Frequently Asked Questions

What is the goal of the course?

The Long-Term Care Orientation for RNs and LPNs course provides standardized education for nurses as they transition into practice. This will ensure that LTC nurses are able to meet the knowledge and skill requirements to perform their roles, responsibilities, and provide quality, resident-centred care.

Can nurses register independently?

Nurses cannot enroll in this course independently. They will be given instructions from their facility on how to register.

How do facilities register?

This will be done using the HCSC website. Facilities will register and then receive welcome letters that contain details to access the material. Registration will open on February 1, 2024. The course will launch on March 4, 2024.

What facilities are eligible?

Any Facility listed on the Nursing Homes and Residential Care Facilities Directory are eligible to register.

How long does it take to complete the course?

This course takes a total of twenty-six hours to complete (3 hrs./module x 6 modules + one, 8 hr. Skills Day). Modules 1-4 (e.g., 12 hrs. of independent online study) are be completed prior to entry into LTC practice. Nurses enter practice for 1 month prior to completing module 5. After completing module 5, nurses practice for an additional month prior to completing module 6. The online portion of course is completed within a total of 3 months. Anytime within this 3-month period, nurses are required to attend an 8-hr. Skills Day conducted by their facility.

How long will I remain active in the course?

Nurses and Preceptors will be enrolled in their respective courses for 120 days.

Is the Long-Term Care Orientation mandatory for all RNs and LPNS entering long-term care practice?

The course is currently not mandatory for nurses entering LTC practice.

Is the Long-Term Care Orientation mandatory for all LTC facilities that have RNs/LPNs entering LTC practice?

The course is currently not mandatory for all facilities. It has been developed to support the LTC sector and enhance educational standardization.

What is the Preceptor Resource Guide?

The Preceptor Resource Guide provides preceptors with LTC-specific information, tools, and tips to support the orientation process. It can be used as a quick reference or read cover to cover by preceptors to help new LTC nurses successfully transition to practice.

How do I access the Preceptor Resource Guide?

Any preceptor at a participating facility can request access to this guide. The facility can provide further instructions on how to access this Guide.

What is the Skills Day?

The Skills Day is an 8-hr. session offering nurses the opportunity to practice various LTC specific skills. This is an essential component because it contains content that is not covered elsewhere in the course.

Who facilitates the Skills Day?

The facility chooses appropriate facilitators (e.g., nurse educator) to deliver the Skills Day content. Facilitators will have access to resources to help support them to implement the skills day content.

Will I get a certificate of completion?

Nurses will receive a “Ready for Practice” certificate upon completion of the first four modules. They will also receive a certificate upon completion of all course material.

Can I still take the course if I’ve been hired to work in LTC within the last year?

Yes, any nurse that has entered LTC practice within the last calendar year is eligible to take the course.

Do RNs and LPNs take the same course?

The course is the same for RN and LPNs for modules 1-4, and module 6. Module 5 contains content that is specific to RNs and LPNs.