winnipeg critical care nursing education program

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Acute Care Nursing Certificate Program

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Home › Continuing Education Courses › Critical Care Nursing Certificate Program › Acute Care Nursing Certificate Program

Acute Care Nursing Certificate Program: at a glance

Credential(s) Earned: The Michener Institute of Education at UHN Certificate of Achievement

Program Length: 8 weeks

Tuition: Hospital Sponsorship only

Program Code: CCNU110/CCNU140

Description

The Michener Institute of Education at UHN uses a unique hybrid model in partnership with hospitals combining didactic with clinical mentorship during the 8 week program. The Acute Care Nursing Certificate Program will provide learners with the advanced knowledge, specialized skills and abilities to practice competently and safely within an acute care environment.  The innovative design integrates the clinical experience throughout 8 weeks of synchronous and asynchronous virtual learning, allowing students to integrate new knowledge into their acute care practice on an ongoing basis.

The program has been built to the specifications of Critical Care Services Ontario (CCSO), so hospitals can access provincial funding to sponsor nurses. It also prepares candidates to challenge the Canadian Nurses Association national certification exam in critical care.

Please note: the program has been developed for critical care nurses working or hired into Level 2 ICUs.

This program provides Registered Nurses foundational knowledge and skills as per the program standard for Registered Nurse Critical Care Nursing programs set out by the Ministry of Colleges & Universities. This prepares nurses to be novice level 2 ICU nurses. Nurses after successful completion of the program should continue with unit/hospital-specific orientation, additional education delivered by  Nurse Educators and growth of their professional practice through experience. Our program provides generalized level 2 critical care nursing education and cannot cover every specialized clinical situation that a novice Level 2 ICU nurse (post program) may encounter. This program does not include training or knowledge for advanced critical care specialties.

As per : CCSO-Guidance Documents

Our Acute Care Nursing Certificate Program (CCNU110/CCNU140) is only available by contract to hospitals that will be sponsoring RNs either currently working in or newly hired to work in their acute care settings.

This course is not available for individual registration.

Contact  [email protected]  for more information.

Learner Outcomes

This program is a hybrid program, consisting of:

• An online learning component
• In person (virtual) classroom component
• A clinical placement component

Upon successful completion of the course, the Learner will be able to:

• Practice within the scope of professional, legal and ethical standards, organization policies and best practices in acute care nursing.
• Establish and maintain therapeutic relationships with patients, families and/or substitute decision makers to optimize patient and family-centered acute care.
• Assess, analyze and monitor data for patients with complex, multi-system problems in order to anticipate early deterioration in patient’s condition, establish priorities and plan interventions.
• Plan, implement, evaluate and document specialized nursing interventions to achieve optimal patient outcomes in potential or actual life threatening illness and end-of-life situations.
• Advocate for and deliver patient and family-centered care to patients/families experiencing potential or actual life threatening illness and end-of-life situations.
• Collaborate with members of the inter-professional health care team in providing care for patients experiencing potential or actual life threatening illness and end-of-life situations to achieve continuity of care and optimal patient outcomes.
• Use evidence-based research and best practice guidelines to inform and adapt acute care nursing practice.
• Use strategies and available resources to respond to environmental, physical and psychosocial stressors affecting themselves and others in the acute care setting.
• Engage in reflective practice and ongoing professional development to enhance competence in acute care nursing.

Evaluation Method

Students are evaluated in this course based on their performance in clinical as well as their successful completion of each assessment. Learners must pass both the clinical component and the classroom component assessments in order to successfully pass the course.

Instruction Methods

Hybrid model:.

Online (virtual) classes Online self study modules Clinical shifts (sponsoring hospital unit to provide Clinical Facilitator)

Prerequisites

Individual prerequisites:.

• Valid Certificate of Competence to practice nursing in Ontario
• 1 year acute care nursing experience recommended
• A strong foundation in basic nursing anatomy and physiology
• Legal ability to work in Canada
• Sponsorship by unit manager through partner hospital with level 2 ICU.

The following textbook is recommended to support your learning in this course. It is the responsibility of the student to purchase the book.

Critical Care Nursing: Diagnosis and Management, 9th Ed. Urden, Linda D., 2021

Instructors

Program Coordinators:

Klara Malkova, RN, MEd, CNCC(C)

Stefanie Lamoureux, BScN, MN, RN

Upcoming Dates: UHN

Upcoming dates for the Acute Care Nursing Certificate Program (University Health Network) :

• September 30 – November 22, 2024

Winter 2025

• January 20 – March 14, 2025

Spring 2025

• April 28 – June 20, 2025

Upcoming Dates: Hospital Partners

Upcoming dates for the Acute Care Nursing Certificate Program (Hospital Partners) :

• August 26 – October 18, 2024
• September 30 – November 22, 2024
• January 13 – March 7, 2025
• February 24 – April 18, 2025
• April 7 – May 30, 2025
• May 19 – July 11, 2025

Hospital inquiries please email: [email protected]

Other Courses

Critical Care Nursing Boot Camp Course

Critical Care Nursing Certificate Program

Privacy Overview

Education and development opportunities are key recruitment and retention factors to equip nurses to meet the challenges presented by constant change. The clinical managers and educators at St. Boniface are committed to providing orientation programs that includes both classroom and corresponding skills labs to facilitate new nurses and students’ transition into the clinical environment.

St. Boniface fosters an environment that promotes a nurse’s continued learning and personal growth through access to funding and continuing education programs such as the Charge Nurse and Preceptor workshops offered through the Calendar of Continuing Education. Specialized education such as the Dialysis, Critical Care and Advanced Emergency Nursing programs are offered and aim at advancing the knowledge and skills of clinical nurses to a higher level of practice. Registered Nurses can further influence their professional practice through participation in the Mentorship Program and on committees such as the Nursing Leadership Councils and Nursing Practice Council.

Employment opportunities for nurses are available throughout the hospitals’ eight clinical programs, outpatient, outreach and ambulatory care programs. Clinical Educators are part of each clinical program team and provide orientation programs for new nurses and ongoing continued learning opportunities centrally and at the unit level to meet the learning needs of the health care team.

St. Boniface is committed to providing continued education and development opportunities for future growth and leadership in the nursing profession. Together new graduates and nurses at St. Boniface have an exciting opportunity to build a rewarding career from start to finish.

For further information on education and development opportunities at St. Boniface, please contact Education Services at 204-237-2232 .

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Nursing Education Programs

Approved nursing education programs in manitoba.

Basic Nursing Education Programs

• Brandon University Bachelor of Nursing Program
• Université de Saint-Boniface Baccalaureate Program
• Red River College Nursing Baccalaureate Program
• Fort Garry Campus
• University College of the North/University of Manitoba Joint Baccalaureate Nursing Program

Nurse Re-Entry and Bridging for Internationally Educated Nurses

• Red River College Polytechnic Nurse Re-Entry Program

Nurse Practitioner Education Programs

• University of Manitoba, Masters of Nursing, Nurse Practitioner Program

Nurse Practitioner Re-entry Education Programs

• Athabasca University, Master of Nursing, Nurse Practitioner Program

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• Red River College, Nurse Prescriber Program
• Standards for Nursing Education Programs

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The Cardiac Sciences Program employees and physicians represent in total, about 800 years of service / experience. Are you looking to become part of our multidisciplinary team? Learn more about the varied opportunities we offer by checking out each area below.

The Cardiac Sciences Program employees and physicians represent in total, about 800 years of service / experience. Are you looking to become part of our multidisciplinary team? Learn more about the varied opportunities we offer by checking out each area below:

Cardiovascular nurses in advanced nursing roles such as Nurse Practitioners and Clinical Nurse Specialists in the Cardiac Sciences Program play a pivotal role in providing safe, evidence-based and client-centered care to patients with compromised cardiovascular health, as well as promoting cardiovascular health of the community. They assist other nurses and care providers to work to their full scopes of practice.

WHO ARE WE?

There are two advanced nursing roles within the Cardiac Sciences Program: Clinical Nurse Specialist and Nurse Pracitioner.

Clinical Nurse Specialist: CNSs are registered nurses with graduate education at a master or doctoral level. The CNS functions both independently and in collaboration with other team members to impact patient outcomes. The CNS role is dynamic and responsive to the diverse needs of clients, clinical practice nurses and the health care system.

