It’s 6 AM, the day shift starts in an hour, and a PSW has just called in sick. Every scheduler in Barrie, Alliston and the rest of Simcoe County knows the feeling. The homes that fill these shifts quickly aren’t lucky. They’ve set things up before the call comes.
Here’s a simple checklist you can use.
Before you ever need it
- Set up two or three staffing agencies in advance. Have their insurance certificates, rates and a 24/7 phone number on file. The worst time to set up a new agency is at 6 AM.
- Keep a list of your own part-timers who like extra shifts, and the best way to reach them.
- Write a one-page sheet for each unit: who the charge nurse is, door codes, parking, fire exits, and residents at risk of falls or wandering.
When the sick call comes
- Offer it to your own staff first, with a short deadline (for example 30 minutes, or less if the shift starts soon).
- Call your agency with the details ready: unit, role (PSW, RPN or RN), start and end time, who they report to, and any special needs on the unit, such as lifts or dementia care.
- Ask who exactly is coming: their name, role and arrival time, and whether they’ve worked at your home before.
- Ask for their credentials if you don’t already have them: CNO registration for nurses, a PSW certificate, and a recent vulnerable sector check.
When they arrive
- Give them the unit sheet and ten minutes with the charge nurse.
- Pair them with a regular staff member for the first rounds if you can.
After the shift
- Confirm the hours the same day while everyone remembers them.
- Give the agency feedback, good or bad.
- Ask for the same person next time. A small group of relief staff who know your home is the best protection against the next 6 AM call.
Need cover today?
Bamwan Health Care Services is based in Alliston and sends screened PSWs, RPNs and RNs to care homes and hospitals in Barrie, Alliston and across Simcoe County. Our phone line is answered 24/7.
Request staff now or call (416) 831-7506. See our emergency and last-minute staffing.