How to become a Registered Nurse in Canada

Nursing is typically characterized into two groups in Canada – Registered Practical Nurse and Registered Nurse. There are six categories by which a nurse is registered - General, Special Assignment, Emergency Assignment, Extended, Temporary and Non-Practicing.

Every region in Canada has a supervisory body for nursing practices. They set certain essential requirements to enter the profession, promising the excellence in practice and forming high standards in nursing domain.

Globally Educated Nurses

If you are a skilled nurse practicing outside of Canada you will have to complete a bridging course meant for the registration. These programs will deliver you with the clinical knowledge in Canada and necessary information regarding the practice necessities set by the controlling organization.

After completing this program, a confirmation of the course closure will be directed to the regulatory bodies as proof of eligibility. The availability of the program on a part time basis depends on the organization which provides it.

Benefits:

There are many types of bridging courses in Canada. You can opt for any one of them. With the completion of this course you will be handed with a recognized certificate stating your eligibility to work as a nurse full time. This opportunity will also open gates of renowned Canadian Hospitals which will polish your skills and make you ready for new challenges ahead. You will also learn to coordinate with others and prove to be a team player. Communication along with therapeutic relationships is what you will gain out of this exposure. It gives you an ethical and legal framework to be a part of Canadian nursing manpower.

Requirements:

To practice as a registered Nurse in Canada, globally skilled nurses must hold a General Certificate of Registration. Your qualification for registration is as follows -

1. Authorized proof to work in Canada
2. Completion of practical nursing diploma or nursing program equivalent to a 4 year bachelor’s degree in nursing.
3. Nursing practice of three years prior to issue of the Certificate of Registration.
4. Completion of the NCLEX-RN for those applying for Registered Nurse, or the CPNRE (Canadian Practical Nurse Registration Exam) for those applying for Registered Practical Nurse.
5. Language proficiency proof in English (or French).