Nurse Practitioner: NPs are registered nurses with graduate education at a master or doctoral level. Cardiac NPs are able to perform complete physical examination and to diagnose and treat illnesses or injuries. They order and manage test results and prescribe medications independently. They collaborate with other health professionals to optimize client’s health.

WHAT DO WE DO?

• National and regional committee involvement
• Mentoring staff and students
• Bedside and group patient and family education
• Interprofessional education

Direct Care

• In-patient consultation
• NP run clinics (out patient)
• Integrating evidence-informed practice into patient care

Support of System

• Supporting development of strategic program planning, evaluation and capacity building

WHY CHOOSE CARDIAC ADVANCED PRACTICE NURSING?

• Nurses in the ANP roles play a pivotal role in the provision of safe, effective and evidence-based care in cardiac clients.
• Nurses in the ANP roles are able to work collaboratively with other members of the health care team to provide client-focussed care.
• ANP Nurses coach other cardiovascular nurses to help maximize nurses’ skills and abilities.
• ANP Nurses are able to bridge the gap in service delivery for patients.
• ANP Nurses have diverse approaches to health and illness management of cardiovascular clients.

EDUCATIONAL AND CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

• Opportunities to attend and present at local, national and international conferences.
• Research opportunities within SBH and the Cardiac Sciences Program both as a primary researcher or as a collaborator.
• Cardiac ANP Nurses are well sought out by national and local committees to participate in preparing local and national practice guidelines in cardiovascular care.
• ANP Nurses may be eligible to have a nil-salaried appointment with the University of Manitoba.

Cardiovascular Perfusionists are specially trained health care professionals responsible for the safe operation of the heart-lung machine when patients are undergoing open heart surgery. As part of the cardiac surgery team, the Perfusionist works closely with the Cardiac Surgeon, Anaesthetist and nurses. Additionally, Perfusionists are involved when patients require short or long term circulatory support devices in Intensive Care or in the Cardiac Catheterization Lab.

WHAT IS CARDIOVASCULAR PERFUSION?

Cardiovascular Perfusion is a profession primarily focused on mechanically supporting the normal functions of the heart and lungs, allowing the heart to be stopped during open heart surgery.

Cardiovascular perfusionists are important members of the open-heart surgical team whose primary role is to conduct cardiopulmonary bypass using a heart-lung machine and other equipment. They closely monitor the patient’s blood flow and other vital signs during open heart surgery and are also responsible for administering intravenous fluids, blood products and anesthetic drugs. Perfusionists are also experts of other cardiac life support equipment such as ventricular assist devices and intraortic balloon pumps.

WHY BECOME A CARDIOVASCULAR PERFUSIONIST?

Job satisfaction  – being able to work independently contributes to high levels of job satisfaction among Cardiovascular Perfusionists. Unique career opportunities  – Cardiovascular Perfusionists are integral members of open heart surgical teams. Previous critical care experiences and skills are used in a new and exciting way – taking it to the next level.

TRAINING FOR A CAREER IN CARDIOVASCULAR PERFUSION

Cardiovascular Perfusionists must complete a specialized training program and pass the certification examination set by the Canadian Society of Clinical Perfusion. There are two English language training programs in Canada: Michener Institute of Applied Health Sciences (Toronto, ON) and the British Columbia Institute of Technology (Burnaby, BC). These training programs range in length from 16 months to two years, and include significant practical training doing clinical rotations.

In order to enter one of the cardiovascular perfusion training programs, an individual must have already earned a bachelor’s degree (typically in science). Often, nurses or respiratory therapists pursue a further career in cardiovascular perfusion.

Nurses who work as coordinators in the Access Office manage the waitlists and schedule patients for cardiac surgery and for cardiac catheterization. They work within a multi-disciplinary team to provide safe and timely access for cardiac patients.

The Cardiac Sciences Access Office consists of nurses who specialize in coordinating and triaging both inpatients and outpatients for cardiac procedures such as cardiac surgery, coronary angiograms and TAVI procedures.

• Collaborate with all members of the cardiac team to ensure timely access to procedural care for cardiac patients.
• Track and monitor patient progress while awaiting cardiac procedures to ensure well-being and safety are maintained.
• Provide ongoing education to patients.
• Interpret an array of laboratory and diagnostic tests, referring to physicians as required.
• Create and coordinate various slates for cardiac procedures.

WHY CHOOSE THE CARDIAC SCIENCES ACCESS OFFICE?

• Ensure patient satisfaction and sense of well-being is maintained while they await their procedure.

CONFERENCE AND CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

There are numerous opportunities for professionals in all disciplines to attend and present at local, national and international conferences, with financial support available.

All staff are encouraged to take advantage of the educational opportunities offered through the WRHA/SBH to help improve both work and personal skills. Available courses include various staff development and computer classes in addition to many EAP workshops geared to help staff maintain a healthy work / life balance.

www.wrha.mb.ca/education

The Cardiac Sciences Program offers a wide range of opportunities for growth, change and development as your career evolves. Choose a career with us, you won’t regret it!.

Our Outpatient Cardiac Clinics are multidisciplinary, patient-centered clinics located in both the Bergen Cardiac Center and I.H. Asper Institute. We are a collaborative team consisting of Physicians, Nurse Practitioners, Nurses and clerical support. Our clinics include many areas of specialty including Cardiac Surgery (pre-operative assessment and post-discharge care), Heart Failure, Lipid Clinic, Anticoagulation, Cardiac Pre-procedure preparation and General Cardiology.

The Ambulatory Cardiac Clinics located in both the Bergen Cardiac Center and Asper Center, St Boniface Hospital campus, strive to provide the best care possible using evidence-based treatments and education to people with heart conditions to optimize their heart health and improve the quality of their life.

Interdisciplinary care is an integral part of the service we provide to our patients. The core group is made up of Physicians, Nurse Practitioners, Clinical Practice Nurses and Unit Assistants. We work collaboratively with Social Work, Physiotherapy, Pharmacy, Occupational Therapy, Home Care, Cardiac Rehabilitation facilities, the Palliative Care Program and Primary Care Providers to provide the best patient care possible.

• Assess and educate prior to Coronary Angiogram / Angioplasty
• Care of Pre and Post Heart Transplant and Ventricular Assist Device patients
• Management and education of Heart Failure patients
• Assess, educate and coordinate patients before Electrophysiology procedures
• Treat and educate patients with abnormal Lipids
• Assess and educate patients prior to Open Heart Surgery (OHS)
• Monitor patients during post-op OHS phase via clinic visits / TelAsk
• Physician-run General Cardiology Clinics and combined nursing support
• Monitor and educate patients on anticoagulant therapy

WHY CHOOSE CARDIAC CLINICS?

The Cardiac Clinics encompass several different specialty areas, each with their own unique and rewarding challenges. Teamwork is the essence in providing high quality care and education for the Cardiac Client. As cardiac care is always evolving, Clinic employees are encouraged to continue their learning by attending workshops and conferences. Staff feedback, ideas and contributions are greatly valued in the Cardiac Clinics.

There are numerous opportunities for professionals in all disciplines to attend and present at local, national and international conferences with financial support available. All staff are encouraged to take advantage of the educational opportunities offered through the WRHA / SBH to help improve both work and personal skills. Available courses include various staff development and computer classes in addition to many EAP workshops geared to help staff maintain a healthy work / life balance.

The Cardiac Sciences Program offers a wide range of opportunities for growth, change and development as your career evolves. Choose a career with us, you won’t regret it!

Patients who have an arrhythmia (abnormal heartbeat) require electrophysiology investigations to test the electrical activity of the heart. Such patients may need medication, or a specialized procedure to implant a pacemaker or ICD (implantable cardioverter defibrillator), cardiac ablation or cardiac surgery. Highly trained physicians and nurses work in the Cardiac Special Procedures area.

• We are the only cardiac device implant facility and adult Electrophysiology lab in Manitoba.
• There are two Procedure Rooms located on the second floor of the Bergen Centre.
• Our highly trained physicians and ICU trained nurses perform approximately 300 EP procedures / ablations, 700-800 pacemaker insertions and 400 ICD / CRT-D insertions per year.
• We implant cardiac devices such as pacemakers, ICDs (implantable cardioverter defibrillators), CRTs (biventricular pacemakers / defibrillators) and Loop Recorders.
• We perform Cardiac Electrophysiology studies on patients with atrial and ventricular arrhythmias. We also work with the pediatric team from the Health Sciences Centre to perform pediatric EP procedures.
• We perform ablations to inhibit cardiac arrhythmias.

