Plan of Study

Full-time Perioperative Nursing Program for Registered Nurses

This program is designed for Registered Nurses who have applied to an expression of interest (EOI), job posting, or been selected for your employer.

This program is a full-time, in-person format aimed at ensuring the learner achieves the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to meet the program competencies.

Travel to Halifax will be required for in-person labs, simulations, and observation days. While every effort is made to provide required clinical learning experiences at the site closest to the learner's home, travel may be required.

Timeline

The full-time, in-person option is completed over 16 weeks, including 35 days of preceptor-led clinical, and a blend of classroom (online and face-to-face), skills labs, and simulations.

Learning Outcomes

The Perioperative Nursing Program curriculum reflects current evidence-based information related to practice, education, and the perioperative workplace. The program is approved by and adheres to the core curriculum competencies outlined by the Operating Room Nurses Association of Canada (ORNAC).

Part-time Perioperative Nursing Program for Registered Nurses and Licensed Practical Nurses

The part-time plans of study are designed for Registered Nurses and Licensed Practical Nurses who are currently employed or will be hired into the perioperative setting prior to or during the program.

The programs require employer support to ensure learner success, which includes time to participate in skill and simulation labs, exam writing, and clinical.

Travel to Halifax will be required for up to 10 days of in-person labs. While every effort is made to provide required clinical learning experiences at the site closest to the learner's home, travel may be required. 

Registered Nurses and Licensed Practical Nurses with existing knowledge, skills, and/or experience fundamental to perioperative nursing may qualify to receive credit toward program requirements. Credit must be requested before the start of the program.

Timeline

The part-time distance options are approximately 28 to 33 weeks depending on the clinical component, which can be completed in a block or integrated format at designated times in an operating room in Nova Scotia. During week 1 of the program, faculty will let learners know if they are in the block or integrated format.

Learning Outcomes

The Perioperative Nursing Program curriculum reflects current evidence-based information related to practice, education, and the perioperative workplace. The Registered Nurses' program is approved by and adheres to the core curriculum competencies outlined by the Operating Room Nurses Association of Canada (ORNAC).