submit the name of Cathy Jeffrey, RN to CNA as a scrutineer at the CNA Biennium; approval of Joanne Petersen, RN, as a voting delegate at the CNA Biennium; and review and acceptance of END 1 monitoring reports and Executive Limitation Policies.

The President, President-elect and

Executive Director participated in a brief media training event to better prepare Executive Council members to respond to media and member questions regarding current nursing issues regarding our profession.

As part of our commitment to a collaborative dialogue with our health care teams Council met with the Board of the Saskatchewan Association of Licensed Practical Nurses (SALPN). We look forward to continued dialogue with SALPN as we work together to provide patient-first responsive health care for the residents of Saskatchewan.

We engaged in dialogue with the Saskatchewan Association of Nurse Practitioners (SANP), the

Nurse Practitioners of Saskatchewan (NPOS), with the Deans of the nursing education programs and the Chief Nursing Officer to discuss nursing issues including RN(NP) issues.

We discussed and approved several editorial changes to the bylaws. These changes reflect punctuation and grammar only and, as such, do not change the intent of any of the bylaws. Please review the bylaw changes on the SRNA website. All changes will be voted on at the SRNA Annual Meeting on May 2, 2012 in Regina.

I look forward to seeing you at the Annual Meeting and Conference in May.

cou nc i l Hig H l ig Htsby signy Klebeck, rN, srNA president-elect

TuTors required

there is an ongoing need for tutors to work with individuals preparing for the cRne. if you are interested or would like more information, contact karen turner, Rn, nursing advisor, Regulatory Servcies at 1-800-667-9945 or email [email protected]

Council Training and Dialogue

Canadian Registered Nurses Examination (CRNE)


The SRNA Practice Team is available for consultation on professional practice issues.

We provide a confidential service designed to enhance and promote safe, ethical and competent practice. Protection of the public is our primary goal. The provision of support, advice, information and resources assists RNs in meeting practice standards, promotes good nursing practice and

prevents poor nursing practice.For 2011 (January 1 – December

31), there were 712 practice calls, relating primarily to scope of practice, information/networking and nursing practice standards as graphically depicted below:

A total of 44% of the calls came from direct-care RNs, 25% from administrative RNs, 12% from RNs in education, 1% research and 18%

were non-RN calls. Over half (51%) of the calls came from an urban location, 21% were rural, 7% were from the north, 17% were unknown or not applicable and 4% were from multiple locations.

For more information or to contact a Practice Advisor please call 1-800-667-9945, or 359-4200 in Regina or Email [email protected].

pr act ic e up Dateby The srNA practice team

Supporting RN Practice

Purpose of Call


The SRNA is a member-led organization and needs your leadership and participation

to carry out its mandate. Getting involved with your professional association can happen in many ways.

You can: run for council election as president-elect or a member-at-large; join a SRNA committee or represent the Association as an external committee member; become a Workplace Representative (WPR); or join any one of a growing number of Chapters, Professional Practice Group (PPGs) or Special Interest Groups (SIGs) affiliated with the SRNA. To put your name forward for an activity please complete a Professional Opportunities Interest Sheet found on the SRNA website homepage under the Membership Profile Management link. Once you log in to your profile go to the “Interests” link, and then scroll down the list and mark off what you want to do. Once you submit your interest sheet you will receive an

email verifying the SRNA has received your information. The Nominations Committee will be notified if you indicated an interest in council; the Membership Advisory Committee will use the information to choose committee representatives; the Member Links program will contact you if want to be a WPR or join a Chapter, PPG or SIG. For additional information on any SRNA activity email [email protected].

Mark your calendar to attend the 8th Annual SRNA Member Night on May 1, 2012 at the Delta Hotel in Regina. This special evening is for

any SRNA member who is a WPR, or member of a Chapter, PPG or SIG or someone new who wants to check out or join any one of these programs. A list of the groups and their meeting times will be posted on the SRNA website in mid April. The annual meeting for Workplace Representatives will also be announced on the SRNA website in mid April. Following the meetings all participants are invited to attend a social event and presentation by Mario Trono, PhD on “Angels, Antagonists and Activists: A look at nursing in the movies”. The May 1 event is held in conjunction with the SRNA Annual Meeting on May 2 and Conference Day on May 3. We hope to see you there!

con n ect ion sby barb Fitz-gerald, rN, Nursing Advisor, practice

Get Involved In Your Association

The SRNA Nursing Practice Team is excited to announce that the

SRna workplace Representative (wPR) educators are now providing education

sessions on the new SRna documentation guideline and the Medication administration

guideline. the wPR educators also provide presentations on the cna code of ethics

and the SRna continuing competence Program. contact Barb at [email protected] or

debbie at [email protected] to see if a wPR educator is available for a presentation

in your workplace.


Happy National Nursing Week (NNW) May 7-13, 2012in 1985 national nurses week was introduced by the canadian nurses association (cna) to focus on

the contributions nurses made to the health of canadians. the title was changed to national nursing

week in 1993 to emphasize nursing as a professional discipline. the celebratory week includes May 12 to

recognize Florence nightengale’s birthday and international nurses day. the theme for nnw is nursing-

the health of our nation.

What are your plans for observing NNW? Consider:

• WearingyourSRNApinwithprideandinformingyourclientsabouttheroleandvalueRNsand

Rn(nP)s bring to health care.

• Settingupadisplayhighlightingtheadvancementsofnursinginyourpracticearea.

• Hostingapot-luckluncheonandinvitingyourco-workerstoattend.

• OrganizingaRNandRN(NP)appreciationevent.

• Writinganarticleemphasizingnursingadvocacyforsafeclientcare,theenvironment,socialjusticeor

primary health care.

the SRna salutes all Rns and Rn(nP)s for their commitment to insuring nursing excellence in

Saskatchewan.Enjoyyourspecialweek!

SRNA Regional WorkshopJoin the SRna council and staff for a day of information and discussion about your professional

association, Rn and Rn(nP) scope of practice, documentation, code of ethics, continuing

competence program and competence assurance.

the Regional workshop will be held in weyburn on June 14, 2012 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

at Mckenna auditorium 317 3rd Street ne in the upper hall.

watch your email and the SRna website for registration information or contact debbie or Brenda

at [email protected].


a healthy life. Registered nursing requires skilled, knowledgeable professionals who must be alert and able to respond quickly and appropriately to subtle changes in a client’s health condition. Work-related

fatigue is associated with higher rates of personal injury, divorce, domestic abuse and chemical impairment (RNAO, 2011).

This well-researched BPG has

recommendations for individuals to combat fatigue. Some include:• Performingafatigueself-

assessment to ensure your fitness to work and provide safe care prior to and during a work shift.

• Takingtimetosleepandrelaxadequately between shifts.

• Takingentitledbreaksatworkandsupport your colleagues to do the same.

• Limitingthenumberofovertimehours you work.

Work-related Fatigue: What Can You Do About It?

Fatigue in healthcare, like lingering dust in the air of an old room, is an ever present

problem. As a RN in today’s work environment, I’m sure you are no stranger to fatigue. The Registered Nurses Association of Ontario, (RNAO) released a Best Practice Guideline (BPG) called, Preventing and Mitigating Nurse Fatigue in Health Care, (2011).

It is free for download at www.rnao.org. The BPG defines fatigue as “a subjective feeling of tiredness that is physically and mentally penetrative. It ranges from tiredness to exhaustion, creating an unrelenting overall condition that interferes with individuals’ physical and cognitive ability to function to their normal capacity” (p.23).

Fatigue can affect a RN’s professional and personal ability to provide safe client care and lead

Fatigue can affect a RN’s professional and

personal ability to provide safe client care and lead a healthy life.

