In 2017, the Canadian Council of Registered Nurses (CCRNR) initiated an update of the Entry-Level Competencies (ELCs) for RN practice in Canada. To ensure its relevance and currency, this document is revised every 5-7 years with the last update being in 2013.
This revision is now complete, and the new Entry-Level Competencies for the Practice of Registered Nurses are effective today.
The entry-level competencies were developed using extensive national and provincial consultations which took place from September 2017 to September 2018.
What are entry-level competencies?
Entry-level competencies are the competencies that an RN is expected to perform at the time of initial licensure and throughout their career, as guided by the specific context of their role or position.
What is the purpose of entry-level competencies?
Entry-level competencies are used in a number of regulatory functions, including:
- Academic program approval/recognition
- Assessment of internationally educated applicants
- Assessment of applicants for the purpose of re-entry into the profession
- Input into the content and scope of entry-to-practice exams
- Practice advice/guidance to clinicians
- Reference for professional conduct matters
- Public and employer awareness of the practice expectations of RNs
What changes were made in this update?
A few key changes you will see in the new RN ELCs include:
- Transition to a roles-based format, highlighting the various roles that RNs play in their practice. This includes the RN as an advocate, communicator, leader and more.
- Adding new competencies that reflect changes in the nursing profession, such as the use of social media, smart phones and technology, a trend towards greater acuity clients and more.
- Adding new competencies with an increased focus on MAiD, trauma-informed care, mental health and more.
Read the new Entry-Level Competencies for the Practice of Registered Nurses here.
Questions
For questions about the new RN ELCs reach out to Jennifer Best, NSCN Practice Consultant, at Jennifer.Best@nscn.ca.