WHY CHOOSE NURSING IN THE CARDIAC DEVICE IMPLANT ROOM / ELECTROPHYSIOLOGY LAB?

• We are a highly specialized and rapidly growing area of Cardiac Sciences.
• We have a wide variety of cardiac patients.
• Great teamwork in a supportive learning environment.
• We have an environment that allows nurses to maintain their ICU skills and master new skills.

There are numerous opportunities for professionals in all disciplines to attend and present at local, national and international conferences with financial support available.

All staff are encouraged to take advantage of the educational opportunities offered through the WRHA / SBH to help improve both work and personal skills. Available courses include various staff development and computer classes in addition to many EAP workshops geared to help staff maintain a healthy work / life balance.

Located on the 4th floor of the I.H. Asper Institute, the CSUI is a 33 bed telemetry monitored inpatient unit that cares primarily for patients after their intensive care stay following heart surgeries such as coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), valve repair or replacement, thoracic aortic aneurysm repair and ventricular assist device implantation.

The Cardiac Surgery Inpatient Unit (CSIU) is located on the 4th floor of the IH Asper Institute. We are a 33 bed inpatient unit that cares primarily for cardiac patients following their heart surgery. All patients are cardiac monitored by telemetry.

We are a multi-disciplinary team comprised of Cardiac Surgeons, Clinical Physician Assistants, Nurses, Pharmacists, Physiotherapists, Occupational Therapists, Social Workers, Clinical Dieticians, Spiritual Care, Health Care Aides, Ward Clerks and more.

Newly hired nurses must complete an Advanced Assessment Course after several months of employment that enable them to analyze rhythms and increases their knowledge base, assessment and critical thinking skills in regards to the cardiac patient.

• Post-op care of patients following coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), valve repair or replacement, thoracic aortic aneurysm repair, ventricular assist device implantation
• Continuous cardiac telemetry monitoring
• Temporary cardiac pacing utilizing epicardial pacing wires
• Care of, removal of and assisting with insertion of chest tubes
• Ventricular assist devices
• Patient teaching and rehabilitation
• Recognition and treatment of post-op complications

WHY CHOOSE THE CARDIAC SURGERY INPATIENT UNIT?

• Develop skills and proficiency with post-operative care, wounds and dressings. Increase your critical thinking and assessment skills in regards to cardiac patients with multiple medical and surgical co-morbidities that encompass all systems including diabetes, heart failure, renal failure and neurological complications.
• Learn to analyze heart rhythms and temporarily pace patients. Be on the cutting edge as new cardiac procedures and surgeries that address the needs of Manitobans are developed and implemented at St Boniface Hospital.
• Become an integral member of a strong and supportive team.
• Your experiences here prepare you for future advancements and education such as working in the Intensive Care Unit, Heart Catheterization Lab or one of the many clinics with the Cardiac Sciences Program.
• Grad nurses are welcome!

All staff are encouraged to take advantage of the educational opportunities offered through the WRHA / SBH to help improve both work and personal skills. Available courses include various staff development and computer classes in addition to many EAP workshops geared to help staff maintain a healthy work / life balance. wrha.mb.ca/education

Cardiac patients who need to be in hospital, but who haven’t had surgery, will be cared for on A5, the Cardiology Inpatient Unit, or if they are very sick, on ACCU, the Acute Cardiac Care Unit. The teams who look after these patients include Cardiologists, Cardiovascular Nurses, allied health professionals (such as Physiotherapists, Respiratory Therapists, etc.) and health care aides. Nurses working in ACCU must have passed the Winnipeg Critical Care Nursing Education Program (WCCNEP) course.

The Cardiology Inpatient Unit is located on the 5th floor of St Boniface Hospital and occupies the south and west wings. We are 46 beds that are comprised of 30 Inpatient Cardiology, 6 Coronary Care Unit and 10 Outpatient Procedure Recovery beds.

We are an interdisciplinary team of Cardiologists, Cardiology Fellows and Residents, Nurses, Pharmacy, Physiotherapy, Occupational Therapy, Spiritual Care, Dieticians, Social Work, Health Care Aides, Ward Clerks, Housekeeping and more.

Our singular focus on Cardiac patients allows our Nurses to develop expertise in caring for patients with heart disease. Nurses are an integral and essential part of our interdisciplinary team and actively work to advance patient care through the best diagnostic and therapeutic approaches.

WHAT WE DO Some of the Unit activities include:

• Cardiac telemetry monitoring
• Cardiac procedure care (Stress and Nuclear Imaging tests, Angiograms)
• Cardiac Special Procedures care, such as using stents and balloons to repair damaged heart structures
• Care of cardiac device implants
• Pre-op heart surgery care
• Care of heart failure, arrhythmia and heart attack patients
• Pre-heart transplant workups
• Post-heart transplant care

WHY CARDIOLOGY NURSING?

• Diversity:  There’s something new every day
• Teamwork : You become a valuable team member. You work with a strong and supportive team.
• Challenge:  Critical thinking and clinical skills are challenged every time you come to work.
• Educational Opportunities:  Education is key – we have extensive orientation to ensure nurses have sufficient training to allow them to make a smooth transition to the Program. Ongoing educational opportunities such as Advanced Assessment and Nursing Grand Rounds are offered regularly. We have Education Days to keep you abreast of changes and up to date with the latest information.

We look forward to having you on our team!

There are numerous local and national cardiac conferences that nurses are encouraged to attend and financial support is available on a rotating basis. Perhaps you might even want to be a presenter at some point. Opportunities and ongoing support for you to attain your CNA certification in Cardiac Care are offered as well.

The experience in Cardiology will lay the foundation for your nursing career in Cardiac Nursing. As a nurse on Cardiology, you will gain a wide base of knowledge that will open doors for you to further advance your career in Cardiac Sciences. Many nurses move on to Critical Care and work in the ICUs. Or you may choose to become a member of the Heart Cath Lab or one of the many Cardiac Clinics. You may want to become an Educator, Advanced Practice Nurse or perhaps a Manager. There are endless possibilities within the Program itself.

Clinical and Physician Assistants function as physician extenders within the Cardiac Sciences Program and act as in-house medical staff providing expert, high-level care to cardiac patients. CAs and PAs work alongside Cardiac Surgeons and Cardiologists to assess, diagnose and prescribe treatment. These careers offer a very fulfilling role within the health care system.

WHO ARE WE? Clinical Assistants and Physician Assistants in the Cardiac Sciences Program act as in-house medical staff providing care in a dynamic and challenging work environment. CAs and PAs can diagnose, obtain medical history, perform physician examinations, order and interpret diagnostic studies, provide therapeutic procedures, prescribe medications and educate and counsel patients. With additional training, CAs or PAs in the Cardiac Sciences Program may also assist in the operating room.

• We work with cardiac surgeons and cardiologists to assess, diagnose and prescribe treatment, providing expert, high-level care to cardiac patients.
• The Clinical and Physician Assistants (CA / PAs) provide care for pre and post cardiac surgery and cardiology patients, 365 days per year, 24 hours a day working on the inpatient units. Some also work in the operating room.
• We are members of the health care team and augment the team approach.

WHY CHOOSE THE CLINICAL AND PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT ROLE?

• This career is highly skilled with specialized learning and opportunities abound.
• As a CA or PA you help guide each individual patient to attain positive outcomes during their hospital stay in a supportive environment.
• Working as a Clinical or Physician Assistant with the Cardiac Sciences Program is a very fulfilling role with the health care system.

TRAINING FOR A CAREER AS A CA OR PA

In Manitoba, Clinical Assistants may have a degree in medicine (e.g., from a medical school overseas), or be licensed or registered to provide health care under an Act of the Manitoba Legislature, or be certified as an Emergency Medical Attendant Level III, or be a graduate of an accredited physician assistant or clinical assistant training program. Clinical assistants must successfully complete an assessment specified by the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Manitoba.

A Physician Assistant is a medically educated clnician who practices under the supervision of a physician. In Manitoba, Physician Assistants must complete a two year postgraduate degree (Master of Physician Assistant Studies or MPAS) in the College of Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba.

