Caregiver Centered Care - Connecting Regulation to Practice Mandatory Module on Restricted Activities - College of ...

Page created by Sandra Contreras
 
CONTINUE READING
Caregiver Centered Care - Connecting Regulation to Practice Mandatory Module on Restricted Activities - College of ...
VOLUME 35 ISSUE 1 • SPRING/SUMMER 2021         ISSN 1920-6348 CARE

Caregiver
Centered                                    Connecting
                                           Regulation to

  Care
                                             Practice

                                         Mandatory Module
                                           on Restricted
                                            Activities
Caregiver Centered Care - Connecting Regulation to Practice Mandatory Module on Restricted Activities - College of ...
2   care | VOLUME 35 ISSUE 1
Caregiver Centered Care - Connecting Regulation to Practice Mandatory Module on Restricted Activities - College of ...
contents                                               SPRING/SUMMER 2021

                                                                       4 |   REGULATORY SPOTLIGHT
                                                                             How Healthcare Regulation Connects
                                                                             to Professional Practice

            8                                                          6 |   REGULATORY SPOTLIGHT
                                                                             Mandatory Module on Restricted
                                                                             Activities

                                                                       8 |   COVER STORY
                                                                             Vital Support: Caregiver-Centered Care
                                                                             Supporting family caregivers can have incredible
                                                                             system impact. New CLPNA-supported research
                                                                             recognizes the value of LPNs including caregivers
                                                                             in their patients' circle of care. The Caregiver-
                                                                             Centered Care learning module helps build and
                                                                             reinforce this competency.

                                                                      15 |   PRACTICE

                                                       24                    Alberta’s Opioid Crisis:
                                                                             An Ongoing Public Health Concern

                                                                      17 | WEBside Manner
      15                                                                     Virtual Care Resources for Healthcare Providers
                                                                             and Healthcare Leaders

                                                                      18 |   CLPNA 2020 Year in Numbers

Copyright © 2021 College of Licensed Practical                        20 |   PRACTICE
Nurses of Alberta                                                            Building Resilience Will Serve Us Well
CARE is the official publication of the College of

                                                                      22 |
Licensed Practical Nurses of Alberta (CLPNA),
published on a bi-annual basis beginning in 2021.                            Nursing with Heart:
Reprint or copy of any content in whole or in                                Talking to a Leader in Harm Reduction
part requires consent from the CLPNA
Communications Department.

Editorial services provided by:
                                                                      24 |   How to Manage Anxiety
Bird Communications.
                                                                             During COVID-19
Graphic Design by:                                                           A Guide for Frontline Workers
Tim Abel, Graphic Overload.

Signed articles represent the views of the author
and not necessarily those of the CLPNA.
                                                                      27 |   Alberta LPN News

                                                              20
                                                                             Protecting the Public Interest
The CLPNA has final discretion regarding the
acceptance of notices, courses or articles and
the right to edit any material. Publication does not
constitute CLPNA endorsement of, or assumption
of liability for, any claims made in advertisements.

Annual Subscription: Complimentary for CLPNA
members, $21.00 for non-members.

                                                                                             care | SPRING/SUMMER 2021           3
Caregiver Centered Care - Connecting Regulation to Practice Mandatory Module on Restricted Activities - College of ...
Regulatory Spotlight

           How Healthcare Regulation
         Connects to Professional Practice
An important part of professional practice for licensed
practical nurses (LPNs) is to fully understand the
requirements, accountabilities, and professional
expectations of the profession as defined by governing
legislation.
Albertans expect their healthcare system to support them to
be as healthy as possible and that requires knowledge and
accountability on the part of those providing care. Meeting
this expectation requires that LPNs understand the connection
between regulation and practice to provide safe, competent,
and ethical nursing care.

Understanding regulatory responsibility can be broken into two
major components. Part 1 captures the legislative context and                                  Job Description,

provides structure for how the College of Licensed Practical
Nurses of Alberta (CLPNA) fits into health profession regulation.
Part 2 explains how LPN practice fits into this legislative context,
which can be explained via three core components of regulatory
functions: registration, competence, and conduct.

 Part     Setting the Environment for
		1       Regulatory Responsibility
The environment for regulatory responsibility is demonstrated          requirements are found in regulation. Each health profession
in the graphic and includes the following key components:              has their own professional regulation. There are also other
                                                                       supporting regulations under the HPA.
 • Legislation
 • Regulation                                                          At the time of writing, the most important regulation for LPNs
 • The Regulatory College                                              is the Licensed Practical Nurses Profession Regulation. It
 • The Employer                                                        provides more specific details for the licensed practical nursing
 • The LPN                                                             profession in Alberta and details authorized restricted activities.
 • The Public
                                                                       The Regulatory College
Protection of the public is the foundation for the LPN                 The CLPNA is the regulatory college for LPNs established
regulatory framework in Alberta. All components of the                 under the HPA. The CLPNA exists within the regulatory
regulatory framework and every action taken within each                framework to protect Albertans. The mandate of public
component work together to serve this purpose.                         protection underpins the core and supporting functions of the
                                                                       CLPNA. The CLPNA is committed to public protection by
Legislation                                                            establishing:
In Alberta, the Health Professions Act (HPA) is the major piece          • Minimum entrance requirements for registration
of legislation that underpins all health professions. The HPA              (education)
outlines requirements for health professions to be regulated             • Continuing competence requirements
by regulatory colleges. It sets rules for registration, continuing       • Disciplinary and conduct functions
competence, and professional conduct. Additionally, the HPA
outlines the responsibilities and boundaries of regulatory             The CLPNA also establishes practice standards, a code
colleges. Schedule 10 of the HPA is specific to the LPN                of ethics, policies, and guidelines to inform LPNs of their
profession.                                                            professional responsibilities. All standards and policy
                                                                       documents can be found on the CLPNA website.
Regulation
Broad parameters and common provisions for regulating                  The Employer
health professions are established in various pieces of                Employers of LPNs play an important role in building and
legislation, including the HPA. More specific details and              maintaining quality workplaces and ensuring the public’s

4   care | VOLUME 35 ISSUE 1
Caregiver Centered Care - Connecting Regulation to Practice Mandatory Module on Restricted Activities - College of ...
right to safe and ethical nursing care. As regulated health        Registration
professionals, LPNs practice independently and as part             To be eligible for registration as an LPN in Alberta, practical
of a team, working within their scope of practice and job          nurse applicants must have a practical nursing diploma
description.                                                       approved by the CLPNA’s Council, registration in another
                                                                   Canadian jurisdiction as an LPN, or the equivalent knowledge
The LPN                                                            and experience. To practice as an LPN in Alberta, individuals
This component of the regulatory framework focuses on              must be registered and have a valid Practice Permit from the
the LPN. As regulated health professionals, LPNs meet              CLPNA.
registration, competence, and conduct requirements outlined
by legislation, regulation, the regulatory college, and            Regulated members must participate in the Continuing
the employer. For more detailed information about LPN              Competence Program on an annual basis and complete an
professional practice in the regulatory framework, please          annual renewal application by December 31st to practice in
see part 2 below.                                                  the upcoming registration year.

