2011 ANNUAL REPORT | College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Alberta

2011 ANNUAL REPORT

REPORTS

Introduction .......................................................................................................................................................................................

President .............................................................................................................................................................................................

Public Members .............................................................................................................................................................................

Executive Director/Registrar .............................................................................................................................................

Provincial, National, and International Initiatives .................................................................................................

Research Initiatives .....................................................................................................................................................................

Regulatory Services ...................................................................................................................................................................

Conduct ................................................................................................................................................................................................

Education ............................................................................................................................................................................................

Continuing Competency Program ..................................................................................................................................

Practice .................................................................................................................................................................................................

Communications ...........................................................................................................................................................................

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Alberta ..............................................................................................

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CONTENTS

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

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

CLPNA - 2011 Annual Report 1

CLPNA - 2011 Annual Report2

INTRODUCTION

ABOUT THE COLLEGE

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.

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).

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

ORGANIZATIONAL STRUCTURE

Minister of Health and Wellness

Council8 Elected Council Members

3 Appointed Public Members

ExecutiveDirector/Registrar

Regulatory Services(Complaints Director)(Hearings Director)

OperationsProfessional

Practice/Communications

Regulated CommitteesEducation Standards Advisory

Committee

Council Appeals Committee

Hearing Tribunal

Complaint Review Committee

Registration and Competency Committee


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).

COMMITTEES

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, ChairpersonLinda Stanger, CLPNA RepresentativeTeresa Bateman, CLPNA RepresentativeGwen Evans, LPN Janelle Wallace, LPNBruce Finkel, Member at LargePam Mangold, Employer RepresentativeLeona Ferguson, Employer RepresentativeMaureen McQueen, Education RepresentativeVi 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, ChairpersonJo-Anne Macdonald-Watson, LPNCarla Koyata, LPNAllan Buck, Public Member

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

Larry Leduc, LPN, ChairpersonKelly Annesty, LPNShelley Blaszkiewicz, LPNDanielle Canning, LPNCrystal Genoway, LPNMelanie Joyce, LPNDawne Knibbs, LPNMinky Leba, LPNShawn Maxwell, LPNSylvia Morison, LPNJill Paton, LPNKunal Sharma, LPNPatricia Standage, LPNJamie Tanda, LPN

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, ChairpersonMargaret Devlin, LPNDawn Gillich, LPNGaylene Mullett, LPNTeresa Stacey, LPNJane Reif, LPNBrenda Blom, LPN

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

Grace BrittainDiane AdamsPeter Van BostelenNancy Brook

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, ChairpersonAshley Holloway, LPNDorothy Wurst-Thurn, LPNLorna Diprose, LPNMichelle Rose, LPNJohanne Rousseau-Chicoine, LPNCheryl Lance, LPNDianne Banks, LPN


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!

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


PUBLIC MEMBERS

Robert Mitchell Allan Buck Ralph Westwood

This 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 MitchellAllan BuckRalph Westwood


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.

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 StangerExecutive Director/Registrar


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


Alberta 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,

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.

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

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.

PROVINCIAL INITIATIVES


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.

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,

Canadian Council for Practical Nurse Regulators, & Registered Psychiatric nurses of Canada). A comprehensive literature review and consultation was conducted, with pan-Canadian 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.


INTERNATIONAL INITIATIVES

CLPNA 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 MessageCARE, Volume 25, 4th Edition, Winter 2011


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.

RESEARCH INITIATIVES

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 MessageCARE, 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


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

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.

Online Registration Renewal Enters Second Phase

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.

Registration Fee Increase

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.

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).


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.

