2011 ANNUAL REPORT | College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Alberta

2011 ANNUAL REPORT

CONTENTS REPORTS Introduction ........................................................................................................................................................................................ 2 President .............................................................................................................................................................................................. 4 Public Members ............................................................................................................................................................................. 5 Executive Director/Registrar .............................................................................................................................................. 6 Provincial, National, and International Initiatives ................................................................................................. 8 Research Initiatives ..................................................................................................................................................................... 11 Regulatory Services .................................................................................................................................................................... 12 Conduct ................................................................................................................................................................................................ 15 Education ............................................................................................................................................................................................ 18 Continuing Competency Program .................................................................................................................................. 20 Practice ................................................................................................................................................................................................. 21 Communications ............................................................................................................................................................................ 22

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Alberta .............................................................................................. 25

OUR MISSION To regulate and lead the profession in a manner that protects and serves the public through excellence in Practical Nursing.

OUR VISION Licensed Practical Nurses are a nurse of choice, trusted partner and a valued professional in the healthcare system.

The CLPNA embraces change that serves the best interests of the public, the profession and a quality healthcare system.

By 2015, the CLPNA expects to see: • Increased demand for Licensed Practical Nurses, generating continuous growth in the profession • Full utilization of Licensed Practical Nurses throughout the health care system • All Licensed Practical Nurses embrace and fully enact their professional scope of practice • Increased public understanding of the role and contributions of Licensed Practical Nurses • The College initiate and support research relevant to the Licensed Practical Nurse profession and health care system • Enhanced collaborative opportunities provincially, nationally and internationally • The College and Licensed Practical Nurses fully engaged in all decisions affecting the profession

CLPNA - 2011 Annual Report

2011 CLPNA COUNCIL (L-R, back row): Lorraine Strelezki, LPN; Allan Buck, Public Member; Hugh Pedersen, LPN, President; Linda Stanger, Executive Director/Registrar; Joanne MacDonald-Watson, LPN, Vice-President; Dieda John, LPN; Roberta Beaulieu, LPN; Robert Mitchell, Public Member; Peter Bidlock, Ex-Officio Member (L-R, front row): Linda Coatsworth, LPN; Ralph Westwood, Public Member; Carla Koyata, LPN; Joshua Martynuik, LPN

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INTRODUCTION

ABOUT THE COLLEGE

ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE

The College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Alberta (CLPNA) is the regulatory organization for Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) in Alberta, Canada. CLPNA is governed by LPNs and by public members, on behalf of the Minister of Health and Wellness. The organization is funded through annual registration/practice permit, examination, and other regulatory fees.

Minister of Health and Wellness

Council

CLPNA regulates the profession and ensures protection of the public by setting entry-to-practice requirements; approving practical nurse education programs leading to registration and specialty; establishing, promoting and enforcing standards of practice and a code of ethics; enhancing the care provided by members of the profession through the continuing competence program; and conducting investigation and discipline. Under provincial regulation, persons who provide professional services to the public as a LPN must qualify and be registered with CLPNA. The organization was founded in 1985 and assumed regulatory responsibility for the profession in 1987. The CLPNA is currently regulated under the Health Professions Act (HPA) and has the same stature as other regulatory colleges under the HPA. The origins of the profession in Alberta can be traced back to the Alberta’s Nurses Aides Act of 1947 and development of the Certified Nursing Aide educational course. Over the years, the names have changed in compliance with legislation: • Alberta Certified Nursing Aide Association (1961) under the Societies Act, • Alberta Association of Registered Nursing Assistants (1978) under the Nursing Assistant Registration Act; • Professional Council of Registered Nursing Assistants (1987) under the Health Disciplines Act; • Professional Council of Licensed Practical Nurses (1990) under the Health Disciplines Act; and • College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Alberta (1998).

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8 Elected Council Members 3 Appointed Public Members

Regulated Committees Education Standards Advisory Committee Council Appeals Committee Hearing Tribunal Complaint Review Committee Registration and Competency Committee

Executive Director/Registrar

Operations

Regulatory Services (Complaints Director) (Hearings Director)

Professional Practice/ Communications

ABOUT THE PROFESSION LPNs are professional nurses and work within their own competencies, standards of practice, and code of ethics. LPNs are involved in the assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation of nursing care.

LPNs study from the same body of nursing knowledge as registered nurses (RNs) and registered psychiatric nurses (RPNs) - with a more focused approach in foundational knowledge, critical thinking, and clinical judgment to suit the LPN role of today. LPNs have the knowledge, skill, judgment, and abilities to contribute in all phases of

CLPNA - 2011 Annual Report

COMMITTEES the continuum of care - from prevention to acute treatment and management, to long term and palliative care.

LPNs in Alberta assume full responsibility for their own practice. As trusted and respected professional nurses, LPNs serve individuals, families, and groups, assessing their needs and providing care and treatments as appropriate.

LPNs advocate for clients and for the human, physical, and financial resources necessary to provide safe, quality nursing care.

GOVERNANCE The governing body of the CLPNA is a Council comprised of eight elected Members, three Public Members appointed by provincial government in accordance with the Health Professions Act (HPA), and the Executive Director/Registrar as an ex-officio member. The Council utilizes a policy governance model to fufill it’s obligations outlined in the HPA, Licensed Practical Nurse Regulation, and College Bylaws (2008).

A series of committees mandated by the Health Professions Act assist the CLPNA in their responsibilities under the Act. They are comprised of regulated members appointed by Council, and Public Members drawn from a list appointed by the provincial government.

Education Standards Advisory Committee (ESAC) The Education Standards Advisory Committee establishes the Standard for Program Approval for all basic and specialty education programs for practical nurses in Alberta, and approves and monitors programs to ensure compliance with these Standards under the Health Professions Act. Gloria Bauer, Chairperson Linda Stanger, CLPNA Representative Teresa Bateman, CLPNA Representative Gwen Evans, LPN Janelle Wallace, LPN Bruce Finkel, Member at Large Pam Mangold, Employer Representative Leona Ferguson, Employer Representative Maureen McQueen, Education Representative Vi Smith, Education Representative Joyce D’Andrea, Education Representative

Council Appeals Committee (CAC) The CAC makes findings and determines disciplinary action arising from an appeal of a Hearing Tribunal Decision under the Health Professions Act. Hugh Pedersen, LPN, Chairperson Jo-Anne Macdonald-Watson, LPN Carla Koyata, LPN Allan Buck, Public Member

CLPNA - 2011 Annual Report

Hearing Tribunal (HT) The HT makes findings and determines disciplinary action at professional conduct hearings under the Health Professions Act.

Public Members for Conduct Public Members appointed by the provincial government to sit on the Hearing Tribunal and Complaint Review Committee.

Larry Leduc, LPN, Chairperson Kelly Annesty, LPN Shelley Blaszkiewicz, LPN Danielle Canning, LPN Crystal Genoway, LPN Melanie Joyce, LPN Dawne Knibbs, LPN Minky Leba, LPN Shawn Maxwell, LPN Sylvia Morison, LPN Jill Paton, LPN Kunal Sharma, LPN Patricia Standage, LPN Jamie Tanda, LPN

Grace Brittain Diane Adams Peter Van Bostelen Nancy Brook

Complaint Review Committee (CRC) The CRC reviews and ratifies settlements through alternative complaint resolution and conducts reviews of dismissal of complaints under the Health Professions Act. Michelle Tavenier, LPN, Chairperson Margaret Devlin, LPN Dawn Gillich, LPN Gaylene Mullett, LPN Teresa Stacey, LPN Jane Reif, LPN Brenda Blom, LPN

Registration and Competence Committee (RCC) The RCC determines issues regarding registration and competence matters referred by the Executive Director/Registrar under the Health Professions Act and the Bylaws. The primary responsibility of the RCC is to guide and support the continuing competency program.