The Public                                                         Competence
The public is at the core of the regulatory framework because      The Competency Profile for LPNs defines the knowledge,
all other components work together to ensure the protection of     skills, attitudes, and judgements expected of LPNs in Alberta.
the public. Additionally, the public acts as a quality assurance   The Competency Profile is also a guide to determine learning
mechanism for any actions or changes made to other levels          as part of LPNs' continuing competence requirements.
of the regulatory framework. Members of the public can
provide feedback directly to the LPN, the employer, the            LPNs in Alberta have full responsibility and accountability
regulatory college, or the government to offer guidance on         for their own practice and are expected to practice within
protection of the public. Health profession regulation focuses     their own level of professional competence, refining their
on the responsibilities of both institutions and individuals       knowledge, skill and ability through additional education,
which demonstrates a shared responsibility to provide quality      certification, and experience.
healthcare for all Albertans.
                                                                   Conduct
                                                                   LPNs have the professional responsibility to practice in

 Part     Understanding LPN Professional                           accordance with the Standards of Practice and Code of Ethics.
		2       Practice in the Regulatory Framework                     When an LPN's nursing practice falls below professional
                                                                   standards, it may constitute unprofessional conduct.
As noted above, LPNs are a key player in the regulatory
framework. Part 2 of this article focuses on how LPNs interact     Under the authority of the Health Professions Act, the CLPNA
with the other components through the lens of professional         is responsible for protecting the public from unethical,
practice. Specifically, we will talk about 3 components of LPN     unskilled, and unsafe nursing practice of LPNs. As such, there
professional practice: registration, competence, and conduct.      is a formal process to manage complaints of unprofessional
                                                                   conduct against LPNs.

                                                                   As discussed, registration, competence, and conduct functions
                                                                   are intended to fulfill the CLPNA’s mandate “To regulate and
                                                                   lead the profession in a manner that protects and serves the
                                                                   public through excellence in practical nursing.”

                                                                   The CLPNA has a diverse role in regulating the LPN
                                                                   profession. It is important for LPNs to understand and connect
                                                                   their regulatory responsibility to their nursing practice.
                                                                   Professionalism requires that LPNs demonstrate professional
                                                                   standards when providing nursing care and collaborate with
                                                                   patients, colleagues, and other members of the healthcare
                             LPN                                   team.
                         PROFESSIONAL
                           PRACTICE                                The many components of LPN regulation examined through
                                                                   the CLPNA’s regulatory framework and by connecting
                                                                   regulation to practice underpins the commitment and integrity
                                                                   required to ensure public safety.

                                                                   Numerous resources to support LPNs in meeting their
                                                                   regulatory responsibility and accountability can be found on
                                                                   the CLPNA website: clpna.com. n

                                                                                                   care | SPRING/SUMMER 2021        5
Caregiver Centered Care - Connecting Regulation to Practice Mandatory Module on Restricted Activities - College of ...
Regulatory Spotlight

                          Mandatory Module
                         on Restricted Activities
According to Alberta’s Government Organization Act,
restricted activities are considered high-risk health
services that require additional education, skills, and,
at times, supervision requirements. This can also be an
area of confusion for healthcare providers.

The College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Alberta (CLPNA)
released a mandatory education module in February 2020,
“Understanding Restricted Activities”, to explain restricted
activities in general and, specifically, the restricted activities
that LPNs are authorized to perform.

All CLPNA members must take the module by June 1, 2022,
as per the Standards of Practice on Restricted Activities
and Advanced Practice. Similar content is incorporated in
                                                                     CLPNA’s Learning Modules
Alberta’s approved practical nurse programs so that all new
                                                                     Completed in 2020                         Total
graduates will have learned the material by the same deadline.
                                                                     Understanding Restricted
The module thoroughly unpacks the details needed to                  Activities (mandatory)                    6,008
understand that, before performing any restricted activity,          Administering Medications via CVC,
the LPN must ensure:                                                 PICC, and IVAD                            6,606
  1. The restricted activity is authorized by the LPN                Administering Parenteral Nutrition        5,240
		 Regulation and standards of practice;                             Ear Syringing                             3,786
                                                                     Administering Blood and Blood Products:
  2. The restricted activity is appropriate within the               Transfusion                               4,627
		 context of the practice of practical nursing;
                                                                     Dispensing of Medications                 3,526
  3.    They have the competence and competencies needed             Administration of Nitrous Oxide           1,854
		      to perform the restricted activity from their entry-         Immunization                              3,416
		      level practical nursing education or from advanced           Fetal Heart Monitoring                    1,333
		      education or training;
                                                                     Non-Ionizing Radiation                    2,872
    4. Advanced authorization is obtained (if required);             Administering Diagnostic Imaging
                                                                     Contrast Agents                           1,162
  5. The LPN’s employer supports the LPN performing
                                                                     Protecting Patients from Sexual Abuse
		 the restricted activity;                                          and Sexual Misconduct                      953
  6. Other required supports and/or resources are                    PTSD Awareness & Mental Health
		 available to perform the restricted activity safely in            and Wellness for LPNs                      578
		 that specific practice setting; and                               Caregiver-Centered Care                    46

  7. They are demonstrating evidence-informed clinical               Total Modules Completed                   42,007
		 judgement and decision making.

The CLPNA launched a new learning management system
                                                                        For questions related to the LPN Profession
to provide member-only access to free, online education to
                                                                      Regulation and resulting LPN practice changes,
support practice competence. Fourteen learning modules,              please contact the CLPNA’s Professional Practice
including “Understanding Restricted Activities”, were released       Team at practice@clpna.com, 780-484-8886 or
in 2020. By year’s end, LPNs completed 42,000 learning                    1-800-661-5877 (toll-free in Alberta).
modules. LPNs can access all modules through their
myCLPNA.com account. n

6   care | VOLUME 35 ISSUE 1
Caregiver Centered Care - Connecting Regulation to Practice Mandatory Module on Restricted Activities - College of ...
Seeking
                                           Licensed Practical Nurses
                                                   at Gracepoint Medical Clinics Inc.
                                                  This busy Clinic in South Edmonton needs hard-working
                                                  Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) Full-Time or Part-Time
                                                  to assist physician/s with attending patients, taking vitals,
                                                  dressing change, and injections etc. Knowledge of filling
                                                  medical forms/reports will be desired. They must maintain
                                                  a permanent, valid practice permit with the College of
                                                  Licensed Practical Nurses of Alberta in good standing.

                                                  Successful candidate will need to work with EMR Advantage
                                                  or Telus Health software/s, and will receive training as
                                                  needed. Remuneration shall be 25 to 30 dollars an hour.
                                                  Position involves working some Saturdays.

                                                  Please send your resume/CV to gpmci2015@gmail.com
                                                  or fax to: 780.705.9945

        Gracepoint Medical Clinics Inc.

Take your career to the next level

With 14 Long Term Care and Supportive Living                   Why Join Us?
facilities' across Alberta, Extendicare is
                                                                  Competitive salary and benefits
continuously in search of professional Licensed                   Career growth opportunities
Practical Nurses that are:                                        Professional development
    Critical Thinkers                                             Inclusive work culture
    Problem Solvers                                               A rewarding career
    Decision makers
    Compassionate and safe caregivers                          www.extendicare.com/careers

                Athabasca • Bonnyville • Edmonton Region • Mayerthorpe • St. Paul • Viking
                         Red Deer • Calgary • Fort Macleod • Vulcan • Lethbridge

                                                                                             care | SPRING/SUMMER 2021   7
Caregiver Centered Care - Connecting Regulation to Practice Mandatory Module on Restricted Activities - College of ...
VITAL SUPPORT:
       Caregiver-
    Centered Care              By Kristin Baker

8   care | VOLUME 35 ISSUE 1
Caregiver Centered Care - Connecting Regulation to Practice Mandatory Module on Restricted Activities - College of ...
Cover Story

Lacey Shontreau is worried, stressed, and exhausted.

She works full time while studying to write the practical nurse
registration exam. On top of these demands, she’s the family
caregiver to her mom, who was recently diagnosed with early
onset dementia.

“I haven’t sorted out everything she needs yet and I’m feeling
very overwhelmed,” she says. “I care for patients all day and then
I go home to care for my mom at night. I don’t have enough time
to study, and I’m stressed out all the time. I didn’t think it would be
this hard.”

