Nigerian RN wants to become Nurse Anesthetist in Canada

[Nurse Beth, MSN]

Dear Wants to be Nurse Anesthetist,

As you are taking a course to become a Personal Support Worker, I assume you are not yet licensed in Canada as an RN. First, you must become licensed as an RN in Canada.

Become an RN in Canada

To become a registered nurse in Canada as an internationally trained nurse from Nigeria, you will need to follow certain steps.

• English language proficiency. If English is not your first language, you may need to demonstrate proficiency through standardized tests such as the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) or the Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program (CELPIP).
• You will need to have your nursing credentials assessed by a recognized Canadian organization such as the National Nursing Assessment Service (NNAS). This will determine if your education and experience are equivalent to Canadian nursing standards. 
• After completing the assessment, you may be required to take additional courses or complete a bridge program approved by the Canadian nursing regulatory body in the province or territory where you want to practice. 
• Once you have completed the educational requirements, you will need to pass the Canadian Registered Nurse Examination (CRNE).
• Finally, you will need to apply for registration with the nursing regulatory body in the province or territory where you want to practice. Each province in Canada has its nursing regulatory body, and you must be registered with them. Check out this link for internationally educated nurses in Canada by province.

Applying for registration includes submitting your credentials, passing a criminal record check, and paying any required fees. Please note that the process can vary slightly depending on the province or territory, so it is important to research the specific requirements for the area where you plan to practice.

Become a Nurse Anesthetist in Canada

Gain Canadian nursing experience. In many cases, Canadian nursing experience is required for advanced nursing roles. It's important to gain experience as a registered nurse in Canada, and your experience in Nigeria may not be directly transferable. ICU experience may be required.

• Education requirements. To become a Nurse Anesthetist, you typically need to complete a Master's degree or a postgraduate program in Nurse Anesthesia. The program should be recognized and accredited by the appropriate regulatory body. Admission to these programs often requires a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree or its equivalent.
• Certification and licensing. Upon completing the Nurse Anesthesia program, you must pass a certification examination and obtain licensure from the provincial regulatory body where you plan to practice.

The specific requirements can vary by province, and they may change over time. It's crucial to contact the nursing regulatory body in the province where you plan to practice for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

You should also consult educational institutions offering Nurse Anesthesia programs to understand their specific admission requirements.

The duration of the Nurse Anesthesia program can vary, but a Master's program generally takes around two years of full-time study. Typically students in a nurse anesthetist program are not allowed to work while they're in school. Be sure to inquire about any bridging programs or additional requirements based on your existing qualifications.

Check out the Canadian nurse forum here on site as well.

I hope this helps you get started, good luck!

Nurse Beth