Darcy Shenfield, LPN, Chairperson Ashley Holloway, LPN Dorothy Wurst-Thurn, LPN Lorna Diprose, LPN Michelle Rose, LPN Johanne Rousseau-Chicoine, LPN Cheryl Lance, LPN Dianne Banks, LPN

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PRESIDENT

I

am pleased to present the 2011 Annual Report, as approved by Council. This annual report reflects the CLPNA’s strategic focus; it highlights collaboration, quality education, practice excellence, growth of the profession, and our continued commitment to protection of the public.

The profession celebrated 25 years of self-governance in 2011. When one looks at our history, the significance of this anniversary becomes clear. The Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) has evolved considerable from being a “nursing assistant.� Education at the basic and advanced levels has been dynamically enhanced. Our ability to provide numerous health services has increased considerably. Our registrants work in practice settings we could barely have imagined, even ten years ago.

Guarding the public interest is a privilege - not a right - and is granted by government to the profession. Professional self-governance is evident across the continuum of educational programming, registration examinations, registration, practice permit renewal, continuing competence, and investigation and discipline. All these processes must be conducted in a fair, transparent, and accountable manner.

LPNs participate in all committees of the College; setting and monitoring education, competence, registration, and practice requirements and standards for the profession. Council, which includes eight elected LPNs and three public members appointed by the Provincial Government, provides strategic leadership.

The LPN profession is comprised of people who desire a career, a profession, and a future in nursing. We are proud, flexible, and enduring professionals, who have pioneered new roles in many areas. Forging our future with identity, vision, and purpose, the LPN profession has historically set visionary goals and then collaborated with registrants and stakeholders to reach and often exceed these goals. We expect this progress to continue for the next 25 years!

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Council with input from our many stakeholders is midway in the development of a refreshed vision and strategic plan for the CLPNA. New initiatives for the next year are underway to educate and influence others about the LPN profession, and to continue as the professional voice of LPNs provincially and collaboratively with our LPN regulatory colleagues nationally and internationally.

We are involved in the development of a common Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice for the profession in Canada. Given the increasingly mobile world we live in, we see the harmonization of standards nationally as an important vehicle to assuring public protection.

With our many initiatives provincially and nationally, we are well positioned as a college and a profession to continue forging ahead, and we are finishing 2011 in solid financial shape. Through the dynamic leadership of Linda Stanger, Executive Director and Registrar, her staff, volunteers, educators, employers, all LPNs and stakeholders who have committed to the profession in the last year, I am confident we will continue to promote highly competent nursing practice through regulatory excellence.

As my term as President ends in June 2012, I reflect on the tremendous opportunity for personal growth and satisfaction I have had from my involvement with CLPNA. Thank you for the opportunity to serve our profession.

Sincerely, Hugh Pedersen President

CLPNA - 2011 Annual Report

PUBLIC MEMBERS

T

Robert Mitchell

Allan Buck

Ralph Westwood

his was a very busy and productive year for the CLPNA under the exceptional leadership of the Executive Director, Linda Stanger.

A number of initiatives throughout 2011 serve to highlight the remarkable effort and success of the College: it accommodated a 7% increase in LPN registrations in the province, increased effective stakeholder relationships provincially and beyond, pursued a number of strategic initiatives to address nursing shortages, and further enhanced its Annual Conference.

The LPN members and officers elected to Council continue to bring practical perspectives to Council decision making, helping to ensure that LPNs provide competent and safe patient care services. We are impressed with the commitment and integrity of our fellow Council colleagues and it is a pleasure to be full partners in Council deliberations.

We can confirm that the management of the College and its members is done in a manner that serves and protects the public with the intent of providing Albertans with quality health care. To the members and public, it is a pleasure to report that the CLPNA is extremely well-respected, managed and directed.

Respectfully submitted, Robert Mitchell Allan Buck Ralph Westwood

CLPNA - 2011 Annual Report

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EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR/REGISTRAR

“

Regulating and leading the profession in a manner that protects and serves the public through excellence in Practical Nursing” is the focus of our work at the College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Alberta (CLPNA). Self-governance is a privilege we take seriously. I am honoured to provide my report, which outlines how the CLPNA has delivered on our responsibilities in 2011.

Implementation of a new database system improved the services we can provide to registrants and stakeholders. Through this system, LPNs now update personal and employer information, renew registration, complete continuing competence requirements, and monitor application processes online. The database links conduct information to affected registrant profiles, for ease of tracking and monitoring as they proceed through the conduct process. The trial of online Continuing Competency Program Validation resulted in faster processing of submissions and enhanced accuracy of data. For employers, the system now provides “real-time” data through the online Public Registry. Overall, a very large project, well implemented and with extremely positive results!

Guidance to our registrants is an important component of what the CLPNA does in fulfilling our mandate. Policy and practice support are key services to aid LPNs through the landscape of demands in nursing practice. Growth within the profession has increased the demand and with numerous initiatives already underway, a focus for 2012 is to enhance practice support for registrants and stakeholders.

Registrant and public engagement has flourished with the growth of the CLPNA social media dialogue. Blog post discussions, Facebook comments and Twitter draw people to the CLPNA website where a substantial increase in visits is evident. Our CARE magazine continues to provide us with an opportunity to network and showcase best practices with inter-professional focus, making it one of the most viewed links on our site.

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Our involvement with LPN regulators and other nursing leaders nationally has grown substantially this year. CLPNA is actively engaged as participant and leader in many collaborative projects nationally.

Internationally, working with the United States National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN) and with the International Council of Nurses (ICN) has provided opportunities to share the uniqueness of LPN practice in Alberta and Canada. The CLPNA sees these commitments as vitally important for the sustainability and growth of our profession across Canada and internationally.

The year 2011 is significant for the LPN profession in Alberta - as we celebrate 25 years of self-governance. Through these 25 years, we have seen extensive expansion in LPN education, utilization, continuing education and practice opportunities. This could not have occurred without devoted individuals who have been involved with the CLPNA as Council members, committee members, our employees, AHS and other employers, practicing LPNs, staff, consultants, legal counsel, the RN and RPN professions, and supportive external stakeholders.

As you review this 2011 Annual Report, you will see the collaborative, inter-professional voice the CLPNA extends in all our initiatives.

Excellence in regulation, nursing, and health care delivery is dependent upon all professions working individually and collectively toward one common goal - quality health outcomes for the patients we serve.

With respect and appreciation, Linda Stanger Executive Director/Registrar

CLPNA - 2011 Annual Report

Nurses are held in high esteem by our fellow citizens: Because our values are their values.

And because of the amazing work you do every day, you are trusted more than most, to speak truth to power.

Executive Message CARE, Volume 25, 2nd Edition, Summer 2011

CLPNA - 2011 Annual Report

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PROVINCIAL INITIATIVES

A

lberta Health and Wellness (AH&W) invited regulatory colleges to participate in the review of restricted activities (RA) listed in the Government Organization Act (2000). CLPNA participates in six of the 10 working groups exploring more complex RA issues, assessing complexity of identified issues, providing concrete examples of risks, completing interjurisdictional comparison, and identifying professions affected and how. The intended outcome is to develop evidence informed recommendations for amendments to Schedule 7.1 (Restricted Activities) of the Government Organization Act. Work within these groups continues into 2012.

