Shared on behalf of Wayne Taylor, Director, Cardiovascular, Medicine & Renal Program Regional Director, NW Regional Renal Program, Ontario Renal Network and Caroline Fanti, Director Regional Surgical Services

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As of May 21st, 2025, ALL referrals for vascular assessment will now be received via the Cardiovascular Central Intake to be triaged to the RAVE clinic or the North of Superior Vascular Surgery offices (excluding dialysis access-related, which continue to be managed via the Renal Department at TBRHSC).

Please see the attached NEW Vascular Services Referral Form (FCS-490) available via the TBRHSC Print Shop. This form REPLACES the former RAVE Clinic referral form (CS-1077). The form is available from the TBRHSC Print Shop at no charge via TBRHSC.PrintShop@tbh.net.

Please remove the discontinued RAVE Clinic form from circulation in your office(s).

As always, referrals can be sent via fax to the Central Intake at 807-684-9561.

Additionally, referrals can also be completed via the OCEAN platform through the TBRHSC Cardiovascular Services Intake OR via the TBRHSC Surgical Services Intake.

As a reminder, a complete Vascular Services referral must include:

• Completed Vascular Services Referral Form
• A note including medical history
• A current medication list
• Relevant diagnostic imaging if NOT available via Sectra PACS at TBRHSC

Please also see attached Frequently Asked Questions for reference and do not hesitate to contact the
Coordinator of Cardiovascular Services at (807)-684-6206 with any questions or concerns.

We invite you to join us for a special lunchtime screening of the powerful National Film Board documentary Finding Dawn, which explores the stories of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW) across Canada.

This moving film by Métis filmmaker Christine Welsh sheds light on the human rights crisis affecting Indigenous communities and honors the lives of those who have been lost. It is an important opportunity for reflection, learning, and dialogue as we continue our commitment to Truth and Reconciliation.

Event Details:
Date: Thursday, May 29
Time: 12:00 – 1:00 PM
Location: ICP Main, Room 2171

Snacks will be provided. All staff are encouraged to attend.

To register for this event, please email: TBRHSC.CulturalSafetyEducator@tbh.net

Trigger Warning:

Finding Dawn contains content related to violence and traumatic experiences of Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women.

Thank you for helping us create space for awareness and action. We hope to see you there. 

The International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia, observed annually on May 17, serves as a meaningful occasion to celebrate gender and sexual diversity, recognize the progress achieved toward greater equity for members of the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community, and raise awareness about the ongoing challenges they continue to face.

What are homophobia, transphobia, and biphobia?

The terms homophobia, transphobia, and biphobia describe attitudes and beliefs that create barriers for individuals based on their perceived membership in the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community.

In the health care system, recognizing these perspectives highlights opportunities to promote equity and understanding, inspiring efforts to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all.

Throughout Pride Month in June, the Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Steering Committee’s Pride Working Group will be hosting several events to celebrate and support the 2SLGBTQQIA+ community. Stay tuned to the Daily Informed Newsletter for more details.

To learn more about the International Day Against Homophobia, Transphobia, and Biphobia, please click here.

As part of the preparation activities for MEDITECH Expanse, Bridge Northwest is asking staff to complete a brief survey to help identify ways to enhance your support during the Program.

Thank you for taking two minutes to share your thoughts!

Click here: Change Readiness Survey

The survey is open until Friday, May 30, 2025.

If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out to Bridge.nw@tbh.net

Excerpt from nomination letter

Rita Tosolini is as an exemplary nurse who consistently goes above and beyond to provide exceptional patient care. Rita embodies the very essence of nursing excellence, demonstrating unwavering dedication, compassion, and professionalism in meeting the physical, emotional, and psychological needs of every patient.

From the moment patients enter Rita’s care, they are met with a warm demeanor and a genuine sense of empathy that immediately puts them at ease. Whether it is a routine check-up or a critical medical situation, Rita ensures that every patient feels valued and heard. She takes the time to listen attentively to their concerns, answer their questions thoroughly, and advocate for their needs. Her ability to establish trust and build strong rapport with patients and their families is truly remarkable.

What sets Rita apart is her holistic approach to patient care. She recognizes that healing extends beyond addressing physical ailments—it also involves supporting the emotional and mental well-being of her patients. For instance, during a particularly challenging case involving a terminally ill patient, Rita not only managed the patient’s pain effectively but also provided emotional support to the family by offering guidance, comfort, and resources during an incredibly difficult time. Her ability to balance clinical expertise with empathetic care left a lasting impact on everyone involved.

In addition to her compassionate approach, Rita consistently demonstrates exceptional clinical skills and attention to detail. She remains vigilant in monitoring her patients’ conditions, quickly identifying any changes that require intervention. Her proactive approach has prevented complications on numerous occasions, ensuring optimal outcomes for her patients. Moreover, she stays up-to-date with the latest advancements in nursing practices and applies evidence-based techniques to deliver the highest standard of care.

