Photo courtesy Northern Health

By Caden Fanshaw

WARNING

‘It’s just sad’: Serious concerns raised about seniors living conditions at Gateway Lodge

Dec 9, 2021 | 4:55 PM

WARNING: This story contains graphic content that some readers might find disturbing. Discretion is advised.

PRINCE GEORGE – Serious concerns have been raised about the conditions inside a third-floor complex care unit at Gateway Lodge in Prince George.

Relatives with loved ones inside the complex care unit spoke to CKPG News about their fears for the health and wellbeing of those inside living inside.

“There have been situations on multiple occasions where residents have been given someone else’s medication,” said one of the family members. “At the same time, there’s not always enough staff to get there to toilet them so they’re forced to use their briefs and not even given the dignity of a bath.”

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CKPG News protected the identity of the family members who spoke out as they feared repercussions for loved ones still living at the facility.

Images have been gathered by visitors that show used diapers on the floor, residents living near and in their own fecal matter, and other bodily fluids on the floor.

Multiple sources inside Gateway Lodge also confirmed the claims.

“You worry when you leave your loved ones, you know when you’re there and you’re ringing the bell for help and nobody comes for a half-hour or forty minutes, and you’re there, what happens when you’re not.” said a family member.

According to those who visit the facility, the call bell system has been broken since November 2020.

CKPG News did receive a response from Northern Health.

“Northern Health takes seriously any concerns raised about quality of care in our long term care facilities. In order to maintain privacy, we cannot publicly discuss individual resident care matters – but residents and their families are encouraged to bring any concerns to the attention of facility and Northern Health leadership, or to the NH Patient Care Quality Office. Gateway Lodge also holds regular Resident Council meetings at which concerns can be raised and addressed.”

“Gateway Lodge continues to meet or exceed provincial benchmark requirements for hours of care, per resident. In addition to Registered Nursing and Care Aide staffing on all shifts, the facility has also benefited from the assistance of nursing students and preceptor students in providing care to residents. Gateway is looking forward welcoming new care aide graduates from the Health Care Access Program, and new licensed practical nursing staff, to the care team in 2022.”

“The facility is also undergoing an upgrade to its nurse call-bell system; new equipment is expected to be installed in January.”