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August 19, 2024 Bhoomi Shah No comments

From PSW to RPN: A Comprehensive Guide to Advancing Your Healthcare Career

The healthcare industry is ever-evolving, and as a Personal Support Worker (PSW), you play a crucial role in providing care and support to those in need. But what if you’re looking to take your career to the next level? Transitioning from a PSW to a Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) is a rewarding pathway that opens up new opportunities for growth, responsibility, and professional fulfillment.

In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the steps to become an RPN from a PSW, helping you navigate this significant career shift.

1. Evaluate Your Current Credentials

Before embarking on the journey to becoming an RPN, it’s essential to assess your current qualifications and experience:

Educational Background: Ensure that you have a high school diploma or equivalent. Some RPN programs may require specific high school courses such as biology, chemistry, or mathematics.
PSW Experience: While your hands-on experience as a PSW is invaluable, it generally won’t count toward academic credits for nursing. However, your practical experience will give you a strong foundation for nursing studies.

2. Research and Choose the Right RPN Program

Choosing the right educational program is a critical step in your transition:

Types of Programs: Look for diploma programs in practical nursing offered by community colleges or technical institutes. These programs typically last about two years.
Accreditation: Ensure the program is accredited by your provincial nursing regulatory body, such as the College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO) in Ontario. An accredited program will qualify you to sit for the licensing exam after graduation.
Program Structure: Consider whether you prefer full-time or part-time study options. Some institutions offer flexible learning schedules to accommodate working professionals.

3. Meet Admission Requirements

Most RPN programs have specific admission requirements that you’ll need to fulfill:

Academic Prerequisites: Check the program’s prerequisites, which may include courses in biology, chemistry, and math. If you don’t already have these, you may need to complete them before applying.
Entrance Exams: Some programs require entrance exams such as the Health Occupations Aptitude Exam (HOAE) to assess your suitability for nursing.
References and Experience: You may be asked to provide references and demonstrate relevant work experience. Your time as a PSW will be valuable here.

4. Apply and Enroll in the RPN Program

Once you’ve met the prerequisites, it’s time to apply:

Application Process: Submit your application along with any required documentation, such as transcripts, references, and entrance exam scores.
Financial Aid: Look into financial aid options, such as student loans, grants, or scholarships, to help fund your education.

5. Complete the RPN Program

The RPN program will combine classroom learning with hands-on clinical experience:

Coursework: You’ll study subjects such as anatomy, pharmacology, nursing theory, and patient care.
Clinical Placements: Practical experience is a significant component of RPN training. You’ll work in various healthcare settings, applying what you’ve learned in real-world scenarios.

6. Pass the Licensing Exam

After completing your RPN program, you’ll need to pass the licensing exam:

Canadian Practical Nurse Registration Examination (CPNRE): This exam tests your knowledge and skills to ensure you’re ready for professional practice.
Prepare and Register: Utilize study guides, practice exams, and other resources to prepare for the CPNRE. Register for the exam through your provincial regulatory body.

7. Obtain Your RPN License and Start Your New Career

Upon passing the CPNRE, you can apply for your RPN license:

Registration: Register with your provincial regulatory body, such as the CNO, to obtain your license.
Begin Your Career: With your RPN license in hand, you can start applying for positions in various healthcare settings, such as hospitals, long-term care facilities, and community health centers.

8. Continue Professional Development

The healthcare field is always advancing, and ongoing education is key to staying current:

Continuous Learning: Consider pursuing additional certifications or specializations in areas such as gerontology, wound care, or palliative care.
Networking and Professional Associations: Join professional organizations like the Registered Practical Nurses Association of Ontario (RPNAO) to stay connected and informed about industry trends.

Conclusion

Transitioning from a PSW to an RPN is a significant step that requires dedication, education, and hard work. By following these steps and committing to your professional development, you’ll be well on your way to a fulfilling career as a Registered Practical Nurse. Whether you’re motivated by the desire to take on more responsibility, increase your earning potential, or simply grow in your role as a healthcare provider, becoming an RPN is a rewarding path that offers numerous opportunities for advancement.

Ready to start your journey? Research programs in your area today and take the first step toward becoming an RPN!

Upgrade your skills!

February 25, 2022 Meenakshi Vyas 1 comment

It is estimated that 50% of all employees will need to upgrade their skills by 2025 in order to adopt technology increase globally.^[1]Learning new skills is the best way to be more successful and up-to-date in your career. Whether you are looking for a new career opportunity or would like to move into a more senior role, upgrading your skills can increase your chances of reaching your career goals.^[2]

Following are five things that will give you just the nudge you need:

Earn yourself that promotion

If you’re aiming to get yourself a promotion and that title, your next step is to understand the requirements of the role and enroll for further studies. Many employers are more than happy to support (financially or otherwise) some employee’s tertiary aspirations, especially if continuing your studies are aligned with their business goals and can help push you to the next level of your career.^[3]

Command a Higher salary

In the competitive job market today, your skills and experience are equally valued. You must gain certain years of experience to deserve a high salary. But believe it or not majority of companies still use your qualifications as a benchmark to decide the pay you deserve. That isn’t changing anytime soon.^[3]

Expose yourself to new career options

Upgrading your skills will open the door to new career opportunities that you may not have been able to consider before. For example, if you upgraded your Microsoft Excel skills, you may be able to apply for jobs that require you to analyze data, create spreadsheets, or even produce reports. As you gain new skill sets, you can consider job opportunities and roles that you once passed on.^[2]

Prepare for changes

In the present scenario where the world is battling with pandemic, we have seen uncertainty of jobs. As predicted, these might hit the world again. In difficult times like these, upgraded knowledge is the only weapon that will help you keep your job secure. There is no secret that employers prefer skilled job seekers over unqualified.^[4]

Be valuable

Make sure you remain relevant to your industry based on today’s demand. World is changing rapidly and the only way to stay up-to-date is by upgrading your knowledge. Adopt skills that are valuable to your company and industry.

