GOVERNANCE The CLPNA: - sets education, registration, and renewal requirements; - oversees compliance with healthcare legislation and regulations; - approves and reviews practical nurse diploma, refresher and advanced training; - sets and enforces practice, conduct, and professional standards; - establishes and maintains the continuing competence program; and - is responsible for complaints and discipline. The practical nursing profession is nearing its 75th year in Alberta. The licensed practical nurse (LPN) role has changed significantly in that time; however, it continues to focus on providing care that is patient-centred, safe, and ethical. Under Council governance, the CLPNA protects the safety of the public by regulating the LPN profession. In 2020, the Council was made up of eight elected licensed practical nurses and three government-appointed public members. The Council and the CLPNA are guided in their decision-making by the Health Professions Act (HPA), the Licensed Practical Nurses Profession Regulation (2003) (including amendments in force as of February 1, 2020), standards of practice, a code of ethics and the CLPNA’s Bylaws (updated December 2020).
The College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Alberta exists to protect Alberta healthcare users. We regulate the profession by setting and maintaining standards for registration, practice and conduct for practical nurses.
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Licensed Practical Nurses Profession Regulation Amendments On February 1, 2020, amendments to the Licensed Practical Nurses Profession Regulation were approved by the Government of Alberta, resulting in a broader range of nursing services by licensed practical nurses, enhancing continuity of care for Albertans. Some of the changes to LPN practice include authorization to administer blood or blood products, dispense drugs for pass and bridge medications, perform ultrasound imaging for bedside nursing assessments, administer parenteral nutrition, and administer medication through a central venous line. Standards of Practice Standards of practice outline the minimum professional expectations for licensed practical nurses in Alberta and are part of the legislative structure that the CLPNA uses to regulate the profession.
COLLEGE OF LICENSED PRACTICAL NURSES OF ALBERTA, 2020 ANNUAL REPORT
