Registered Nursing Bridging Program for Re-entry to Practice Frequently Asked Questions

This program stands out because with each of the learning steps in the curricula there are opportunities to relate the theory directly to clinical practice.

You will have access to the curriculum from the comfort of your own home using a self-paced study format.

This program recognizes your past experience as an RN and focuses on the changing aspects of the nursing profession (increased scope of practice, technology, and leadership).

The College of Registered Nurses of Sasktchewan (CRNS) is responsible for the approval of Registered Nursing Bridging Program for Re-entry to Practice. The approval criterion ensures that graduates meet the standards and have achieved the minimum competencies for practice as set forth by the CRNS.

Three intakes - September, January and May. Program is semesterized and offered in four semesters.

The program is offered by online learning. The learning method is home study with online modules. You will require a computer and high-speed internet access.

There are nine theory courses, one lab and one clinical practice education components. You have three years to complete the program. You will have 16 weeks to complete each theory course. Some courses have prerequisites.

There are wonderful study skills tools on the internet. One that former students recommend is Survey, Question, Read, Recite, Review (SQ3R). Type this into a search engine to find resources using this strategy. Saskatchewan Polytechnic Library also has a wealth of resources that they direct you to help you study, write exams and write papers.

Program faculty are available to support you via telephone, email, and Zoom.

Distance education requires commitment and dedication, therefore it is suggested that you evaluate your readiness for learning via distance. Self assessment tools to determine if online learning is right for you are available on the internet.

 Personal attributes of the successful online learner are:

• ability to assume responsibility for own learning;
• self-directed and motivated;
• persistent and confident;
• ability to problem-solve;
• active in their learning;
• effective time management skills; and
• disciplined to study without external reminders.

Basic technical skills that you need include:

• basic computer literacy;
• word processing;
• searching on the internet; and
• taking time to complete available online tutorials and use help screens.

Saskatchewan Polytechnic has a wealth of tutorials and support tools to ensure your success. A successful online student searches out these tools and uses them. When a student is registered into a Saskatchewan Polytechnic course for the first time, the student is also enrolled in a free orientation course called “Online learning made easy.” Students are strongly encouraged to complete this short course to learn about supports Saskatchewan Polytechnic has in place to enhance your success. Students who complete the orientation tools before the course begins have reduced frustration when the course starts.

Student success is also enhanced through family and employer support. Families can provide child care or assist with household chores. When employers allow flexible hours for school obligations or use of a computer at work, success is also enhanced. Some students have found that having a personal laptop that can be taken with them wherever they go enhances their success.

Each of the theory courses is divided into learning outcomes that cover specific material. Each learning outcome is divided into learning steps that will guide you in your learning. There are review exercises included at the end of each learning outcome that allow you to assess your learning. Most theory courses have a midterm and final exam. Some courses have assignments to evaluate your knowledge. Guidelines for completing assignments and the grading criteria are included in the online course.

Clinical skills lab will be held in Regina for 10, eight-hour days. Your nursing skills will be evaluated in the lab. You must demonstrate mastery of the required psychomotor skills and health assessment techniques prior to entering the clinical area.

There is one preceptor led clinical practice experience. You must successfully complete theory courses prior to entering the clinical area. The preceptor and faculty will evaluate your performance in the clinical practicums. All are graded as pass/fail.

The labs are held in Regina at Saskatchewan Polytechnic, Regina Campus.

You will do your clinical practicum at a facility which offers acute medical/surgical experiences. You will be placed with a preceptor who will help you with your learning.

Generally, students write their exams online in one of the Sask Polytech Test Centres.

When you write your exams online, test centre staff will orientate you to the test-writing software. You must schedule an extra 15 minutes before your first exam for your orientation. The exams are multiple choice and require the writer to know how to use a mouse and read onscreen instructions.

Please go to Prior Learning Assessment and Recognition (PLAR).

If you have been away from nursing for 10 years or less, and were previously registered in Canada, you have the opportunity to receive credit for prior learning through challenge exams. Eligibility for this will be determined through discussion with the CRNS and by examining your previous experiences and hours worked as a registered nurse.

Information on purchasing textbooks and course manuals will be provided when you register. Material is available for purchase at the Campus Store, by phone, or in person.

Upon graduation, you will receive a certificate in Registered Nursing Bridging Program for Re-entry to Practice and a recommendation will be made to the CRNS for your re-licensure.

No, you are not required to write the NCLEX. You must provide your certificate, along with a letter of recommendation from Saskatchewan Polytechnic, to the CRNS in order to be re-registered as a RN.