Work is underway with government and relevant stakeholders related to updating the LPN Health Professions Act Regulation (2003). There are several key areas of urgent need to reflect current education, competence, and role of the LPN. CLPNA participated in the Collaborative Practice and Education Steering Committee (CPESC) Stakeholder Engagement Symposium providing feedback on the work plan to further the implementation of interprofessional collaborative practice and education in Alberta. The CLPNA strongly supports the principles of collaborative practice and applauds the committee for the work undertaken to develop and implement this initiative in Alberta.

The Internationally Educated Health Professions (IEHPs) Recruitment Forum was established by Alberta Health and Wellness (AHW) and includes representation from Alberta Health Services (AHS), Covenant Health (CH), Alberta Employment and Immigration (AEI), Regulators including CLPNA, College and Association of Registered Nurses of Alberta (CARNA), and College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA), assessment service and bridging providers and union representatives. The purpose of this Forum is to facilitate a smooth transition process for the recruitment,

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assessment, bridging, registration, and integration of IEHPs into Alberta’s health workforce. The transition process will be grounded in a joint decision-making process, tools and supports, and an ongoing forum for communication. The initial focus of the group is on the recruitment of Registered Nurses and Licensed Practical Nurses.

AHW and AHS led a project Optimizing Collaborative Practice of Nurses in Primary Care Medical Settings, which was a follow-up to research that explored optimization of the role of RNs and LPNs in primary care medical settings. The goal of the collaborative practice project was to help nurses working in primary care settings practice to the full extent of their knowledge and skills. This project is complete and 13 key recommendations have been forwarded to AHW and AHS. The Provincial Continuing Care Workforce Forum, led by AHS and the Alberta Continuing Care Association (ACCA) provided information about the “Draft Workforce Strategy for Continuing Care”. This session involved stakeholders in discussion about workforce planning and research underway to inform future direction that may increase attraction, retention, enhance productivity, and utilization of all staff in continuing care.

CLPNA meets regularly with Alberta Health Services (AHS) executive and participates in several AHS collaborative projects including: Successful Transition of the Entry Level Nurse; University of Alberta LPN Role Expansion; Corrections Services-LPN Role in Corrections, and review of AHS ‘generic’ job descriptions for LPNs, RNs, RPNs, and Health Care Aides.

legislation and the role and scope of the LPN in Alberta. In addition, funding was received to establish IEN qualification assessment and recognition processes within the CLPNA. Alberta Employment – Safety Competencies and Continuing Competence Education for Professionals Initiative, provided a grant to promote increased awareness of safety competencies within LPN registrants. Education is provided on the CLPNA website, CARE magazine, and through a health and safety presentation booked for the CLPNA’s 2012 Spring Conference. .

CLPNA participates in the Alberta Federation of Regulated Health Professionals and subcommittees related to complaints process, continuing competence, and legislative review. The Complaint Process Working Group, funded through a grant from AH&W, completed an educational DVD to assist regulatory colleges in educating conduct committees. This video already shows great benefit to regulatory conduct departments. CLPNA assumed a leadership role in this initiative.

CLPNA participated in additional projects/events with many organizations this year including Alberta Gerontological Nurses Association (AGNA), Alberta Continuing Care Association (ACCA) Safety Conference, Careers the Next Generation, MacEwan University’s evening for health policy panel presentation, Health Careers Interactions Fair in Edmonton, Mount Royal/Bow Valley College/AHS Clinical Teaching Collaborative, Red Deer College Research Development Day, and University of Alberta Health Sciences Education & Research Days.

The Foreign Qualification Recognition (FQR) Innovation Fund within Alberta Employment and Immigration has provided funding for CLPNA projects including development of tools to assist the IEN in understanding

CLPNA - 2011 Annual Report

NATIONAL INITIATIVES

Canadian Council for Practical Nurse Regulators (CCPNR) The CCPNR is a federation of regulators responsible for the profession of practical nursing in their jurisdiction and provides a collective voice on matters affecting practical nurse regulation. The focus of CCPNR is promotion of regulatory excellence and continued harmonization of the LPN profession within member jurisdictions.

With funding from Human Resources and Skills Development Canada (HRSDC), CCPNR initiated the Inter-jurisdictional Licensed Practical Nurse Project to define entry level competencies for the LPN, the requisite skills and abilities for entry to the profession, and a national code of ethics and standards of practice. These projects are targeted for completion in 2012. CLPNA co-chairs and is fund-holder for this project.

The LPN Regulators in western and northern regions of Canada met in February 2011, with consensus that a common competency based assessment is needed to address assessment of the internationally educated nurse (IEN). This initial discussion has been advanced to the national level as a priority within the LPN Foreign Qualification Recognition Working Group and is supported by principles within the Pan Canadian Framework for the Assessment and Recognition of Foreign Qualifications.

The Canadian Association of Schools of Nursing (CASN) IEN Bridging Programs Project, through consultation with stakeholders across the country, developed a framework outlining best practices to be carried out within a bridging program. Bridging program is defined by CASN as any program designed to address gaps and/or differences in education and competencies so that an internationally educated nurse may become registered to practice in Canada, and successfully integrate into the Canadian healthcare system. Deliverables included a document Pan-Canadian Framework of Guiding Principles & Essential Components for IEN Bridging Programs and a companion Self Assessment guide to assist educators as they design and implement bridging programs for the IEN transitioning to nursing in Canada. CLPNA was the CCPNR representative on the steering committee.

Canadian Council for Practical Nurse Regulators, & Registered Psychiatric nurses of Canada). A comprehensive literature review and consultation was conducted, with panCanadian surveys, focus groups, expert-small discussion groups, pan-Canadian Delphi survey, and advice from the CNA Task-Force throughout. CLPNA as representative of CCPNR was involved throughout all phases of this project. The new framework, Staff Mix Decision-making Framework for Quality Nursing Care, is in final stages of approval and expected to be available in 2012.

National Nursing Assessment Service (NNAS) For over two years, regulators from the three nursing professions across Canada have been collaborating on the development of a National Nursing Assessment Service (NNAS) intended to streamline the assessment process for the IEN coming to Canada.

Key deliverables to date include: •

A harmonized set of IEN Application for Registration Requirements, accepted by all 23 regulators. These requirements provide a comprehensive framework for the NNAS to use in developing a single IEN application package which will be available to all IEN applicants through an online portal, in both official languages, once the NNAS is fully operational, and;

•

A NNAS Business Model inclusive of guiding principles, a governance model, financial model and a staged implementation plan designed to achieve a fully sustainable NNAS within an expected timeframe of between two and a half to four years.

The Project Management Committee is in the process of preparing a funding proposal to HRSDC to support the NNAS project implementation which, if successful, can be expected to begin with the project development phase as early as June 2012.

CLPNA continued work with the Evidence-Informed Nursing Care Delivery Models across the Continuum of Care on behalf of the CCPNR. This project initiated by the Canadian Nurses Association in 2010 and funded by HRSDC, involved LPNs, Registered Nurses, Registered Psychiatric Nurses, and Unregulated Care Providers. The project involved an extensive review and update to the 2005 Evaluation Framework to Determine the Impact of Nursing Staff Mix Decision (CNA, Canadian Practical Nurse Association,

CLPNA - 2011 Annual Report

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INTERNATIONAL INITIATIVES

C

LPNA maintains Associate Membership with the National Council of State Boards of Nursing (NCSBN). NCSBN is the collective voice of nursing regulation in the U.S. and its territories.

They are a not-for-profit organization whose purpose is to provide an organization through which boards of nursing act and counsel together on matters of common interest and concern affecting the public health, safety and welfare, including the development of licensing examinations in nursing. The NCSBN Associate Membership category is designed to provide a forum by which nursing regulatory bodies from around the globe can join NCSBN in a dialogue regarding issues of common concern as well as share information and knowledge in a multicultural exchange of thoughts and ideas.

