NOTE: THE "BRIDGING" PROGRAM IS NOT BEING OFFERED FOR FALL, 2011.

This is a one-year "bridging program" for practical nurses (RPN's) that currently only have a one-year certificate to upgrade their credential to a full, two-year "Ontario College Diploma in Practical Nursing," in just one year of further study!

 The current CNO entry to practice requirement for RPNs is a College diploma practical nursing program. This program gives RPNS who are registered with the College of Nurses of Ontario and who have graduated from Confederation College’s certificate programs (1995-2002) the opportunity to upgrade to full scope of practice.

The program’s curriculum parallels the existing PN diploma program. Students will attend some existing Practical Nursing classes with other full time diploma students and will attend practice labs and clinical with their cohort group. This program will be offered in a format which will allow students to complete clinical and lab components on weekends and enable certificate practical nurses to update their knowledge in one academic year (2 semesters).

Employment Opportunities:

Upon successful completion of the program, graduates may find employment in general hospitals, psychiatric hospitals, chronic care facilities, nursing homes, rehabilitation and community based agencies.

Admission Requirements:

1. Graduate of Confederation College’s Practical Nursing Certificate program from 1995 – 2002
2. Registered with the CNO as an RPN in good standing
3. Proof of current CPR, immunization, mask fit testing and WHIMIS
4. College Assessment course CM 310 Physical Assessment
5. College Pharmacology course with current medication administration experience  
   • WR216 Administration of Medications I: Pharmacology
   • WR217 Admin of medications II: Systems
   • WR218 Admin of Medications III: Clinical Practicum
   • PLAR assessment for Pharmacology will be available for Medication administration/ Pharmacology
6. Patho 1 On Line Ontario Learn www.ontariolearn.ca
7. Patho 2 On Line Ontario Learn www.ontariolearn.ca
8. Letter from employer indicating number of years of experience as an RPN, number of years of experience in administering medications and competency in completing a physical assessment. Applicants must have the minimum of the equivalent of two years of full time nursing practice within the past 5 years.
9. Transcripts of successful Certificate completion must be provided.

Program Continuation Requirements:

Students must successfully complete all courses in the semester before progressing to the next semester. A minimum “C” grade (60%) is required in Nursing courses.

Physical Demands:

The practical nursing student must have physical capabilities that would facilitate the lifting and supporting of patients, maneuvring hospital equipment and completing technical tasks requiring fine motor skills and precision of movements.

Other Requirements:
At orientation, the student will provide proof of:

1. Student medical form with documentation of current immunization
2. Hepatitis B and Flu vaccination is highly recommended
3. Basic Cardiac Life support, BLS-C for health car providers prior to the start of the program.
4. A recent criminal reference check for Vulnerable Populations. All costs associated with police checks, testing and proof of certification are the responsibility of the applicant. The check is used by employers in this field as a screening requirement of field placement and employment. A criminal record may prevent you from participating in the filed placement experiences, thus blocking you from completing program requirements.

Please Note:  Delivery of the program is contingent upon adequate enrolment numbers.
Curriculum