Referencesregistered Nurses Association of ontario. (2011). preventing and mitigating Nurse Fatigue in Health Care. retrieved from http://www.rnao.org/page.asp?pageiD=122&ContentiD=3580&siteNodeiD=241

by Dennis bubnick, 4th Year Neps student, saskatoon


• Speakingupandprovidingassistance if you spot fatigue in co-workers.

• Participatinginphysicalactivityand follow a healthy diet.

• Checkingifoptionssuchasself-scheduling are available if your shift patterns cause fatigue.SRNA Council Ends 1.1.1.

and 1.2.2., state that RNs’ practice in present and future settings is competent and ethical, and evidence-based. Since fatigue is an obstacle to the provision of competent, compassionate care, let’s all take control, “open the window and clear out the dust” by using this evidenced-based BPG. Using it will make us better informed and equipped to handle fatigue in a positive manner.

Work-related Fatigue: What Can You Do About It?

I Want to Make a Difference

January, written articles for the SRNA Newsbulletin, and helped draft policy.

Seeing RN practice like this makes me think there is nothing RNs can’t do, and it makes me proud to think that soon I will join you as a colleague. Thanks to all the amazing RNs I’ve met as a student; I now know that becoming a RN means you will continually learn for the rest of your life, since healthcare and technology is always changing.

Becoming a RN means I will become an essential part of the health care team, taking my part in coordinating and delivering patient care. Becoming a RN means that I will advocate for my patients’ and the public’s health interests. The best part of becoming an RN is knowing that I will make a difference in people’s lives every day.

I always knew healthcare was in my future. I started university straight out of high school, setting my

crosshairs on pharmacy as a career. I wanted to able to help people, and apply my education. After working in a pharmacy, I felt I wanted something more. I knew many people who were in the nursing profession who were fulfilled by their careers. It seemed natural to look into this as a career option for me.

In 2010, I enrolled into the Post Degree RN program; a two year fast track program which awards a BSN to those already holding a degree. Fast forward through an intense (albeit rewarding) two years to now, where I’m in my final community practicum with the SRNA Nursing Practice team. The SRNA has shown me that the RN competencies and standards do not end when you leave the bedside, but continue with a RN no matter what career path you take. Competent, caring, knowledge-based registered nursing for the people of Saskatchewan is the SRNA’s mission and I’ve been a part of the amazing amount of work they do to meet that mission. I’ve attended meetings, ran a booth at the Canadian Nursing Students Association conference in

The best part of becoming a RN is

knowing that will make a difference in people’s

lives every day.

by Dennis bubnick, 4th Year Neps student, saskatoon


national regulations, standards, competencies, educational requirements and a system to monitor the processes. All these processes must be in place before nurse practitioners in Saskatchewan and other jurisdictions can prescribe controlled drugs and substances. The SRNA will keep RNs and RN(NP)s in the loop on the CDSA developments. The SRNA website - under RN(NP) update - will house updates for this information. www.srna.org/nurse-practitioner/rnnp-updates

Please contact me directly by phone Toll free 1-800-667-9945 or 359-4200 in Regina by email [email protected] if you have professional practice questions, inquiries or thoughts on advanced nursing practice. The SRNA welcomes member input for articles on advanced nursing practice in future newsbulletins.

by Donna Cooke, rN, Nursing policy Advisor

AsK A poliCY ADVisor

“A Good Fit”

• TheCanadianNursesAssociation(CNA) is rolling out a national campaign to increase awareness, demand and support for nurse practitioners. This national campaign, launched Oct. 2011, in Fredericton. The SRNA has indicated a strong interest that Saskatchewan be one of the

jurisdictions involved in the rollout of the RN(NP) campaign for 2012. Stay tuned to find out CNA’s decision about Saskatchewan being part of the 2012 RN(NP) Campaign rollout. Please visit the CNA website www.npnow.ca for

campaign details and to print a poster for your work place.

• Forseveralyears,SaskatchewanRN(NP)s have been eagerly waiting an announcement regarding changes to the federal Controlled Drugs and Substances Act that will authorize RN(NP) to prescribe controlled drugs and substances. Policy makers from jurisdictional regulatory bodies have formed a committee to prepare for this anticipated announcement. I will participate in this national collaboration to review, discuss and develop

I am very engaged in and excited about my new work as Nursing Policy Advisor with the

Saskatchewan Registered Nurses’ Association (SRNA). One of my projects at the SRNA is to provide advice, information and resources for advanced nursing practice. In each SRNA Newsbulletin I will share information about provincial, national and international initiatives in the area of advanced nursing practice.• Arecent

announcement from the Saskatchewan Ministry of Health states that the Saskatchewan Medical Care Insurance payment amendment regulations have been changed to allow specialist physicians to bill the same rates for RN(NP) patient referrals as if the patients had been referred to that specialist by another physician. RN(NP)s can now refer their clients directly to specialists and provide quicker access to health care for Saskatchewan residents. This information was published in the winter edition of the SRNA Newsbulletin and available on the SRNA website. www.srna.org/srna-newsbulletin

RN(NP)s can now refer their clients

directly to specialists and provide quicker access to health care for Saskatchewan

residents.

on march 2, 2012 the srNA received confirmation from the Canadian Nurses Association that saskatchewan has been chosen as one of the four jurisdictions for the upcoming 2012 CNA Nurse practitioner Awareness Campaign. please review the details on the srNA website as we unfold the plans for the campaign.


Dermatomyositis

by Jone barry, rN (Np) CDe

Dermatomyositis is an autoimmune disorder that occurs in 9.6 people per million. It includes a rash on the back of the hands, a shawl like rash over the shoulders and redness over the brow and cheeks. Dermatomyositis is usually triggered by another illness such as cancer or sarcoidosis.

Subsequently, the hunt for the precipitating cause began. I arranged investigative ultrasounds, x-rays, lab work, and a mammogram. I wrote referrals to specialists.

The patient’s physician was consulted throughout the process.

Our patient is doing well now and is currently weaning off the prednisone. The dermatomyositis is under control and so far, she is cancer free.

This was an interesting case. I learned about diagnosing and treating an unusual disease. I worked through the differential and provided a high quality service for our client. Working within a collaborative practice insured appropriate treatment and referrals. Helping people reach their optimal health...that is what a nurse practitioner can do.

For the past six years, I have worked at Saskatoon Community Clinic and I still

am asked, “What do Nurse Practitioners do?” Let me tell you about a special patient and shed some light on what I do.

I saw a woman in her fifties who was complaining of a progressive, occasionally itchy rash on the back of her hands. The rash stretching over the metacarpals towards the wrist were raised and red. My differential diagnosis included psoriasis so we tried an anti-inflammatory cream plus lotion several times daily.

She returned a few weeks later with complaints of aching shoulders and fatigue with simple chores. We did investigations to rule out common causes of fatigue and added a blood test for CK due to the muscular pain.

A few hours later, the lab phoned to report the CK level was 3180. The normal range is 26-192 u/L.

After consulting with a physician, I referred the patient to a rheumatologist who confirmed the diagnosis of dermatomyositis and started her on prednisone and hydroxychloroquine.

Dermatomyositis is an autoimmune disorder that occurs

in 9.6 people per million.

Jone barry is alternate president, Nurse practitioners of saskatchewan. Npos is a professional practice group (ppg) of the saskatchewan registered Nurses’Association (srNA). The Npos vision, mission and ends reflect the mandate of the srNA and interest of the public.


The SRNA Investigation Committee distributed two surveys to individuals who

had been involved in the Competence Assurance Process from the period January 1, 2011 to December 31, 2011.