CLPNA represented the Canadian Council for Practical Nurse Regulators (CCPNR) and the LPN profession in a Perspectives on Staff Mix and Nursing Care Delivery Models presentation at the International Council of Nurses (ICN) Conference in Malta, May 2011. The International Council of Nurses (ICN) is a federation of more than 130 national nurses associations, representing the more than 13 million nurses worldwide. Founded in 1899, ICN is the world’s first and widest reaching international organization for health professionals. Operated by nurses and leading nurses internationally, ICN works to ensure quality nursing care for all, sound health policies globally, the advancement of nursing knowledge, and the presence worldwide of a respected nursing profession and a competent and satisfied nursing workforce. The presentation in May 2011 was the first opportunity for the LPN profession in Canada to be formally represented at ICN. Jamaican practical nurses started arriving in Alberta in early 2011. These nurses completed a NorQuest program in Jamaica, delivered by Pre-University and supported by the Government of Jamaica. In 2011, 23 Jamaican LPNs immigrated to Alberta with a conditional permit that requires supervised practice and successful completion of the CPNRE. Many of these LPNs have now received an Active Practice Permit and settled well into the Alberta health care system.

“We need to generate new ways of meeting patients’ needs, including the type of roles that health care workers have in the system and making sure that everyone has the opportunity to practice to their optimal abilities.”

Deb Gordon, Senior VP in Health Professions Strategy and Practice, Chief Nursing and Health Professions Officer, AHS CARE, Volume 25, 4th Edition, Winter 2011

Other jurisdictions have integrated collaborative care nursing models effectively, and have successfully worked through the challenges of the roles of regulated nursing professionals.

Executive Message CARE, Volume 25, 4th Edition, Winter 2011

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CLPNA - 2011 Annual Report

RESEARCH INITIATIVES

Research Project: Understanding LPNs Full Scope of Practice Alberta Health and Wellness funded a research project designed to evaluate the impact on quality of care and patient outcomes when LPNs work to scope. The study Understanding LPNs Full Scope of Practice, also explores the supports and barriers in place, impacting LPNs ability to work to the full extent of their knowledge, skill, and ability. The research team, led by Dr. Rena Shimoni at Bow Valley College includes leading researchers in evaluation research (Dr. Gail Barrington); and nursing (Dr. Sean Clarke). Included on the Steering Committee is representation from Alberta Health Services including Research and Administration, Alberta Health And Wellness, University of Alberta Faculty of Nursing, Bow Valley College, NorQuest College, Covenant Health, Alberta Continuing Care Association, College of Registered Psychiatric Nurses of Alberta, College and Association of Registered Nurses of Alberta, CLPNA, and members of the LPN profession. CLPNA is the fund holder for the project. The project is scheduled for completion March 31, 2012.

Team Dynamics Study Teresa Bateman, LPN, MA, Director of Professional Practice at CLPNA, completed a research study in June 2011 as part of the requirement for a Masters of Arts in Professional Communication at Royal Roads University, Victoria, BC. This qualitative research project, Nursing Team Dynamics: Communication, Culture, Collaboration assessed the dynamics of teams, organizational culture, and transformative learning within the context of a health care team. The research question “What is the experience of team work and team dynamics among members of a multidisciplinary nursing team from a Licensed Practical Nurse perspective?” was posed to 24 licensed practical nurses (LPNs) and four key external leaders. There are five key recommendations that resulted from the study. The full study can be accessed via the CLPNA website.

Our deep connection with patient care and its intricacies make us vital members of research teams.

We must not become “subjects” of others research – we must become participants who are engaged in the research process itself.

Executive Message CARE, Volume 25, 1st Edition, Spring 2011

The CLPNA continues to stand ready to work with employers, government, the RN and RPN regulatory colleges, health care aides, medical staff and other health professionals to create the environment necessary for LPNs to contribute meaningfully to collaborative care models.

Executive Message CARE, Volume 25, 4th Edition, Winter 2011

CLPNA - 2011 Annual Report

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REGULATORY SERVICES

LPN registration in 2011 increased 7% over the previous year to 9652 members.

LPNs comprise the second largest group of professional nurses in Alberta and in Canada.

Membership Growth

Registration Fee Increase

CLPNA membership numbers are growing, with several noted contributing factors. A small increase in new graduates is noted over the last three years: 769 in 2011, from 721 in 2010, and 661 in 2009. The possibility of members retiring is great with 854 members 61 years of age and older. Although, we are seeing members remain in the profession longer with 45 LPNs retiring in 2011 and 58 LPNs retiring in 2010. Members from out of province/country moving into Alberta increased significantly to 482 in 2011, compared to 298 in 2010. Although out-migration is difficult to assess, we see our overall total number of members not renewing in the last two years remaining virtually the same, 539 in 2011 and 536 in 2010. All of these factors contribute to an increase in membership numbers, more detailed statistics are noted on page 14.

The second of two Registration Renewal fee increases occurred in Fall 2011, increasing to $350 from the previous year’s fee of $300. The fee increase was directed by the CLPNA’s Council in March 2010 to keep pace with the cost of self-governance.

Online Registration Renewal Enters Second Phase

Privacy Policy Updated An enhanced Privacy Policy was released in November 2011. The collection, protection, usage, correction and access to personal information by the CLPNA is described in detail in the document, which is available on the CLPNA website. The CLPNA uses personal information to fulfill its mandate to regulate the profession under the Health Professions Act, and within parameters of privacy legislation, particularly the Personal Information Protection Act (PIPA).

The 2012 Registration Renewal season launched October 1, 2011. This was the second stage in changing the Registration Renewal process from a paper form to an online process. This year, paper Registration Renewal forms were not mailed to members. To preview and prepare for the online Registration Renewal process, a new walk-through screen guide along with a Registration Renewal guide were made available.

More than 9000 members renewed with an overall online participation rate of 93%.

Members reported they found the online registration process quicker, easier, and clearer than completing it on paper. Also appreciated was the immediate confirmation of their registration, instead of waiting for paperwork processing. Additionally, there was significant cost and time savings to the CLPNA.

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CLPNA - 2011 Annual Report

Health reform and sustainability is dependent on high functioning health care teams that are interprofessional, fully utilized, and supported by well prepared and equipped leaders. Collaboration in health care is not an option, but a necessity.

Executive Message CARE, Volume 25, 3rd Edition, Fall 2011

CANADIAN PRACTICAL NURSE REGISTRATION EXAMINATION (CPNRE) Jurisdictions in Canada are responsible for ensuring that those applying for registration as a practical nurse meet an acceptable level of competence to practice. This level of competence is measured, in part, by the Canadian Practical Nurse Registration Examination (CPNRE) administered by all Provincial and Territorial LPN Regulatory Authorities except Quebec. The CPNRE is the final step in the registration process and is administered three times a year in January, May, and September. Candidates have a maximum of three attempts at successfully completing the exam.

The CPNRE is prepared by Assessment Strategies Incorporated (ASI) working in collaboration with representation from practical nurses, educators, and employers of practical nurses from across Canada. These individuals serve as the content experts in developing and validating the CPNRE on behalf of the regulatory authorities.

CLPNA is an active participant in the development of the CPNRE with representation on the Client Advisory Group, Examination Committee, Blueprint Committee, Competency Review Committee.

CLPNA also hosts an annual Jurisdictional Review of draft exam questions.

