licensed practical nurse (lpn)




OCCUPATION INFORMATION YOU NEED TO KNOW:

Who is the licensing body responsible for Licensed Practical Nurses in Alberta?   

In Alberta, you must be registered with the College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Alberta (CLPNA) to practice as a Licensed Practical Nurse. Only registered members may call themselves Licensed Practical Nurse.

What are the licensure requirements for internationally educated Licensed Practical Nurses

For complete information on the accreditation process for internationally educated Practical Nurses visit http://www.alberta-canada.com/immigration/media/WIA_LPN.pdf  

What are the accepted English language proficiency tests and where can I be tested? (Subject to change)

Internationally educated applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency by any one of the following tests: CELBAN, TOEFL, IELTS, CAEL completion of the English for Academic Purposes 3 (EAP 3) program at Bow Valley College with a grade of B.

To learn more about where to take an English language proficiency test in Alberta, visit English Language Proficiency Tests and Locations.

What are the educational requirements for Licensed Practical Nurses in Alberta?

(Note: Licensing bodies compare international education and experience to Canadian standards)

In Alberta, Licensed Practical Nurses must be graduates of approved practical nursing education programs or have equivalent training. Practical nursing diploma programs consist of a combination of classroom and laboratory instruction and clinical experience in various health care settings. Immunizations, health assessments, CPR and Standard First Aid training and/or security checks also may be required.

The following Alberta post-secondary institutions offer full-time practical nursing programs that generally take about 68 weeks to complete. Applicants for these programs must be at least 18 years of age and obtain a current police information check, SFA/CPR level C Basic Rescuer certification, and up-to-date immunizations. 

Additional Occupational Information

For more information on occupational duties and wages, visit the Alberta Learning Information Service at. www.alis.gov.ab.ca and search for Licensed Practical Nurse under occupational information.

What training programs or services are available for internationally educated Licensed Practical Nurses?

Practical Nurse Diploma for Internationally Educated Nurses                                                         

NorQuest College (Edmonton)
http://www.norquest.ab.ca  

This program is designed to support internationally educated nursing professionals acquire the nursing knowledge, clinical judgment, and communication skills required for practical nursing in Canada. The program targets specific student needs and assists with communication challenges, preparation for the practicum, and the national exam.

Note: Applicants must meet application criteria and need to be aware of registration deadlines as well as other potential costs including preparation materials, travel etc.

Integrated Practical Nurse Diploma for Internationally Educated Nurses – (IPNDIEN)                                                        

Bow Valley College (Calgary)                                                                       http://www.bowvalleycollege.ca/                                                                 

The IPNDIEN program is designed to support internationally educated nurses in achieving employment and academic success. For more information, email ipndien@bowvalleycollege.ca.

What information resources are available for Licensed Practical Nurses in Alberta?

For information about job opportunities in healthcare professions, including nursing, visit:
www.healthjobs.ab.ca


Resources for Nurses:

Alberta Health and Wellness
website: www.health.gov.ab.ca

College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Alberta
website: www.clpna.com

EdInfo
website: www.alis.gov.ab.ca/edinfo

Health Professions Act                                                                                                                                     website: www.qp.gov.ab.ca/Documents/acts/H07.CFM
 
NurseOne: The Canadian Nurses Portal
website: www.nurseone-inf-fusion.ca/splash.html

Canadian Practical Nurses Association
website: www.pncanada.ca

The Canadian Council for Practical Nurse Regulators (CCPNR)
website: www.ccpnr.ca