The report will help the association, registration board, and LPNs to increase the utilization of the knowledge and skills of LPNs province wide.

“The LPN competency project has identified several areas that will help address the skill shortages facing nursing-related occupations across PEI, including the increased use of LPNs,” said the Honourable Shawn Murphy, Member of Parliament for Charlottetown, on behalf of the Honourable Joe Volpe, Minister of Human Resources and Skills Development. “The Government of Canada is committed to working with organizations like the LPN Association of PEI to help address skills shortages and labour market needs.”

The LPN Competency Report identifies the current entry-level LPN competencies, describes the design and development of a Web-based LPN competency assessment tool and presents preliminary action plans to support the full utilization of LPNs in PEI.

Minister of Health and Social Services Chester Gillan views the report as a valuable resource. “The department is pleased to support this project, as it fits well with our goal of effective and appropriate utilization of all health care providers,” the minister said.

The work that has been completed through the PEI LPN Competency Project will assist the practical nurse profession to become fully utilized within all areas of the health care sector. It will also help employers determine the best course of action in developing a full scope of job descriptions for licensed practical nurses and assist in determining LPN competency. Through these actions, some of the concerns regarding staff shortages may be alleviated.

Janice Gaudet, President of the LPNAPEI, sees the report as very valuable as LPNs take on a greater role in the health care system. “This is an exciting time for Licensed Practical Nurses on PEI. As we move towards full utilization and recognition, we become more active partners in the health care community. Together with other health care professionals, LPNs will continue to make a very positive impact on the health of all Islanders. As competent fully-utilized nursing professionals, LPNs will help ease the burden on the health care system with consistency and efficiency.”

The PEI LPN Competency Project was established through a partnership of the Licensed Practical Nurses Association of Prince Edward Island (LPNAPEI), the Prince Edward Island Licensed Practical Nurses Registration Board (PEILPNRB), and the Department of Health and Social Services. Funding of $75,917 was provided by the Canada/Prince Edward Island Labour Market Development Agreement, co-managed by Human Resources and Skills Development Canada and the provincial Department of Development and Technology.

For more information on the LPN Competency Project, call (902) 566-1512 or visit the LPNAPEI Web site at www.lpnapei.com.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION:

The PEI Licensed Practical Nurses Registration Board is responsible for regulating the practice of licensed practical nurses to ensure a high standard of practice and safeguard the welfare of the public with regard to services provided by LPNs. The Board approves practical nurse education programs, establishes entry to the profession competencies, administers the National Practical Nurse Examination, investigates complaints and issues licenses.

The Licensed Practical Nurse Association of PEI mandate includes promotion of the profession, promotion of proficiency, continuing professional education, career development within the membership, and to represent members collectively with other persons and organizations. LPNs are employed in most areas of health care delivery including acute, long-term care, community and mental health as direct care providers.

Other stakeholders: LPNs, the PEI Medical Society, the Association of Nurses of PEI, Holland College, UPEI School of Nursing and private and public sector employers.