FAQ

What is the program progression for Practical Nursing?
Please visit the Availability & Schedule section for the program intakes and progression mapping.

Who is well-suited for this program?
This program is well-suited for students who: have excellent communication and interpersonal skills and are flexible and like working with others as a member of a team or in a leadership role; have the ability to handle physically demanding situations; enjoy the challenges of working with and accepting people of all ages and stages of development and varying backgrounds, and are dedicated patient advocates.

Where do you get to work once you graduate and what is the hourly rate of pay?
You may work in different settings depending on the complexity of patients and the nature of the environment. A wide variety of work possibilities across the health care spectrum, including community and hospitals. For salary, it depends on the agency. Basic pay starts between $22-24/hr in retirement and long term care. In a hospital basic pay starts between $28-30.

What is the difference between RN and RPN?
The scope of practice for the RN and RPN is similar. Registered Practical Nurses are employed in a wide variety of locations and deliver nursing care in many settings and to varied populations. RPN’s work in long-term care, home care, hospitals, and rehabilitation units. Please see cno.org for more information

What special equipment will I need for this program?
You will need two uniforms, a stethoscope, a watch with a second hand, appropriate footwear, and a name tag.

Are there special requirements for the program other than academic?
Vulnerable Persons Police Records check, and Annual CPR (Level C). The flu vaccine is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended. You must maintain an up-to-date immunization record which includes MMR, Varicella, Polio, Tetanus, and Hepatitis.

Is there a bridging pathway from the Practical Nursing program to the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program?
Yes, through the Honours Bachelor of Science in Nursing Bridging Pathway program. For more information visit algonquincollege.com/pn-bscnbridging.