The Journey of Internationally Educated Nurses in Finding Their First Nursing Job in Canada
Canada is a prominent destination for internationally educated nurses (IENs) seeking opportunities to apply their skills and knowledge. The path, however, can be laden with challenges and requires meticulous planning and perseverance. This article explores the experiences of IENs, drawing on a personal account from a nurse who emigrated from Scotland to Calgary in 2003.
Personal Experience: A Scottish Nurse's Journey
Beautifully encapsulating the challenges faced by many IENs, Sarah, a qualified Registered Nurse (RN) with over 30 years of experience, moved to Calgary, Alberta, in 2003. She explains that her journey to finding her first nursing job in Canada began with acquiring the necessary credentials and permits, followed by the intensive process of gaining employment.
Step 1: Passing the NCLEX RN Exam
The first hurdle for Sarah was passing the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX-RN). This step was crucial for validating the quality of her education and ensuring she could practice nursing in Canada.
Step 2: Applying for an RN Licence
Upon passing the NCLEX-RN, Sarah delved into the application process for her RN licence. She had to provide evidence of her previous practice hours and experience. The Canadian Nursing Association (CNA) plays a crucial role in ensuring that the qualifications of international nurses meet the stringent standards set by the Canadian healthcare system.
Step 3: Adjusting Work Permits and Finding Employment
With a licence in hand, Sarah faced the next challenge: gaining an Open Temporary Work Permit (TWP). To obtain this, she would need to secure a job offer, which presented its own set of hurdles. Multiple job offers were either withdrawn due to delays in processing Sarah's TWP application.
Finally, Sarah found the perfect job in Public Health with Alberta Health Service, a position that perfectly matched her skillset and qualifications. The public sector offered a stable environment, but she still needed the permit to start work. Luckily, her employer was willing to expedite the application process, ensuring she could take up the position swiftly.
General Challenges Facing IENs
The experiences of internationally educated nurses often vary based on their educational backgrounds. The Canadian Nursing Association (CNA) provides resources and information to help IENs navigate the process of credential evaluation and obtain the necessary qualifications.
Step 1: Credential Evaluation
If an IEN’s education does not meet Canadian standards, the CNA may recommend updates or additional education to ensure the nurse is fully qualified to practice. This step is critical and must be completed before the IEN can start their nursing career in Canada.
Step 2: Job Market Challenges
As mentioned, many IENs encounter difficulties in securing job offers promptly, particularly if they have to wait for their TWP applications to be processed. Employers may require a more rapid turnaround, which can be challenging for applicants whose permits are in processing.
Conclusion
The path to finding one's first nursing job in Canada as an IEN can be complex and time-consuming, but with thorough planning and support from organizations like the CNA, the journey can be navigated successfully. The experiences of nurses like Sarah highlight the importance of persistence and the support of a welcoming healthcare environment.