Hil Smith is a Registered Nurse (CNO) working in Geriatric Psychiatry at UHN’s Toronto Rehab - Specialized Dementia Unit (SDU). They bring strong communication and collaboration skills to their nursing practice following a decade of experience in the film and television industry.
Hil graduated from Trent University’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BScN) program in 2025. They also hold an Honours degree in Film & Media Studies (BAH) from Queen’s University and a Postgraduate Certificate in Post-Production Technologies from Humber College. Hil’s nursing degree at Trent included over 1200 clinical hours in hospital and community settings with a focus on older adults. Their current role on the SDU has provided them with extensive experience caring for older adults with complex cognitive, behavioural, psychiatric, and physical health needs. They regularly complete comprehensive assessments, develop and evaluate individualized care plans, collaborate with interprofessional teams and families, and respond to behavioural and safety concerns using de-escalation and person-centred approaches. Hil’s charge nurse experience has further strengthened their clinical judgment, leadership, prioritization, and ability to manage complex situations.
What Hil brings to the table:
Strong gerontological and mental health nursing foundations, with experience completing comprehensive physical, cognitive, behavioural, and mental-status assessments and recognizing changes in older adults’ presentation.
Demonstrated ability to provide person-centred care to older adults with complex dementia, behavioural, psychiatric, and physical health needs, including de-escalation, behavioural support, and interventions focused on client and environmental safety.
Effective interprofessional collaboration and communication, including evaluation, family communication, and coordination with colleagues to support unit safety and continuity of care.
Strong critical thinking, organization, and decision-making developed through RN and charge nurse responsibilities, including responding to clinical emergencies, prioritizing competing needs, supporting colleagues, and maintaining a safe therapeutic environment.