BACHELOR of SCIENCE in NURSING
Clinical Practice
Clinical practice experiences are an integral part of MacEwan’s Bachelor of Science in Nursing program. These experiences build on an extensive theoretical base and are designed to establish a strong theoretical foundation and development of excellence in nursing practice.
Clinical practice experiences are strategically positioned within every academic year. For years two, three and four, the clinical courses are scheduled within concentrated blocks of time over the full term. These clinical courses follow the theory term in which students attain the knowledge, skills and competencies which are integrated into the practice settings. The sequence for the clinical courses within the term varies for individuals. Placement experiences are located within a 150 km radius from MacEwan. Student access to a vehicle is necessary when a practice setting is not accessible by public transportation.
Security clearance
Many settings for practice placements require evidence of a current, clear security clearance check as a prerequisite for clinical placements. You are responsible for obtaining current security clearance checks at intervals specified by practice tives. You must satisfy agency requirements before beginning a practice placement.
Immunization
You must satisfy agency immunization requirements before beginning all practice placements and must therefore maintain current immunization against specified communicable diseases for continued enrolment in the program. You will receive further information about immunization requirements and process when you start your program, so that you can complete these requirements in the first term of study.
Requisite skills and abilities
You require requisite skills and abilities necessary for entry to practice as a Registered Nurse (RN) in Alberta, as outlined by the College of Registered Nurses of Alberta (CRNA). You must meet the physical and mental health attributes that will support success in a registered nursing education program. You must also participate in lab and clinical practice courses requiring performing physically and mentally challenging activities that may include cognitive, behavioural, communication, interpersonal, physical, sensory-perceptual, and environmental requirements.
International students must have a co-op work permit before starting field placement, clinical practice or practicum. A co-op work permit is different from your study permit; it is an additional permit that authorizes international students to participate in work that is integral to their program of study. If you will be working with vulnerable populations in a health, community or medical field, you will need an up-to-date medical exam by an IRCC-approved panel physician before applying for a co-op work permit.
Ask MacEwan International about the documents you need to have to apply. You should apply for a co-op work permit 4-6 months before the start of your field placement, clinical practice or practicum as current IRCC processing times are lengthy.