Government aims to reduce wait times with RN-SFAs

Nipissing MPP Monique Smith
News Release

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Ontario is ensuring continued patient access in Nipissing to registered nurses who work in a new role in hospital operating rooms.

The McGuinty government is investing $233,398 in annual funding for 2 full-time equivalent positions for Registered Nurse-Surgical First Assists (RN-SFAs) at the North Bay General Hospital. In addition, the North Bay General Hospital will receive $37,767 in additional one-time funding for 2009/2010.

A RN-SFA works with the surgeon and the rest of the operating room team to ensure the safe outcome for a surgical patient before, during and after surgery. Registered nurses implementing this initiative have completed a Registered Nurse First Assist education program

These RN–SFA positions were initially established as pilot projects in 2006 as part of the HealthForceOntario strategy to introduce new health care professional roles in areas of high need.

This new role has decreased wait times for surgeries and supported recruitment/retention strategies for nurses by presenting new opportunities for career enhancement and skill development.

“What a great way to celebrate Nursing Week. Patients in Nipissing are benefitting from the great work of our Registered Nurse-Surgical First Assists,” said Monique Smith, MPP for Nipissing. “Here in North Bay we have seen reduced wait times for surgeries and quicker, safer operations with optimal health outcomes for patients.”

“Nurses are an essential part to providing optimum health care for Ontario’s patients. Developing new roles for nurses is also a great way to keep them practising in Ontario’s health care system,” said Deb Matthews, Minister of Health and Long-Term Care.

QUICK FACTS

Studies have shown that RN-SFAs help to reduce surgical wait times, increase patient access to surgeries, improve patient safety and outcomes, and enhance a team-based model of care.

Since 2003, the Ministry of Health and Long-Tern Care has invested over $1 billion in a range of nursing initiatives that enhance education, recruitment and retention of Ontario nurses.

The government created more than 900 new nursing positions in 2009/10.

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