One survey was sent to members who had been investigated and one to individuals who had submitted a report alleging competency concerns against a member. The surveys were identical. The surveys were sent following the closing of the investigation case in self-addressed, stamped envelopes and participants were asked not to identify themselves to ensure confidentiality. The purpose of the surveys was to obtain feedback about whether:

1. the information provided to participants during the process helped them to understand the process;

2. the process was fair and unbiased, timely, transparent (participants were kept fully informed), effective (providing an appropriate outcome) and confidential, and;

3. the process could have been carried out differently.

Of the 45 surveys distributed to members who had been investigated, 12 were returned. Of the 43 surveys distributed to individuals who had submitted a report, 22 were returned. Although this is a relatively small number, we do consider the received feedback valuable and usable for the purposes of the survey as stated earlier.

Of the respondents that had submitted a report:

• 91%felttheyhadbeenprovided with the information needed to understand the process, an increase of 6% from 2010;

• 86%foundtheprocessfairandunbiased, a decrease of 10% from 2010;

• 91%saiditwastimely,anincrease of 6%;

• 86%believeditwastransparent, an increase of 5% from 2010;

• 82%saiditwaseffective,anincrease of 8% from 2010; and

• 100%reporteditwasconfidential, an increase of 7% from 2010.

These statistics indicate a positive increase in the indicators for the respondents that submitted a report.

Of the respondents investigated:• 83%felttheyhadbeen

provided with the information needed to understand the process, a decrease of 17% from 2010;

• 67%foundtheprocessfairand unbiased, a decrease of 4% from 2010;

srna inve st igat ion com m it te eby rhonda o’Hagan, rN, Advisor, Competence Assurance

Survey Says: 2011 Competence Assurance Process Information


• 50%foundittimely,anincrease of 2% from 2010;

• 58%reporteditwastransparent, a decrease of 9% from 2010;

• 67%saiditwaseffective,nochange from 2010, and;

• 75%reporteditwasconfidential, a decrease of 5% from 2010.

These statistics indicate work is required in the majority of these indicators in terms of our member’s experience with the process.

Several positive comments were shared regarding the process itself as well as useful suggestions for future consideration.

Several respondents noted it would be useful to have a more detailed outline of the investigation process that took place and explanation of the rationale for the decisions made by the Investigation Committee. This was noted by both members that were investigated and those submitting concerns.

A report form has been developed and is now being utilized by the Investigation Committee to provide detailed information to the participants in the process concerning the steps of the investigation that took place and reasons for the decisions of the Investigation Committee. One of the SRNA Council’s ENDS for

2012 is that “there is a just, timely, transparent, effective process, of which the public is aware, to address a concern regarding the practice of a RN or RN(NP).” A communication plan has been developed and will be implemented this year and an additional investigator has been hired to assist with workload to ensure a timely process.

This survey will be distributed again in 2012. It is the Investigations Committee’s intent that with a continued focus on providing a fair, timely and transparent process these indicators will be maintained and/or show a positive increase.

Gregory W. Pittman, RN #34554, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan

Gregory W. Pittman was found guilty of professional misconduct pursuant to Sections 26(1) and 26(2)(1) of The Registered Nurses Act, 1988 (The Act); Standard I, Professional Responsibility and Accountability [Items 1, 13, and 27(a) & (b)]; Standard III, Ethical Practice (Items 66 & 68); and Standard IV, Service to the Public [Items 84(c) and 85(b)] of the Standards and Foundation Competencies for the Practice of Registered Nurses and the Code of Ethics for Registered Nurses, Providing Safe, Compassionate, Competent and Ethical Care (Items 1 & 3), Preserving Dignity (Items 1 & 10), Promoting Justice (Items 2 & 3), Being Accountable (Item 1). Mr. Pittman has been suspended from the SRNA. The decision has been appealed to the Court of Queen’s Bench. For a full copy of the Decision, please refer to the SRNA website www.srna.org.

D i s C i p l i N e D e C i s i o N

Since 2007, the Acute Care Patient Experience Survey has collected a wealth of

information on patients’ experiences in Saskatchewan hospitals.

Randomly selected patients from each hospital answer 50 questions about various aspects of their experience, from interactions with staff (e.g., communication with nurses and doctors) to processes and the hospital environment (e.g., discharge process and cleanliness of room).

The survey results are added monthly to the public reporting tool, Quality Insight: www.qualityinsight.ca where information is presented for each hospital, health region, and in some cases individual wards within a hospital.

Recently, a few regions told us that knowing what matters most to patients would help them to focus their improvement efforts. Lisa Alspach, Patient Safety and Improvement Manager in Sunrise Health Region, says, “Overall patient experience indicators give us a high-level view of how we’re performing, but we need information about what influences those scores.”

In response, we analyzed Saskatchewan survey data from 2009-2011 to determine the impact that

each aspect of care has on patients’ willingness to recommend the hospital to family and friends, a key measure of overall hospital experience. We found that patients in Saskatchewan are:• Fivetimesmorelikelyto

recommend the hospital to family and friends when they said “yes, definitely” this health region takes their safety seriously than patients who said “no”.

• Threetimesmorelikelytorecommend the hospital to family and friends when they said that nurses “always” treated them with courtesy and respect than patients who said “never” or “sometimes”.

• Threetimesmorelikelytorecommend the hospital to family and friends when they said that their room and bathroom were “always” kept clean than patients who said “never”.

• Twotimesmorelikelytorecommend the hospital to family and friends when they said that nurses “always” listened carefully to them than patients who said “never” or “sometimes”.

• Twotimesmorelikelytorecommend the hospital to family and friends when they said “yes” staff listened and respected them as a partner in their care than patients who said “no”.

• Twotimesmorelikelytorecommend the hospital to family and friends when they said that the admission procedure was “completely organized” than patients who said “not at all organized”.HQC also provided each health

region with information on which factors had the greatest influence on how patients in their region rated their overall hospital experience. “This information makes the survey data practical and useful for us. It generated very good discussions in our region about the areas we can focus on to improve our overall patient satisfaction scores,” says Alspach.

To download handouts and PowerPoint presentations about the Patient Experience Survey, how feedback on patient experiences can improve care, and improvement ideas, visit www.hqc.sk.ca. (Go to Improving Quality>QI Projects>Patients’ experiences with acute hospital care).


He alt H Qual it y cou nc i l

What factors most influence patients’ rating of their overall hospital experience?

Gaylene Molnar, RN, Director Nursing Professional Practice & Education for Saskatoon Health Region (SHR).

Gaylene has been with the SHR since 1991 and has worked in the capacity of RN, Clinical Instructor, Manager, Clinical Nurse Educator, Clinical Nurse Specialist and most recently Program Manager for the Geriatric Evaluation and Management Services. She is also currently completing her EXTRA Fellowship with the Canadian Health Services Research Foundation (CHSRF). As part of her fellowship Gaylene is leading an intervention project focused on the support of frail older adults transitioning from hospital to home.

Gaylene brings to this role a great knowledge of nursing professional practice and practice roles, strong capacity in Change Leadership and a passion for Client and Family Centered Care and Interprofessional Practice.

Margot Hawke, RN. For the past two years Margo Hawke, RN, was in the role of Interim Director of Nursing Affairs, SHR. For the majority of this time Margot carried the role of both Manager of Nursing Affairs and Interim Director. She provided stability and support during a time of change within the Senior Leadership for Nursing and has been an incredible resource, educator and support to the team. Margot will continue to provide leadership for nursing at SHR in the role of Manager Nursing Affairs.


nu r s e s to Know

Our province’s nurses are valued contributors to the Saskatchewan Surgical

Initiative’s mission to reduce surgical wait times, enhance safety and improve surgical patients’ care experience. The Regina Qu’Appelle Health Region (RQHR) is currently trialing a program that promises to be a tremendous measurement tool in our quest to be sooner, safer, smarter.

