January 8, 2014 | British Columbia

New program trains Health Care Assistant grads for nursing careers in 63 weeks

Richmond, BC – January 8, 2014 – CDI College recently launched the Practical Nursing Access program in Richmond. The program recognizes past education and work experience of applicants who graduated from Health Care Assistant programs at accredited post-secondary institutions in BC, allowing them to earn a PN diploma in 63 weeks.

“As more responsibilities are given to licensed practical nurses (LPNs) BC, the need for these healthcare professionals will grow,” says Larry Heinzlmeir, VP of Marketing at CDI College. “The Practical Nursing Access program allows Health Care Assistants to capitalize on their education and work experience to train for positions in acute care hospitals, public health facilities, home care and more.”

Students in the Practical Nursing Access program learn to work collaboratively with doctors, RNs and other healthcare professionals to provide efficient and effective patient-centred care to people of all ages. They focus on health promotion, including health enhancement, disease prevention and health restoration. Pharmacology, professional communication and integrated nursing practice are covered as well.

Students benefit from clinical placements in residential care, community health and acute care settings where they put their skills and knowledge to use and gain valuable hands-on experience. During a final preceptorship, students have the opportunity to demonstrate integration and consolidation of the necessary knowledge, skills and competencies in the workplace.

PN Access grads are eligible to write the Canadian Practical Nurse Registration Examination, a necessary step toward becoming a licensed practical nurse (LPN).