Shontreau coordinates her mom’s medical appointments,
administers her medication, and helps with her household chores,
all while figuring out how to work with the many healthcare
professionals involved in her mom’s care. She feels her opinion
sometimes isn’t heard when decisions regarding her mom’s care
are made; she worries about the potential consequences.

It’s been a challenging time for her, but Shontreau has the
support of her coworkers. Some of them are family caregivers,
too. They’ve made suggestions about how she can be involved
in care decisions, advocate for her mom, and navigate the
healthcare system. This has helped her to take the first steps
alongside her mom on her healthcare journey. But it’s also made
her reflect on encounters with her own patients’ family caregivers.

Shontreau’s experience as both a healthcare provider and a family
caregiver form the main story line in a series of videos featured in the
College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Alberta’s (CLPNA) Caregiver-
Centered Care self-study module. The recently launched module
explores the challenges faced by family caregivers and the role that
healthcare providers can play in supporting them. While Shontreau’s
character is fictional, the issues she faces as both a healthcare provider
and a family caregiver are real.

One in four Canadians currently provides care for a member of their
family. It could be caring for a parent who has dementia, a child with a
disability, a brother with a mental illness, a close friend with a broken
leg or a spouse with a chronic condition. It can be short- or long-term
care or, in some cases, lifelong care. These unpaid family caregivers are
the backbone of the healthcare system.

“First and foremost, family caregivers help to sustain care in the
community,” says Dr. Jasneet Parmar, associate professor in the
Department of Family Medicine at the University of Alberta and
the medical lead of Home Living and Transitions for Alberta Health
Services Edmonton Zone. >

                                                  care | SPRING/SUMMER 2021   9
Caregiver Centered Care - Connecting Regulation to Practice Mandatory Module on Restricted Activities - College of ...
“The kind of care they provide, if they      research around caregiver support. She              “At that conference we realized there
were not available – the healthcare           has also been a caregiver for an ailing             are a lot of grievances that family
system could not go on. Think of all the      parent and found it to be a stressful               caregivers suffer when interacting with
care-related activities family caregivers     situation.                                          us,” recalls Parmar. “Their voices were
provide!”                                                                                         very loud and heartbreaking.”
                                              “That’s what took me down that path.
A family caregiver is any person who          As a physician who cares for the elderly,           Sharon Anderson, MEd, MSc, PhD,
takes on a generally unpaid caring            I needed the family caregivers to take              attended that first conference. She later
role and provides emotional, physical,        care of the seniors that I was seeing,”             became the research coordinator for
or practical support in response to           says Parmar. “But what I was not doing              Parmar. Anderson also has a personal
physical and/or mental illnesses,             was looking out for the caregivers’                 connection to caregiver research – her
disabilities, or age-related needs.           needs and how I could support them.                 husband had a stroke in 1997 and she
                                              All I was doing was giving direction                became his family caregiver.

                                                                     iStock.com/SDI Productions

This can include a range of support           and advice. And then I became a family              “Our healthcare trajectories are getting
such as performing clinical services,         caregiver myself.”                                  longer,” says Anderson. “People are
medical monitoring, rehabilitation,                                                               living longer, and they provide care for
transportation, financial assistance,         This experience showed her what it                  longer. On average, somebody is caring
housework, picking up medications,            was like to be on the other side of                 for 6.1 years now, when it used to just
arranging appointments and navigating         caregiving.                                         be a couple of years.”
the healthcare system.
                                              “That’s what got me thinking, do we                 That unpaid labour is worth a
People often become a family caregiver        have a role to play with these people               staggering $66.5 billion per year
out of love, respect, and responsibility      who are supporting the system and are               (source: Caregivercare.ca). The
for the care receiver, but it can also be a   very stressed out? What are we doing?               healthcare system is not sustainable
very demanding and challenging role.          And that’s when we started to explore.”             without the help of family caregivers.

“Caregiving, as much as it can be             The initial plan was that Parmar and                “We really weren’t recognizing family
fulfilling and satisfying, we recognize       her team would research the topic.                  caregivers. There’s nothing in our
that it can be stressful,” says Parmar.       They began talking to other healthcare              policies that recognizes them in the
                                              professionals, including the CLPNA’s                [healthcare] system,” Parmar says. “So
She knows this from both professional         representatives. In 2014, the research              instead of looking to the government or
and personal experience. Parmar has           team held their first stakeholder                   a community organization, we started
served in a variety of ways to lead the       conference to establish priorities.                 to look into it ourselves.”

10   care | VOLUME 35 ISSUE 1
Parmar found that there was very little                     caregivers,” says Anderson. “What           since its inception. They helped the
research into the topic of caregiver care                   we’re doing is a cultural shift. We’re      researchers understand the LPN scope
and support. It became obvious that                         trying to change things and the CLPNA       of practice and how integral LPNs can
something needed to be done to help                         has been with us making that change         be to a paradigm shift of this nature.
the caregivers themselves. Anderson                         from the very beginning.”
recalls that point being made very clear                                                                “Collaboration between family
when a man stood up at one of the                           The research team worked closely with       caregivers and healthcare professionals
research sessions and said, “Stop trying                    the CLPNA and other stakeholders            is becoming even more important in
to build a better caregiver! You keep                       to determine the best way to educate        our healthcare environment,” says
educating us to be better caregivers, but                   and train healthcare providers about        Standing. “That’s what motivated the
what we need is your support!”                              caregiver-centered care. It was decided     CLPNA’s Caregiver-Centered Care
                                                            that evidence-informed competencies         learning module that includes the
“We talk about patient- and family-                         should form the foundation of that          Foundational Level Caregiver-Centered
                                            iStock.com/jarenwicklund

                                                                                                                                               iStock.com/FatCamera

centered care, but what we mean by                          knowledge. Six core competency              Care Course. It focuses on assisting
that is how can families look after the                     domains applicable to all healthcare        LPNs in expanding their knowledge
patients? What can we do to educate                         providers were established.                 and competencies in this area.”
the caregiver? An ‘aha’ moment for me
is that family caregivers throughout the                    “We recognize that healthcare providers     The LPN competency profile includes
care trajectory are actually interacting                    have their own stresses and challenges,”    knowledge of person-centered care. In
with healthcare staff on a regular                          says Anderson. “But if you are engaged      this way, every LPN already possesses
basis,” says Parmar.                                        with family caregivers and recognize        the foundation necessary to incorporate
                                                            them, communicate with them, partner        caregiver-centered care competencies
Recognizing that healthcare workers                         with them, it supports the health and       into their practice.
at all levels and in all sectors have an                    wellbeing of the caregiver. It makes
important role to play in the support of                    your work easier and improves your          “The basis of caregiver-centered care
family caregivers helped shape the focus                    relationship, and staff benefit from that   is woven within the LPN Competency
of the research. It became more about                       relationship.”                              Profile which outlines LPN scope of
supporting the family caregiver in their                                                                practice, and a distinct module like
caregiving efforts rather than simply                       Glenda Tarnowski, the CLPNA’s               Caregiver-Centered Care builds on
assigning them caregiving tasks.                            Director of Professional Practice           that base,” says Tarnowski. “There’s
                                                            and Sharlene Standing, the CLPNA’s          a foundational understanding that
“Caregiver-centered care is about                           Director of Professional Development,       LPNs should be looking at who’s in
person-centered care for family                             have been involved in the research          the person’s circle of care, and >

                                                                                                                care | SPRING/SUMMER 2021       11
Continued from page 11

whether those caregivers are included      Tarnowski. “It completes the puzzle.         “For example, a six-week ‘lunch
in the decision making for that            When that individual is not included         and learn’ could be a way to support
individual.”                               in the caregiving paradigm, there’s a        staff in taking the learning journey
                                           wealth of information about the person       together,” says Tarnowski. “When staff
Recognizing the caregiver role is the      [in care] that’s lost.”                      have an opportunity to learn together,
first of the six competency domains                                                     the collective learning can positively
identified through the research. The       She also notes that even seemingly small     impact changed behaviours across a
other domains include:                     actions on the part of an LPN can make       care setting.”
• communicating with family 		             a caregiver feel they – and their efforts
  members                                  – are recognized and supported. Taking       She also points out that the
                                           the moment to explain something to a         responsibility of an LPN is to provide
• partnering with family caregivers
                                           family caregiver or saying, “How are         safe care to the public. Safe care
• fostering resilience in family 		        you doing today?” are steps that can         includes understanding the needs of the
  caregivers                               easily be incorporated into transactions     care recipient while also considering
• navigating health and social systems     with family caregivers.                      those of the individuals that make up
  and accessing resources                                                               their circle of care. The inclusion of
• enhancing the culture and context                                                     family caregivers is an important aspect
  of care                                                                               of providing safe care.