For the past year, it’s been the job of Erica Dumont, RN to call cardiac patients three months after their surgery to see if any of them have suffered from infection in or around their surgical site. She asks a series of questions that are designed to eliminate any possibility for subjectivity. She’s able to record, without doubt, the number of surgical site infections associated with cardiac procedures.

While the purpose of Dumont’s call is very specific – to determine if surgical site infections are occurring – the responses provide an opportunity to gather insight about the entire surgical experience. “As time goes on in the study,” says Dumont, “the surgical experience seems to be getting even more positive for people due to the excellent pre- and post-op teaching being done by physicians, nurses, dieticians, pharmacists, physiotherapists and everyone the patients come in contact with.”

Dumont is working on a program trial being conducted in the RQHR called “Surgical Site Infection Prevention, Surveillance and Reporting.” It is coordinated by Regional Infection Prevention and Control Manager Kateri Singer and Surgical Quality Improvement and Patient Safety Manager Susan Macknak, RN.

The goals of the trial are to make all healthcare team members aware of the definition of surgical site infections according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, to develop and implement a feedback reporting protocol, and to educate health care team members about the precautions that can be taken to prevent infections. “We did a whole education blitz to every nursing unit,” says Macknak. “The surgical staff and the floor staff are the ones who are talking to the patients, telling them what to expect and giving them instructions for going home. We worked with pretty well anyone who would listen to us.” With all areas of staffing on board with the project, phone surveillance was established to measure the program’s effectiveness.

The program is also being trialed with craniotomy patients and plans are being made to extend it further. “In addition to monitoring those procedures that have serious implications should an infection occur,” explains Singer, “we can also watch for hot spots. Let’s say we start to see a large infection rate in mastectomies, then we might apply this program for three, six or 12 months to see if we can identify why we have an increase in the infection rate in that category.”

The potential benefits are many – so many, in fact, that Accreditation Canada has taken an especially keen interest in the program and asked to be informed of the trial results.

But it’s the bigger, ultimate goal that Dumont is focused on – whether or not the health region is sending people home in the best condition possible, with minimal impact on their lives. Since she’s initiating the calls, no one knows better what the program means to the people on the receiving end of the phone lines.

“It almost seems like people appreciate the kindness, the attention to their many questions, the teaching, more than the technical wonders of their surgical experience,” observes Dumont. “It was wonderful for me to hear the positive comments. They make me feel that there’s a lot of good work being done by many people.”


sas K atc H e wan su rg ic al in it iat ive

RQHR Health Care Teams Measure Up in Phone Surveillance


Each Saskatchewan health region or facility is expected to have a surgical safety checklist in place soon; many are adaptations from WHO or the Canadian Patient Safety Institute (CPSI) version. Both agencies suggest facility modifications so the checklist works for your operating rooms. This one page checklist does make a difference in surgical safety. (Haynes et al, 2009) Patients, family and nurses should ask surgeons if they use this checklist. Many patients do participate as does the OR staff along with surgeons and anesthesia. There are three segments: a portion before anesthesia is induced; immediately before the incision is made, and; as the procedure is finishing.

Checklists and Healthcare

by margaret Farley, rN, CpNcperioperative Clinical Nurse educator, regina Qu’Appelle Health region

Checklists are created for many reasons including, to protect patients, reduce errors, assist in providing optimal outcomes, and act as a review of that all required elements for a specific process or procedure

have been met. They are a list of items arranged in a specific order depending on their use.

One of the most noted checklists of late is the Surgical Safety Checklist. The World Health Alliance for Patient Safety initiated the World Health Organization (WHO) Second Global Patient Safety Challenge: Safe Surgery Saves Lives campaign in 2007/2008. The vision was to improve the safety of surgical care worldwide. A very lofty goal and we hope it is achievable!

Checklists are not used exclusively in health care nor are they a new tool; the

aviation industry has used them for many years. Your grocery shopping list could be considered a checklist - one forgotten ingredient is a potential failure or creates an unpalatable dish!

Health care is embracing the use of checklists. In our fast-paced environments overlooking one aspect of a process can cause a delay in treatment. Patient safety is under scrutiny. The list below includes a few areas checklists may be used.

Each Saskatchewan health region or facility

is expected to have a surgical checklist in

place soon...

ReferencesHaynes, A.b, et al, (2009). A surgical safety Checklist to reduce morbidity and mortality in a global population, New england Journal of medicine, 360:491-9

3Risk assessment

3travelers

3colic

3Skills

3assisted Living

3hand off communication tool

3Surgical Safety

3Preoperative

3outpatient Surgery

3discharge Planning

3constipation

3audits

3Physician office visit

3clinic visit

3insertion of central lines

More information is available at: www.who.int www.safesurgerysaveslives.ca www.patientsafetyinstitute.cawww.healthgov.sk.ca/surgical-initiave www.health.gov.sk.ca/s3-july-2010


Safety Alert

Omission of Radiology Exams File Number 2011/12-002, January 2012 Recommendations:

That Regional Health Authorities develop a system that ensures ordering physicians are notified when a radiology exam that has been requested has not been performed and why.

Performing Radiology Exams Other Than Ordered. File Number 2011/12-003, January 2012 Recommendations:

In some circumstances, a radiologist may decide to perform a study other than that which was ordered. We recommend that Regional Health Authorities develop a system that ensures the following:

In circumstances where the referring physician has specifically requested that a type of exam NOT be performed, the radiologist MUST consult with the referring physician prior to obtaining this image.

In all circumstances where the attending radiologist performs as exam other than that which was directly ordered, the RHA develop a system that ensures ordering physicians are notified what has or has not been performed and why.

Provincial Safety Alerts The Saskatchewan Ministry of Health, Saskatchewan Regional Health Authorities & the Saskatchewan Cancer Agency are working together for safer care. Alerts are released by Saskatchewan Health following the review of at least one critical incident of this type reported to the ministry. The intent of an Alert is to recommend initiatives that will improve the safety of patients who may be cared for under similar circumstances.

A critical incident is defined as a serious adverse health event including but not limited to, the actual or potential loss of life, limb or function related to a health service provided by, or a program operated by, a regional health authority or health care organization.

Recommendations are intended to support the development of best practices and to act as a basic framework for modification so that the end result is a good fit within your Regional Health Authority and Health Care Organization. To assist you, when able, we will share RHA policies or initiatives that have been developed.

We recognize and support that radiologists often use their clinical judgment to make decisions about how to obtain the best and most appropriate image to aid the referring physician in making diagnostic and treatment decisions. This alert speaks only to the issue of appropriate and timely communication.

Note that the entire alert has not been published here. For additional information about this safety alert please contact Denise Grad, Provincial Quality of Care Coordinator at (306) 787-2718 or Susan Burns, Provincial Quality of Care Coordinator at (306) 787-0935.


An Addictions Counsellor can

help a person deal with their alcohol/

drug misusing behaviour.

As a RN, you will likely encounter clients who struggle with alcohol and/or drug use. It can be difficult to reduce or stop using alcohol and/or drugs. A person will have a better chance of changing their behaviour if they have support. RNs can remind people about the support family and/or friends, co-workers, religious leaders and other professionals can offer. Sometimes, that support is not enough and you may choose to help them find an Addictions Counsellor.

An Addictions Counsellor can help a person:• figureoutiftheyaredependentonalcohol/drugs;• setandreachgoals;• findalcohol/drugandcommunityresourceinformation;• workthroughissues;• learnhowtotellotherswhattheyneed;• recognizeanddealwithfeelings;• copewithcravings;• dealwithrelationships;and• getconnectedwithinthecommunity.

