Encounters in Bioethics 2025-2026 offers a free webinar “Palliative Care Ethics: Exploring Conscious Dying” on Thursday, May 21, 2026, 12:00 p.m. – 1:00 p.m. (ET).

Presenter: Catherine Aquino-Russell, BScN, MN, PhD, CCDC (Caritas Conscious Dying Coach), Professor (retired), Faculty of Nursing, Moncton Campus, University of New Brunswick, Moncton, NB

Connect via Zoom: https://lakeheadu.zoom.us/j/93938426226

Certificate of Attendance available upon request to chce@lakeheadu.ca

From May 11 to 14, 2026, four surveyors from Accreditation Canada will be on site as part of TBRHSC’s regular accreditation process. Hospitals across Canada participate in accreditation every four years, measuring their programs and services against national standards for quality and patient safety.

Accreditation Canada is an independent, not-for-profit Canadian organization that works with health care experts to develop standards aimed at improving the quality and safety of care. The process helps hospitals recognize what they are doing well while identifying opportunities to continue improving care for patients and families.

During the upcoming visit, surveyors will spend time in different areas of TBRHSC speaking with staff, physicians, volunteers, and patient and family advisors. They may also observe care areas and, if patients or families are comfortable, ask about their experiences receiving care.

“Accreditation is an important opportunity for us to reflect on the care we provide and continue improving for the patients and families we serve,” said Dr. Rhonda Crocker Ellacott, President and CEO of TBRHSC, and CEO of Thunder Bay Regional Health Research Institute. “Our teams are deeply committed to delivering safe, compassionate, high-quality care every day. This visit gives us the chance to highlight that work, while continuing to learn how we can do even better for the communities we serve across Northwestern Ontario.”

Patients and visitors should know that care will continue as usual during the week. Surveyors will simply be learning more about how teams across TBRHSC work together to support safe, high-quality care.

Providing care to patients from across Northwestern Ontario, leaders say the visit is an opportunity to highlight the dedication of the people who care for patients every day and look forward to continuing to strengthen TBRHSC’s commitment to exceptional care for every patient, every time.

On the first day of National Nursing Week, we celebrate Indigenous Nurses Day. Indigenous Nurses Day acknowledges the dedication and achievements of First Nations, Inuit and Métis nurses and recognizes their invaluable work in improving the health and well-being of all people in Canada.

Indigenous nurses play a vital role in the health care system, providing culturally relevant care in communities across the province. In honour of Indigenous Nurses Day, we would like to highlight the achievements of Indigenous nurses. The expertise and dedication of Indigenous nurses have made an impact on the lives of many patients and their families, not only inspiring others but also raising awareness of the role that Indigenous nurses play in promoting wellness and healing for Indigenous communities.  Thank you to the Indigenous nurses who work tirelessly to provide exceptional care to the people of Northwestern Ontario.  

Thank you to the Indigenous nurses who work tirelessly to provide exceptional care to the people of Northwestern Ontario.  

 

Cheyenne Spence

My name is Cheyenne Spence, and I am from Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory (Mohawks of the Bay of Quinte). I have had the privilege of working as a Registered Nurse in the Emergency Department (ED) at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre for the past six years, and I am excited to have stepped into my role as the Emergency Department Indigenous Care Coordinator.

I began my healthcare career in Southern Ontario as a Registered Practical Nurse working in forensics at Ontario Shores Centre for Mental Health Sciences. Wanting to expand my scope of practice and deepen my impact in patient care, I returned to school to complete my Bachelor of Science in Nursing at Lakehead University, relocating to Thunder Bay in 2015.

While living in Thunder Bay, I have had the opportunity to work in a variety of healthcare settings, including Southbridge Roseview and St. Joseph’s Hospital. My experiences across these roles have strengthened my commitment to patient advocacy, culturally safe care, and improving healthcare experiences for Indigenous patients and families.

As I continue my role as ED Indigenous Care Coordinator, I am passionate about supporting Indigenous patients throughout their healthcare journeys, fostering culturally responsive practices, and strengthening connections between community and hospital care.

Lexxi Saarinen

My name is Lexxi Saarinen, and I am a proud member of Fort William First Nation. I graduated from the RPN program in 2018 and am currently working toward my BScN at Lakehead University.

