Journey of Becoming a Registered Nurse in Canada

Introduction

• Host: RNA Breathe channel
• Purpose: Share personal journey of becoming a registered nurse in Canada.
• Topics Covered:
  • Nursing education programs in Canada
  • Selected colleges for nursing programs
  • Part-time jobs during education
  • Process of obtaining Permanent Residency (PR)
  • NNAS process and timeline

Background

• Completed four years of nursing education in India.
• Focused on gaining experience and preparing for Canadian programs.

Choosing Nursing Programs and Colleges

• Chose Niagara College for Critical Care Nursing, but switched to Palliative Care Multi-Discipline due to seat availability.
• Completed six months of clinical experience (~1100 hours) before moving to Canada in September 2015.

Work and Study Balance

• Struggled initially to find part-time work in Canada due to seasonal factors.
• Secured part-time job in a food restaurant in Niagara Falls.
• Full-time work helped save money for further education.

Further Education and Work Experience

• Moved to Saskatchewan for Continuing Care Assistant (CCA) program at Parkland College.
• Gained experience in home care settings, enhancing skills with Canadian residents.
• Worked part-time at McDonald's; prioritized PR over immediate nursing license.

NNAS Process and Licensing

• Created NNAS account in August 2017.
• Received advisory report within 5-6 months (by January 31, 2018).
• Applied for both LPN and RN programs with College of Nurses Ontario (CNO).
• Completed Jurisprudence exam on May 10, 2018.
• Passed CPNRE (LPN exam) on October 16, 2018.

Overcoming Challenges

• Safe practice expired; required additional clinical hours from India.
• Addressed language requirements with support from current employment.

Achieving RN License

• Studied intensively for NCLEX-RN, focusing on theory and practice questions.
• Passed NCLEX-RN on June 21, 2019, with minimal questions.
• Received notification of registration as a nurse in Ontario.

Personal and Professional Growth

• Secured PR through CCA program.
• Gained multiple job offers; chose full-time day shift position.
• Moved to Ontario in August 2020 and began working.

Conclusion

• Emphasizes self-belief and dedication.
• Encourages reducing social distractions to focus on studying.
• Reflects on the importance of varied experiences and adapting to changes.

Call to Action

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