Each domain contains a set of                       Including a                         At the end of the Caregiver-Centered
competency indicators that highlight            family caregiver’s                      Care module’s video series, Shontreau
                                                                                        is feeling more supported in the care
the knowledge, skills, attitudes and
values that shape caregiver-centered            knowledge of the                        of her mom. Using communication,
care practice.                                   care recipient in                      respect, and empathy, she is better able
                                                                                        to support the family caregivers she
“It’s applicable for all LPNs in all            assessments and                         encounters in her own work.
healthcare settings,” says Tarnowski.
“By changing their own individual
                                                  care planning                         “LPNs who complete the module will
practice, LPNs can have an incredible             establishes a                         also benefit from the learning as they
                                                                                        incorporate the caregiver-centered care
system impact. The CLPNA appreciated
that right from the start and felt we             collaborative                         competencies into their practice,” says
could contribute to this important work            relationship                         Tarnowski.
at that level.”
                                                  and approach                          For Anderson and Parmar, the ideal
Family caregivers often have a lot of
knowledge about the person in care.
                                                      to care.                          outcome of the caregiver-centered care
                                                                                        research and education would be a
Their familiarity with the patient is a                                                 healthcare system where caregivers are
critical piece to providing respectful                                                  supported throughout their caregiving
person-centered care. For example, a                                                    journey and patients have better care
woman with dementia might refuse           “Often it’s due to multitasking and the      because of it.
to eat her meals. Her care team may        demands of the day that those moments
not know how to solve this problem         are missed,” says Tarnowski. “The            “If everyone does a little bit, all family
until a family caregiver tells them the    modules reinforce that it’s important to     caregivers can be supported in the
patient’s preference is to eat her meals   take time to connect with the caregiver      way they need to be supported,” says
from a bowl rather than a plate. This      because in the long run it will be a         Anderson.
slight change in meal presentation is      better experience for everyone.”
important information the care team                                                     Feedback received from LPNs who
would not have had otherwise.              The Caregiver-Centered Care module           have completed the online learning
                                           includes a series of six short videos that   module to date has been very positive.
Including a family caregiver’s             illustrate how each of the competencies
knowledge of the care recipient            might be incorporated into an LPN’s          “The CLPNA’s goal is to see as many
in assessments and care planning           practice. The entire module takes            LPNs as possible complete this learning
establishes a collaborative relationship   approximately three hours to complete.       to expand their knowledge and
and approach to care.                      The learning can be done individually        competence,” says Standing. “It will
                                           or in a group setting such as a long-        positively impact the health journey of
“It’s important to include family          term care facility (when supported by        Albertans.” n
caregivers at all stages of care,” says    the employer).

12    care | VOLUME 35 ISSUE 1
JOIN OUR TEAM!
                             Broadmead Care is an exceptional
                             employer in the long term care
                             sector, with an excellent reputation
                             and a generous compensation
                             package.

                             With five locations in the Victoria,
                             BC area, there’s a spot just for you.
                             Leave your snow shovel behind and
                             head for the vibrant West Coast!
                             (We’ll even help you get here.)

                                   Visit www.broadmeadcare.com for more
                                       information and to view postings.

                             BECKLEY FARM LODGE | HARRIET HOUSE | NIGEL HOUSE
                             REST HAVEN LODGE | VETERANS HEALTH CENTRE
                             VETERANS MEMORIAL LODGE

                             Broadmead Care
                             4579 Chatterton Way
                             Victoria BC V8X 4Y7
                             Tel: 250.658.0311
                             Broadmead Care Society is a registered charity. #129290383 RR0001

Contact us to prepare your Will, Personal Directive
         and Enduring Power of Attorney.

                  AD
                                   McLEAN LEGAL
                            BARRISTERS & SOLICITORS

                                                                       care | SPRING/SUMMER 2021   13
CHANGING
                                                                                                  The language we use has a direct and profound
                                                                                                  impact on those around us. The negative
                                                                                                  impacts of stigma can be reduced by changing

          HOW WE
                                                                                                  the language we use about substance use.

                                                                                                  TWO KEY PRINCIPLES INCLUDE:

          TALK ABOUT                                                                              •      Using neutral, medically accurate
                                                                                                         terminology when describing substance use

          SUBSTANCE
                                                                                                  •      Using “people-first” language, that focuses
                                                                                                         first on the individual or individuals, not the
                                                                                                         action (e.g. “people who use drugs”)

          USE*
                                                                                                  It is also important to make sure that the
                                                                                                  language we use to talk about substance use is
                                                                                                  respectful and compassionate.

              TOPIC                                      INSTEAD OF                                            USE

              People who                                  Addicts                                              People who use drugs
              use drugs                                   Junkies                                              People with a substance use disorder
                                                          Users                                                People with lived/living experience
                                                          Drug abusers                                         People who occasionally use drugs
                                                          Recreational drug user

              People who have                             Former drug addict                                   People who have used drugs
              used drugs                                  Referring to a person as                             People with lived/living experience
                                                          being “clean”                                        People in recovery

              Drug use                                    Substance/drug abuse                                 Substance/drug use
                                                          Substance/drug misuse                                Substance use disorder/opioid
                                                                                                               use disorder
                                                                                                               Problematic [drug] use
                                                                                                               [Drug] dependence

           * This document was created in discussion with people with lived and living experience, through existing research and documentation from other
            organizations trying to address stigma. This is not an exhaustive list. Furthermore, as a result of the evolving discussion around the best language
            to use to accurately discuss substance use, this list will likely be revised.
            Cat.: HP5-132/2018E-PDF | ISSN: 978-0-660-27219-1 | Pub.: 180182

14   care | VOLUME 35 ISSUE 1
Practice

        Alberta’s Opioid Crisis:
   An Ongoing Public Health Concern
Throughout 2020, the public health emergency                individual may be using an opioid for the first time and
related to the COVID-19 pandemic was at the                 experience an overdose. Therefore, it is always important
                                                            to be respectful, professional, and aware of personal
forefront of most of our minds and continues to be
                                                            biases when someone is seeking more information about
of concern in 2021. However, COVID-19 is not the            the opioid crisis and available resources from healthcare
only public health emergency Albertans are facing.          providers.
Alberta is still confronted with an ongoing opioid
crisis impacting thousands of Albertans.                    When providing health teaching and coaching to
                                                            individuals about opioids, adopt a harm reduction
Opioid or any substance use may lead to a substance         approach by withholding judgement, providing a safe
use disorder. As healthcare providers, it is important to   space for individuals to make their own decisions, and
not stigmatize people facing addictions and ensure the      supporting access to resources, while respecting the
language we use is respectful and compassionate. Mental     individual’s right to make behaviour changes when
health is a core component to a person’s wellbeing          they are ready. By remaining committed to supporting
and problematic drug use is just like any other health      patient rights, health, and wellbeing, LPNs can better
condition that a person may be dealing with.                support them.