I have been working at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre since 2018 and have gained experience across different medical areas, most recently on 1A. Alongside my hospital work, I also work with Sioux Lookout First Nations Health Authority, where I travel to northern communities to provide nursing care. This role has strengthened my skills in community health, adaptability, and trauma-informed, culturally responsive care

I have also had the opportunity to do travel nursing in British Columbia, working on medical floors and in emergency departments. These experiences pushed me outside my comfort zone, strengthened my clinical skills, and helped me grow both personally and professionally.

I am now honoured to work in the role of Indigenous Care Coordinator in the Emergency Department. In this role, I support Indigenous patients and families, advocate within the healthcare system, and bring Indigenous knowledge and perspectives into care.

Outside of work, I enjoy spending time with my family, traveling, and being out at camp. I am passionate about providing advocacy, support, and culturally safer care, and I am proud to contribute to improving healthcare experiences for Indigenous peoples across Northwestern Ontario.

Martina White

I was born in Thunder Bay, Ontario. I am a member of Pays Plat First Nation. Some of my happiest memories as a child are of my family and being in the outdoors.

Since I was a young age, I knew I wanted to have a job helping people. With my middle school, we went to a long term care home and the way we were able to put smiles on their faces, just by talking to them and reminiscing, I knew that is what I wanted to do.

I graduated from the Registered Practical Nursing Program in 2018. I worked in long term care for 5 years. Some of my best memories are from those years and I will cherish those memories forever.

In January, 2024 I started my current job as an Indigenous Care Coordinator at the TBRHSC. Seeing the effects to the Indigenous population in long term care, I knew I would love being a part of supporting and advocating for indigenous people during their hospital stay and assisting with their discharge home. These transitions and hospital admissions are very difficult for most and I love to make the transition and hospital stay as enjoyable as possible.

I am honoured to be an Indigenous Care Coordinator at TBRHSC and I am excited to see what the future holds.

Angela Bearman

I am from  Lac Seul First Nation (Treaty #3). I am a Registered Nurse and have worked in the Emergency Department for 12 years. I am grateful to be included in this recognition as a proud Indigenous Nurse at the TBRHSC. I love my job and plan on working here for many years to come. Miigwetch, Thank You!

Alicia Roy

I was born and raised in Thunder Bay, Ontario. My family and I are from Fort William First Nation Reserve. Growing up on Fort William and coming from a big family, I was always outdoors exploring nature from a young age. I enjoyed attending Pow-wows when I could and admired the beauty of our culture, traditional teachings and ceremonies.

Growing up on a reserve my whole life was definitely a challenge. Through my struggles and challenges dealing with discrimination. It pushed me to show the world that our people can thrive and go beyond what is stereotypically said about First Nations. I made it my mission to hopefully inspire our youth as well as encourage them to reach for the top. Not all success happens easily, but with determination and perseverance you can do anything. My compassion and empathy for helping people was very prominent in my everyday interactions with people. When I decided to be a registered nurse, I knew I would be able to do just that.

With that said, I persevered through school and graduated from Lakehead University in 2007 successfully obtaining Bachelor of Science in Nursing. I started working my first position at Thunder Bay Regional Health Science Center on the inpatient oncology unit 1A which I did for 12 years and now I work with outpatient oncology population in the Cancer Center at TBRHSC.

I take pride in my job as an Oncology nurse knowing that I can help people at their most vulnerable time and hopefully guide them through and make the process much easier for them. I take pride in easing their fears, reassure them and giving them hope and support they need.

My goal is to bridge the gap between our differences, inspire inclusion, provide culturally sensitive care, change perspectives and inspire everyone to do the same. How other people treat you is their path; how you respond to them is yours. So just be kind, you never know how much someone needs it.

I am honoured to call myself Indigenous.

Kendaaz

Boozhoo, Giikendaazo niindizhnikaaz, naame doodem asubpeechoseewagong doonji

Hello, my name is Kendaaz, from the sturgeon clan of Grassy Narrows First Nations. 