Resources:

How does a Private Career College help you?

May 21, 2021 Meenakshi Vyas No comments

Opportunities

A Private career college caters to everyone including the underserved and those that may have been left behind in our communities. At Private career colleges we offer diplomas that are completed at a shorter duration than degrees and prepare students with hands-on skills that prepare them to hit the ground running. This includes placements, internships, coop and help in exploring different job opportunities shortly after the completion of your diploma. A prime example of a high demand program that is preparing our students in a short duration for a well-paying and meaningful career is the Personal Support worker program. It not only gives you the requisite skills and knowledge in only 5 months but also provides guaranteed placements, and a higher chance of employment upon completion. More information about the Personal Support Worker program can be found in our blog PSW Funding Blog.

Our Students

An interesting fact about Private Career Colleges (PCC) is that our student population includes a significantly higher proportion of learners (52%) who were born outside of Canada. This demographic comprises of immigrants, protected refugees, displaced migrants, and international students. Please see : https://careercollegesontario.ca/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/Student-Demographic-Report.pdf

When you choose to study in a private career college, like Academy of Learning Brampton West, you can reap the added benefit of getting a step closer to gaining your PR and citizenship, all while gaining a ministry approved diploma program in a short period of time. A large population in Canada comprises of visible minorities. Three in ten (30%) of PCC students self-identify as a visible minority, with four percent self-identifying as indigenous people. Private career colleges are therefore prime examples and supporters of diversity. They are a great platform for immigrants and visible minorities who may lack resources to avail of opportunities that this great country offers. It serves as an avenue for them to adapt and offers learning styles without overwhelming them.

Steps to success

When you enroll at the Academy Of Learning Brampton West, your aspirations are our goals, and we will guide you through the steps necessary to reach your destination. In private career colleges, nearly two in five students (38%) indicate their first language is neither English nor French, however they achieve high rates of success tremendously with the help of career colleges. Private career colleges accommodate students that do not speak English and French as their first language, and still provide them with the absolute best education.

Private career colleges illustrate that it is never too late to get an education and start a career in something you love. Students in career colleges belong to a range of age groups. Most of the adult students learn basic innovative computer and language skills in the first few weeks of their program. This enables students to feel welcomed and gives them the confidence to flourish in the program. Private career colleges work at the pace of the students and give the students more time, less stress when completing a program. Talk to us today to take the next step towards your rewarding career. E-mail: min@aolcbrampton.com or call 365-788-4080

When Times are Tough, the Tough Get Going

February 23, 2021 Bhoomi Shah No comments

Have you considered a career in home inspection or personal support worker (PSW)?

COVID-19 hit the world like a ton of bricks. It is what is called a “Black Swan” event; something that no one can see coming and is so rare that it is impossible to predict. While it’s most devastating effect was seen in the loss of life and the pain that families and loved ones suffered through, it’s economic impact cannot be overstated. Hundreds of thousands of people lost jobs as they saw their industries decimated. While the help from government sources has helped somewhat, many find themselves at these unexpected crossroads where they have to find a new job to fend for themselves and their families.

As the saying goes “when the times get tough the tough get going”. In these devastating times we have also seen the human spirit rise. From everyday stories of people helping other people to the brave frontline workers risking everything to save lives, there is no dearth of inspiration around us. It is with this inspired spirit that the team of Academy Of Learning Brampton West wakes up every day to help people re-tool, re-skill and find rewarding careers. Needless to say, we take great pride in it.

Two career choices that I want to highlight in today’s environment are: Home Inspector and Person Support Worker.

While COVID-19 slowed things down all around, one industry that has not seen a slowdown is the real estate industry. In fact data shows that there has been 35% growth in home sales activity over last year. This is good news for home inspectors whose services are widely employed by home buyers. This goes for new construction as well, which has picked up rapidly and is expected to continue that way. Academy Of Learning Brampton West offers a ministry approved Home Inspection diploma. It can be completed in as little as 30 weeks. Various funding options are available so it can come at no cost to you. If you have ever thought of working in the construction industry, the home inspector diploma offers a great pathway with a recognized credential: https://aolcbrampton.com/our-courses/ Call us today or send us an inquiry using our website or talk to Min: min@aolcbrampton.com or call 365-788-4080. Learn more about the home inspection career at: https://www.oahi.com/

Personal Support Workers have shouldered the COVID-19 impact as front line workers, earning the respect of whole nation. Furthermore, 10000 people hit the age of 65 every day in North America. With the aging population, there is a bigger need than ever before for Person Support Workers to help our seniors. There is a hiring boom in hospitals, long term care homes and home-care businesses. If you have a passion for helping others and are looking for a rewarding career, talk to us today, you could be on your way to your dream job in as little as 28 weeks. With various funding option available, it could be at no cost to you as well. Visit our website: https://aolcbrampton.com/our-services/personal-support-worker/ for details and talk to Min today: min@aolcbrampton.com or call 365-788-4080