New CPNRE Blueprint Affects Programs Practical Nurse programs have made changes to their programs in 2011 to address the new Canadian Practical Nurse Registration Examination Blueprint (2012-2016), approved in 2010 by the CPNRE Client Advisory Group (CAG). CAG is comprised of representatives from each of the Canadian practical nursing regulatory authorities that administer the CPNRE, including the CLPNA.

CLPNA - 2011 Annual Report

The CPNRE Blueprint informs changes to the Canadian Practical Nurse Registration Examination (CPNRE), with new changes effective January 2012. The Blueprint also contains guidelines and specifications for developing the exam and serves as a framework and guide for subsequent activities in the exam development process.

The CPNRE Blueprint is available at www.cprne.ca

Brenda Bond, Clinical Nurse Educator – U of A Hospital

Alberta CPNRE Candidates 2011* Number of Candidates

1st Exam

CARE, Volume 25, 2nd Edition, Summer 2011

Repeat Exam

IEN’s

IEN’s Repeat Exam

Total Candidates

Registered

663

111

34

2

810

Writing

659

111

31

2

803

4

0

3

0

7

Passing

612

77

27

1

717

Failing

47

34

4

1

86

93%

69%

Not Writing

% Passing

“When you teach a new skill, there needs to be ample opportunity for nurses to solidify their skills. If you don’t have the opportunity to practice, then it is difficult to sustain that knowledge.”

87% 50%

89%

*Statistics prepared by Assessment Strategies Incorporated (ASI).

IEN: Internationally Educated Nurse

“Seeing value in learning and knowing about what others do gives you the intuition you need to most effectively contribute to the team. It’s hard to build critical thinking about the treatment of the whole person if you only think in silos and specialties.

It’s critical because that patient you are looking into the eyes of wants you to see them as the whole person.”

Anne Cote, RN CARE, Volume 25, 3rd Edition, Fall 2011

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1136

906

19-25

26-30

31-35

36-40

956

936

8.4% 8.8% 808 854

41-45 46-50 AGE GROUPS

51-55

56-60

1011

61-65+

2011 MEMBERSHIP STATISTICS

Registrations

LPN Registration Trends

2010

2011

Alberta Initial Graduates

721

769

Re-Entry LPNs Other Canadian LPNs Non Canadian LPNs Renewals TOTAL

4

9

264

442

34

40

7992

8392

9015

2011 2010 2009 2008 2007 2006 2005 2004 2003 2002 2001 2000 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995 1994 1993 1992 1991 1990 1989 1988 1987 1986

9652

LPN Gender Distribution

94%

6%

Age of Active LPNs

Average Age: 2009 - 41.2

17.8% 1716 9.4% 906

Number of LPNs

Percentage of Loss/Increase

9652

7.0%

9015 8531 7859 7264 6863 6533 6037 5575 5172 4848 4431 4342 4606 4723 4963 5562 6196 6378 6545 6651 6736 6956 7225 7894 8643

5.7% 8.6% 8.1% 5.8% 5.0% 8.2% 8.3% 7.8% 6.7% 9.4% 2.0% -5.7% -2.5% -4.8% -10.8% -10.0% -2.9% -2.6% -1.6% -1.3% -3.2% -3.7% -8.5% -8.7%

Out of Province & International Registrations

53 1998

34

41

1999

2000

298

247

205 124

74

90

80

81

2001

2002

2003

2004

2005

2006

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

YEAR

In Migration Breakdown

BC |

SK |

MN |

ON |

QC |

NB |

NS |

PEI |

NL |

NT |

YK |

NU |

235

12

11

136

4

7

21

1

12

3

0

0

*Jamaica

USA OTHER* | |

17

23

TOTAL - 482

AHS ZONES

North

Distribution of Active LPNs* 13.8% 1329 11.8% 10.5% 9.9% 9.7% 1136 8.8% 1011 956 936 8.4% 808 854

AHS Zone

Totals

North Zone

1085 11.2%

%

Edmonton Zone

3331 34.5%

Central Zone (Red Deer)

1418 14.7%

2010 - 41.4

Calgary Zone

2378 24.6%

2011 - 41.1

South Zone (Lethbridge & Medicine Hat)

859

8.9%

Out of Province/Country

581

6.0%

TOTAL

9652 100%

26-30

482 413

19-25

601

31-35

36-40

41-45

46-50

AGE GROUPS

51-55

56-60

Edmonton

Central

Calgary

61-65+

*By LPN mailing address

14

South

CLPNA - 2011 Annual Report Number

Percentage of

CONDUCT

T

he CLPNA is committed to resolving complaints against LPNs based on the principles of procedural fairness, transparency and due diligence. Each complaint is taken seriously and reviewed thoroughly to determine appropriate course of action. The Health Professions Act sets out the approaches for addressing unprofessional conduct to protect the public from incompetent or unethical practitioners.

Less than 1% of the membership is involved in the conduct process each year.

Several trends in conduct were noted for 2011: With the cooperation of the investigated member and the complainant (employer), the CLPNA dismissed 11 complaints and informally resolve 12 complaints. (Employers have a legal obligation to inform the CLPNA when a LPN is terminated, suspended, or the LPN has resigned for reasons of unprofessional conduct. These matters are all addressed as a formal complaint and vary in nature and degree of seriousness.)

Of the 16 complaints referred to a hearing of the Hearing Tribunal, seven were contested or partially contested. In the remaining cases, CLPNA and the investigated members were able to present an “Agreed Statement of Facts and Joint Submission on Penalty” to the Hearing Tribunal.

CLPNA - 2011 Annual Report

Historical Comparison

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

Complaints in Process From Previous Year

21

20

16

30

53

New Complaints Received

20

19

38

81*

89*

Total Complaints in Process

41

39

54

111

142

*One reason for the increased number of New Complaints in 2010 and 2011 resulted from a change in process regarding complaints against LPNs found to be practicing without a Practice Permit. Previously, these issues were resolved through registration processes and were not counted as formal complaints of unprofessional conduct.

Source of Complaints

Disposition of Complaints Processed

2010

2011

Employer

45

51

Complaints in Investigation Stage

Complaints Director

30

30

Complaints Pending Hearing

8

Member of Public

5

8

Hearings Completed

16

Other

1

0

Council Appeals Committee Appeal Hearings Completed

1

Protection for Persons in Care

0

0

Complaint Review Committee Review of Dismissal of Complaint 0

Type of Complaints Received

66

Alternative Complaint Resolution Decisions Ratified

0

Alternative Complaint Reviews in Progress

0

Appeals to Court

0

Abandonment

4

Section 118 – Incapacity Assessments

0

Abuse – physical, verbal, sexual

6

Complaints Dismissed

11

Boundary Issues

1

Resolved by Complaints Director (Consent Resolution)

12

Breach of Confidentiality

1

Surrendered Registrations

0

Clinical Competence - Documentation

3

Member’s Location Unknown - File Suspended

0

Clinical Competence - Health Assessment

2

Undertakings Completed

26

Clinical Competence - Medication Administration

15

Member Deceased - File Closed

1

Clinical Competence - Multiple

8

Complaint Withdrawn

1

Conduct Outside Professional Services

2

Total Discipline Events

Health - Mental

1

Interim Suspensions

Inappropriate Business Practices

1

Other

1

Practicing Without A Permit

27

Substance Abuse

3

Theft

6

Unethical Conduct

8

Total Complaints Received

89

142 5

Referrals to Attorney General

1

Monitoring of Orders

21

15

CONDUCT

Hearings Summary Upon review of the Investigation Report, the Complaint’s Director may refer complaints to the Hearing Tribunal for a formal Hearing. Based on the evidence, the Hearing Tribunal determines if the investigated member has fallen below the Standards of Practice as defined by the profession. If the member is found guilty of unprofessional conduct, the Hearing Tribunal decides what measures are necessary to protect the public from unsafe or unethical practice and determines the appropriate steps required to remediate, rehabilitate or discipline the individual nurse.