I originally grew up in my reserve, Grassy Narrows where I would practice my traditional lifestyle of hunting, trapping, fishing, beading, and traditional Woodland dancing. During the weekdays, I would also attend elementary and high school in Kenora. After graduating high school, I began my education at Lakehead University in Thunder Bay, for a Bachelor’s degree of Science in Nursing in 2021 and have recently graduated this year and have now become a Registered Nurse. 

While growing up in a First Nations community, I have always had a passion for giving back to communities and being a role model for future young Indigenous nurses. 

Before beginning my position at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre as a Registered Nurse on 2C, I have worked with several Indigenous organizations including research groups studying the deficits that the mercury poisoning has had on the English-Wabigoon water system, an Indigenous long term care home, and an Indigenous rehabilitation/treatment centre. 

With my vast array of experience in healthcare and the knowledge I have as an Indigenous person raised in a First Nations community I hope to ultimately help future patients and their families feel safe through my empathetic and culturally competent care as they go through some of the most difficult times in their lives. Ultimately, I am proud to be an Indigenous Registered Nurse at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre! Miigwetch!

Shaelyn Leblanc

My name is Shaelyn Leblanc, and I was born and raised in Thunder Bay. As a teenager, my family began to learn more about our ancestors from Wabigoon Lake Ojibway Nation, which sparked a deeper understanding of my Indigenous roots. This connection has broadened my perspective on Indigenous teachings, which I integrate into my nursing practice every day. Teachings such as respect, humility, courage, and wisdom guide my work with families, both in the NICU and as part of our Pediatric Emergency Transport Team. These teachings influence my approach to healthcare and nursing practice by allowing me to be a better support for Indigenous families. I strongly carry these values with me while transporting our littlest patients from communities of Northwestern Ontario to TBRHSC! 

It is National Nursing Week and Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre (TBRHSC) is highlighting a few of our nurses and their achievements. Meet Martina White, a Registered Practical Nurse at our Hospital.

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Martina White is a registered practical nurse at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre (TBRHSC). Her community is Pays Plat First Nation, and she was born and raised in Thunder Bay.

After graduating from the Registered Practical Nursing program in 2018, Martina spent five years working in long-term care. During that time, she witnessed firsthand the unique challenges and systemic barriers faced by Indigenous residents within the health care system. These experiences deeply impacted Martina and strengthened her commitment to advocating for culturally safe and equitable care.

In January 2024, Martina began her current role as an Indigenous Care Coordinator at TBRHSC. In this position, she supports and advocates for Indigenous patients throughout their Hospital stay, with a strong focus on safe transitions, discharge planning, and continuity of care within their home communities.

“I understand that hospital admissions and care transitions can be overwhelming and vulnerable times for patients and families,” says Martina. “I am dedicated to ensuring Indigenous patients feel supported, respected, seen, and heard. By promoting culturally safer practices and working collaboratively with patients, families, and health care teams, I strive to help create a health care experience that is compassionate, inclusive, and grounded in respect for Indigenous identities, cultures, and traditions.”

It’s time for National Nursing Week (May 11-17) and we want to acknowledge the incredible impact nurses have in shaping health care, driving innovation, and advocating for patient and family centred care. This week serves as an opportunity to recognize and celebrate the hard work and dedication of nurses at Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre and across Canada.

We’re taking a look back at Mental Health Awareness Week (May 4–9), when staff across Thunder Bay Regional Health Sciences Centre wore green to help recognize the importance of mental health awareness. The week aimed to reduce stigma, promote understanding, and encourage meaningful conversations and connections surrounding mental health.

Even Reg, the Hospital’s unofficial mascot, joined in by wearing green to help raise awareness for mental health while lifting spirits and bringing smiles to staff, patients, and visitors alike.

Congratulations to the Prevention and Screening Services Team, winners of the week’s photo contest, who received a $100 pizza party prize generously sponsored by Pizza Hut.

A special thank you to everyone who participated and helped raise awareness for such an important cause.

Shared on behalf of Adam Vinet, VP, Patient Experience, CNE and RVP, Regional Cancer Care

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The rate of Influenza Like Illness (ILI) in Thunder Bay and Region have significantly reduced over the past several weeks. In light of the decreased ILI activity, masking protocols will move back to “normal state”.