Rita is also a strong advocate for patient education. She takes the time to explain medical procedures, treatment plans, and self-care strategies in a way that is easy for patients to understand. By empowering patients with knowledge, she enables them to take an active role in their own health journey. Her dedication to education extends beyond her patients; she serves as a mentor to new nurses on the team, fostering a culture of learning and excellence within the workplace.

Beyond her individual contributions, Rita is an integral part of the healthcare team. She collaborates seamlessly with colleagues across disciplines to ensure coordinated and comprehensive care for every patient. Her positive attitude and willingness to support others create an uplifting environment that inspires everyone around her.

In summary, Rita exemplifies what it means to be an exceptional nurse. Her unwavering commitment to meeting all the needs of her patients—physical, emotional, and psychological—sets a standard of excellence that is truly inspiring. It is an honor to work alongside someone who makes such a profound difference in the lives of others every single day.

Excerpt from nomination letter

Erin McQueen, Registered Practical Nurse (RPN), consistently goes above and beyond to advocate for her patients, demonstrating a deep commitment to patient care and the principles outlined in Patient- and Family-Centered Care (PFCC).

Erin is a true advocate for her patients, going far beyond basic nursing responsibilities. As a behavioral specialist, Erin’s expertise in caring for patients in delirium or a confused state is unmatched. She ensures these patients are always treated with professionalism, compassion, and respect. Erin works collaboratively with the healthcare team, providing individualized care that meets the unique needs of each patient. Her approach ensures that even patients who are in vulnerable and challenging states receive dignified and appropriate care, allowing for the best possible outcomes.

Erin’s dedication to improving the patient care experience is evident in her personalized approach. She takes the time to listen carefully to each patient’s concerns, preferences, and needs. Her empathetic and thoughtful nature allows her to create a care plan that is tailored to each individual, fostering a sense of trust and understanding. Erin also empowers her patients and their families by providing them with the information and resources needed to make informed decisions about their care. Her proactive approach to communication ensures that patients feel involved and valued in their own care process.

Erin’s respect for her patients is evident in every interaction. She treats each person with dignity, no matter their condition. Erin consistently creates a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment where patients and families feel respected and heard. Her compassionate nature extends beyond physical care to provide emotional support, ensuring patients feel cared for as whole individuals. Her ability to balance professionalism with deep empathy allows her to connect with patients on a level that enhances the overall care experience.

Erin exemplifies the pillars of Patient- and Family-Centered Care by integrating respect, communication, and collaboration into every aspect of her practice. She consistently involves patients and their families in decision-making, ensuring their preferences and values are at the heart of the care provided. Erin understands the importance of family in the patient’s recovery journey and works diligently to build trust with families, creating an environment where everyone feels supported. Her ability to foster these meaningful relationships is a cornerstone of the exceptional care she provides.

In conclusion, Erin McQueen’s advocacy, compassion, and dedication to both her patients and the nursing profession make her an invaluable member of the healthcare team. Her efforts to ensure individualized care, respect, and dignity for every patient, along with her commitment to the principles of PFCC, have greatly enhanced the patient experience. Erin is a true example of excellence in nursing and an inspiration to all who work with her.

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

Melayne Swant graduated from Confederation College in 2008 as a Registered Practical Nurse. After graduation, she started her career on 2B, the Medical Inpatient Unit. There she enjoyed providing care to a diverse population for 17 years as well as being a preceptor to many students and orientating new staff to 2B. Melayne also taught clinical placements for the Confederation College Personal Support Worker (PSW) program for five years. Recently, she has taken on a new role as a Clinical Scholar, supporting new nurses, new hires and all staff, which is a passion of hers. Outside of work, Melayne likes to spend time outdoors with her husband and three kids. She enjoys fishing in both the summer and the winter and live music.

The following individuals were awarded Tim’s Coffee Cards during the Secret Safety Walkabout by our JHSC representatives.  These workers were witnessed modelling safety practices such as PPE adherence, hand hygiene compliance, wearing their personal alarms and proper footwear and utilizing proper body mechanics and lift aids when transferring/transporting patients.

Tim’s $10 Coffee Cards:

Michelle Hutton – Mammography

Kelly Christiansen – Renal

Charlotte Sarrazin – 2B

TammLynn M – Clerk Chemotherapy Unit

Nancy Giesen – Porter

Winners of the Health and Safety Week Quiz:

Fresh Air Experience $100 – Laura Allen

Maltese Grocery $50 – Irene Pawluk

Tim’s Whole Health $50 – Ramsey Broennle

Winning Team of the Scavenger Hunt:  3A