At the same time, not everyone who uses opioids may         LPNs are encouraged to refresh their knowledge about
have an opioid use disorder. In some instances, an          signs and symptoms of opioid overdose, how to educate >

                                                                                        care | SPRING/SUMMER 2021    15
Continued from page 15

others about substance use, and how       interactions with those who use          This resource contains information
to administer Naloxone. Taking these      opioids, to recognize the signs and      about take home Naloxone kits, the
actions will support Alberta’s response   symptoms of an opioid overdose,          LPN’s role in educating patients and
to the opioid crisis.                     and how to properly administer           families, and administering Naloxone.
                                          Naloxone to someone experiencing an      You can find this Info Sheet here:
Some signs and symptoms of an opioid      opioid overdose. You can access this     https://www.clpna.com/wp-content/
overdose include:                         training on the AHS website: https://    uploads/2018/02/doc_Info_Sheet_
                                          www.albertahealthservices.ca/info/       Naloxone.pdf.
 • Decreased level of consciousness       page13663.aspx.
 • Irregular, slow, or absent 		                                                   Many Albertans have been affected
   breathing (respiratory distress)       Alberta Health Services has also         by the opioid crisis. We can all work
                                          created a knowledge checklist            together to support the response to this
 • Skin or nail
                                          to guide healthcare providers on         ongoing public health emergency by
   discolouration (cyanosis)
                                          recognizing an opioid overdose,          providing non-judgemental, quality,
 • Cold or clammy to touch 		             administering Naloxone, and              person-centred care. n
   (diaphoretic)                          ensuring the appropriate emergency
 • Choking, snoring, or gurgling 		       medical services are contacted. This
                                                                                     For more nursing guidance, please
   noises (agonal breathing)              is a helpful resource for LPNs when
                                                                                       contact the CLPNA’s Practice
 • Nausea or vomiting                     educating patients and families about
                                                                                       Team at practice@clpna.com,
                                          Naloxone. You can find this checklist
 • Seizure-like movements                                                            780-484-8886 or 1-800-661-5877
                                          at: https://www.albertahealthservices.
   (tonic-clonic)                                                                          (toll-free in Alberta).
                                          ca/assets/healthinfo/mh/hi-amh-thn-
 • Pinpoint or tiny pupils (myosis)       participant-knowledge-checklist.pdf.

Alberta Health Services (AHS)             The CLPNA recently updated the
provides free online training for         Naloxone and the Role of the Licensed
health professionals to help guide        Practical Nurse in Alberta Info Sheet.

              2 ANNUAL                                                                Wednesday,
                                                                                    May 5, 2021
              0 GENERAL
              2
                                                                                            Register at
                                                                                   www.CLPNA.com

              1 MEETING
                                                                                      Featured Presentations:
                                                                                       Valerie Paice, President
                                                                                         Jeanne Weis, CEO
                                                                                     and the 2020 Annual Report

16    care | VOLUME 35 ISSUE 1
WEBside
Manner
Virtual Care Resources for
Healthcare Providers and
Healthcare Leaders
                                                                                 of Canadians have      of Canadians would like to have
                                                                                 experience with        virtual visits with their
The way you care for patients is changing.                                       virtual healthcare.    healthcare provider.

Check out these valuable resources to help
you and your colleagues improve virtual care
appointments.

   © 2020 Canadian Medical Association. Reproduced by the Canadian Patient Safety Institute and shared with the CLPNA with permission.

                                                                                                             care | SPRING/SUMMER 2021    17
CLPNA 2020 YEAR IN NUMBERS

       806
      Alberta graduate
                                401
                                Out of Province
                                                     75
                                                  IEN* registrations
        registrations            registrations        2019 - 139
            2019 - 1171            2019 - 391

        17,656 total LPN registrations
                                                  2.3%growth in
                                                     registration

        152complaints
                                  27
                                   hearings
                                                     38
                                                    average age
            received              completed           of LPNs

                                                      *Internationally educated nurse

18   care | VOLUME 35 ISSUE 1
Top Places of Employment

    90%
                                 H                               H                               H

         of Alberta
     candidates passed                                      Hospital                 Continuing Care*               Community Care**
       CPNRE Exam
        on 1st write                                    36% 29% 27%
                                                              5277                           4244                              3939

                                    Employment                                                                    Practice
                                                                                                                Consultations

     41%
     Full-time
               40%
               Part-time
                         19%
                          Casual                                                                               2578
                                                                                                             inquiry responses
            5998                             5828                             2768

      Learning Modules
         Completed                                        32 Webinars                                   Self-Study Courses
                                                                                                            Completed

  42,007 7056                                                   attendees
                                                                                                       21,560
*Continuing Care includes Nursing Home / Long Term Care, and Rehabilitation / Convalescent Centre.
**Community Care includes Community Health / Health Centre, Home Care Agency, and Physician’s Office / Family Practice Unit.

                                                                                                                care | SPRING/SUMMER 2021 19
Practice

                         Building Resilience Will
                              Serve Us Well
                                                  By Michelle O’Rourke, RN, MA

Experiencing personal health and wellness can seem                 has firm roots and is grounded in solid ground, it not only
like an elusive dream in these chaotic times. There                recovers but grows stronger. Our lives are much the same.
seem to be many stresses to tend to - family, home,                Building good habits and strategies for staying healthy
                                                                   amidst our everyday challenges serves us well – particularly
finances, time management – on top of the pressures
                                                                   when a crisis arises, and we attempt to weather the storm
we may experience at work. Anxiety around tensions
                                                                   without becoming depleted. As nurses, avoiding the pitfalls
in our world, coupled with the fears and sense of                  of compassion fatigue and burnout can be accomplished by
collective grief with COVID-19, all add to the strain              ensuring we are caring for ourselves now and not putting it
we feel on any given day.                                          off until we have more time!

Learning and applying strategies to maintain our wellness is       There are three main areas that can help build resilience: 1)
important. Nurses are encouraged to focus on their overall         attention to self-care; 2) raising our self-awareness through
wellbeing as part of their responsibility for maintaining their    self-reflection, and 3) decreasing stress. One way to bring
fitness to practice. One way to do this is to focus on building    down our stress level is to exercise mindfulness. Mindfulness
resilience. Resilience refers to the ability to adapt and thrive   is the practice of having an awareness and acceptance of the
when faced with adversity. The good news is that resilience        present moment without judgement. When taking a moment
can be developed and strengthened.                                 for a few deep breaths and focusing on the present, instead
                                                                   of focusing on the past or worries of the future, we are being
Imagine for a moment a tall, beautiful tree. When a storm          mindful.
comes along, the tree bends and sways, almost to its
breaking point. Once the winds die down, the tree stands           People that care for others sometimes find it difficult to
strong again. Its strength is tested in the storm, but if it       prioritize caring for themselves. Self-care is an intentional

20   care | VOLUME 35 ISSUE 1
way of living – where our values, attitudes, and
actions are integrated into our daily routines. The way
you care for yourself is unique, and you determine
what works best for you.

As nurses, building helpful strategies into your routine
is a good first step! This can include:

  •   Taking stock of your responsibilities: prioritize
      and delegate

  •   Finding some time for yourself every day – quiet
      and unplugged

                                                           We’re Hiring!
  •   Identifying what refreshes you and building it
      into your schedule

  •   Enjoying nature, the arts, music, or hobbies
                                                           Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs)
  •   Spending time with family and friends

  •   Maintaining a personal life outside of work          SE Health is a Canadian not-for-profit home
  •   Taking time to exercise, sleep, and eat well -       care organization. Named one of Canada’s
      remember to play!                                    Most Admired Corporate Cultures
                                                           (Waterstone, 2018), we’re committed to
  •   Seeking support – at home and work
                                                           supporting our staff and recognizing their
  •   Tending to your own spiritual needs                  unique needs. Join our team today for the
  •   Setting healthy personal boundaries                  opportunity to learn, grow and bring hope
  •   Engaging in self-reflective practice
                                                           and happiness.