Starting today, May 7, 2026, all staff, professional staff, learners, volunteers and ECPs/CPs will no longer be required to mask for all patient interactions, or where six feet of physical distancing standards cannot be met. Masking requirements will be based on an individual’s risk analysis and level of comfort in the task being completed. Masking above minimum requirements will be at the individuals discretion based on their risk assessment.

All staff, professional staff, learners, volunteers, and Essential Care Partner’s (ECPs)/Care Partner’s (CPs) are encouraged to exercise their own risk analysis and level of comfort for masking above the minimum requirements. Masking is required at all times for anyone who fails self-screening and their presence is essential at the Hospital and/or masking is deemed necessary based on IPAC protocols. ECP/CPs are discouraged from visiting the Hospital if they are experiencing symptoms of a communicable illness.

Masks will continue to be made available at all public/staff entrances on the sanitizing stands, as well as at the unit/department level should you or a member of the public require a mask.

Staff, professional staff, learners, volunteers and ECPs/CPs will continue to wear a Level 3 procedure mask at all times while on the Acute Oncology wing of 1A, for protection of the patients. In order to reduce the spread of communicable diseases, we encourage everyone to follow proper hand hygiene techniques.

Thank you for your commitment to keeping our patients, staff and Hospital safe. If you have any questions, please ask your manager or reach out to IPAC (684-6094) for further details on best practices.

This month’s focus is on reinforcing our Least Restraint Philosophy and supporting safe, appropriate restraint use in practice.

Restraint alternatives should always be attempted, when safe to do so, prior to the use of restraints. This approach supports patient safety, dignity, and aligns with best practice expectations. Teams are encouraged to prioritize early intervention, de-escalation, and the use of environmental and care-based alternatives. As part of this month’s focus, we encourage leaders to facilitate conversations around clinical decision-making, appropriate use of restraints, and strategies to safely reduce reliance on restraint use. 

Please note that Nursing Practice Leaders will be conducting roaming education throughout the month.

Good Catch Awards highlight individuals, groups or departments who demonstrate their commitment to keeping patients safe by reporting a near miss. A ‘good catch’ (or near miss) is an event or situation that could have resulted in harm, but did not reach the patient because of chance or timely intervention. Reporting these events can help to identify gaps in order to prevent future adverse events from happening.

While working in the ED,nurse Alyssa prepared medication for her patient as ordered.  She hung Piptaz at the bedside, connected a line to the patient’s IV saline lock, verified the patient’s wristband for ID and allergies, and confirmed that the patient did in fact have an allergy to the medication. Upon this discovery, she did not administer the medication and immediately disconnected the line. She cleansed the port, reconnected Ringer’s Lactate, and notified the resident and ED physician of the noted allergy. Great catch!

Devan, a Nuclear Medicine Technologist, was prepping a patient for her gastric emptying study.  He had just taken the patient’s blood sugar when suddenly the patient stated that she thought she was going to faint and within seconds, slumped over in the chair.  Devan and the patient’s mother caught the patient and held her upright in the chair to maintain a clear airway for the duration of the episode. After the patient regained consciousness within 20 seconds with no apparent ill effects, Devan continued to monitor her throughout the next several hours with no further concerns or issues. Well done!

2C Nurse Camryn was working with a patient who was to be transferred to UHN the following day for a coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). When she called ORNGE to find out the flight information, ORNGE had no patient transfer information for this specific patient and no flight plans had been made.  The patient’s most recent Provincial Transfer Authorization had expired and without it, there would be a delay in transferring the patient. Camryn submitted a new authorization request after the cut-off time for next-day transfers but explained the urgency of transferring this patient to prevent a delay in the scheduled CABG procedure.  The next morning the patient was picked up by ORNGE and travelled to Toronto for his procedure. Excellent work!

Thank you to all for your diligence and dedication to safety!  Each recipient has been awarded a certificate and gift cards to a local business to enjoy.

New winners will be selected every quarter. Continue submitting your near misses for a chance to win! Near miss reports are submitted through the Incident Learning System (patient safety incidents). Click on the ‘safety reporting’ icon from your Novell home page, or go to the iNtranet and choose ‘Safety Reporting’ under ‘Informational’.

For more information, contact Terry Fodë, Patient Safety Specialist (terry.fode@tbh.net).