An Addictions Counsellor can help a person deal with their alcohol/drug misusing behaviour. They will help determine which situations put the person at risk to drink alcohol or use drugs. They can help determine ways a person could reduce or quit using these substances. They can also encourage family and friends to be supportive.

An Addictions Counsellor may also help a person get connected within the community. Services may be offered through schools, libraries, public health offices, self-help groups and recreation centres. Connecting with others can help a person create strong positive relationships, take part in social and recreational opportunities, find work, eat healthy foods, get a quality education, and find safe housing.

In Saskatchewan, if a person needs help because of alcohol or drug use, they can contact their local Addictions Services office, doctor or other health care provider.

To locate Addictions Services:• visitwww.healthysask.ca;• checkthephonebook’sgreenpagesforlocalhealthregionservices;• callHealthLineat1-877-800-0002tospeaktoanAddictions

Counsellor; or• visitHealthLineOnlineatwww.healthlineonline.ca.

Self-help support groups such as Alcoholics Anonymous, Narcotics Anonymous, and Al-Anon may also be able to offer support.

SaSkatchewan MiniStry of health

Providing Help to Others When They Struggle With Alcohol/Drug Use


Over the past year the SRNA has identified four top trends in concerns RNs made to

the Competence Assurance Advisor. At the top of the list were concerns related to a lack of professionalism including interpersonal and relationship issues in the workplace.

What does professionalism mean? How does professionalism relate to ethics?

“Professionalism requires that all registered nurses in all roles demonstrate professional standards. They put into action their values and attributes of professionalism when providing nursing care and collaborating with patients, nurse colleagues, other members of the health care team and nursing students” (RNAO, 2007, p. 24).

The Nursing Best Practice Guideline Professionalism in Nursing Best Practice Guideline (RNAO, 2007) identifies eight attributes of professionalism: knowledge, spirit of inquiry, accountability, autonomy, advocacy, innovation and visionary, collegiality and collaboration, ethics and values. For each attribute, a number of evidence-based recommendations of what professional nurses do, or how they behave in professional situations are offered.

Within the Standards and Foundation Competencies for the Practice of Registered Nurses (SRNA, 2007) Standard III-Ethical Practice states that “the RN demonstrates competence in professional judgment and practice decisions by adhering to the current Canadian Nurses Association (CNA) Code of Ethics for registered nurses and by establishing therapeutic, caring, and culturally safe relationships with clients and health care team members (p. 10).” Expectations about what it means to be professional and what constitutes professionalism and ethical practice are identified and intertwined within SRNA code of ethics and practice standards and competencies. Practicing competently and practicing ethically are not independent of one another.

What does it mean for RNs to practice professionally and ethically in relationships with colleagues and co-workers in the work environment?

This means that RNs are held to nursing standards and ethics in which they would consistently: • Mentorotherregisterednurses,

nursing students and colleagues to enhance and support professional growth

etH ic s cor n e rby linda banerjee, rN, Nursing Advisor, practice

Ethics and Professionalism

ReferencesCanadian Nurses Association. (2008). Code

of ethics for registered nurses. ottawa, oN: Author.

registered Nurses’ Association of ontario. (2007). professionalism in nursing. Toronto, oN: Author.

saskatchewan registered Nurses’ Association. (2008). standards and foundation

competencies for the practice of registered nurses. regina, sK: Author.


• Supportcolleagueswhoidentifyissues with professional practice

• Contributetoaculturethatsupports teamwork

• Treateachother,colleagues,students and other health care workers in a respectful manner and work with others to resolve differences in a constructive way

• Maintainprofessionalrelationshipsand boundaries with other team members

• Understandingandsupportthe scope of practice of other disciplines

• Buildpartnershipswithhealthcareteam members, recognizing and respecting the unique and shared competencies of each member

• Provideandencourageconstructivefeedback amongst team members

• Consultandcollaboratewithotherhealth care team members

• Anticipatepotentialstaffsafetyconcerns and initiates appropriate action

• Demonstrateprofessionalpresence• Encouragecollaborative

interactions within the nursing and the health care team

• Demonstrateeffectivecollaborativeproblem solving strategies, including conflict resolution

• Refrainfromjudging,labeling,demeaning, stigmatizing and humiliating behaviors toward other health care professionals and each other

• Supportaclimateoftrustthatsponsors openness, encourage questioning the status quo and support those who speak out to address concerns in good faith

• Arehonestandpracticewithintegrity in all professional interactions

The above values and attributes apply to professionalism and ethics and relate to relationships with coworkers in the health care environment. All are identified and acknowledged within the Standards and Foundation Competencies for the Practice of Registered Nurses (SRNA, 2007) and the Code of Ethics (CNA, 2008). They serve as criteria that determine whether a registered nurse is practicing professionally, competently and ethically.

If you have questions or would like to speak with a Practice Advisor about ethics, contact the SRNA Practice Advisement Team at 359-4200 or 1-800-667-9945 or by email at [email protected].

Now Available at http://cna-aiic.dualcode.com/index.php?lang=en


it is your professional responsibility to vote. e-voting will be open thirty days before the annual Meeting. all eligible voters will be sent an e-mail indicating that e-voting is open.

the image below will be posted on on the SRna website at

www.srna.org

When you click on the icon you will be directed to the SRna elections Page.

last Name: Please enter your last name.

RN #: Please enter your Rn #.

You will only be allowed to vote once. Balloteer maintains a robust, secure, and reliable network infrastructure. their independent third-party technology audit ensures compliance with best practices

for the security of network assets and their multilayer network perimeter protects the voting application, data and results.

computers will be available and you will be able to vote online until noon at the annual meeting in Regina on May 2, 2012.

Member-At-Large regioN iV

Glen-mary Christopher, RN (Will be elected by acclamation at the Annual Meeting)Clinical Instructor, Sun-rise Health Region

My name is Glen-mary Christopher, and I am a Registered Nurse in Sunrise Health Region. I would be

honored to represent Region IV on the SRNA Council. I am happily married with two small children. I graduated from the University of Manitoba in 2003 with two degrees: Bachelor of Arts (English) and Bachelor of Nursing. I worked for the first three years of my career in a tertiary Emergency department, and floated to medicine, surgery, and cardiac sciences step-down. In 2006 I moved to Yorkton and began working in the Intensive Care Unit at Yorkton Regional Health Centre. Since 2008 I have been a Clinical Instructor for the region and my responsibilities include promoting evidence-based practice, writing policies and procedures to support nursing practice, and teaching practicing nurses. I am a certified community triathlon coach and volunteer my time with Parkland Triathlon Club to foster love of physical activity and to promote participation of adults at any level of fitness.

In the last two years of practice I have become increasingly conscious of professionalism issues facing registered nursing, and seek to take ownership of advancing RN professional practice through participation in policy-making at the Council level. Other important issues facing nurses today include retention of the existing workforce and recruitment of new nurses, leveraging the power of technology, returning to foundational nursing practices through a commitment to Client and Family Centered Care, and strengthening professional Registered Nursing through continued self-regulation.

Member-At-Large regioN Vi

Catherine (Cathy) Jeffery, RN

Director, Continuing Nursing Education College of Nursing, University of Saskatchewan

I feel very privileged to let my name stand for the member-at-large for Region VI, Saskatoon.

I have been nursing in various roles in direct practice, management, nursing education, and professional development for the past 29 years. My acute care nursing experiences include general med-surg, neuroscience, neurotrauma, and critical care. I have also case managed in urban hospitals, palliative care, and the community. Regional, provincial, and national experiences in research, program development, and policy roles have enriched my practice.

I completed a BA (Sociology) in 1978, a BSN in 1983, a master’s degree in nursing in 2003 and am now working on a PhD in nursing at the University of Saskatchewan. You can see that I am a lifelong learner and I believe all nurses learn constantly throughout their careers as well.