16

File No. Complaint Type Finding

Outcome (Sanctioned Orders)

C-09-05

Clinical Competence - Multiple

Contested Hearing Unprofessional conduct on all allegations

Reprimand Remedial Education Consultation with Director of Professional Practice & Develop Learning Plan Automatic Suspension for Non-compliance

C-09-11

Clinical Competence - Multiple

Agreed Statement of Facts (no admission) & Joint Submission on Penalty Unprofessional conduct on all allegations

Caution Remedial Education

C-09-12

Clinical Competence - Medication Administration

Agreed Statement of Facts and Admission of Unprofessional Conduct & Joint Submission on Penalty Unprofessional conduct on all allegations

Reprimand Remedial Education

C-09-18

Clinical Competence - Multiple

Agreed Statement of Facts and Admission of Unprofessional Conduct & Joint Submission on Penalty Unprofessional conduct on all allegations

Reprimand Fitness to Practice Statement from Physician Remedial Education

C-09-26

Clinical Competence - Health Assessment

Contested Unprofessional conduct on all allegations with one exception

Reprimand Remedial Education Partial Hearing Costs

C-10-01

Theft

Contested Unprofessional conduct on all allegations

Reprimand 3-month Suspension of Practice Permit Remedial Education Referral to Attorney General Partial Hearing Costs Disclosure of Decision to Current and Future Employers for 2 yrs Provide Criminal Record Check for 2012 & 2013 Registration Years

CLPNA - 2011 Annual Report

File No. Complaint Type Finding

Outcome (Sanctioned Orders)

C-10-06

Clinical Competence - Multiple

Contested Hearing Unprofessional conduct on 1 of 3 allegations

Reprimand

C-10-08

Abuse - Verbal

Agreed Statement of Facts and Admission of Unprofessional Conduct & Joint Submission on Penalty Unprofessional conduct on all allegations

Reprimand Remedial Education Partial Hearing Costs

C-10-11

Clinical Competence - Medication Administration

Agreed Statement of Facts and Admission of Unprofessional Conduct & Joint Submission on Penalty Unprofessional conduct on all allegations

Caution Remedial Education

C-10-13

Clinical Competence - Multiple

Agreed Statement of Facts and Admission of Unprofessional Conduct & Joint Submission on Penalty Unprofessional conduct on all allegations

Caution Remedial Education

C-10-15

Clinical Competence - Multiple

Agreed Statement of Facts and Admission of Unprofessional Conduct & Joint Submission on Penalty Unprofessional conduct on all allegations

Caution Remedial Education

C-10-21

Unethical Conduct

Agreed Statement of Facts and Admission of Unprofessional Conduct & Joint Submission on Penalty Unprofessional conduct on all allegations

Reprimand Remedial Education Partial Costs of Hearing Full Compliance Prior to Reinstatement

C-10-26

Practicing Without a Permit

Contested Unprofessional conduct on all allegations

Reprimand Remedial Education Fine Undertaking Full compliance prior to reinstatement

C-10-30

Clinical Competence - Multiple

Partially Contested Unprofessional conduct on all allegations

Reprimand Remedial Education Temporary Restriction on Practice Permit Automatic Suspension for Non-compliance

C-10-31

Clinical Competence - Medication Administration

Agreed Statement of Facts and Admission of Unprofessional Conduct & Joint Submission on Penalty Unprofessional conduct on all allegations

Caution Remedial Education Automatic Suspension for Non-compliance

C-11-44

Unethical Conduct

Agreed Statement of Facts and Admission of Unprofessional Conduct & Joint Submission on Penalty Unprofessional conduct on all allegations

Reprimand Partial Costs of Hearing Letter of Apology to Employer Remedial Education Disclosure of Decision to Current and Future Employers for 3 yrs

*The above summary of hearing disposition is for informational purposes only and is intended to be a general overview of the events only.

CLPNA - 2011 Annual Report

17

EDUCATION

N

ewly graduating LPNs in Alberta complete a two-year diploma in practical nursing offered at the college level. The program provides a minimum of 1650 instructional hours including 750 hours of theoretical instruction and 900 hours of clinical / lab experience. After program completion, LPNs must pass the Canadian Practical Nurse Registration Exam (CPNRE).

There are numerous post-basic learning opportunities for LPNs. Further education is available for specialization in immunization, operating room, advanced orthopedics, and renal dialysis. Certificate programs include mental health, chronic disease management, leadership, gerontology, wound care, palliative care, and foot care.

The following colleges are approved to provide practical nurse education in Alberta:

REFRESHER BURSARY PROGRAM

Bow Valley College, Calgary Brokered sites • CDI College, Edmonton Off-site PN Programs: • Praire College of Applied Arts and Technology, Three Hills • Red Crow College, Standoff • Old Sun College, Siksika NorQuest College, Edmonton Brokered sites • Lakeland College, Lloydminister • Keyano College, Fort McMurray PN Hybrid Program: • Hinton, Wainwright, Drayton Valley, Whitecourt Off-site PN Programs: • Camrose, Wetaskiwin, Dickinsfield Northern Lakes College, Slave Lake Off-site PN Programs: • Grande Prairie, High Level, Fairview, Peace River, McLennan, High Prairie, Valleyview, Westlock, Barrhead Columbia College, Calgary Lethbridge College, Lethbridge Medicine Hat College, Medicine Hat Portage College, Lac La Biche/Cold Lake Red Deer College, Red Deer

18

The Refresher Bursary Program established through a grant from Alberta Health and Wellness offsets tuition costs for individuals taking a refresher/re-entry program and wanting to re-enter the licensed practical nurse profession after eligibility for registration has lapsed. The Program was terminated on August 31, 2011 and will resume with expanded criteria on completion of a revised agreement with Alberta Health and Wellness.

In 2011, reimbursement payments totaling $18,662.55 were disbursed to 11 individuals. Total reimbursement payments from the Program were $68,120.89, disbursed to 25 individuals. Overall, a total of 19 individuals completed the refresher program of which 15 returned to practice.

EDUCATION STANDARDS ADVISORY COMMITTEE The College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Alberta (CLPNA) is responsible for approving all basic and specialty education programs for practical nurses offered in Alberta. The Education Standards Advisory Committee (ESAC) is a Standing Committee of the Council of the College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Alberta. ESAC is responsible for establishing the Standards for Program Approval and for reviewing and monitoring basic and specialty practice programs to ensure compliance with these Standards.

ESAC has been privileged to support an exciting initiative involving four public post-secondary Colleges. The participants (Keyano College, Lakeland College, Northern Lakes College and NorQuest College) have been working together to enhance the practical nurse education available to students in northern Alberta. Through their collaboration, communities of practice developed a new curriculum to be delivered at each of the

CLPNA - 2011 Annual Report

four partner sites. ESAC is currently working with each College as they move through the approval process.

At the conclusion of this process, Keyano College and Lakeland College, who currently offer the NorQuest College PN Program through a brokering arrangement, will operate as independent, stand-alone programs with admission of the first cohort of students to each site in September 2012.

FREDRICKSON-MCGREGOR EDUCATION FOUNDATION FOR LPNS The Fredrickson-McGregor Education Foundation for LPNs (the ‘Foundation’) is a non-profit organization that raises, manages and distributes educational grants, awards and bursaries to CLPNA members to enhance their nursing knowledge, skills, and ability, and honor their achievements. The Foundation administers a $3 million Endowment Fund for the Education Grant Program and a $100,000 Operating Room Grant for the CLPNA. Education Grant Program

The Columbia College PN Program located in Calgary was reviewed and received a five-year approval.

