April 3, 2025 | British Columbia

The healthcare sector in Canada is booming, with an ever-growing demand for skilled professionals who can deliver compassionate, patient-centered care. Among the most sought-after roles is that of the Practical Nurse (PN), a vital frontline healthcare provider. If you’re considering a career in nursing but want to enter the workforce quickly, becoming a Practical Nurse could be your ideal pathway.  
 
This blog explores what a Practical Nurse does, how to become one in Canada, career opportunities, and how to choose a Practical Nursing program standing out as a launchpad for success. 

What Is the Role of a Practical Nurse? 

 
A Practical Nurse (PN), also known as a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in some regions, is a licensed healthcare professional trained to provide essential nursing care under the supervision of Registered Nurses (RNs) or physicians. PNs play a critical role in patient care, blending clinical expertise with empathy to support individuals across diverse healthcare settings. 
 

Key Responsibilities of a PN : 

• Monitoring and recording vital signs (e.g., blood pressure, temperature). 
• Administering medications and injections. 
• Assisting with daily living activities (e.g., bathing, dressing). 
• Providing wound care and basic first aid. 
• Collaborating with RNs, doctors, and healthcare teams to implement care plans. 
• Educating patients and families on health management. 

Work Environments : 

• Long-term care facilities (e.g., retirement homes, nursing homes). 
• Hospitals (medical/surgical units, maternity, pediatrics). 
• Community health centers and home care agencies. 
• Clinics and outpatient care settings. 

Unlike Registered Nurses, who require a bachelor’s degree, PNs complete a streamlined diploma program, making this role accessible to those eager to start their nursing careers quickly. 

How to Become a Practical Nurse in Canada? 

 
Becoming a PN in Canada involves meeting specific educational, licensing, and regulatory requirements. Here’s a step-by-step guide: 
 

1. Enrol in an Accredited Practical Nursing Program 

 
To qualify for licensure, you must graduate from a provincially approved Practical Nursing diploma program. These programs typically take 18–24 months to complete and combine classroom learning with hands-on clinical training. 

 
Program Curriculum: 

• Anatomy, physiology, and pharmacology. 
• Nursing fundamentals (e.g., infection control, patient safety). 
• Clinical skills (e.g., medication administration, wound care). 
• Mental health and communication strategies. 
• Supervised clinical practicums in real healthcare settings. 

CDI College’s Practical Nursing program, for example, is designed to meet provincial standards and prepares students for the licensing exam through rigorous coursework and immersive clinical experiences. The program is available at campus in British Columbia. 
 

2. Pass the REx-PN (Regulatory Exam – Practical Nurse) 
 

After graduating, you must pass the REx-PN, a national exam testing your knowledge and competency in nursing practice. CDI College supports students with exam preparation resources to lead to success. 
 

3. Obtain Provincial Licensure 
 

Apply for licensure through your province’s nursing regulatory body (e.g., the British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM)). Requirements vary slightly by province but generally include: 
 

• Proof of graduation from an approved program. 
• Passing the REx-PN. 
• A clean criminal record check. 
   

Once licensed, you’ll receive the title of Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) or Registered Nursing Assistant, depending on the province. 
 
Bonus Read: How to Become Licensed Practical Nurse in Canada 

Career Opportunities for Practical Nurses in Canada 
 

Practical Nurses (PNs) are vital contributors to Canada’s healthcare system, with a robust job market fueled by an aging population and increasing demand for community-based care. PNs enjoy diverse opportunities across healthcare settings, competitive salaries, and long-term job stability. Here’s an overview of the career landscape for PNs in Canada: 
 

Employment Outlook 

Strong demand for Licensed Practical Nurses in British Columbia, with similar trends nationwide. Key drivers include: 
 

• Aging Population: Seniors (aged 65+) now make up nearly 20% of Canada’s population, increasing demand for long-term care and chronic disease management. 
• Healthcare Expansion: Growth in home care, outpatient clinics, and community health services. 
• Retirement Wave: Experienced nurses exiting the workforce, creating vacancies. 
   