I am proud to call myself a registered nurse. No one else does what we do – we are with patients/clients/residents and their families 24/7 and we see them at their very happiest and most challenging times. RNs make such a difference! We must get better at illustrating and celebrating our contribution and accomplishments. We can do this by working to our full scopes of practice and by “practicing out loud” – by being proud of how we make a difference and making our contributions visible to the people we are privileged to provide care to, the health system, and to ourselves!

I would be honored to serve Region VI on the SRNA Council. Thank you for your support!

srna elect ion s


srna elect ion s



Pamela Komonoski, RN(NP) Primary Care Nurse PractitionerStudent Health Services, University of Saskatchewan

My nursing career began in 1985 upon completion of the Registered Nursing program at SIAST, Kelsey

Institute. I worked for three years on Orthopedics at Royal University Hospital, and then went on to Student Health Services, where I continue to work full-time as a RN, Nurse Practitioner. I completed the Advanced Clinical Nursing Program through SIAST, Wascana Institute in 1999. My work at Student Health Services involves providing primary care to University students as well as being involved in the University Community.

I am an active member of the Nurse Practitioners of Saskatchewan (NPOS) as well as Saskatchewan Association of Nurse Practitioners (SANP). I have served on the NPOS Education Committee and have been Vice-Chair for NPOS. I have participated in numerous committees, locally, provincially and nationally.

My work as a Nurse Practitioner at the University of Saskatchewan has given me valuable experiences and provided opportunity for development of the role of the RN. I believe this experience will be beneficial in relating to the issues that nurses are facing today. As health care demands increase, and the struggle to provide care continues, I look forward to work with Council to ensure that nursing can meet the health care needs of the people of Saskatchewan. I commit to being an advocate for RNs and RN(NP)s in meeting this goal.

Thank you for your support.


Melanie Woods, RN

Administrator, Director of Care, Saskatoon Con-valescent Home

I am pleased to allow my name stand for member-at-large for Region VI.

I have worked as a full time RN within Saskatchewan for 34 years. I completed a Diploma in Nursing in 1977, and later

earned a BScN at the University of Saskatchewan. Most recently, I obtained a Masters of Arts in Leadership from the University of Guelph. I have worked in a variety of settings: acute, long term, and home care, and have held a variety of roles as staff nurse, consultant, educator, and manager.

I am passionate about nursing and the role RNs play in the health industry. I believe the registered nurse is a key member of the health team, and a vital partner in advocating for the needs of those we serve. I believe RNs must be strong and confident leaders to drive change in a way that supports a safe and sustainable health system that also ensures excellent quality care. I believe in healthy work environments that support learning and growth. It is essential that RNs work in an environment in which they are able to maintain their competency and provide safe, ethical care. I believe that through collaboration, knowledge-sharing and continuous quality improvement initiatives, individuals will be empowered, and as a result, better health outcomes will be realized.

Thank you for your consideration and support.


Nominations Committee

Deanna Barlow, RN (NP) (Will be elected by acclamation at the Annual Meeting)Nurse Practitioner, Lutheran Care Home

My nursing career started in 1973 at the University Hospital in Saskatoon Saskatchewan on a kidney transplant and cardiology ward, 3CF. Farming and raising children took me to Star City where I gained the majority of my varied nursing experience at an active acute care and surgical hospital in Melfort. There I worked in all areas of nursing from Emergency to Labour and Delivery and all areas in between.

In 1995 I earned my Advanced Clinical Nurse Diploma and went to two nursing outposts in the north to work as a nurse practitioner fulltime. Later I moved to Saskatoon and Regina to work in supervisory positions. I have worked the last five years in a family practice doctor’s office, Regina Community Clinic, as a licensed NP and currently am working to help develop the NP role in long term care facility at the Regina Lutheran Home.

I have been blessed with three wonderful children and now four grandchildren. I enjoy playing flute in the Regina Mandolin Orchestra.

I am intrigued with the opportunities, challenge, and rewards that nursing has afforded me. I have enjoyed being part of the decision-making process working with the SRNA on various committees, initially, with the development of the legislation and bylaws for NPs and other committees.

I am happy to let my name stand for nomination to the nomination committee.


Thank you to the SRNA Award Committee Members:

Joanne Petersen, RN, Committee ChairNathalie Senhouse, RN

Helen Donald, RN(NP)

Nancy Dorion, RN

Judy Schwindt, Public Representative

This year the Awards Committee supported the nomination of Donna Brunskill, RN, for the CNA Order of Merit Award in the category of Policy. This was approved by Council at the February 14, 2012 Council meeting so the nomination has gone forward to the Canadian Nurses Association. No decision regarding the nomination has been received to date.

Also in 2012 the Awards Committee nominated the Saskatchewan HIV/HCV Nursing Education Organization for the Saskatchewan Healthcare Excellence Awards, a SRNA Professional Practice Group, in the category of Provide. Executive Members include Greg Riehl, RN; Laurel Stang, RN; and Susanne Nasewich, RN. At the time of printing this publication, this nomination was short-listed as a finalist, but no decision was available to print.

Awards Committee Public Representative Judy Schwindt

Judy Schwindt grew up and went to school in Yellow Grass, a small town about 100 kilometers south of Regina. She graduated from the University of Regina with a teaching certificate and later completed her Bachelor of Education after several years of summer classes and evening classes. By that time, Judy was married and living on a farm near Pangman, Saskatchewan, and teaching at Pangman School, the same school that her two children were attending. During Judy’s 31 years of teaching, she has taught all grade levels, acted as teacher librarian, and served as principal for 10 of those years. Judy is retired, but she is still involved with the school as a substitute teacher.

Krista (daughter) and her husband, Kris live in Rossland, British Columbia with their boys, Adam and Alex. All of them are very accomplished skiers and cyclists. Rob (son) and Megan live in Yellow Grass. Rob has worked in the Southeast Saskcehewan oil patch for nearly 15 years, including a stint in Egypt as a consultant. Needless to say, Judy is very proud Mom and Grandma.

srna awar Ds com m it te e

Congratulations to all those who were nominated for SRNA Awards this year.

The SRNA Member Recognition Awards are an opportunity for members to formally recognize and celebrate many of the outstanding contributions of individual members and groups of RNs and RN(NP)s. Award recipients will be honoured at the SRNA Member Recognition Awards Banquet and Ceremony held in conjunction with the SRNA Annual Meeting and Conference Day.

Bernie Bolley, RN

Valerie Crickett, RN

Rob Gantefoer

Danita Lang, RN

College of Nursing, Master of Nursing Program Team

Patricia McLean, RN

Cindy Peternelj-Taylor, RN

Sandra Pettit, RN

Dr. Vivian Ramsden, RN

Saskatchewan Collaborative Bachelor of Science Program

Saskatoon Nursing Students’ Association

Rosalie Tuchsherer, RN

Thank you to those who nominated your peers this year.

Please plan to join us at the Annual SRNA Awards Banquet on May 2, 2012 at the Regina Delta Hotel.

The Awards Committee is responsible for establishing guidelines and administering the SRNA Member Recognition Program. The committee includes up to four members and one public representative. Committee members are approved by the Membership

Advisory Committee.


I have recently reread the tickets for nomination of the last two CNA elections and it reinforces to me that nursing has always been a profession rich with opportunities and challenges and is always experiencing interesting times. Recent economic influences may tempt leaders to effect policies that threaten the principles of health care in Canada.

As professionals who enjoy a high degree of public trust, nurses, and by extension the CNA, are positioned to contribute to, and lead the shaping of healthcare in Canada. I have been active in both my professional associations throughout my career and have served on or chaired community and workplace boards and committees. Last fall I ran as an MLA candidate in the general provincial election. I have always held a strong interest in self-regulation in the public interest. I believe my background makes me the ideal candidate to serve nurses and nursing in Canada as the next CNA President Elect.