Both CAs and PAs must be registered with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Manitoba in order to practice.

The Cardiac Sciences Program has five Continuing Education Instructors (CEIs), nurses who act as a clinical education resource for nursing unit personnel and ensure that the clinical education needs of members of the patient care team are met. Each has their own primary area of responsibility within the Program but also work together as a team. Teaching responsibilities also extend to hospital wide initiatives (e.g., orientation, BLS, ACLS) and a variety of other initiatives, meetings and committees.

An echocardiogram (or cardiac sonogram) is a diagnostic ultrasound that evaluates the structure and function of the heart. Echocardiograms help the healthcare team make decisions regarding the diagnosis, management and treatment of patients with any suspected or known heart disease. The echo team is comprised of Cardiac Sonographers (or Echosonographers), Cardiologists, Nurses and support staff. We provide diagnostic testing to over 200 patients a week.

Cardiac Sonographers conduct echocardiograms, also known as “echos” or cardiac sonograms. These are diagnostic ultrasounds that evaluate the structure and function of the heart. Echocardiograms help the healthcare team make decisions regarding the diagnosis, management and treatment of patients with suspected or known heart disease.

Cardiac sonorgraphers, also known as echocardiography technologists, are ultrasound technologists with a specialty in cardiac ultrasound. They are trained in ultrasound and Doppler techniques that monitor and evaluate heart size and function as well as blood flow and pressures within the heart.

WHAT DO WE DO

The Echocardiography Department provides a variety of different tests to help diagnose, evaluate and monitor heart disease which includes:

• Transthoracic Echo (TTE)
• Transesophageal Echo (TEE)
• Stress Echo (Dobutamine and Exercise)
• Definity Contrast Echo
• Saline Contrast Echo
• 3D / 4D Ultrasound

We monitor patients with:

• Heart Failure and post-heart transplant
• Congenital Heart Disease patients
• Heart Murmurs and Valve / Aortic Disease
• Arrhythmias
• Research studies

WHY CHOOSE ECHOCARDIOGRAPHY?

• Cardiac sonography or echocardiography is an exciting and progressive area within cardiac sciences. As technology changes, so does our ability to more accurately monitor our patients. The Echocardiography department at St Boniface Hospital uses state of the art technology and is one of the busiest in Canada.
• The Echo team includes cardiologists, surgeons, nurses and support staff in addition to cardiac sonographers. Our team is encouraged and supported in their continuing education with echo rounds, hospital education sessions and conferences. Staff also have the chance to participates in leading edge research done by the Cardiovascular Health Research in Manitoba group and the St Boniface Hospital Albrechtson Research Facility.
• If you would like to be a part of a dynamic team, use cutting edge technology and assist with the critical diagnosis of heart disease, then cardiac sonography is the career for you!

TRAINING FOR A CAREER AS A CARDIAC SONOGRAPHER

There is one training program in Manitoba for diagnostic cardiac sonography, at Red River College. There are also training programs elsewhere in Canada that Manitobans can attend, including in Ontario, Newfoundland and Nova Scotia. The training programs in some provinces require that you be a resident of that province (e.g., British Columbia, Alberta). Pre-requisites for the training programs differ; in Manitoba, applicants must have already earned one degree / diploma (e.g., diploma in Medical Radiological Technology or Massage Therapy, or a Bachelor’s degree in Medical Rehabilitation).

Once training is completed, cardiac sonographers must pass two national certification examinations: the Core Sonographic Examination and the Cardiac Sonographer Examination.

Patients who may have narrowing of the arteries or other cardiac abnormalities may need cardiac catheterization. With diagnostic imaging equipment, the Cardiologists and Cath Lab Nurses who work here can visualize the arteries and chambers of the heart and in many cases, treat the problems found. These professionals know that every single day they make a difference in someone’s life. They mend broken hearts.

• Highly motivated
• ICU educated
• Team oriented
• Stop heart attacks
• Educate patients and families
• Angiograms and angioplasties
• Transfemoral aortic valve implementation
• Chronic Total occlusion
• Special procedures

WHY CHOOSE THE CATH LAB?

• Challenging
• Active learning opportunities
• Cutting edge technology
• Conferences

There are numerous opportunities for professionals in all disciplines to attend and present at local, national and international conferences with financial support available.> All staff are encouraged to take advantage of the educational opportunities offered through the WRHA / SBH to help improve both work and personal skills. Available courses include various staff development and computer classes in addition to many EAP workshops geared to help staff maintain a healthy work / life balance.

wrha.mb.ca/education

Intensive Care Cardiac Surgery is a 14 bed unit specializing in caring for patients immediately after cardiac surgery, We are located in a state of the art facility on CR5 in the I.H. Asper Institute. Nurses working in ICCS must have passed the Winnipeg Critical Care Nursing Education Program (WCCNEP) course.

Intensive Care Cardiac Surgery is a 14 bed specialized cardiac surgical intensive care unit located on the banks of the Red River. We can be found in the recently constructed CR5 in the Asper Clinical Research Institute. We specialize in Cardiac Surgery, Thoracoabdominal Procedures and Mechanical Circulatory Support.

Our team is comprised of Cardiac Surgeons, Intensivists, Cardiac Anesthetists, Residents and Fellows, a Clinical Resource Nurse and frontline Nursing staff, Health Care Aides, Ward Clerk, Clinical Educator, Respiratory Therapist, Dietician and Pharmacy.

We have a dedicated Physiotherapist and an on-site satellite Pharmacy. We also have members from Spiritual Care, Occupational Therapy and Aboriginal Services dedicated to creating a cohesive plan of care for our patients.

• Admitting Cardiac Surgery patients from the OR, including CABG, Valve, Aortic Aneurysm Replacements, Thoracoabdominal Procedures and Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation.
• Care for surgically managed Heart Failure patients – including Intra Aortic Balloon Pumps, Impella, Left Ventricular Assist Devices and Extra Corporeal Membrane Oxygenation.
• Care of arrhythmias, heart failure, aortic dissections, cardiogenic shock, sepsis, myocardial infarction, renal failure, acute stroke, multi-organ failure and palliative care.
• Specialized skills may include epicardial pacemakers, continuous renal replacement therapy, lumbar drains and cardiac surgery advanced life support.

WHY CHOOSE ICCS NURSING?

• Teamwork:  Nurses are an integral part of our patient care team. Your care and assessment skills guide the clinical plan and shape patient outcomes. All members of ICCS work together to develop targeted and safe patient care.
• Communication:  ICCS have become pioneers in communication. We have implemented “Time Outs” that occur around patient transition from the OR and transferring to CSIU. We host Daily Rounds in which a detailed system report is given by the RN and a daily plan of care formulated.
• Challenge:  Do you enjoy a challenge? ICCS is the place for you! We have a broad range of acuity and specialized equipment. Your critical thinking will be developed and you will continuously learn new skills and be exposed to new experiences.

wrha.mb.ca/education The Cardiac Sciences Program offers a wide range of opportunities for growth, change and development as your career evolves. Choose a career with us, you won’t regret it!.

Our Non-Invasive Cardiac Diagnostics (NICD) Department is a team of Cardiology Technologists that perform electrocardiograms (EKGs), Stress Testing, Holter Monitoring and other non-invasive cardiac tests to aid in the diagnosis, monitoring and treatment of heart disease. We often travel throughout the hospital to provide bedside heart testing to help diagnose cardiac abnormalities.

Cardiology Technologists perform many different types of heart testing on a wide range of patients. We are valued members of the health care team, often taking our diagnostic equipment to all areas of the hospital. We work in the Non-Invasive Cardiac Diagnostic (NICD) area of the Cardiac Sciences Program

Cardiology Technologists perform cardiac testing using specialized equipment to evaulate heart function. We conduct the tests and do an initial evaluation or the results, which are then interpreted by the cardiologist. The types of tests we may perform include:

• Electrocardiogram (EKG or ECG):  records the electrical activity of a heart at rest
• Stress Test:  records the heart’s response to actual or simulated exercise
• Ambulatory Monitoring (Holter Monitoring):  records the heart’s activity during an extended timeframe (24 to 72 hours)

WHY BECOME A CARDIOLOGY TECHNOLOGIST?

