A man posing as a nursing student while working alongside staff at Marshall Gowland Manor has led to security changes at the Lambton County operated nursing home.
The man, who turned out to be a graduate from the Lambton College Nursing Program, pretended to be a student on the evenings of November 21, November 28 and December 3 of 2019.
During that time, he did administer medications to residents while under supervision.
General Manager of Long-Term Care Jane Joris said during his third visit, it was determined he wasn't supposed to be there, despite the fact he had volunteered at the home in the past.
"He was inactive," said Joris. "In our volunteer program, we do screen volunteers with a criminal reference check, with references, with training, and interviews. He had not volunteered at the home for quite some time and was made inactive as a volunteer."
Joris said they've spoken with the families of the residents the man came into contact with and reassured them he was supervised, and no incorrect medication was handed out.
"This was a very serious incident but I believe that we've learned from it," she said. "The ministry is happy with the enhanced security that we've put in place and the training that we've done with the staff. The safety of the people who live in our homes and the people who work in our homes is top of mind."
Since the incident, Joris said they now require visiting professionals to show identification when signing in.
Volunteer badges at all three sites now include a photo, that must be worn at all times.