In a November 14th appearance before the Nova Scotia Legislature’s Standing Committee on Health, NSNU President Janet Hazelton shed light on the pressing issues faced by community care nurses in the province.

Emphasizing the vital role these professionals play in delivering healthcare in the heart of Nova Scotian communities, her testimony highlighted paramount concerns from a recent union survey.

Community care nurses grapple with heavy caseloads and frequent overtime, impacting their work-life satisfaction. President Hazelton echoed their plea for more predictable hours, reduced
evening shifts, and safer working conditions, emphasizing the need for a balance that ensures quality care without compromising well-being.

Issues surrounding staffing levels, scheduling practices, and the use of on-call shifts are pervasive. Community care nurses call for improved scheduling practices, self or team scheduling, and equitable distribution of work, reflecting a desire for a more supportive and balanced work environment.

The challenges of navigating the interface between continuing care and community care were discussed. Red tape can hinder nurses from exercising professional judgment, and they seek more autonomy to rectify this. Concerns were raised about under-resourced continuing care leading to delays and incomplete information, impacting the quality of care provided.

Safety concerns took center stage in President Hazelton’s testimony, particularly during evening and night shifts when nurses work alone in unpredictable home environments. The appeal for more support, access to resources, and improved communication on safety concerns and protocols underscores the need to enhance the well-being and security of community care nurses. 

In her closing statement, the NSNU President expressed a sincere commitment to collaborative efforts with stakeholders like the VON, government, and continuing care, to address these concerns. The union aims to ensure community care nurses can continue providing exceptional care to Nova Scotians and welcomes a productive dialogue for positive change.

Witnesses presenting before the Committee included:
Nova Scotia Nurses’ Union - Janet Hazelton
Victorian Order of Nurses Canada - Jeff Densmore, Regional Executive Director, Central and Western Zones & Carol Curley, Regional Executive Director, North and Eastern Zones
Department of Seniors and Long-Term Care - Tracey Barbrick, Deputy Minister
Canadian Union of Public Employees - Nan McFadgen, President – Nova Scotia