Date Developed _______________
Date Reviewed _______________
Guysborough Antigonish Strait Health Authority
Continuing Care / Seniors’ Health Services
Position Description
Challenging Behavior Resource Consultant
Position Title:
Challenging Behaviour Resource Consultant, Continuing Care / Seniors Health
Reports To:
Manager of Seniors Health and Care Coordination
Position Summary:
The Challenging Behaviour Resource Consultant (CBRC) plays a key role in enhancing the capacity
of care providers to provide care to persons with complex cognitive (dementia) / mental health needs
and associated responsive behaviours. The CBRC role supports a team based, client centered
approach to assessment and care planning using the P.I.E.C.I.E.S. approach (Physical, Intellectual,
Emotional, Capabilities, Environment and Social). This role is achieved through this position being
an integral member of the Continuing Care (P.I.E.C.E.S.) / Senior’s Health Program. The CBRC leads
a District-wide Responsive Behaviors Team in using evidence-based decision making to assist in
Care Planning for individuals demonstrating responsive behaviors.
Major Responsibilities:
A)
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Administrative functions:
Assists the Manager of Seniors Health and Care Coordination with program development
Works collaboratively with the Continuing Care Branch.
Assists with community based planning.
Keeps abreast of provincial and DHA programs, services, standards, and policies (esp. related
to Continuing Care and Seniors Mental Health)
Assists with processes such as competency, complaints, and protections processes as
required
Reviews and supports requests for the Resource Support and Augmentation fund and/or
DHA funding.
Utilizes and builds skills regarding technology skills as required by the role.
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Committee Functions:
Serves on various local and provincial committees as required.
Provides verbal and written reports as required or directed by such committees
Participates in regularly scheduled meetings relevant to the role of this position
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B)
C)
Clinical Functions:
 Provides case based assessment and consultation services to In-house Resource consultants
(IHRC’s) and front line teams in all settings where care is provided to individuals with
responsive behaviors (including Department of Health and Wellness licensed Nursing Homes,
Homes for Aged, Home Support Agencies, Nursing Agencies, Care Coordinator offices and
hospitals)
 Participates in the development and leadership of the assigned Responsive Behaviors Team
 Delivers the Challenging Behaviour Program’s education curriculum. Coaching staff in the
application of the P.I.E.C.E.S. approach (Physical, Intellectual, Emotional, Capabilities,
Environment and Social). The CBRC may deliver other evidence-based dementia care
education as indicated.
 Develops, implements and provides ongoing support to district level Local Learning Networks.
 Coaches in-facility Resource Consultant and other front line staff in the development of care
plans and interventions to positively impact challenging behaviours in seniors.
 Promotes the movement from best practice theory to application and integration within the
agencies they support.
 Provides education and support to care providers/staff working with people demonstrating
responsive behaviors in evidence-based dementia care and responsive behavior management
 Participates in ongoing evaluation of service delivery and educational activities
 Follows documentation process of the Health Services and Continuing Care agencies they
support
 Maintains proper regard for client / family confidentiality and ensures clients/families are
aware of their rights.
 Works closely and collaboratively with medical personnel – i.e. Psychiatry, Family Physicians,
Continuing Care Physician Lead, Geriatrics, etc
D)
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E)
Coordination Function:
Works with and within the existing Continuing Care service model in the District Health
Authority
Works collaboratively with all Challenging Behaviour Resource Consultants and clinicians /
providers within Continuing Care, Acute Care and Mental Health Services
Assist with partnerships that currently exist between Continuing Care and Mental Health.
Provides leadership and advice to promote the coordination and integration of services.
Facilitates access to external resources as necessary for effective client / resident care.
Works to strengthen / facilitate linkages to existing supports / services in the local area.
Serves as a link between inpatient, tertiary, and specialty services and local resources/teams.
Works closely with the Provincial Seniors Mental Health Network, other CBRC’s in the
Province, and the Coordinator of the Challenging Behaviour Program and DoH to ensure
consistency of the P.I.E.C.E.S. Model.
Supports the strengthening of and/or develops collaborative and consultative partnerships to
ensure the provision of coordinated care, the identification of service gaps, and the movement
toward an integrated model of care for seniors.
Other Related Functions;
 May perform other related duties as assigned.
Working Conditions:
 Required to travel within the District and Province.
 Works in offices, Continuing Care Facilities, hospitals and community areas and homes
throughout the District
 Collaborates with personnel, families, and community partners.
 May be subject to emotionally upset clients and their families.
 Attends and participates in continuing education programs.
 May be a requirement for overtime as per established policies.
 Required to sit or stand for extended periods of time.
 Required to use a computer.
 Required to work flexible hours as necessary.
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Qualifications:
 Bachelor’s degree in Nursing, Occupational Therapy or Social Work plus (5) five years related
experience or a Diploma in Nursing plus (9) nine years related experience or a Master’s degree
in one of the above noted disciplines or Clinical psychology plus (3) three years related
experience.
 Must be registered or eligible for registration with the appropriate licensing body in Nova
Scotia.
 Demonstrated knowledge and experience in best practices related to management and
assessment of challenging behaviour, mental illnesses and dementia.
 Experience in developing and maintaining successful collaborative working relationships.
 Demonstrated experience in facilitating adult learning incorporating the principals of adult
education.
 Demonstrated analytical, problem-solving, judgment and decision making skills.
 Demonstrated ability to work independently and interdependently.
 Demonstrated ability to maintain confidentially and manage sensitive issues with tact and
diplomacy.
 Current non-violent crises intervention certification.
 Valid Drivers License.
 Has, or is willing to receive, training in the PIECES model.
Approved by: __________________________________________
Beth MacDonald
Director, Continuing Care
Date:
__________________________________________
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