  •   Practicing self-compassion                           Employee Perks and Benefits:
                                                           • Our ‘Total Rewards and Recognition’
To learn more about building resilience, watch the
Resilience: A Mindset for Wellness presentation on          program that includes health insurance
the CLPNA’s YouTube Channel, and complete the              • Comprehensive paid training
online Resilience learning module available through
myCLPNA.com. Take good care of yourself – there is          and orientation
only one you! n                                            • Tuition Assistance Program and bursaries
                                                           • Flexible work hours
Michelle O’Rourke, RN, MA, is a registered nurse
with a background in Emergency Nursing, Parish
Nursing, and Hospice Palliative Care. She has also
studied theology and spirituality, and was instrumental    Apply to an LPN role today at one of our
in helping to design and build a 10-bed residential        seniors living communities in Cochrane,
hospice. Michelle is the author of two books focused
on palliative care, and is excited about her new one,
                                                           Edmonton, Red Deer and Wetaskiwin.
titled Healthy Caregiving: Perspectives for Caring
Professionals. She is passionate about helping family
caregivers as well as professional caregivers learn the         Apply now at jobs.sehc.com
importance of taking care of themselves while they care
for others. Michelle and her husband Tom reside in
Chatham, Ontario.

                                                                                   care | SPRING/SUMMER 2021   21
Opioids and Harm Reduction

                              Nursing with Heart:
                    Talking to a Leader in Harm Reduction
                                                              By Shawna Dirksen

Compassionate and completely
                                                                                                         an area that many nurses don’t have
committed to her profession,                                                                             confidence in; there is often a lack of
Marliss Taylor has been a                                                                                understanding or even fear. I think
registered nurse for well over three                                                                     most healthcare professionals knew
decades. She has made countless                                                                          opioids were a problem, but many had
contributions to the health and                                                                          no idea of the magnitude. I think the
                                                                                                         overdose crisis has led to uncertainty
medical field all while following a                                                                      for many nurses. They aren’t sure how
career path that is anything but                                                                         to approach people who use substances
conventional.                                                                                            or they react from fear.

Marliss is a program manager with                                                                           What would you say to nurses
Streetworks, an inner city program                                                                          about the stigma surrounding
that applies harm reduction principles                                                                      substance users?
to help street-involved people who use
substances live safer, healthier lives.                                           Marliss Taylor         I think many people stigmatize without
In her role at Streetworks, she makes                                                                    realizing it. A lot of it comes from
a difference each day, helping people                                                                    media messaging and pop culture
who use substances access important             things of people that they can’t do.                     - news stories and television shows
medical care and resources.                     We ensure people who use substances,                     showing people who use substances
                                                and who are often involved in other                      at their absolute worst. This kind of
Marliss has contributed to harm                 risky activities like sex work, get the                  stigma prevents people from seeking
reduction initiatives not only                  care they need. We help them be as                       help when they need it. They are
provincially and nationally, but also           healthy as possible by not putting them                  afraid of judgement or afraid that their
internationally in Guyana and Siberia.          in a riskier environment than they are                   substance use will be put on record.
She has been recognized with both               already in. This field lets me be the best               Most nurses want to do their best, but
a Clinical Innovation Award and a               nurse I can be.                                          when some don’t, the message gets out
Leadership Award from the Nursing                                                                        on the street. As a result, many people
Honour Society, and has received a                 You are clearly very passionate                       don’t receive care.
YMCA Woman of Distinction Award in                 about what you do. What keeps
Health and Medicine.                               that passion going?                                      What advice do you have for
                                                                                                            nurses to help them care for
Marliss talked to CARE Magazine                 I really love transcultural nursing. I get                  patients who use substances?
about her nursing career, opioids               to come from a place where I look not
and harm reduction, and the stigma              at what people can’t do, but at what                     Nurses are in an incredibly unique
surrounding substance users.                    people can do. Some of the stories I                     position to provide care and support
                                                hear would break your heart or make                      to people who use substances, but the
  You’ve been a program manager                 you angry, so it’s important to come                     judgement piece is a killer. We must
  with Streetworks for more than                at things in a positive way. This kind                   appreciate that people use substances
  20 years. Why have you dedicated              of nursing is relationship based. You                    for a reason. We need to treat people
  your career to harm reduction?                really need to let yourself care about                   like people and move away from that
                                                people and let them get to know you as                   notion of “good” or “bad”. Often
For me, this is the way nursing                 a human being.                                           people who use substances or who
makes the most sense. Abstinence or                                                                      work in the sex trade are seen as one-
disease-based nursing is not the right             What impact is the opioid crisis                      issue people, but they are folks who
solution for many. With people who                 having on nurses?                                     also get appendicitis, or have babies,
use substances, there is often more                                                                      or catch a cold. Everything in their
to the story. Using a harm reduction            I think it has opened a door that                        health picture is not about the at-risk
approach means we do not demand                 many people don’t want open. It’s                        behaviour. These are just people. n

                              This article is a reprint from CARE Spring 2019 as opioid use in Alberta remains a crisis.

22   care | VOLUME 35 ISSUE 1
An estimated

Hearing                                                                     19% of Canadian
                                                                            adults have  at least mild hearing
                                                                                   loss in the speech
                                                                                            frequency range.
Many of us take our ability to communicate for granted. Yet the ability
to speak, hear and be heard is much more vital to our everyday lives
than most of us realize. Each year, Speech-Language & Audiology
Canada dedicates the month of May to raising public awareness
                                                                             TIPS for talking with
about communication disorders and the professionals who can help.
                                                                             someone who has a
Common Hearing & Other Auditory Disorders:
                                                                             hearing disorder:
Hearing Loss                                                                 •   Get the person’s attention by saying
Hearing loss is a partial or total inability to hear. The severity of the        their name or touching their arm
hearing impairment can range from mild to profound and can be in                 before you start talking.
one or both ears. There are different types of hearing loss, which are
caused by problems in different parts of the outer, middle and inner         •   Speak clearly and loudly enough
ear as well as the hearing nerve. Hearing loss can be caused by the              to be heard, but do NOT shout.
natural aging process, excessive exposure to noise, head trauma, a               Shouting distorts the speech sounds.
history of ear infections or hereditary factors.                             •   Be patient and provide the person
                                                                                 with some extra time to respond.
Auditory Processing Disorder                                                     Hearing and processing sounds may
Auditory processing disorder (or APD) is a disorder that affects the             take a bit longer.
way the brain processes sound — in other words, what the brain
does with what the ear hears. Some symptoms of APD include poor              •   Avoid putting anything around
listening, trouble following directions, short attention span and                your face and mouth when you are
difficulty reading. People with APD can have normal hearing and APD              speaking (e.g., pens, phones, hands).
is not related to intelligence.                                                  People with hearing loss use visual
                                                                                 cues to help them understand the
Tinnitus                                                                         message. People without hearing
Tinnitus (TIN-A-TUS) refers to “ringing in the ears” when no other               loss also use visual cues!
sound is present. Tinnitus can sound like hissing, roaring, pulsing,
whooshing, chirping, whistling or clicking. Tinnitus can occur in one        •   Create an ideal listening
ear or both ears and while tinnitus is often associated with hearing             environment: move away from noise
loss, people with normal hearing can also have it. Sometimes the                 sources and choose a place with
sounds are accompanied by pressure or pain in or around the ear or               good lighting.
by a painful sensitivity to sounds. The impact of tinnitus ranges from
                                                                             •   Position yourself across from the
annoying to debilitating.
                                                                                 listener rather than beside. Look at
                                                                                 the person when talking.
Hyperacusis
Hyperacusis is a health condition characterized by an over-sensitivity       •   During group discussions only one
to certain sounds. A person with severe hyperacusis has difficulty               person should speak at a time.
tolerating everyday sounds, some of which may seem unpleasantly
loud to that person but not to other people. Although all sounds may         •   Smaller group discussions are ideal.
be perceived as too loud, high frequency (pitch) sounds may be                   Listening in a large group setting can
particularly troublesome.                                                        be difficult.

                   www.sac-oac.ca                                            AUDIOLOGISTS are highly-trained
                                                                             hearing health professionals who
                                                                             identify, assess and manage individuals
                                                                             with hearing and balance disorders as
                                                                             well as other auditory disorders.

