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By: LTC best practice co-ordinators, Beverly Faubert, RN B.ScN GNC(C) CHPCN(C) CPMHN(C); Heather Woodbeck, RN HBScN MHSA; Connie Wood, RN B.ScN MN; Stephanie Kim, BSc BScN RN RAC-C GNC(C)
RNAO has been vigorously engaged in COVID-19 action since the onset of the pandemic, serving nurses and other health professionals so they can serve the public. The association has been unwavering in its commitment to ensure nurses stay informed and consult credible, evidence-based resources, given their central role in the fight against the virus.
With information coming from all directions and from many sources of varying accuracy, RNAO identified early in the pandemic the need to have a central access point for information and support, evidence-based practice and decision-making. An online COVID-19 portal was launched to support emerging information needs on an ever-evolving pandemic. Influenced by feedback from long-term care (LTC) homes, the LTC best practice co-ordinators identified high priority needs for the LTC sector, and RNAO established an online resource called Support for LTC and Retirement Homes. The website offers: advice for isolating residents; approaches for palliative care delivery during COVID-19; approaches to mental health and well-being; possible COVID-19 symptoms to report; strategies if a resident is short of breath; and a summary of infection prevention and control educational resources. Archived webinars on a range of topics are also available, including lessons-learned from a COVID-19 outbreak, the LTC nurse practitioner and COVID-19, and current information on the evolving vaccine rollout across the province.
During the initial stages of the pandemic, LTC best practice co-ordinators created a Facebook group for families and friends with loved ones in Ontario’s LTC homes. It was an opportunity to share stories and get support from those in a similar position. This group continues to be very engaged, with almost 400 active members. Learn more about the RNAO LTC Support: Connecting Families group on Facebook.
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RNAO led dozens of organizations in a tribute event and candlelight vigil to observe the one-year anniversary since the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a pandemic. Canada's parliamentary poet laureate Louise Bernice Halfe – Sky Dancer – joined virtually to pay tribute to those who died from the virus through the reading of an emotional and reflective poem titled Fasting and Feasting. A few moments to pause and light a candle followed. This tribute was part of RNAO’s #TogetherWeCanDoIt campaign,which was launched on March 19, 2020 with the #Cheer4HealthWorkers initiative.
RNAO’s widely read COVID-19 blog, written by CEO Doris Grinspun and read by more than 300,000 in Canada and abroad, was published daily for the first seven months of the pandemic to address urgent clinical matters. It has evolved into a weekly update on emerging pandemic issues, related policy imperatives and calls to action. The blog has included a specific focus on vulnerable populations, and information and updates on political action relevant to the LTC sector. The LTC best practice co-ordinator team has ensured the information from this blog is widely circulated to the LTC sector. To review the calls to action, policy statements, media interview and social media campaigns relevant to LTC, please visit Doris’ COVID-19 Blog.
RNAO’s flame will keep shining bright as we advocate for a healthy and just recovery for all. We will continue to advocate for LTC to have the supports required to enable safe and dignified care. Mental health and well-being is essential to maintain the safety of health-care workers and their families during this crisis. We encourage anyone in need of support to seek assistance: a list of recommended resources has been compiled to support you.
