BC to Ont - What can I expect?

loriangel14, RN · Mar 11, 2012

We all pass the same exam.You won't need to upgrade but I do know that RPNs in Ontario have a broader scope of practice.

Working2BLPN · Mar 11, 2012

Thanks for the response Loriangel14 :) That's good news. My teachers here were assuming I would have to get up to speed on the practices we don't train for here in BC. I will be happy not to have to do any extra schooling. How's the work opps there?

loriangel14, RN · Mar 11, 2012

What exactly are they saying you don't train for? Do you have a lot of things that only RNs can do?We have recently got training for PICC lines,which we didn't used to be able to touch.Jobs aren't very plentiful for new grads but it also depends on what part of Ontario.

Fiona59 · Mar 12, 2012

If I remember right, BC has one of the shortest training times in the country. Their course covers the basics. Remember, many of their health authorities restrict LPN practice a great deal.

Much of what we take for granted isn't the norm out there. Hospital inservices cover everythng else and result in certification that is job site specific.

loriangel14, RN · Mar 12, 2012

It was a long time ago so I can't remember specifics but I did talk to a BC PN once and I was shocked at the stuff they couldn't do.

newnursejoan · Mar 12, 2012

Although I agree you won't have to likely do anything extra, the best bet is to contact the CNO. They would be able to provide you with the best advice

Fiona59 · Mar 13, 2012

@nurse2b:

I've moved as an LPN from AB to BC and then back. BC required me to do a one day skills upgrade in a skill that wasn't in the AB scope of practice (it was being introduced as I left) and I wasn't permitted to do in BC. At the same time BC educated LPNs were required to upgrade their A&P course to work in AB due to a few areas that were lacking in content.

PICCs are a coming to my hospital soon and we will be "in-seviced" and "certified" by our employers, just as we were for IV starts. Courses might be available locally but hospitals always require in house education before turning us loose on the public.

loriangel14, RN · Mar 13, 2012

Oh I have also heard that our health assessment and physical examination theory hours are longer than the BC program.