According to the jobbank.gv.ca forecasts “Good to Very Good” employment prospects for PNs in most provinces, with British Columbia, Alberta, and Ontario leading in job openings. 

Career Advancement 

 
LPNs in Canada enjoy a dynamic career landscape with multiple pathways for growth, specialization, and leadership through: 
 

1. Entry-Level Pathways 

From Healthcare Aide to LPN: Many LPNs begin their careers as healthcare aides or resident care attendants, gaining hands-on experience in patient care before enroling in a Practical Nursing diploma program. This foundational experience strengthens clinical skills and empathy, preparing them for licensure. 

2. Specializations & Advanced Roles 

LPNs can expand their expertise through certifications and experience in high-demand specialties, such as: 
 

• Clinical Specializations: 
• Operating Room Technician 
• Emergency Care 
• Intensive Care Unit (ICU) 
• Maternity & Pediatrics 
• Community Health 
• Self-Employment: Seasoned LPNs often launch independent practices, offering niche services like: 
• Mobile foot care for seniors. 
• Chronic wound management. 
• Health education and wellness consulting. 
   

3. Leadership & Education 
 

• Teaching Roles: With a Provincial Instructor Diploma, LPNs can train future healthcare aides, resident care attendants, and Practical Nursing students at colleges or vocational schools. 
• Management Opportunities: Leadership training opens doors to roles like: 
• Director of Care (long-term facilities). 
• Clinical Supervisor or Shift Coordinator. 
• Site Leader for community health programs. 

 
Why Choose a Practical Nursing Program? 

 
A Practical Nursing diploma isn’t just a career launchpad—it’s a flexible pathway with long-term growth potential. Here’s why aspiring nurses choose this route: 
 

• Fast Entry into Healthcare: Complete your diploma in 18–24 months and start working sooner than with a 4-year RN degree. 
• Hands-On Experience: Clinical placements in hospitals, clinics, or long-term care facilities provide real-world skills from day one. 
• Career Stability: Join a high-demand field with opportunities nationwide. 
• Foundation for Advancement: Transition to an RN role through bridging programs. CDI College’s Practical Nursing program helps prepare graduates for this transition by aligning coursework with foundational RN competencies, supporting a smoother pathway to higher education and leadership roles. 

Bonus Read: Registered Nurse vs. Practical Nurse: What's the Difference? 
 

Get Started with CDI College’s Practical Nursing Program 

 
CDI College has trained aspiring PNs for over 50 years, with programs tailored to meet provincial healthcare standards. Here’s why students choose CDI: 
 

• Accredited Programs: Approved by provincial regulatory bodies in Ontario, BC, Manitoba, and Quebec. 
• Experienced Instructors: Learn from nurses with real-world expertise. 
• Clinical Placements: Build confidence through practicums at partner healthcare facilities. 
   

Graduates of CDI College’s program are well-prepared to enter the workforce as competent and confident practical nurses, ready to make a positive impact in healthcare. CDI College’s practical nursing graduates have achieved 92% Pass Rate on the REx-PN 2023 Exam. 
 

Take the First Step Toward Your Nursing Career 

 
Becoming a Practical Nurse is a fulfilling way to make a tangible difference in patients’ lives while securing a stable, in-demand career. With CDI College’s proven track record, supportive learning environment, and industry-aligned curriculum, you’ll graduate ready to excel in Canada’s healthcare landscape. 
 
Practical Nurses are the backbone of Canada’s healthcare system, delivering essential care with skill and compassion. By choosing a reputable program like CDI College’s, you’ll gain the knowledge, experience, and confidence to thrive in this dynamic field. Whether you aim to work in a hospital, support seniors in long-term care, or eventually advance to an RN role, a Practical Nursing diploma opens doors to a lifetime of opportunities. 
 

Start your journey today—your future in healthcare begins here.