• Join us to become a valuable part of a growing dynamic diagnostic team! We work as members of interdisciplinary teams across the hospital, providing services to inpatients and outpatients, from newborns to geriatrics.
• Entry level positions include areas such as EKG, where we offer services in cardiology clinics, in the emergency department and in intensive care units. As you gain expertise and experience, there are expanded opportunities to work in specialized areas such as labs or office environments.
• Employment can be flexible, with full-time, part-time and casual positions available.

TRAINING FOR A CAREER AS A CARDIOLOGY TECHNOLOGIST

Cardiology technologists must complete a training program ranging from one to two years in duration. There are five training programs in Canada:

• British Columbia Institue of Technology (Burnaby, BC)
• Mohawk College of Applied Art & Technology (Hamilton, ON)
• Stenberg College (Surrey, BC)
• College Communautaire du Nouveau-Brunswick (Campbellton, NB, en francais)
• Vancouver Island Institute of Medical Technology (Victoria, BC)

In general, applicants to any of the training programs must have a high school diploma, with required courses in math and science (physics, biology, chemistry). Once training is completed, cardiology technologists must take a national certification examination and become registered with the Manitoba and Canadian Association of Cardiology Technologists.

The Pacemaker Clinic is a nurse-run clinic. We provide follow-up care for patients who have a pacemaker, implanted cardioverter defibrillator or a cardiac resynchronization device. We assess not only the patient, but the device and how well it is working. These assessments occur periodically and information about the device can even be transmitted to us from the patient’s home.

• Nurse-run clinic with support from Cardiologists from the Arrhythmia Service
• Medical Director: Dr. Colette Seifer
• Clinic Coordinator: Esther McGimpsey RN
• Nurse III requirement
• 6 full time Nurses
• 3 part time Nurses
• 5 Cardiologists / Electrophysiologists
• 4 Unit Clerks

CLINIC DEMOGRAPHICS

Our patient population consists of individuals with implantable cardiac devices that include permanent pacemakers, implantable cardiac defibrillators and cardiac resynchronization pacemakers / defibrillators.

• 4,500 pacemaker patients
• 1,500 ICD / CRT-D patients
• Population served: Manitoba, Northwestern Ontario and Nunavut

A TYPICAL DAY INCLUDES:

• Approximately 30 – 60 patients per day receive service, distributed throughout staff.

Workload includes:

• Scheduled in clinic device follow-ups, remote transmissions, requests for device interrogation by ER, the OR and other departments
• A variety of patients with PPM / ICD / CRT-D and Implantable Loop Recorders from all manufacturers throughout the day are seen and assessed.

Patient assessment includes

• Device interrogation and review of device settings
• Evaluation of device and lead function including battery longevity estimates
• Targeted cardiac assessment of patient signs and symptoms and medication review
• Assessment of cardiac rhythm, device pace/sense characteristics and extended diagnostics
• Device programming as required
• Identification, documentation and reporting of atrial and ventricular arrhythmias, heart failure diagnostics, significant findings and data to the appropriate Family Physicians / Cardiologists / Specialists
• Pre-operative assessment / teaching for patients receiving PPM / ICD / CRTD / ILR devices which includes a review of the procedure by a Nurse, seeing a video, having blood work and EKG completed
• Post-op device interrogation, programming and discharge teaching
• Appropriate documentation in a variety of souces including the hospital chart, EPR and PaceArt
• Reviewing issues with the Clinic Coordinator and Cardiologists

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

• Registered Nurse
• Post basic Critical Care Course or equivalent
• Critical Care Nursing experience
• Excellent assessment skills
• Understanding of cardiac and paced rhythms
• Works and collaborates well with others and members of the health care team
• Works independently
• Excellent communication skills, problem solving and decision making abilities
• Assumes responsibilitiy for professional development
• Desires a challenge

ADDITIONAL ROLES

• Resource for medical facilities within the Region
• Resource for pre-op, peri-operative and post-op device management
• Evidence based research
• End of Life / Palliative Care relating to device management
• Psychosocial support for patients and family dealing with issues related to cardiac disease and device complications
• Management of device complications
• Educators to Departments / Programs within the Region

We are a 19 bed unit providing short term care for patients before and after cardiac procedures, including patients who require coronary angiograms, angioplasities and specialized procedures.

• We are a 19 bed, Day Procedure Unit providing pre and post cardiac procedure care for elective and emergent patients in Manitoba and Northwest Ontario.
• The Pre and Post area is located on the second floor of the Bergen Center.
• Nurses who work in Pre and Post require ICU training to care for a large population of critically ill patients.

We admit, prep and recover patients for scheduled and emergent cardiac procedures: coronary angiograms and angioplasties, pacemaker and ICD implants, electrophysiology testing and arrhythmia ablation, and structural procedures such as TAVI, PFO and ASD repair and PBMV. The Pre and Post Nurses assist with TEE, Cardioversion and Pharmacologic Stress Echos.

WHY CHOOSE NURSING IN Y2 PRE AND POST?

• Wide variety of cardiac patients
• Exciting, challenging, fast-paced environment
• Great team work in a supportive learning environment
• An environment that allows Nurses to maintain their ICU skills and master new skills.

The experience in Cardiology will lay the foundation for your nursing career in Cardiac Nursing. As a Nurse on Cardiology, you will gain a wide base of knowledge that will open doors for you to further advance your career in Cardiac Sciences. Many Nurses move on to Critical Care and work in the ICUs. Or you may choose to become a member of the Heart Catheterization Lab or one of the many Cardiac Clinics. You may want to become an Educator, Advanced Practice Nurse or perhaps a Manager. There are endless possibilities within the Program itself.

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(204) 235-3324

CR 1005 – 369 Tache Ave Winnipeg, Manitoba Canada R2H 2A6

[email protected]

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Critical Care

HSC provides advanced treatments to critically ill patients in three main intensive care units: Intermediate Intensive Care Unit (IICU), Medical Intensive Care Unit (MICU), and Surgical Intensive Care Unit (SICU).

Your arrival

• Check in at the nursing station upon arrival and whenever you have questions
• Turn down the volume: Minimize your conversations and cell phone use in patient care areas
• Scent-free zone: Refrain from wearing perfume
• Be respectful: Abusive behavior towards staff, patients and visitors is not permitted. We are committed to providing quality care that respects the dignity of all individuals
• Don’t leave belongings unattended: We are not responsible for lost or stolen items
• The doors to the units are locked and you will have to use the intercom to speak with the front desk to enter.
• Items which may be restricted at the bedside include electronic devices, flowers or plants, latex balloons, and food or drinks.

How is information shared?

We actively include family members to help us create a healing environment for the patient.

Daily rounds: You are invited to join our interdisciplinary discussion every morning and/or afternoon in the intensive care units. Start times may vary. You may join in person or virtually.

Family conferences: Let us know if you would like to schedule a formal meeting to discuss your loved one’s health status and/or to ensure that medical decisions are in alignment with the patient’s wishes.

Patient updates: Our team is the best source of information and is available to speak with you upon request.

We are happy to answer your questions. It’s okay to ask:

• Ask us to explain any medical terms or words that you do not understand.
• Ask us about the risks, benefits and alternatives to any test or treatment.
• Ask us about the purpose and potential side effects of any medication.
• Ask us to assist you in communicating with your loved one.

Our Critical Care team

Below is a brief description of the team members in our intensive care units:

Attending Doctor: This individual directs the care of critically ill patients. Every week, the attending doctor that works in the intensive care unit changes. Report is always given to the new attending doctor to ensure quality care is continued. Family meetings with the attending doctor can be set up when updates are needed or requested.

Resident Physician, House Medical Officers and Clinical Assistants: This group takes care of the medical plan, gives direction for treatment, and updates the attending doctor often. They also look after the patients in the intensive care units when the attending doctor is off-site.

Unit Manager: The manager directs and coordinates the delivery of high-quality nursing care for patients in the intensive care unit.

Clinical Resource Nurse (CRN): This individual promotes procedures, policies, practices, and standards of care in the intensive care unit.

Registered Nurse (RN): This position provides care to patients with life-threatening medical conditions. They advocate on your behalf and can be asked for updates or information about the plan of care.

Pharmacist: This team reviews all medication orders and the quality of medicines supplied to patients. They provide answers to your questions about side effects, interactions, and dosing.