                                                                                              care | SPRING/SUMMER 2021   23
How to Manage Anxiety
                    During COVID-19
                A Guide for Frontline Workers
                            By Elaine Conrad, Trainer (MEd, RP), Crisis & Trauma Resource Institute

“I just don’t want to do this anymore,” an exhausted
healthcare worker uttered as he hung his head against
his arms before heading off to visit the next anxious
patient. It’s a story that numerous frontline workers
are telling as they face the onslaught of frustrated
patients, family members, and coworkers who are
also facing the ever-changing landscape of the
“new normal.”

There’s a steep learning curve for frontline workers in all
fields as they try to keep up with the changing regulations,
angry clients, and extra demands of their jobs. Is it any
wonder that anxiety is climbing?

                                                                                                                             iStock.com/Tjaa
How can we manage anxiety before it manages us?

When I was working as a nurse, I remember times when
we faced extreme changes to protocol which required us
to quickly adapt and caused a huge amount of anxiety
among staff. One important thing I’ll never forget were the
sage words of one of my supervisors: “Cut yourself some           Here are five ways frontline workers can reduce anxiety:
slack – this is new for all of us and we’re gonna have a little
anxiety about it. Take a deep breath, give yourself a moment      EXERCISE
to digest it all, and then open the door and go to work.”
In other words, many of us will face anxiety – don’t beat         Physical exercise during COVID-19 is still possible, even if
yourself up over it.                                              you have limited space and time. With the weather changing
                                                                  (for the better), take the opportunity to get out and grab
If you are feeling anxious and worried about everything           some natural vitamin D as it’s been shown to reduce anxiety
that’s going on right now, give yourself a break! It’s likely     and boost our immunity. Even taking ten minutes and
that your neighbour, partner, co-worker and even your             walking around the building will do wonders for improving
employer are also feeling anxious. The first tip is to cut        your mood. Allow your face to feel the sun, breathe in the
yourself some slack and realize that this is part of the          air – really breathe it in, put on some excellent music if you
“new normal.”                                                     can, and enjoy the feel of the air on your skin. Do not think
                                                                  about work, COVID-19, bills, or anything but the feel of the
Being slightly anxious is actually quite normal – being overly    sun, the air, and how wonderful it feels to be outside.
anxious and letting it interfere with your sleep, thoughts,
and ability to work, play, or enjoy life is what’s harmful.       PRACTICE POSITIVE MESSAGES
That’s when it manages us. Letting anxiety take control
of you is not only exhausting, but it can lead to physical        Fill your breakroom, office, car, or wherever you spend your
problems such as a reduced immunity to disease. What              downtime with pictures that bring you hope. I went through
better reason could you have during a pandemic to take            my old photos on my phone and laptop and started pulling
steps to reduce risks?                                            up pictures that bring me great joy – pictures of the ocean,

24   care | VOLUME 35 ISSUE 1
SPRING-SUMMER 2021
sun, waves, my family, etc. Find whatever inspires you                 CRISIS & TRAUMA
                                                                                                         LIVE VIRTUAL
and fill your space with those memories. If you have a                 RESOURCE INSTITUTE
                                                                                                         WORKSHOPS
locker at work, put a positive message on the inside of
the door along with a picture that makes you smile. It’s
hard to be anxious when you are looking at a relaxing                   www.ctrinstitute.com
scene.

CHOOSE YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA                                         Motivational                  Anxiety
AND NEWS WISELY                                                  Interviewing                  Practical Intervention
                                                                 Strategies for                Strategies
While social media can be our friend when we are                 Supporting Change             May 18, 9 am-4 pm CT
socially isolated, it can also be a source of added stress       May 11, 9 am-4 pm CT
and increase our anxiety. If you must check the news,
limit it to once a day and make sure it is a source that         Depression                    The Ethics
is reliable. Remember, many news articles are written to         Practical Intervention        of Helping
draw you in with taglines that are often distressing. As         Strategies                    Boundaries and
                                                                 May 19, 9 am-4 pm CT          Relationships
for social media, you may have to carefully choose which
friends you continue to follow during this time to protect                                     June 3, 9 am-4 pm CT
your mental health.
                                                                 De-escalating                 Walking With Grief
BE SELFISH ABOUT SELF-CARE                                       Potentially                   Helping Others Deal
                                                                 Violent SituationsTM          With Loss
Set aside time for self-care. While you may want to rush         June 8, 9 am-4 pm CT          June 9-10, 9 am-4 pm CT
directly in the door to be with family, taking the time
after work to de-stress in your car by listening to calming      Vicarious Trauma              Critical Incident
music and practicing deep breathing will not only help
                                                                 Strategies for                Group Debriefing
with your anxiety, it will help lessen the overall stress        Resilience                    July 6, 9 am-4 pm CT
levels for your loved ones as well. Ask those close to you       June 29, 9 am-4 pm CT
to give you a set amount of time so that you can sit and
be quiet, grab a shower, a glass of water, a snack, and
relax before they ask about your day.
                                                                        U N A B L E TO ATTEN D O N E O F
CONNECT WITH OTHER PEOPLE                                               O U R L I VE VI RTUA L E VEN TS?

We are not meant to be alone. Humans are relational                                         We offer many of our
                                                                                            workshops and webinars
beings and social distancing and self-isolation have                                        as on-demand products.
made nurturing relationships difficult. When feeling
stressed, text a friend – a controlled vent is usually a
great way to express what you are feeling and let off
some steam. Video conference on your phone if you are
able – sometimes just seeing the face of someone you                            FREE RESO U RC ES
know cares about you can help reduce stress and reduce                   Webinars                  Assessment tools
anxiety. If you have time, play a virtual game, tell a few               E-manuals                 COVID-19
                                                                                                   resources
jokes, or read to a child to activate a different area of                Handouts
your brain. Chat about something fun with one of your
coworkers between clients. Have a funny face contest,
and inject humour into the day as much as possible and is
                                                                                NEW BOOK!
appropriate. Remember to connect with those you love as
often as possible.                                                      A Little Book About
                                                                        Trauma-Informed
To all the frontline workers: the work you do is                        Workplaces
important and necessary. But to be helpful to others, you               We envision a world where
must put on your own oxygen mask first. If your anxiety                 everyone is trauma-informed.
continues to manage you, please reach out to a helping
professional for support. n
                                                                      Inspiring Learning. Improving Lives.
This article was originally published by Crisis & Trauma      info@ctrinstitute.com    www.ctrinstitute.com      877.353.3205
Resource Institute and is reprinted with their permission.

                                                                                               care | SPRING/SUMMER 2021        25
Evaluating the Credibility of Health
      Websites:        Can You
       Questions or comments    Trust Dr. Google?
                             References
       about CADTH or this tool?                                                                 Aslani A, Pournik O, Abu-Hanna A, Eslami S. Web-site evaluation tools: a case study in
                                                                                                 reproductive health information. Stud Health Technol Inform. 2014;205:895-9.