Programs continue to struggle to provide sound practice experiences for students in light of the capacity issues common in most clinical areas. Simulation laboratories and use of high-fidelity simulators are proving to be valuable adjuncts, ensuring that students are better prepared to cope with the demands of busy clinical areas, thus maximizing the learning that takes place.

Simulation is also used effectively to expose students to learning opportunities in critical or infrequently encountered clinical situations.

Education Grant Funds 2011 Requested Funds

ESAC commends the nurse educators in the PN Programs for their commitment to providing sound educational programs for students. Graduates are the future of the profession and ESAC is proud of the excellent work of Alberta’s nurse educators!

Gloria Bauer, Chair, ESAC

CLPNA - 2011 Annual Report

Distributed Funds

$80,307

$44,758 $28,265 $13,917

$55,787

$49,288 $38,449

$33,631

$36,340 $28,890 $19,531

$10,544

Jan 31/11

Thanks to those LPNs who acted as preceptors to students this year. Preceptoring a PN student can be a rewarding professional experience. By acting as a role model, preceptors provide a unique and valuable learning experience for a student and assist students to make the critical transition to the graduate role. ESAC encourages all LPNs to consider preceptoring at least one student each year.

Approved Funds

April 31/11

July 31/11

Oct 31/11

Since the Education Grant Program began in September 2006, the Fredrickson-McGregor Education Foundation for LPNs approved 1851 applications for a total of $737,695.87 in grants, and distributed 67% of the approved funds.

In 2011, the Foundation approved 387 applications for a total of $137,038.31. The Foundation currently approves courses that enhance the LPN’s current role, or that will allow them to advance into another LPN role. The top three areas for which grant funding is applied are the immunization specialty, the orthopedics specialty, and basic and advanced foot care.

Operating Room Grant Program In 2008, the Foundation received a $100,000 grant from the Alberta Government to fund Perioperative Nursing postbasic education for Licensed Practical Nurses. Between July 30, 2008 and October 31, 2011 the Foundation approved 60 grant applications for the Operating Room program for a total of $127,369.65, and distributed $99,731.83 (78%) of approved funds. The Operating Room Grant is expected to be expended by January 2012.

19

CONTINUING COMPETENCY PROGRAM

T

he Continuing Competency Program (CCP) is a formal system mandated by the Health Professions Act (HPA) for assessing, monitoring, and reporting on the knowledge, skills, attitudes and critical judgments of a professional health care provider. In our evolving health care system, professionals must continually enhance and expand their knowledge and skills to maintain a level of competence commensurate with their role. The CCP promotes ongoing safe, ethical, competent, life-long practice, and offers Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) opportunities to pursue and achieve professional growth throughout their careers.

Annual Participation LPNs assess, maintain, and/or enhance competence on an ongoing basis using the tools of the CCP, which include the Competency Profile, Standards of Practice, and Self-Assessment Tool. Members self-reflect on their professional practice and develop learning goals for the next year through a self-directed, job-specific process.

Annual submission of a Learning Plan with at least two mandatory learning objectives is necessary for Registration Renewal. The annual CCP process has been in place since 2003.

The online Registration Renewal process for 2011 and 2012, which began in Fall 2010, requires members to submit a more specific Learning Plan. Throughout the year, members can access their Learning Plan on a secure member profile to review and update as necessary. During annual Registration Renewal, members identify whether they completed their Learning Plan from the previous year, and if they did not they identify why and state alternate learning.

2009

The Continuing Competency Program Validation (CCPV) process confirms commitment to the CCP through verification of learning completed in the past two years. The CCPV provides an opportunity, through self-assessment, reflection, and/or peer review, to measure the transfer of learning into behavior and the impact the learning has on professional practice.

The 2011 CCPV launched in a new online format June 7, 2011.

Twenty percent of selected membership was randomly chosen to participate (1087 Licensed Practical Nurses). Of the selected LPNs, 15% (815) were chosen for the Basic Validation, which includes completion of an online survey and 5% (272) were chosen for the Full Validation, which includes the online survey and submission of verification of learning.

As this was the first year with the online format, learning continues for both membership and CLPNA. Practice support was offered to members who struggled with fear of technology, verification documents, unclear educational activities, and professional commitment to CCP. Increased practice inquiries related to the CCPV account for the sharp increase in member inquiries from 2010.

Overall completion results for 2011 show improved compliance rates, particularly considering the CCPV process timeline was shifted closer to Registration Renewal, and the time period for submission was reduced from 120 to 60 days.

2010

2011

5% member participation

10% member participation

20% member participation

Complete

95.0%

96.0%

97%

Incomplete

1.0%

0.0%

0.5%

Non-Compliant

2.0%

2.5%

1.6%

Exemption

1.0%

1.0%

0.5%

Retirement

1.0%

0.5%

0.4%

(400 LPNs)

20

Validation

(850 LPNs)

(1087 LPNs)

“The trust in our skills allows us to perform to full scope and address more complex cases,” Kristen Shardlow, LPN CARE, Volume 25, 3rd Edition, Fall 2011

“The evolution of the role to full scope of practice has been a process of discovery and best fit within the team.”

Mike Cutler, LPN CARE, Volume 25, 1st Edition, Spring 2011

“I so believe that LPNs have the ability to learn new skills.

This is where we are going.

LPNs can do anything within their role with the right attitude, education, and support.”

Tammy Dianocky, LPN CARE, Volume 25, 2nd Edition, Summer 2011

CLPNA - 2011 Annual Report

PRACTICE

T

website, along with twice the visits to the job listings webpage of the CLPNA’s website.

he CLPNA provides practice consultation to members, students, employers, government, and other health care stakeholders.

Information is available on the CLPNA website and through email, telephone, webinar, and in-person consultation.

CLPNA is exploring new options in video and web-based educations services to compliment face-to-face and webinar sessions. Employers routinely seek information about registration, accountability, responsibility, scope of practice, and autonomy.

LPN practice opportunities continue to expand, with increased inquiries in self-employment, pediatrics, primary care, emergency, supportive living, and corrections.

A new framework for CLPNA Practice Documents is under development.

This framework is expected to streamline the resources from the CLPNA in a clear, user friendly format, while basing practice supports in the most current and applicable evidence available.

The practice department responded to 3562 inquiries in 2011, an increase of 9% from 2010 and 16% from 2009. Professional practice issues including continuing competence, scope of practice, and professionalism account for the majority of the inquiries.

In 2011, a significant increase in LPN opportunities was noted again, with increased job postings in CARE magazine and on the CLPNA

Practice Inquiries - 2011 Jan

232

Feb

Mar

Apr

May

June

July

Aug

Sept

Oct

Nov

Dec

Total

189

315

243

232

398

421

427

329

278

324

174

3562

Inquiries by Origin

5% 9%

Inquiries by Competency Category

10% 20%

Professional Practice

LPNs

80%

Managers/Administrator Educator/CNS

70%

Clinical Practice LPN Specialty

Public (4%) Other (1.5%) Government (0.5%)

CLPNA - 2011 Annual Report

21

COMMUNICATIONS

Magazine, Website, and Social Media The CLPNA’s quarterly magazine, CARE, published feature stories on community mental health in High River, LPN role changes at the University of Alberta Hospital, urgent care, and inner-city nursing.

CARE magazine and the 2010 Annual Report are now published in a new online publishing format using Issuu.com. Paper circulation of CARE averaged over 11,000 copies per issue distributed to LPNs, LPN employers, and stakeholders.