Respiratory Therapist (RT): These individuals provide care to patients with breathing problems. They manage life support breathing equipment (ventilators) to help your loved one breathe better.

Health Care Aide (HCA): This group provides patient care and support with tasks such as bathing, dressing, and eating. They also ensure that medical supplies are readily available at the patient’s bedside.

Unit Clerk: This position performs clerical duties such as making copies and faxing documents. They also greet visitors, answer incoming calls, and route callers to the correct patient room.

Spiritual Health Practitioner: These individuals provide care to all whether you identify as spiritual, atheist, religious or agnostic. They are specifically trained to provide support for your emotional and spiritual well-being especially during times of difficulty and crisis. They also arrange ceremonies, smudge, sacraments, and rituals. To request the on-call practitioner, call 204-787-3884 .

Dietitian: These professionals provide advice on the nutritional needs of critically ill patients. They help patients understand their needs and challenges, and design meal plans accordingly.

Speech Language Pathologist: These individuals provide therapy to patients with communication and swallowing disorders. They educate patients and family members on treatment plans, communication techniques, and strategies for coping with speech/language barriers.

Physiotherapist (PT): They provide education to helps patients improve their functional mobility by developing an exercise treatment plan which supports the recovery process.

Social worker: This team provides support to patients and families with issues that occur because of critical illness and hospitalization. They help patients and families access services, resources and programs related to their unique needs.

Occupational Therapist (OT): They provide therapeutic activities to help patients develop and maintain the skills needed for daily living and working.

Caring for a loved one in Critical Care

Talk to your loved one: Speak calmly and in a clear voice. Even when unconscious, your loved one has a sense of your presence and reassurance. If your loved one is alert but unable to speak, phrase questions that can be answered with a nod, shake of the head or hand gestures. If your loved one is able to write or use a smartphone or tablet, you can assist with that. We have some communication tools that may be useful for expressing basic needs. The bedside nurse will be able to help.

Choose a family spokesperson: This is the person we will contact to provide updates and help make care decisions.

Provide us with a complete list of current medications: Please include any prescribed and over-the-counter medications, and all dietary supplements like vitamins, minerals, and herbal health products.

Participate in patient care: Orient your loved one to the surroundings. You can talk about the noises you hear and the people you see. Describe the kind of activity around you. Ask your nurse about opportunities to get involved with daily care activities. Examples include assistance with entertainment (music, television and reading), meals, oral care, baths, pillow repositioning and applying lotion to the skin of your loved ones.

Take care of yourself: It is important that you take time to eat, drink fluids and rest. Ask us for information about our family rooms and quiet areas, and for directions to the cafeteria.

Talk to us: You know your loved one the best. Let us know if you sense any change in their condition that requires our attention.

We support informed decision-making

Let us know if you would like to learn more about:

• Advance care directives: A legal document that helps our care team understand your choices for resuscitation and other treatments.
• Delirium: A common state of confusion that is usually temporary but may develop suddenly in a critical care patient.

Grief and bereavement: The process of understanding and working through the loss of a loved one.

• Organ donation: The process of giving an organ or tissue to help someone that needs a transplant.

Common critical care words

Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS): Occurs when lungs are injured causing inflammation and fluid to build up in the lungs. The fluid keeps lungs from filling with enough air and deprives organs of the oxygen they need to function.

Advance care directive: A legal document that helps our care team understand your choices for resuscitation and other treatments. Learn more .

Arterial line: A thin plastic tube placed into an artery and used to monitor blood pressure and blood gas.

Antibiotics: Medications given to treat an infection.

Bladder catheter: A soft tube that is placed in the bladder to drain urine.

Blood gas: A sample of blood that lets us know how much oxygen and/or carbon dioxide is in the patient’s blood.

Blood transfusion: A blood transfusion is a way of adding blood to your body after an illness or injury. If your body is missing one or more of the components that make up healthy blood, a transfusion can help supply what your body is missing.

Cardiac monitor: A machine attached to the patient that provides information about heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels.

Central line: A thin plastic tube placed into a large vein and used to give drugs and take blood samples.

Cherry blossom: A visual cue which promotes end-of-life dignity, compassion, and respect when a patient’s death is imminent.

Daily goals: A plan of care for the patient which may change each day.

Daily rounds: A multidisciplinary meeting which takes place every morning in the intensive care unit.

Delirium: A common and temporary state of confusion that may develop suddenly.

Falls prevention: Safe patient handling and movement techniques to reduce the risk of falls.

Intubation: The process of inserting a tube, called an endotracheal tube, through the mouth and then into the airway. This is done so that a patient can be placed on a ventilator to assist with breathing during anesthesia, sedation, or severe illness.

Isolation: Specialized precautions including the use of gowns, gloves and masks by staff and visitors which prevent the spread of germs within the intensive care unit.

Life support: A breathing machine and medications used to sustain patients who are very sick.

Medication reconciliation: A process to make sure that all medications that are taken by the patient are assessed upon admission and discharge from the intensive care unit.

Organ donation: The process of giving an organ or tissue to help someone who needs a transplant.

Palliative care: An approach to care which focuses on comfort and quality of life for people of all ages affected by life-threatening illness. Palliative approach can be incorporated into a lifesaving treatment plan.

Pneumonia: An infection in one or both lungs caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungi. The infection causes inflammation, making it difficult to breathe.

Sepsis: A life-threatening condition that arises from the body’s response to an overwhelming infection. Sepsis can cause organ failure, shock (low blood pressure) and even death.

Ventilator: A machine that is used to help patients breathe when they are too sick to breathe on their own.

VTE prophylaxis: Drug and nondrug treatments to reduce the risk of developing deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and/or pulmonary embolism (PE).

A-B-C-D-E-F of ICU CARE: A bundle of quality care initiatives that we do to support patient recovery. The ABCDEF are listed below:

• AWAKE: Patients often need medication to keep them calm for treatments to work well. Our team adjusts these medications (Daily Awakening Trial) to ensure that patients are awake or lightly asleep and remain calm.
• BREATHING: Patients often need breathing support from a ventilator. Our team performs a daily breathing test (Spontaneous Breathing Trial) which tells us when the patient is ready to breathe on their own or if a breathing tube is still required.
• CHOICE OF SEDATION: The choice of medication is checked often. Our team re-assesses daily goals for sedation and analgesia to ensure adequate pain control and prevent/treat delirium.
• DELIRIUM: Confusion that can be caused by illness, medications, pain and other factors such as noise and interruption of sleep. We look for what may be causing the delirium and treat the underlying cause(s).
• EARLY MOBILITY: Movement and exercise are important for a patient’s recovery. Our team performs a variety of safe patient care activities including range of motion exercises, sitting up in a chair or using a bed bike.
• FAMILY: Families are considered essential members of our care team. Your voice is important and helps ensure that medical decisions are in alignment with the patient’s wishes.

Ways to cope with a loved one in intensive care

The following may be helpful in coping with this very difficult situation:

• Acknowledge how you are feeling: Allow yourself time to feel difficult feelings. Some people find it helpful to journal how they are feeling or talk to someone they trust.
• Remind yourself there is no “normal” way to feel in this situation; the situation is highly abnormal and goes against our instincts of how we expect to be able to care for our loved ones.
• Focus on what you can control: You cannot control what is happening to your loved one or whether you can visit them, and you may feel helpless and powerless. You can control your routine at home, what you eat, and who you talk to. Trying to maintain consistent routine, exercise, and eating well will give you more energy to deal with your emotions and the current situation.
• Reach out to your supports: Family members, friends, or spiritual leaders. If unable to connect in person, connect through phone, FaceTime, or Zoom.
• Be kind to yourself: It is okay and expected that some days you may not feel able to do much at all. Remind yourself that what you are going through would be extremely difficult for anyone. What would you say or do to help someone else in this situation? Try to apply this to yourself.
• Write down helpful statements: Examples might include, “My loved one is being cared for by expert hands”, “Not visiting my loved one is helping to keep them safe”, “My loved one would understand why I cannot visit”, “Taking time for myself will allow me to be a better caregiver.”
• Ask for help: There are a lot of little things that your friends and family can do to help and support you. Consider asking for help with practical tasks like pet care or with yard and garden care. Make a list of groceries for the next time someone offers to help you. It can be difficult to ask for or accept help, but friends and family members will likely be happy to feel useful and helpful to you during this time.
• Take a break: If you can visit your loved one in-person, consider time away from the bedside for self-care. Even short breaks can be beneficial (a quick walk around the hospital, getting fresh air outside, deep breaths or listening to music).
• AbilitiCBT (no-cost therapy to be available shortly though the Provincial Government)
• Anxiety Disorders Association of Manitoba – COVID-19 support line 204-925-0040
• Manitoba Psychological Society – Find a clinical psychologist
• Comprehensive list of COVID-19 coping resources
• Support for grief and loss
• Focusing on our mental health during COVID-19
• Klinic Crisis Line 204-786-8686 or 1-888-322-3019
• Mobile Crisis Service 204-940-1781
• Manitoba Suicide Line 1-877-435-7170
• Kids Help Phone 1-800-668-6868
• Manitoba Farm, Rural & Northern Support Services 1-866-367-3276
• First Nations and Inuit Hope for Wellness Helpline 1-855-242-3310

