Nursing in the Yukon is more than bedside care — it’s also about leadership, training and shaping the future of health services. Just ask Jaqueline.
As a licensed practical nurse (LPN) and the acting resident and client safety leader with the Government of Yukon, Jaqueline plays a critical role in ensuring long-term and home care services are safe, effective and continuously improving.
We caught up with her during a visit to Alexander McDonald Lodge in Dawson to learn more about her work and her path in Yukon health care.
Could you introduce yourself and tell us about your work?
My name is Jaqueline. I’m a licensed practical nurse, and currently I’m the acting resident and client safety leader.
What does a typical day look like in your role?
My job is all about making sure residents and clients receive safe, high-quality care, and that staff have the resources and skills to provide that care. The client safety team supports nurses and staff working in long-term care and home care. We’re here to answer questions, review safety practices and help prevent harm before it happens.
On any given day, I might be reviewing incident reports to identify trends and solutions, conducting medication audits, supporting staff with training and guidance or visiting care homes like McDonald Lodge to build relationships and promote best practices.
Do you help train staff on safety and best practices?
Yes, training is a big part of what we do. Recently, we trained all nurses in long-term care on safe medication practices. We’ve also developed onboarding training for new nurses, so they’re equipped with the knowledge they need to succeed from day one.
What do you enjoy most about your work?
The people. Every day I get to work with staff who are welcoming, warm and deeply committed. It’s a tight-knit community. I also love that I get to lead quality improvement projects that make a real difference for both residents and staff. That’s really exciting for me.
You’re based in Whitehorse but often travel. What’s that like?
That’s right — my home base is the quality and safety office in Whitehorse, but I also work out of the various care homes across the territory. This week I’m spending a couple of days at Alexander McDonald Lodge in Dawson, where I’m checking in with staff, conducting audits, offering training and continuing to build relationships with the team here. It’s a great chance to stay connected to the frontline.
What advice would you give someone considering a health care career in the Yukon?
There are so many opportunities here to grow, both professionally and personally. Since joining the Government of Yukon, I’ve attended all kinds of training — not just clinical, but also leadership and personal development. So I’d say: be curious and take advantage of those learning opportunities.
It’s also important to learn about Yukon First Nations communities and to approach the work with cultural humility and a commitment to reconciliation. As an LPN, I’ve seen how our full scope of practice is used here, and there are real leadership opportunities for LPNs. You’re empowered to bring your own ideas to life and collaborate with others to improve care.
It’s a very supportive and welcoming environment.