The primary website, www.clpna.com, continues to be the primary driver of information and communication with members, employers and stakeholders. Visits grew by 30% per annum to 200,100 per year and 473,000 pageviews.

CLPNA social media websites on Facebook (www.facebook.com/clpna), Twitter (www. twitter.com/clpna) and our Blog (blog. clpna.com) keeps members, employers, and stakeholders informed about the work of the college. Participation on the social media sites increased steadily over the year doubling the number of followers from 2010. Most highly discussed topics included LPN job listings, Calgary’s South Health Campus, and Blog posts “Let’s Get Some Facts Straight” and “It Takes a Team”. While Facebook followers are primarily LPNs or practical nurse students, Twitter followers include Alberta media, politicians, unions, and health-related organizations.

22

Additional websites are maintained by CLPNA for Spring Conference (www.clpnaconference.com), the “It Says a Lot About You” media campaign (www.saysalotaboutyou.com), and the Fredrickson-McGregor Education Foundation for LPNs (www.foundation.clpna.com).

2011 Spring Conference Connection, celebration, inspiration, and information highlighted the 2011 Spring Conference of the College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Alberta (CLPNA) with the theme of “Forging Our Future: Identity, Vision, Purpose”. More than 330 LPNs, RNs and other health professionals gathered at the Deerfoot Inn and Casino in Calgary on April 6-8, 2011 to hear expert keynotes and concurrent sessions, attend the CLPNA’s Annual General Meeting, enjoy the Celebration and Awards Dinner, and return home informed and encouraged.

It was a unique year, with many LPNs and colleagues presenting at the event, as it was the first time CLPNA conducted a call for session abstracts. Capping the event was the recognition of 25 years of selfregulation for the LPN profession in Alberta.

Keynotes from some of Canada’s leading healthcare experts, including the Globe and Mail’s André Picard and researcher Dr. Sean Clarke, provided updates on Canada’s healthcare system, nurse staffing research, and forging the future of nursing and health care. Diverse session topics included the LPNs role in triage, new career paths, continuing competency, end of life planning, nursing research, inner-city health issues, person-centered care, dementia care strategies, and thriving at work.

CLPNA - 2011 Annual Report

What did people enjoy?

This was my first year and I was amazed by the conference.

Loved that it was focused on our evolution and future changes.

Learning more about what CLPNA is involved in: locally, provincially, nationally, and internationally.

Was great to have LPNs giving lectures in the Sky’s the Limit session!

The elegance and professionalism of all involved.

CLPNA - 2011 Annual Report

23

“Nursing is a gift. We’re honoured to meet patients and make a difference. Here, you get to be the kind of nurse you want to be. We can hold our heads high and proudly say everyone works together and does their best, every minute they are working.

Rose Keeler, LPN CARE, Volume 25, 3rd Edition, Fall 2011

24

CLPNA - 2011 Annual Report

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS COLLEGE OF LICENSED PRACTICAL NURSES OF ALBERTA

The complete audited financial statements are available by contacting CLPNA at 780.484.8886.

CLPNA - 2011 Annual Report

25

STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION 2011

As at December 31, 2011

ASSETS

CURRENT Cash Cash held for restricted funds Short-term investments Accounts receivable Prepaid expenses

$

728,526 255,467 4,854,161 11,858 67,433

2010

$

570,189 38,322 3,863,336 17,273 56,341

5,917,445

4,545,461

3,027,326 553,023

3,022,795 649,547

$ 9,497,794

$ 8,217,803

LIABILITIES

CURRENT Accounts payable and accrued liabilities Deferred grant revenue Prepaid registration fees

$

$

INVESTMENTS RESTRICTED FOR ENDOWMENT FUND Capital Assets

LEASE INDUCEMENT

246,942 247,332 3,223,925

185,919 2,486,825

3,718,199

2,672,744

150,904

174,120

3,869,103

2,846,864

NET ASSETS

Unrestricted

Restricted net assets Endowment Fund Refresher Bursary Fund Capital Fund Operating Room Nursing Specialty Education Fund Alberta Provider Directory Fund

944,258

536,231

3,027,085 1,103,806 553,023 519 -

3,022,553 1,107,514 649,547 43,094 12,000

5,628,691

5,370,939

$ 9,497,794

$ 8,217,803

Approved by the Council: Council member

Council member

26

CLPNA - 2011 Annual Report

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS - GENERAL FUND AND CAPITAL FUND 2011

As at December 31, 2011

REVENUES

Registration Fees

Active

Out of province assessment

Initial

Late

Reinstatement

Fines

Associate

License verification

Document fees

National examinations

Annual general meeting

Grant administration fees

Alberta Health and Wellness grant

Foreign Qualifications Recognition grant

Labour Market Partnerships grant

Occupational Health and Safety grant

Grants - other

Continuing competency profile

Program fees

Advertising

Interest income

Miscellaneous

$ 2,790,848 67,620 32,425 25,140 14,200 14,000 13,825 10,999 2,886 219,190 149,174 - 298,648 170,676 82,225 7,500 - 47,100 29,600 32,257 32,417 7,920

$ 2,215,370 48,551 26,600 20,310 15,575 16,500 10,620 9,890 880 259,170 143,603 26,000 10,500 35,775 32,465 15,043 13,172 6,649

4,048,650

2,906,673

EXPENSES

Administration

Marketing

Rent and occupancy costs

Office and computer

Amortization of capital assets

Bank charges and interest

Postage

Professional fees

Telephone and utilities

Consulting fees

Printing

Loss on disposition of capital assets

Travel

Alberta Health and Wellness

Foreign Qualifications Recognition

Labour Market Partnerships

Occupational Health and Safety

Personnel Costs

Cost of Services

5,088 177,209 133,694 220,608 76,203 32,842 58,902 28,914 28,876 10,751 - 42,715 298,648 170,676 82,225 7,500 1,185,710 1,176,586

178,824 61,904 179,417 49,469 64,693 44,993 24,069 31,743 6,764 21,695 52,166 1,064,090 1,229,810

3,737,147

3,009,637

EXCESS OF REVENUES OVER (UNDER) EXPENSES CLPNA - 2011 Annual Report

2010

$

311,503

$

(102,964)

27

STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS As at December 31, 2011

NET ASSETS AT BEGINNING OF YEAR

Unrestricted

$

536,231

Excess of revenue over (under) expenses

$

532,111

Investment in capital assets

$

(124,084)

NET ASSETS AT END OF YEAR

$

944,258

649,547

(220,608)

124,084

553,023

43,094

(42,575)

-

519

Endowment Fund

3,022,553

4,532

-

3,027,085

Refresher Bursary Fund

1,107,514

(3,708)

-

1,103,806

12,000

(12,000)

-

-

Capital Fund Operating Room Nursing Specialty Education Fund

Alberta Provider Directory Fund

$

5,370,939

$

257,752

$

-

$

5,628,691

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS - ENDOWMENT FUND 2011

As at December 31, 2011

REVENUES

Investment income

Unrealized gain (loss) on held-for-trading portfolio investments

Gain (loss) on disposal of long-term portfolio investments

$

96,932 (30,144) 47,290

99,885 171,905 (66,715) 205,075

20,016 89,530

18,901 82,768

109,546

101,669

EXPENSES

Brokerage fee

Donation to Fredrickson McGregor Education Foundation

28

$

114,078

EXCESS OF REVENUES OVER EXPENSES

2010

$

4,532

$

103,406

CLPNA - 2011 Annual Report

2011 Poster

St. Albert Trail Place 13163 -146 Street Edmonton, AB T5L 4S8 Phone 780.484.8886 Toll Free 1.800.661.5877 Fax 780.484.9069

www.clpna.com