Flood Relocation Team

Leanne Gugenheimer, Sarah Saldhersl, Mercy Shibu, Salima Filali

When a significant flood took place at Chateau Vitaline, Centre de Santé Saint-Thomas stepped up to provide suites to six residents. The flood relocation team had suites ready and a plan in place to welcome these displaced residents so they would feel as comfortable as possible.

The residents’ families were informed about what was happening and invited to help with the transition from Beaumont to Edmonton. Families and staff gathered essential items, and they honoured residents’ wishes about what they wanted to bring with them to their new home. To aid in the transition, emails were sent to residents and families about offerings available at the site and the staff directory. CareRx, who provides resident medications, was notified where residents were now to ensure there was no disruption to residents’ medications.

Centre de Santé Saint-Thomas set up beds, brought in chairs and bedside tables and provided essential items. Staff prepared snacks and supper for the residents and posted welcome signs on each resident’s door.

The flood relocation team greeted residents and families outside and welcomed them with carts ready to take their belongings to their new suites. Families were introduced to the site administrator, registered nurse educator, licensed practical nurse (LPN) supervisor, and LPNs and health care aides on duty. Care plans were reviewed on admission. Over the next two days other furniture and belongings were delivered from Chateau Vitaline. Staff did night checks to see how residents were settling into their new site.