      How to   Tell if It’s Legit
          Online:
          cadth.ca
                                                                                                 Chumber S, Huber J, Ghezzi P. A methodology to analyze the quality of health information on
                                                                                                 the internet: the example of diabetic neuropathy. Diabetes Educ. 2015 Feb;41(1):95-105.
      There are several tools available to evaluate health websites. Most
                                                                     DISCERNofonline:                          Red
                                                                                 themquality criteria for consumer      Flags
                                                                                                                   health information [Internet]. Oxford, UK:
      list criteriaEmail:
                    that reliable websites should meet. Here is a summary  of the
                                                                     University
                                                                                                               !
                                                                                    mainDivision of Public Health
                                                                                of Oxford,                         and website
                                                                                                                 The   Primary Health  Care
                                                                                                                                  relies   on[cited 2016cases
                                                                                                                                               single     Jan 27].
                   requests@cadth.ca
      criteria to look  out for:                                     Available from: www.discern.org.uk
                                                                                                                 or personal testimonials.
                                                                                                 Golterman L, Banasiak NC. Evaluating web sites: reliable child health resources for parents.
                                                                                        2011 Mar-Apr;37(2):81-3. ! The information is presented in a
                 Twitter:
      Author — The website should clearly identify the author, institution,       and editorial
                                                                          Pediatr Nurs.
                 @CADTH_ACMTS
      board (the people     responsible for the professional review of the   content).                                 sensational, overly emotional, or
                                                                          HONcode:   Principles – Quality and trustworthy health information [Internet]. Chene-Bourg,
                                                                                                                       alarmist way.
                                                                          Switzerland: Health On the Net Foundation; 2013 Sep 19 [cited 2016 Jan 27]. Available from:
                 New at CADTH Newsletter:
      Date — The website should contain current scientific information,         and the
                 cadth.ca/subscribe                                       www.healthonnet.org/HONcode/Conduct.html
                                                                                                                    ! The website implies that a
      content should be updated regularly.                                Khazaal Y, Chatton A, Cochand S, Coquard O,treatment
                                                                                                                        Fernandez S,affects
                                                                                                                                      Khan R, eteveryone       in the six
                                                                                                                                                  al. Brief DISCERN,
                                                                          questions for the evaluation of evidence-based  content
                                                                                                                       same    way of health-related
                                                                                                                                      (e.g., 100% websites.
                                                                                                                                                       successPatient
                                                                                                                                                                   rate).
      Objectivity — The website should be evidence-based and objective            (factual)
                                                                          Educ Couns.   2009 Oct;77(1):33-7.
      in its content, listing benefits and risks (e.g., side effects). TheMonheit
                                                                           website DF. should
                                                                                                                    ! The website is trying to sell you
                                                                                       Evaluating health information web sites for credibility. J Hospital Librarianship.
      mention other treatment options, if available, including no treatment,        and it
                                                                          2011 Feb 2;11(1):39-44.                      something.
                                                                        Silberg WM, Lundberg GD, Musacchio RA. !Assessing,
      should encourage patients to consult with a health care professional.                                           It is notcontrolling,
                                                                                                                                  clear who  andthe  author
                                                                                                                                                 assuring      is or
                                                                                                                                                           the quality
                                                                                                                      what
                                                                        of medical information on the Internet: Caveant       qualifications
                                                                                                                          lector                  orreader
                                                                                                                                 et viewor--Let the  conflicts    of
                                                                                                                                                           and viewer
      Purpose — The website should state its purpose clearly. Any advertising
                                                                        beware. JAMA.should
                                                                                         1997 Apr 16;277(15):1244-5.interest he or she has.

      be clearly marked and separated from the site’s main content.Yaqub M, Ghezzi P. Adding dimensions to the analysis of the quality of health information of
                                                                                                                    ! Studies
                                                                        websites returned by Google: cluster analysis
                                                                                                                                 are referenced, but they are
                                                                                                                        identifies patterns of websites according to their
      Transparency — The website should identify its ownership, sources          of funding,
                                                                        classification                                old (from
                                                                                       and the type of intervention described.      10Public
                                                                                                                                Front  yearsHealth.
                                                                                                                                               ago or   more)
                                                                                                                                                     2015        or the
                                                                                                                                                           Aug 25;3:204.
                                                                                                                      year of publication is not provided.
      and explain how it collects and uses personal information.
                                                                                                                    ! Links are broken — this could
      Usability — The website should be easy to use, well-organized, and well-                                        indicate that the site has not been
      designed. It should provide a way of contacting the owner of the site.                                          updated recently and that the health
                                                                                                                      information could be outdated.
      There will be some credible websites that don’t meet all the criteria. Likewise,
      there will be unreliable websites that look very slick and seem to meet all of
      them. Ultimately, the only way to know if online health information is accurate is
      to find the source and read the scientific study being referenced. Learning how
      to evaluate for the credible criteria, however, will help you start filtering.
                                                                                                                          Tools for Evaluating
                                                                                                                                                Health Websites

      Examples of Credible Health Websites                                                                                           DISCERN
                                                                                                                                     A validated instrument that enables patients and
      The  Medical Library Association has put together a list of pre-screened health
        DISCLAIMER                                                                                             information providers to judge the quality of written
      websites    called                                                                                       consumer health information. It consists of 15
        This material   is the
                           made MLA   Top Health
                                  available         Websites.purposes
                                            for informational  These websites
                                                                        only and nocan  be accessedor warranties
                                                                                     representations             are made with respect to its fitness for any
                                                                                                               questions and a rating scale.
      onparticular
         the CAPHIS purpose;   this document
                          — Consumer      andshould   notHealth
                                                Patient   be usedInformation
                                                                   as a substitute for professional
                                                                                Section   — site: medical advice or for the application of professional judgment
        in any decision-making process. Users may use this
      www.mlanet.org/page/top-health-websites
      www.mlanet.org/page/top-health-websites.                . document at their own risk. The Canadian Agency    for Drugs and Technologies in Health (CADTH)
                                                                                                               HONcode
        does not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, or currency of the contents of this document. CADTH         is of
                                                                                                               A set  notprinciples
                                                                                                                          responsible   for any errors
                                                                                                                                    for evaluating     or omissions,
                                                                                                                                                   websites and a
        or injury, loss, or damage arising from or relating to the use of this document and is not responsiblecertification
                                                                                                                for any third-party  materials
                                                                                                                             seal that  websitescontained
                                                                                                                                                 can obtainorafter
                                                                                                                                                              referred
                                                                                                                                                                   being
        to herein. Subject to the aforementioned limitations, the views expressed herein do not necessarily assessed
                                                                                                               reflect thebyviews  of Health
                                                                                                                              the Health     Canada,
                                                                                                                                          On the       Canada’s
                                                                                                                                                 Net (HON)  expert team.
        provincial or territorial governments, other CADTH funders, or any third-party supplier of information. This document is subject to copyright and other
                                                                                                               JAMA Benchmarks
        intellectual property rights and may only be used for non-commercial, personal use or private research and study.
                                                                                                                                     Four criteria to score to a website
                                                                                                                                     (0 to 4 points) based on authorship, attribution,
                                                                                                                                     disclosure, and currency.

        ABOUT CADTH
        CADTH is
      Evaluating   anCredibility
                 the  independent,   not-for-profit
                                 of Health Websites:organization responsible
                                                       Can You Trust         for providing Canada’s
                                                                      Dr. Google?
        health care decision-makers with objective evidence to help make informed decisions
        about the optimal use of drugs and medical devices in our health care system.
        CADTH receives funding from Canada’s federal, provincial, and territorial governments, with the exception of Quebec.
        March 2020                                                                                                                                                            cadth.ca

26   care | VOLUME 35 ISSUE 1
You can also read