Contact information

We know that this is a difficult time, and we are here to support you. You can reach our care team at the following numbers:

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Program Overview

The Post Graduate Diploma in Nursing Practice is a program for Internationally Educated Nurses (IEN) that provides the IEN with the skills and knowledge required to meet the Canadian standards and language requirements in preparation of achieving nursing licensing. The program assists IEN’s in the preparation to write the NCLEX exam and completing the National Nursing Assessment Service (NNAS)*. The program is based on the BC College of Nursing Professions (BCCNM) Practice Standards for Nurses and the BCCNM Entry-Level Competencies for Nurses. The program will focus on the development of knowledge, critical thinking and communication skills through engaging learning activities (i.e., laboratory, case studies, etc.). Completion of the Post Graduate Diploma in Nursing Practice does NOT guarantee passing grade for the NCLEX-RN exam.

*NNAS – As part of becoming a Registered Nurse in Canada, all IEN’s must complete a competency assessment upon completion of the Post Graduate Diploma in Nursing Practice. The purpose of this assessment is to evaluate if the IEN is safe, ethical and competent to practice in Canada. This is a mandatory pre-requisite to writing the NCLEX exam. See the  NNAS Handbook  for detailed application process.

Contact our admissions team today or request information on upcoming program start dates.

Already a licensed nurse in your country and want to become a nurse in Canada? Get the skills and knowledge required to meet the Canadian standards and language requirements in preparation of achieving nursing licensing

Job Opportunities

Upon successful completion of the BCCNM registration process, possible nursing career pathway options:

• Registered Nurse
• Community Health Nurse
• Home Care Nurse
• Critical Care Nurse
• Long-term Care Nurse

Graduates of the program who obtain a nursing license can make up to $50 per hour. All wages taken from the Canada Job Bank

Program Admission Requirements

• Must be a licensed nurse in another country with supporting documents.
• TOEFL — test must be within the last two years, IBT only: Overall score of 76 with no score lower than 20 in Speaking and Listening and no score lower than 18 in Reading and Writing.
• IELTS Academic or General — test must be within the last two years: Overall score of 6 with a minimum of 6 in Speaking and Listening and no score lower than 5.5 in Reading and Writing.
• CLBPT — test must be within the last one year: Listening 7, Speaking 7, Reading 6, and Writing.
• CELPIP-General: test within the last two years listening 7, Speaking 7, Reading 6, and Writing
• CAEL test within the last two years: Overall Score of 60, with no section less than 50.
• CELBAN (testing with the last 2 years), the following minimum scores will be accepted: Speaking 7, Listening 7, Reading 6, Writing 6.
• OR ANY OTHER ENGLISH TEST WITH AN EQUIVALENT SCORE

*Considering the limitation of English language testing centers during COVID-19 Pandemic, WCC is accepting score of Duolingo 95 (minimum) on an interim basis

* The BCCNM English Language Proficiency requirements are higher than the admission requirements for this program. For more details about the BCCNM English Language Proficiency requirements.

Prior to Clinical Experience Requirements.

• Up to date CPR- Level Health Care Provider (HCP) certification (yearly renewal)
• Up to date immunizations – Diphtheria, Tetanus, Polio, Measles, Mumps, Rubella, Hepatitis B, Pertussis and Varicella (if no proof of immunity against chicken pox);
• Seasonal – annual influenza vaccine 
• Completion of a negative TB test
• Clear British Columbia Criminal Record Check – Level Vulnerable Populations AND a clear Criminal Record Check – Level Vulnerable Populations from home country

Program Duration

Method of delivery: In-class or combined

Course Outline

The following courses are listed in order they will be delivered.

Fee Structure

This program has been approved by the registrar of the Private Training Institutions Branch (PTIB) of the Ministry of Advanced Education, Skills and Training.

Financial Assistance

Western Community College offers a variety of financial aid opportunities to ease students’ stress and allow them to focus on their studies. If you need extra support, we have flexible funding to accommodate all our students, no matter their financial situation.

• BC Student Loan
• In-house Financing
• Student Line of Credit
• Scholarships

Our dedicated Financial Aid Officers will help you every step of the way.

Why Study at Western Community College

• Installment-based, low tuition fee.
• 100% Practicum Placement
• Weekday, weekend, and evening classes optionally available
• Part-time or full-time class schedule
• Free CLB preparation classes * Conditions Apply
• Graduate employment rate: 97%

Admissions Contact Information

Mon – Sunday 9:00A.M. – 5:00P.M.

Surrey Campus

+1 (604) 594-3500 [email protected]

Abbotsford Campus

+1 (604) 776-1301 [email protected]

Unit 201 8318 120 St Surrey, BC V3W 3N4

Video Tour in WCC

Take a tour inside WCC and explore our classrooms, labs and student spaces to get a feel for life on campus. At Western Community College, we believe in an affordable, high-quality education that gives you the opportunity to thrive. We have a 97% grad employment rate.

Central Surrey Campus

Unit 900 13761 96 Ave, Surrey, BC V3V 0E8

CC3 Campus Tour

Our campus is strategically located at 13761 96 Ave #900, Surrey, BC V3V 0E8. With its proximity to major transit hubs, including prominent bus loops and the King George SkyTrain station, commuting to and from the campus has never been easier.

Abbotsford, BC

Unit 201, 3670 Townline Rd Abbotsford, BC V2T 5W8

Welcome to our beautiful Abbotsford campus. Western Community College has 46 programs designed to meet the current needs of the market and to provide students with an affordable, high-quality education.

Flying School Abbotsford Campus

Hanger F, 120-1185 Townline Road, Abbotsford BC, V2T 6E1 Tel : 604.776.1301 View Map

Upcoming Events

2-Weeks Aviation Summer Camp

July 1 – 15: Morning | Afternoon  July 15 – 30: Morning | Afternoon  August 1 – 15: Morning | Afternoon  August 15 – 30: Morning | Afternoon 

20 Hours per week Mon-Fri

Certification by IATA & WCC

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Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN)-Peritoneal Dialysis

Requisition ID: 362177    

Position Number: 21000549   

Posting End Date:   July 8, 2024

City: Winnipeg   

Employer: Shared Health  

Site:  Shared Health -  Winnipeg Corporate   

Department / Unit: SH - Peritoneal Dialysis    

Job Stream: Clinical    

Anticipated Start Date: 07/29/2024    

FTE: 0.80    

Anticipated Shift: Days;Evenings;Weekends   

Work Arrangement: In Person   

Daily Hours Worked: 7.75   

Annual Base Hours: 2015    

Salary: $30.033 , $31.017 , $31.987 , $33.167 , $34.245 , $35.455 , $36.715 , $37.817

Shared Health leads the planning and coordinates the integration of patient-centered clinical and preventive health services across Manitoba. The organization also delivers some province-wide health services and supports centralized administrative and business functions for Manitoba health organizations.

Under the general supervision of the Manager, the Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) is responsible for providing professional practical nursing services to the MB Renal Program (MRP), Peritoneal Dialysis Community Care (PDCC) patients.  These services will be provided in the community and in the patients’ homes and include independent nursing services, administration of prescribed medical treatments, collaboration and interaction within the healthcare teams and participation in the coordination of patient care. The LPN will demonstrate a commitment to the vision, values, goals, and objectives of the region and MB Renal Program.