Cindy Sherban, RN

I have enjoyed a long and varied career as a nurse. I began as a Registered Psychiatric Nurse in 1981, and then became a Registered Nurse in 1985. I completed my Master’s degree from St Frances Xavier University and my project and thesis focused on the continuing competency of nurses. I have worked in direct care in the community (mental health nurse) and an institution; in administration as a Project Manager and a Program Director; and most recently, as a nurse educator.

My career of more than 25 years with the Correctional Service of Canada allowed me to work outside of Saskatchewan (in and from Ottawa), coordinating the accreditation of physical health services in our 53 federal penitentiaries, working with nurses from British Columbia to Nova Scotia. Thus, my experience is not limited to one province.

2012 ELECTION CANADIAN NATIONAL NURSES ASSOCIATION (CNA) PRESIDENT ELECT CANDIDATE

…nursing has always been a profession rich with

opportunities and challenges and is always experiencing

interesting times.


Bylaw ChangesA number of editorial changes will be proposed to the membership at the Annual Meeting on May 2, 2012 in Regina. Changes reflect grammar and punctuation only, and do not change the original intent of the bylaws. These changes are proposed to coincide with the printing of the bylaw document in 2012. Please check out the proposed bylaw changes on the SRNA website. www.srna.org

SRNA NewsbulletinAs you are aware, the SRNA Newsbulletin is produced four times annually. In response to the 2011 resolution to provide additional distribution options for our members, SRNA moved the publication to an electronic format for all members with an email address. During the transition time we want to be sensitive to our members’ needs, and realize there may be some of you who did not have sufficient time to respond to the changes. Please email us at [email protected] if you wish to receive a paper copy of the News Bulletin. We look forward to hearing from you.

srna up Date

SRNA Annual Report

The SRNA annual report will be available online in the coming weeks. Please check the SRNA website under “What’s New”. Print copies are available on request by contacting the SRNA at [email protected].

ResolutionsMembers of the SRNA can provide input on particular issues facing the profession or on initiatives in which you think the Association could be involved through submitting a Resolution.

1. A letter of resolution/motion can be submitted to SRNA Council at any time.

2. Resolutions/motions can be presented to the Council, by a person, group, annual or special meeting assembly at any time.

Resolutions can be presented at the annual meeting as a motion from the floor. Resolutions must include:

A title: subject

A Resolution statement: an expression of intent or what action you are proposing the Association take in relation to the subject of the resolution. This statement begins with: “Be it resolved…”, and should be written in a clear and concise manner.

Explanatory notes: identify why you believe the issue should be addressed. If you are making a number of points, order them numerically. (Remember that resolutions must have a provincial basis and relate to the mandate of the Association).

Identification: names of “mover” and “seconder” of resolution (must both hold active-practising status with the Association). Either the “mover” or “seconder” should be available to speak to the resolution at the Annual Meeting.

3. Resolutions/motions that are approved by the membership at the Annual Meeting will be reviewed by Council to make reasoned decisions regarding any actions to be taken.

For more information contact the SRNA or send resolutions/motions to:

Kandice Hennenfent, RN, SRNA [email protected]

2 0 1 1 A N N U A L R E P O R TCompetent, caring, knowledge-based registered nursing for the people of Saskatchewan

2066 Retallack StreetRegina, Saskatchewan S4T 7X5Phone: 306-359-4200Fax: 306-359-0257Toll Free: 1-800-667-9945Email: [email protected] Web: www.srna.org


Health Quality Council Report on Emergency Department Patient ExperiencesAn overview of survey results, including those for Saskatchewan as a whole and for each facility, is available at www.qualityinsight.ca. The web-based reporting tool, Quality Insight, is designed to give everyone – public, providers, managers, and leaders – the information they need to support quality improvement work to make our health care system better and safer for Saskatchewan residents.

Detailed tables that outline responses to each question by facility, and background information on the survey process, including a copy of the survey, are available on the HQC website.

The Canadian Council of RN Regulators (CCRNR), the national organization of registered nurse regulators in Canada, was created in 2011 to provide a forum for provincial and territorial nurse regulators to work together. In Canada, 12 nursing regulatory bodies regulate the practice of the more than 330,000 Registered Nurses and Nurse Practitioners in Canada. For more information www.srna.org/images/stories/pdfs/communications/pdf/ccrnr_about_us_2012_02_01.pdf

New Website for Canadian Nurses Association (CNA) website launched

The site has a new look and feel, improved organization and updated features.

www.cna-aiic.ca.

Privacy Consideration: Faxing personal information and personal health information

The freedom of information and Protection of Privacy Act (FOIP), The Local Authority Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (LA FOIP), and The Health Information Protection Act (HIPA) outline requirements in law about the collection, use and disclosure of personal information and personal health information.

A privacy breach occurs when an organization fails to take responsible measures to safeguard information including health information in its possession/custody of control.

www.oipc.sk.ca

Registered Nurses Association of Ontario (RNAO) Nursing Best Practice Guidelines are available online on the RNAO website. Check out the newest release on “Preventing and Mitigating Nurse Fatigue in Health Care” at www.rnao.org

New Registrar/CEO, College of Registered Nurses of British ColumbiaMs. Cynthia Johansen has been appointed Registrar and Chief Executive Officer of the College of Registered Nurses of British Columbia effective April 2, 2012.

re sou rc e s


RESOLUTION #1 BE IT RESOLVED THAT SRNA actively investigate the legislative and regulatory changes required for RN(NP)s to complete the medical certificate of death.

SRNA has had three meetings with government regarding the changes needed to the Vital Statistics Act to allow NPs to complete death certificates. We were informed that it may not be until 2013 for the Act to be opened and that we need to continue work on preparing a brief and requesting letters of support from stakeholders. The SRNA will work with the RN(NP) Advisory Committee on this issue.

RESOLUTION #2 BE IT RESOLVED THAT the SRNA strengthen their efforts to support an expanded scope of practice for rural and remote RNs in Saskatchewan.

This has been the work of the RN(certified) project that is moving to second phase. See www.srna.org for more information.

RESOLUTION #3 BE IT RESOLVED THAT the SRNA provide RNs an opportunity to opt out of receiving a paper version of the SRNA newsbulletin.

Notification of the resolution included in the Summer Newsbulletin.

Beginning in Fall 2011 Newsbulletin was circulated via email to all SRNA members with email addresses and by mail to all others.

Communications and Corporate Services continue to monitor and modify the processes to respond to members’ needs.

RESOLUTION #4 BE IT RESOLVED THAT SRNA pursue interprofessional relationships with the associations, colleges, and unions of healthcare professionals with the distinct and deliberate purpose to enhance collaboration, for the benefit of patient/client care. This must be done with public participation.

SRNA Council has a Governance Action Plan (GAP) and has included meetings with SALPN Board, SUN Board, RPNAS, SCOP, CPSS, SASW. Strategies to improve collaboration has been an ongoing agenda item. Public Representatives have been involved.

SRNA, Saskatchewan College of Pharmacists and College of Physicians and Surgeons of Saskatchewan are planning an Interdisciplinary Conference for November 2012 which will be open to all health professions and the public.

