Practical Nursing Diploma

Program Overview

The Practical Nursing Diploma program at Camosun College is designed to equip students with the essential knowledge and skills required to provide safe and effective nursing care. This program focuses on foundational nursing knowledge, critical thinking, and clinical judgment tailored to the role of a practical nurse. Students will learn to contribute to all phases of care, including prevention, acute treatment, management, long-term, and palliative care. Graduates will be prepared to work collaboratively within health care teams, ensuring competent and ethical care across various health care settings.

Program Structure

The Practical Nursing Diploma program is a 20-month full-time course offered at Camosun College’s Interurban campus. The program is structured as follows:

• Delivered over 20 consecutive months.
• Includes four theory terms with 5-6 courses each term.
• Class time and nursing practice hours are scheduled for a maximum of 25 hours per week.
• Students are expected to dedicate 3 to 4 hours daily for preparation, review, and studying.
• Clinical placements are part of the program, with locations primarily in Greater Victoria, which may include evenings and weekends.

This program also offers a clinical/fieldwork placement component, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in real-world settings.

Featured Experiences

• Clinical/fieldwork placements in various health care settings.
• Hands-on experience in acute care hospitals, complex care, and community care environments.
• Collaboration with other health care professionals to provide direct nursing care.
• Preparation for the Regulatory Exam-Practical Nursing (REx-PN) for licensure as a Licensed Practical Nurse in British Columbia.

Career Options

Graduates of the Practical Nursing Diploma program can pursue various career opportunities in Canada, including:

• Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN): Provide direct patient care, administer medications, and assist in medical procedures under the supervision of registered nurses or physicians.
• Community Health Nurse: Work in community settings to promote health, prevent illness, and provide care to individuals and families.
• Long-Term Care Nurse: Deliver care to elderly patients in long-term care facilities, focusing on their physical and emotional well-being.
• Acute Care Nurse: Provide nursing care in hospitals, assisting patients with acute medical conditions and recovery processes.
• Palliative Care Nurse: Support patients with life-limiting illnesses, focusing on comfort and quality of life during their final stages.

DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.