Beverley Nichols stands in front of Sunnybank Centre where her aunt recently resided. Nichols has raised concerns about how the facility is being operated and the changes that have occurred.
Concern has been raised that Interior Health has eliminated registered nurse (RN) positions at Sunnybank Centre in Oliver.
The Chronicle received a call from a Sunnybank volunteer who said all of the RNs were given their pink slips (notice of termination or layoff).
Cindy Regier, Interior Health Services Administrator for the South Okanagan, confirmed the rumour about the reduction in RN staff.
She noted that Interior Health recently reviewed how care is delivered at Sunnybank Centre. As a result, it is implementing some staffing changes so that employees are “working to their optimum level” and using their knowledge and skills to the fullest.
“In the case of Sunnybank Centre, there will be an adjustment in nursing support to allow more flexibility in responding to resident needs and provide improved staff-to-resident ratios,” Regier said.
She noted this change will see an increase in practical nursing hours with a net increase of three licenced practical nurses (LPNs), as well as the addition of a registered nursing residential care coordinator.
“We will be reducing professional nursing hours with a net impact of 1.8 RN positions. This recognizes that we have had RN resources on night shifts at Sunnybank where their high level of skill is not being used to the fullest.”
Regier said they will have LPNs on nights with a registered nurse on call if additional expertise is required. This is consistent with staff practices at other Interior Health residential care sites.
“We are working closely with the unions representing our staff to ensure that every effort is being made to accommodate affected staff members and to minimize the impact of these changes.”
Regier said Interior Health is following its collective agreements and working with affected staff to ensure they are aware of their options.
She ponted out that in some cases, they have to make changes to their care models to ensure residents are getting the same quality and standard of care, regardless of which facility they live in.
By Lyonel Doherty