2011 an n ual me e t i ng re solut ion s up Date

2012 Saskatchewan Palliative Care Conference May 30 – June 1, Heritage Inn

Moose Jaw, Saskatchewan

Our conference is packed with major speakers, fabulous door prizes, great book selections, banquet, entertainment, plus other delights. Presenters include: Dr. Brian Goldman, Toronto

known by millions of Canadians as CBC’s ‘house doctor’ David Kessler, Los Angeles

one of the most well-known experts and lecturers on death and grief today

Dr. Alan Wolfelt, Fort Collins, CO

Noted author, educator, grief counselor and faculty member at the Univ of Colorado School of Medicine

Partnering with Greystone Bereavement Centre for an extra day on June 2 and evening public event on May 31

Additional speakers include: Dr. Mike Harlos/Fred Nelson, MSW (MB), Dr. Romayne Gallagher (BC), Dr. Ken Stakiw (SK), Dionne Warner (SK), plus others To Register : http://saskpalliativecare.org Questions? Contact Conference Chair, Sylvia Keall at (306) 691-1582

Four resolutions were presented to Council and the membership for consideration at the May 4, 2011 Annual Meeting. All four resolutions were passed by the membership. These resolutions were taken to the June Council meeting and

delegated to operations to follow through.


Saskatoon, SKApril 20 & 21, 2012

Annual General Meetings & Conference

For more information, contact:SANP at contact_np@

sasknursepractitioner.orgor

NPOS at [email protected]

Reinvent yourself with SIAST

1-866-goSIAST (467-4278)www.goSIAST.com/CE

Nursing Re-entry programUpdate and refresh your nursing knowledge and skills while learning from home, on your schedule, with the support of expert faculty. Upon completion, you will be licensed as an RN.

Nursing Re-entry is an applied certificate program designed for individuals who: • have been previously registered in Canada and are eligible for re-registration in

Saskatchewan• are currently registered in Saskatchewan and want to update their knowledge and skills• have not been registered in Canada and are required or want to write registration

exams (Assessment Strategies Inc.)

What current students have to say about Nursing Re-entry program: “I LOVE the re-entry program! It fits great into my life as I can do it at my own pace. The instructors are fabulous! They really care and have practical experience that make the program come to life and make me excited to get back into nursing. ” – Tanya Woolsey

“The program has been a great fit for me with two kids and a full-time job. I am able to work at my own pace and schedule my school work around my life. It has provided me with a practical way, financially, to rejoin the nursing profession.” – Laura Assie-Lussier

For more information, contact Greg Riehl at 775-7383 or [email protected]

8th Annual Education

Conferencefor

Saskatchewan Nurse

Practitioners

www.srna.org


APRIL

16 – 17

Capacity Assessment Conference, Queensbury Conference Centre, Regina, SK

Capacity Assessment Conference

17 – 18

Inspire, Health Care Quality Summit 2012, TCU Place, Saskatoon, SK

www.sAHo.org

18 – 19

The Fine Art of Fairness – Open Session Available to Provincial Government Employees, North Battleford

ombudsman saskatchewan Workshop

19 – 20

Introduction to 12 Lead ECG Interpretation, Health Sciences Building –Saskatoon, SK

www.usask.ca/nursing/cne/

20 – 21

8th Annual Education Conference for Saskatchewan Nurse Practitioners, Saskatoon, SK

For more information, contact: sANp at [email protected] or Npos at [email protected]

25 – 27

AHIC 2012: Towards Integrated Diagnostics, Toronto, ON

Advances in Health informatics Conference

MAY

1 – 3

SRNA Annual Meeting and Conference, Be the Voice, Quality and Patient Safety, Delta Hotel, Regina, SK srNA Annual meeting

4 – 5

Introduction to 12 Lead ECG Interpretations, Health Sciences Building, Saskatoon, SK


7 – 11

Nursing Foot Care Management - Deadline to register is April 6, 2012 in Edmonton, AB

www.devonfootcare.com

7 – 13

National Nursing Week - You can check out this year’s theme at www.cna-aiic.ca

9

2012 National Nursing Week (NNW) Telehealth Education event for nurses. Telehealth room 7 & 8, at the regina general Hospital. please contact your local Telehealth provider to register for this event.

23 – 24

Helping RN’s Work SMART - Morning and Afternoon Sessions Both Days - Registration and Payment

24 – 25

Introduction to 12 Lead ECG Interpretation, Health Sciences Building –Saskatoon, SK


JUNE

7 – 8

3rd Provincial Chronic Disease Prevention and Management Conference, Delta Bessborough, Saskatoon, SK

3rd provincial Chronic Disease prevention and management Conference

7 – 8

SRNA Regional Workshop at McKenna Hall, Weyburn, SK

www.srna.org/events/upcoming-events

18 – 20

2012 Biennium – Nurses: Movers and Shapers, Vancouver, BC

www.cna-aiic.ca/CNA/news/events/convention/default_e.aspx

upcom i ng eve nts 2012

For more information please go to the SRNA website

www.srna.org under upcoming events.


To place advertising in the next issue of the SRNA Newsbulletin please contact SRNA at:

[email protected] Toll Free: 1-800-667-9945

The complete rate sheet is available on the SRNA website under the

Publications/Newsbulletin tab.

Reinvent yourself with SIAST

SIAST salutes Saskatchewan nurses for your ongoing dedication and commitment to the profession and the people you care for. Your efforts contribute to the quality of life and health care within the province and impact the education of our nursing students.

SIAST offers flexible learning opportunities for career advancement. SIAST continuing education programs are available on a full or part-time basis through distance education allowing you to maintain employment and family responsibilities while furthering your education.

Nurse re-entry programs:•NursingRe-entry •PracticalNurseRe-entry•PsychiatricNurseRe-entry •OrientationtoNursinginCanadafor InternationallyEducatedNurses

Post RN and LPN advanced certificate programs:•BasicCriticalCareNursing •PerioperativeNursing/LPN•PerioperativeNursing/RN •PrimaryCareNursePractitioner

Continuing interprofessional education programs:•DiabetesEducationforHealthCareProfessionalsadvancedcertificate•DiabetesEducationforHealthCareProvidersappliedcertificate•OccupationalHealthandSafetyPractitionerappliedcertificate•OccupationalHealthandSafetyPractitionercertificate

Continuing nursing education:•PracticalNursingCertificatetoDiplomaprogram•CCA/LPNCompletercourses•CPRandFirstAidcourses•CRNEandCRPNEworkshops•FootCare:PrinciplesandPracticescourse•MedicalDeviceReprocessingcourses•MentalHealthcourses•LeadershipandManagementinPerioperative/MedicalDeviceReprocessing•PrinciplesofNursingPracticeforOutpatientProcedurescourse

Visit goSIAST.com/Nursing for more information.

www.goSIAST.com/CE

reTurN uNDeliVerAble mAil To: saskatchewan registered Nurses’ Assoc. 2066 retallack st. regina, sK s4T 7X5

publication Agreement #40005137

Telehealth Education Event for Nurses: Nursing, the Health of Our NationWhat do Professional Practice

Groups add to maintaining and

improving good health care for

Saskatchewan citizens?

A 2012 NAt i o N A l Nu r s i N g We e k

please join us to celebrate NNW with a presentation by srNA executive Director Karen eisler, rN on Wednesday may 9, 2012 in Telehealth rooms 7 & 8 at the regina general Hospital.

The sessions will occur at 11:30 to 12:15pm and will repeat at 12:30 to 1:15 pm.

please contact your local Telehealth provider to register for this event.

SRNA DirectoryPhone/Toll-free (306) 359-4200/ 1-800-667-9945 Fax: (306) 359-0257 E-mail/Website: [email protected]/www.srna.org Internationally Educated Nurses [email protected] Registration [email protected] RN Registration [email protected] Examinations [email protected] Assurance/ Discipline/Investigations [email protected] Links [email protected] Newsbulletin [email protected] Director [email protected] Enquiries [email protected] Practice [email protected]

SRNA NewsBulletin Spring 2012

Documents

Transcript of SRNA NewsBulletin Spring 2012