Getting "Canadian Experience"


Some strategies you can use to gain Canadian experience in Alberta before applying or beginning the process of working as a nurse:

Volunteering in Healthcare Settings

Contact Alberta's local hospitals, clinics, or nursing homes and inquire about volunteer opportunities. For example, you could volunteer as a patient care assistant, supporting the nursing staff in providing basic care, assisting with activities of daily living, and interacting with patients.

Here are some places to find volunteer opportunities in Alberta:

Bridging Programs

Bridging programs in Canada for internationally educated nurses are specialized programs designed to assist internationally trained nurses in obtaining the necessary qualifications and competencies to practice nursing in Canada. These programs aim to bridge gaps between their previous education and the Canadian nursing standards.

The following resources provide information about bridging programs:

Join Professional Associations and Attend Events

Become a member of nursing associations in Alberta, such as the College and Association of Registered Nurses of Alberta (CARNA), and participate in their events and workshops. For instance, attending nursing conferences or seminars organized by CARNA provides opportunities to network with local nurses, learn about the latest developments in the field, and gain insights into the nursing profession in Alberta.

Here are some associations you could join:

Participate in Clinical Job Shadowing

Contact healthcare organizations, such as hospitals or clinics, and inquire about the possibility of participating in clinical shadowing programs. This allows you to observe registered nurses daily and gain exposure to the Canadian healthcare system. For example, you could shadow a nurse in a specific department, such as medical-surgical or pediatrics, to better understand the nursing role and responsibilities in that setting. This shadowing experience gives you a deeper understanding of the nursing role in a specific department and the dynamics of the Canadian healthcare system. You witness firsthand the day-to-day challenges and rewards of being a registered nurse in Alberta.

Seek Internship Opportunities

Research healthcare facilities, both public and private that offer internship programs for internationally educated nurses. These programs provide hands-on experience and mentorship from experienced Canadian nurses. For example, apply for an internship program at a hospital where you will work under the guidance of a preceptor and gain practical experience in Canadian healthcare. By participating in the internship program, you gain practical experience in the Canadian healthcare system, expand your professional network, and enhance your readiness for nursing practice in Alberta. The mentorship and guidance provided by your preceptor contribute to your professional growth and integration into the local nursing community.

Language Improvement Programs

Enhance your language skills through language improvement programs, mainly focusing on medical and nursing terminology. This will help you communicate effectively with patients, colleagues, and healthcare professionals. For instance, you could enroll in language courses offered by community organizations, language institutes, or online platforms to improve your English or French proficiency.

Professional Development Courses and Certifications

Take advantage of professional development courses or certifications related to nursing practice in Alberta. This demonstrates your commitment to ongoing learning and professional growth. For example, you could attend workshops or courses on topics like cultural competency in healthcare or patient safety and infection control, which are relevant to nursing practice in Alberta.

Indeed published an article with career advice and career development courses for nursing.

Networking and Informational Interviews

Connect with Canadian nurses through networking events, conferences, or online nursing communities. Engaging in informational interviews with experienced nurses in Alberta allows you to learn from their experiences, gain insights into the local healthcare system, and discover job opportunities. Contact nurses on LinkedIn or through professional nursing associations to request informational interviews.

See The Seeker’s general guide on getting Canadian experience for more information.