Working as an RN in Ontario, Canada?

[Copperismydog]

Hi Everyone,

I'm a Canadian citizen but am now living in the US as a permanent resident and am about to start a 2 year associate degree RN program in the fall. I will probably work as an RN in the US when I'm finished school, but I want to leave the possibility of moving back to Canada to work open. I have heard that you need to have a BSN to work as an RN in Ontario, and that you must pass the Canadian version of the NCLEX, the CRNE. I am planning to work in the US as an RN after I get my ASN degree, and then go back to school later to work on my BSN.

So I was wondering if anyone knew if I'd have to have a BSN to take the CRNE exam, or if I can take it after I pass the NCLEX with my ASN degree? I'm worried that if I wait a few years after I've taken the NCLEX, after I get my BSN that I may forget everything that was on the NCLEX and not be able to pass the CRNE.

Does anyone have any info or advice? Thanks!

[dishes, BSN, RN]

Check the College of Nurses of Ontario application information for internationally educated nurses, http://www.cno.org/en/become-a-nurse/new-applicants/international/requirements-for-becoming-a-nurse-in-ontario/ you need a BScN that is equivalent to an Ontario BScN. If you plan to take a US ASN to BScN program be careful about the program you select, as it is unlikely that the theoretical hours and course content offered in a private or an online college/univeristy will be equivalent to an Ontario BScN.

In regards to your desire to take the CRNE shortly after taking the NCLEX, studying for the NCLEX, does not improve your chances of passing the CRNE, the CRNE covers different competencies than the NCLEX, see comparison of the two exams http://www.registered-nurse-canada.com/nclex.html

[inthere]

Yes you need your BSN to qualify to write the CNRE in Canada. The BSN is now the entry level for nurses in ontario

[Silverdragon102, BSN]

Moved to the Canadian forum