The Long-Term Care (LTC) Best Practice Coordinator role was introduced to the LTC sector as a pilot project funded by the Nursing Secretariat in 2005. Many successes in LTC Homes were achieved through this project, including improved quality of care for residents and the facilitation of an evidence-based practice culture by front-line staff through the implementation of best practice guidelines (BPGs).

In April 2008, the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care’s (MOHLTC) Performance Improvement and Compliance (PIC) Branch approved funding to continue this initiative under the management of the Registered Nurses’ Association of Ontario (RNAO). This exciting initiative will support LTC Homes in adopting evidence-based practices that will support systematic and consistent approaches to providing quality care for residents.

All LTC Homes are encouraged to get involved! The expected benefits of this initiative include:

• Enhanced capacity for knowledge transfer in the geriatric sector
• Improved quality of care and resident outcomes in LTC Homes
• Support for nurses and staff in the organization
• Improved quality of work life for staff

This initiative is not mandatory; however, this is an important opportunity for LTC Homes to find ways to reach a new level of excellence in resident care.

Have a question about the Long-Term Care Best Practices Initiative? Contact us at RNAO!