• Minimum one year recent experience in the field of nephrology nursing or two years acute care experience (medical/surgical) within the last four years.
• Graduate of an approved Licensed Practical Nursing Education program required.
• Preference will be given to those applicants who have successfully completed the Nephrology Nursing Education Program.

SPECIAL TRAINING:

• Certification in IV Therapy; IV Medication Administration.
• Demonstrated computer skills.
• Responsible for maintaining and providing proof of active registration with the College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Manitoba (CLPNM).
• Valid driver’s license and access to a reliable motor vehicle suitable for all environmental conditions.
• Subject to a criminal record check and child abuse registry check.
• College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Manitoba Standards of Practice for Licensed Practical Nurses.
• College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Manitoba Code of Ethics for Licensed Practical Nurses.
• Scope of practice as documented in the Licensed Practical Nurses Act.
• Regional/MB Renal Program policies, procedures, protocols, and guidelines.
• Nursing care knowledge related to the clinical area.
• Personal Health Information Act (PHIA), Protection of Persons in Care Act, Mental Health Act, Workplace Hazardous Material Information System (WHMIS), Principles of Routine Practices (Universal Precautions) and other legislated acts.
• Roles and responsibilities of members of the healthcare team.
• Principles of delegation.
• Demonstrates effective oral and written communication skills.
• Demonstrates critical thinking/problem-solving skills.
• Ability to prioritize care for an individual patient or group of patients.
• Ability to delegate care appropriately and monitor outcomes of delegated care.
• Ability to respond to a variety of simultaneous demands.
• Ability to recognize and pursue self-development opportunities.
• Ability to perform independently and as a member of the healthcare team.
• Ability to adapt quickly to changing situations.
• Ability to maintain concentration with frequent interruptions.
• Ability to function in a demanding and stressful environment.
• Excellent command of the English language (both oral and written).
• Moderate to heavy physical effort required.
• Physically able to lift and carry heavy equipment and supplies.
• Physically capable of providing service in a wide variety of community settings under varying weather and environmental conditions.
• Rotating shifts and weekends required.
• Good communication skills are essential.  

We have a unique ability to work together to make health care better. If you want to make a difference and contribute to supporting the health of your family, friends and neighbours, please apply today.

Interested candidates should select the "Apply" icon below to upload their cover letter, resume and copy of licenses/certification.

This position requires a current satisfactory Criminal Records Check (including Vulnerable Sector Search), Child Abuse Registry Check and Adult Abuse Registry Check as conditions of employment. The successful candidate will be responsible for any service charges incurred. A security check is considered current if it was obtained no more than six (6) months prior to the start of employment.

Please note that an employee is not permitted to hold two or more positions in Shared Health that combine to equal more than 1.0 FTE.

Shared Health values and supports employment equity and workplace diversity and encourages all qualified individuals to apply. We thank all applicants but only those selected for an interview will be contacted.

We welcome applications from people with disabilities. Accommodations are available upon request during the assessment and selection process.

Job Segment: Nursing, LPN, Patient Care, Counseling, Dialysis, Healthcare

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Alumni Engagement

Er nurse immediately prepared to work thanks to rrc polytech education.

Posted: July 3, 2024

RRC Polytech Bachelor of Nursing graduate Melissa Williams had a secret behind her smile as she had her photo taken earlier this year. The photo was being used as a part of RRC Polytech’s Proud Partner billboard campaign showcasing grads across the province.

“In the billboard, you can’t tell, but I’m pregnant—I mean, like first trimester pregnant,” Williams said on a phone call. But before she begins her next adventure as a first-time parent, she shared her journey of being in school during a pandemic and how she found herself caring for the sickest of the sick in the hospital.

“I work in the resus room [resuscitation or trauma room] of the emergency department, taking care of the most acute patients. I really love doing that type of nursing,” said Williams.

Williams is familiar with people who’ve needed acute care. Both her sister and brother have almost died and have needed to have emergency services at hospitals.

“They both survived and have made full recoveries, but I understand the importance of emergency services,” she added. “I think I’ve always been interested in medicine; learning about the human body and ways to improve our health. My mom was a nurse and just such a nurturer – that helped inspire me to become a nurse.”

When asked why she was driven to work in the emergency room, she took a moment before she responded with, “I guess it’s that you’re using all of your skills, right? You really have to think critically. You have to run multiple infusions. Sometimes you’re intubating patients and putting central lines in. And it’s really interesting to see everything that we can do to save a patient.”

From Health Care Aide to ER Nurse

Williams started her career in health care after graduating from the Health Care Aide program at RRC Polytech in 2012.

“Choosing RRC Polytech [in 2012] was a positive experience and was the starting point of my post-secondary education and helped to bring me back in the future,” she said.

Williams had been working as a Health Care Aide when she decided to continue her education and took a two-year Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program , graduating in 2016, after which she was able to join the LPN to Bachelor of Nursing Pathway program at RRC Polytech, which she completed in 2022.

“RRC Polytech really does have the best reputation for the nurses that graduate here,” Williams said, “and I wanted to graduate with that same reputation.”

She began her program at RRC Polytech in Winter 2020. Three months later, the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a pandemic and RRC Polytech moved their classes online.

“It was a bit of a unique experience. I only went to classes in person for one term, so three months—and then COVID hit, so all classes moved online, and it was a bit tumultuous. We had to be flexible, and we were learning with the instructors how we were going to make class time work online,” she said.

Williams and her peers never went back to in-person learning. They graduated RRC Polytech learning almost exclusively online, with only one clinical being cancelled due to COVID. Students were able to wear Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), work in non-COVID units, and followed the recommended guidelines for the clinical part of their learning.

“I don’t know how the other students did it. I had my LPN background, which I found extremely helpful when we had to switch to online,” Williams added.

Immediately prepared to work

She believes that her time at RRC Polytech made sure she was prepared to work the second after she graduated.

“The clinicals really helped. Having that time on the floor, the hands-on-learning, and those instructors. Most of the time, the instructors still continue to nurse, and work part-time as a nurses, so they know what’s going on – they work in that unit that they’re taking you to, and I felt that was really helpful,” she said.

Williams is currently practicing at the Selkirk Regional Health Centre , where she was hired immediately upon graduation.

“I would definitely tell students pursuing nursing to choose RRC Polytech. You get more hands-on training and you’re prepared to just start the job right away. And oftentimes, you’ve been immersed in that world already with the clinical experiences and that’s really helpful,” she noted.

Standing on Main Street in Selkirk, Melissa’s billboard has made a bit of buzz around town.

“They thought of me, and I was pretty shocked,” said Williams after hearing about being selected to be featured on the billboard. “It was a busy day in the emerge and I was pulled out by the Chief Nursing Officer who asked me if I would be okay to do this. It’s not something you get asked every day, so I said yes after thinking about it.”

Williams has been featured in the Selkirk and Beausejour community newspapers and gets approached by people telling her that they saw her picture up in town. “It’s definitely a different feeling,” Williams noted as she chuckled.

When asked what’s on the horizon, she has plenty to consider.

“I would definitely be interested in taking a critical care nursing course to potentially work in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). It’s something I’ve always been interested in. Again, you’re taking care of the sickest of the sick, the most acute patients and I find that’s where my heart lies,” she said.

“And eventually, down the road, a long-term goal would be to own my own business. What that looks like, I’m not one hundred per cent sure, but I would like to open some type of business that I could highlight with my nursing career,” said Williams. “There are so many avenues with nursing, that it’s really nice to have that available.”

But before all of that, Williams has decided to take an 18-month maternity leave to spend time with her first child, who’s due in early August. She’s excited to take on this new journey in her next career as a mom – where her critical thinking skills will be used in a new way.

Williams is one of 41 proud alumni featured in the College’s Polytechnic Proud campaign. Visit the Polytechnic Proud page to learn more.

Profile by Judy Braun (Creative Communications, 2012).

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RRC Polytech campuses are located on the lands of Anishinaabe, Ininiwak, Anishininew, Dakota, and Dené, and the National Homeland of the Red River Métis.

We recognize and honour Treaty 3 Territory Shoal Lake 40 First Nation, the source of Winnipeg’s clean drinking water. In addition, we acknowledge Treaty Territories which provide us with access to electricity we use in both our personal and professional lives.

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