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October
13, 2004
  Message
from:
Ron Nelson,
Chair, Board of Governors,
Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre
As I read a sample of the many positive letters coming to
our facility, I am pleased that people are telling us how
well we are meeting their acute health care needs. I know
that we are taking nothing for granted, though. Our physicians,
staff and volunteers continue to find ways to improve patient
care. One suggestion with great merit was that TBRHSC hire
more full-time nurses.
Just a couple of weeks ago we proudly announced that TBRHSC
would increase the full-time nursing complement to 70% while
positioning part-time nurses in line with Ontario Standards.
This would allow us to improve patient care and patient outcomes
utilizing advanced care strategies. The change would also
increase vacation quotas for staff while decreasing costs.
Initially, the Board was excited to hear that 35 full-time
nurses were going to be hired. It was timely news as our efforts
to recruit new nurses and retain those who might have been
looking elsewhere for full-time employment, would benefit
us all immediately. However, I am glad to report that we are
exceeding our expectations. We now expect to hire upwards
of 60 full-time nurses.
Recently our Vice-President of Patient Care Services and
Chief Nursing Officer, Rhonda Crocker, stated that, "research
studies have proven the benefits of moving to more full-time
nurses. Research has shown that moving to a higher percentage
of full-time staff improves patient outcomes and satisfaction,
improves continuity of care, coordination of care, nurse/patient
relations, and knowledge of treatment modalities. Reports
from the Registered Nurses Association of Ontario fully supports
change that enhances the hiring of full-time nurses due to
the overwhelming positive impact this has on "PATIENT
CARE". Furthermore, evidence shows that overtime and
absenteeism are reduced through better utilization of nursing
resources."
As Chair of the Board of Governors, I join my colleagues
in endorsing the comment.
Congratulations to everyone involved. It continues to reinforce
our Mission Statement that "Patient Care is our
Focus".
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