Clinical Nurse Lead for Eating Disorder Provincial Service exemplifies the essence of compassionate care

In the vibrant world of nursing, Jessica Wournell, Registered Nurse, and Provincial Clinical Nurse Lead of Nova Scotia Health’s Eating Disorder Provincial Service, emerges as a compassionate force, dedicated to mental health and psychiatric care. 

Wournell’s nursing journey began with a degree from Dalhousie University in 2011. Eager to delve deeper into the field, she dedicated herself to further training in Psychiatric Mental Health Nursing and Suicide Prevention, ultimately achieving certification as a Psychiatric Mental Health Nurse.

Driven by a heartfelt desire to address mental health challenges, Wournell further ventured into specialized education on eating disorders. She seeks to blend theoretical insights with practical skills to enhance the Nova Scotia Eating Disorder Provincial Service. 

"I discovered my passion for working with individuals struggling with eating disorders,” said Wournell. 

“Guiding them through their fears and supporting them in their recovery process I felt drawn to providing not just medical care but a comforting presence to promote wellbeing. I witnessed remarkable transformations that could positively impact their lives for years to come, allowing them to rediscover a positive relationship with eating and helping them re-engage in normal activities they may have missed out on due to their illness,” she shared. 

The Nova Scotia Eating Disorder Provincial Service helps people overcome anorexia nervosa, bulimia nervosa, avoidant restrictive food intake disorder, binge eating disorders and other specified feeding and eating disorders. The service offers a variety of treatment options through outpatient evidence-based therapies, intensive day treatment for adults and inpatient treatment when needed. 

A key challenge teams face is managing patients' mixed feelings about treatment, and helping navigate their feelings.  Wournell sheds light on the complexities involved. "Treatment is a commitment for the individual or family," she said. “Eating Disorders have an impact on not only those who experience the illness but those who are in their support network. Particularly in child and youth clients may need their parent’s support to recover.”

Her approach to patient care is rooted in empathy, validation, and support. "Entering treatment for your eating disorder is scary," she acknowledged. “I involve family members whenever possible, as they play a crucial role in supporting an individual’s recovery journey.” Wournell uses evidence-based methods like Family Based Treatment and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy, she collaborates closely with a team of healthcare professionals to provide holistic care.

Managing the health problems linked to eating disorders, from malnutrition to heart issues, demands careful attention and collaborative efforts with healthcare providers like primary care and dietitians. Striking a balance between stabilizing physical health and addressing psychological aspects can be an ongoing challenge.

Collaboration is the heartbeat of the Nova Scotia Eating Disorder Provincial Service. Zonal teams facilitate consultations among various disciplines involved in eating disorder treatment. Regular clinical meetings foster interdisciplinary collaboration, ensuring individuals receive cohesive and coordinated care.

“By fostering a culture of collaboration and communication, we ensure that individuals receiving care through the Nova Scotia Eating Disorder Provincial Service benefit from a cohesive and coordinated approach that addresses their unique needs from multiple angles, “she described. 

Wournell's goal is straightforward yet profound: "Empower families and individuals to overcome their eating disorder as they work towards recovery."

As Wournell continues her journey towards a Master's degree in Psychiatric Nursing at Brandon University, she exemplifies the essence of compassionate care, shaping the landscape of eating disorder treatment in the Nova Scotia Eating Disorder Provincial Service.

To learn more about the provincial Eating Disorder Program, click here.

Photo of Jessica Wournell, Registered Nurse, and Provincial Clinical Nurse Lead of Nova Scotia Health’s Eating Disorder Provincial Service.