PRACTICAL NURSING PROGRAM MOVES FROM CERTIFICATE TO DIPLOMA

Saskatchewan's 2008 practical nursing graduates can look forward to greater recognition for their increased education requirements.

Health Minister Don McMorris and Advanced Education, Employment and Labour Minister Rob Norris today announced approval for a diploma for Saskatchewan practical nursing graduates.

"Practical nurses are valued health care providers who are vital to Saskatchewan's health care team," McMorris said. "Moving to a diploma program means practical nursing students will be better prepared -- both academically and professionally -- in Saskatchewan's health care system."

Practical nursing graduates are required to pass a national exam before becoming fully licensed.

"Licensed practical nurses (LPNs) are at the front lines of patient care," Norris said. "By increasing their training, we are helping to create a more effective and efficient system to better care for the people of Saskatchewan. The change in credential from a certificate to a diploma is consistent with Saskatchewan Institute of Applied Science and Technology (SIAST) academic regulations and with practical nursing programs across Canada."

In September 2006, the practical nursing program at SIAST increased to 65 weeks from 58 weeks in order to meet changes in health services delivery, to comply with changes to national competency examinations, to better prepare students to work to their full scope of practice, and to ensure that Saskatchewan graduates are competitive with graduates in other jurisdictions.

Until today, practical nursing graduates earned certificates rather than diplomas. In compliance with SIAST's academic regulations, any program longer than 60 weeks is awarded a diploma.

In recognition of practical nurses, the government has proclaimed May 13 as LPN Day in Saskatchewan.

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For more information, contact:

Andrew Dinsmore
Health
Regina
Phone: 306-787-4083

Terry White
Advanced Education, Employment and Labour
Regina
Phone: 306-787-7791