Waterloo Regional Health Network is a leading healthcare provider in the Waterloo-Wellington region, delivering comprehensive care through seven specialized regional programs. At WRHN, we’re transforming the healthcare experience through innovative approaches, collaborative partnerships, and patient-centered care models that address barriers to access.
Our mission extends beyond traditional healthcare delivery—we’re committed to improving lives, inspiring healing, and building healthier, stronger communities. By actively listening to patients and partners, we connect communities with the right care, in the right place, at the right time. Our newly integrated network (pronounced “wren”) represents the evolution of healthcare in our region, bringing together the strengths of legacy institutions to create a more cohesive and responsive system.
Position Overview
Location: WRHN @ Midtown (formerly Grand River Hospital, KW Campus)
Employment Type: Temporary Full-Time (until approximately August 31, 2025)
Union Affiliation: Ontario Nurses Association (ONA)
Department: Surgical Services
Role Summary
As a Nurse Practitioner within our surgical program, you will be an integral member of our multidisciplinary healthcare team. Working in close collaboration with General Surgeons and other healthcare professionals, you’ll provide advanced clinical expertise in the assessment, diagnosis, and management of surgical patients throughout their care journey.
This role offers the opportunity to practice at the full scope of your NP credentials, utilizing your advanced knowledge and clinical judgment to optimize patient outcomes, facilitate timely interventions, and support efficient patient flow through the surgical care continuum. You’ll serve as a clinical leader, educator, and patient advocate while contributing to program development and quality improvement initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
Clinical Practice
- Conduct comprehensive health assessments including detailed histories and physical examinations for surgical patients
- Order and interpret diagnostic tests to inform clinical decision-making
- Develop and implement evidence-based treatment plans in collaboration with the surgical team
- Monitor patient progress and adjust care plans as needed
- Manage post-operative care and complications within your scope of practice
- Facilitate timely discharge planning to optimize patient flow and resource utilization
- Provide advanced clinical support during periods of patient deterioration or instability
- Document patient care according to professional and organizational standards
Collaboration and Consultation
- Work collaboratively within an interdisciplinary team environment to ensure coordinated care
- Consult appropriately with physicians and specialists when care requirements extend beyond NP scope
- Liaise with community partners to ensure continuity of care across the healthcare continuum
- Participate in patient rounds and case conferences to optimize treatment approaches
- Serve as a resource and mentor to nursing staff and other healthcare providers
Leadership and Program Development
- Contribute to the development and implementation of clinical pathways and protocols
- Participate in quality improvement initiatives to enhance surgical patient outcomes
- Support the integration of evidence-based practices into surgical care delivery
- Identify opportunities to improve efficiency and effectiveness of care processes
- Participate in program evaluation activities to measure impact and outcomes
Education and Research
- Promote professional education through formal and informal teaching opportunities
- Advance knowledge through participation in research and scholarly activities
- Maintain current knowledge of emerging trends and best practices in surgical care
- Support student learning experiences through preceptorship and mentoring
- Contribute to patient and family education initiatives
Qualifications and Requirements
Education and Licensure
- Current registration with the College of Nurses of Ontario as a Nurse Practitioner (Extended Class)
- Master of Science in Nursing or a master’s degree in a relevant healthcare discipline preferred
- Member in good standing with the College of Nurses of Ontario
- Current Basic Cardiac Life Support (BCLS) certification
- Additional certifications relevant to surgical care considered an asset
Experience and Knowledge
- Minimum of 5 years of clinical practice experience, with substantial experience in surgical or acute care settings
- Comprehensive knowledge base in surgical care principles and practices
- Demonstrated expertise in the assessment and management of complex surgical patients
- Strong understanding of perioperative care, pain management, and wound care
- Experience working within collaborative practice models and interdisciplinary teams
- Knowledge of current evidence-based practices in surgical patient management
Skills and Abilities
- Advanced clinical assessment and diagnostic reasoning skills
- Exceptional critical thinking and problem-solving abilities
- Strong decision-making capabilities with appropriate consultation when needed
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills across diverse audiences
- Ability to function autonomously while recognizing the importance of team collaboration
- Demonstrated leadership capabilities and change management skills
- Proficiency with electronic medical record systems and digital health technologies
- Commitment to continuous quality improvement and patient safety
- Ability to manage competing priorities in a fast-paced environment
- Strong organizational and time management skills
Personal Attributes
- Self-directed with ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Adaptable and flexible in response to changing clinical situations
- Compassionate approach to patient care with strong ethical principles
- Commitment to professional development and lifelong learning
- Resilience and ability to thrive in challenging healthcare environments
- Demonstrated commitment to patient and family-centered care
Pre-Employment Requirements
All new employees must provide documentation/proof of:
- COVID-19 vaccination status in accordance with current organizational policy
- Two-step TB test results
- Immunity to measles, mumps, rubella, and varicella (chickenpox)
- Satisfactory criminal background check (vulnerable sector screening)
Clearance from Employee Health, Safety and Wellness is required before beginning employment at WRHN.
Working Conditions
- Primary work location is in a hospital/clinical environment
- May require standing and walking for extended periods
- Potential exposure to infectious diseases, bodily fluids, and hazardous materials
- May involve managing emotionally charged situations
- Schedule may include days, evenings, and occasional weekend shifts based on program needs
How to Apply
Internal Candidates:
- Legacy St. Mary’s General Hospital employees must apply electronically using Infor
- Legacy Grand River Hospital employees must apply electronically using Empath
External Candidates:
Please submit your application through our careers website at [website URL].
As per the collective agreement, the internal recruitment process will be completed prior to consideration of external applications.
Our Commitment to Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
Waterloo Regional Health Network is deeply committed to creating a workplace that reflects the diversity of the communities we serve. We strongly believe in inclusion and diversity within our organization and welcome all qualified applicants including, but not limited to, people from racialized communities, all religions and ethnicities, persons with disabilities, LGBTQ2S+ persons, Indigenous people, and all others who may contribute to the further diversification of our Hospital community.
We are committed to providing and fostering a respectful workplace for all employees, free from violence and harassment. Accommodations are available during all stages of the recruitment process in accordance with the Human Rights Code. To request accommodation, please contact Human Resources.
International Applicants
If you are seeking employment on a temporary work or study permit, we recommend reviewing work permit restrictions as they apply to healthcare organizations in Canada. Individuals holding a work or study permit seeking employment in the healthcare sector may be required to complete additional steps in the process. This may also apply to current employees seeking renewal of their work permits.
It is the responsibility of the applicant and/or employee to ensure they are adhering to their specific work permit restrictions. We encourage international applicants to review these requirements before applying.
We would like to thank all candidates in advance for their interest in joining the Waterloo Regional Health Network team. Due to the volume of applications we receive, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.
Leave a Reply