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

Alberta CPNRE Candidates 2011*

*Statistics prepared by Assessment Strategies Incorporated (ASI).IEN: Internationally Educated Nurse

CANADIAN PRACTICAL NURSE REGISTRATION EXAMINATION (CPNRE)

Number of Candidates

1stExam

RepeatExam

IEN’sRepeatExam

Total CandidatesIEN’s

Registered 663 111 34 2 810

Writing 659 111 31 2 803

Not Writing 4 0 3 0 7

Passing 612 77 27 1 717

Failing 47 34 4 1 86

% Passing 93% 69% 87% 50% 89%

Health reform and sustainability is dependent on high functioning health care teams that are inter-professional, fully utilized,

and supported by well prepared and equipped leaders. Collaboration in

health care is not an option, but a necessity.

Executive MessageCARE, Volume 25, 3rd Edition, Fall 2011

“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.”Brenda Bond, Clinical Nurse Educator – U of A Hospital


“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


2011 MEMBERSHIP STATISTICS

Registrations

2010 2011

Alberta Initial Graduates 721 769

Re-Entry LPNs 4 9

Other Canadian LPNs 264 442

Non Canadian LPNs 34 40

Renewals 7992 8392

TOTAL 9015 9652

Average Age: 2009 - 41.2 2010 - 41.4

2011 - 41.1

Age of Active LPNs

19-25 26-30 31-35 36-40 41-45 46-50 51-55 56-60 61-65+

AGE GROUPS

9.4%906

17.8%1716

13.8%1329 11.8%

113610.5%1011

9.9%956

9.7%936

8.4%808

8.8%854

20112010200920082007200620052004200320022001200019991998199719961995199419931992199119901989198819871986

96529015853178597264686365336037557551724848443143424606472349635562619663786545665167366956722578948643

7.0%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%

Number of LPNs

Percentage ofLoss/Increase

94%

LPN GenderDistribution

6%

LPN Registration Trends

19-25 26-30 31-35 36-40 41-45 46-50 51-55 56-60 61-65+

AGE GROUPS

9.4%906

17.8%1716

13.8%1329 11.8%

113610.5%1011

9.9%956

9.7%936

8.4%808

8.8%854

20112010200920082007200620052004200320022001200019991998199719961995199419931992199119901989198819871986

96529015853178597264686365336037557551724848443143424606472349635562619663786545665167366956722578948643

7.0%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%

Number of LPNs

Percentage ofLoss/Increase

BC|

235

SK|

12

MN|

11

ON|

136

QC|4

NB|7

NS|

21

PEI|1

NL|

12

NT|3

YK|0

NU|0

USA|

17

OTHER*|

23

1998 1999 2000 2001 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011

YEAR

53 34 41 74 90 80 81124

205247

601

413

298

482

Out of Province & InternationalRegistrations

*Jamaica TOTAL - 482

In Migration Breakdown

Edmonton

Central

Calgary

South

North

AHS ZONES

Distribution of Active LPNs*

AHS Zone Totals %

North Zone 1085 11.2%

Edmonton Zone 3331 34.5%

Central Zone (Red Deer) 1418 14.7%

Calgary Zone 2378 24.6%

South Zone (Lethbridge & Medicine Hat) 859 8.9%

Out of Province/Country 581 6.0%

TOTAL 9652 100%

*By LPN mailing address


CONDUCT

The 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.

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.

Type of Complaints Received

Abandonment 4

Abuse – physical, verbal, sexual 6

Boundary Issues 1

Breach of Confidentiality 1

Clinical Competence - Documentation 3

Clinical Competence - Health Assessment 2

Clinical Competence - Medication Administration 15

Clinical Competence - Multiple 8

Conduct Outside Professional Services 2

Health - Mental 1

Inappropriate Business Practices 1

Other 1

Practicing Without A Permit 27

Substance Abuse 3

Theft 6

Unethical Conduct 8

Total Complaints Received 89

Source of Complaints 2010 2011

Employer 45 51

Complaints Director 30 30

Member of Public 5 8

Other 1 0

Protection for Persons in Care 0 0

Disposition of Complaints Processed

Complaints in Investigation Stage 66

Complaints Pending Hearing 8

Hearings Completed 16

Council Appeals Committee Appeal Hearings Completed 1

Complaint Review Committee Review of Dismissal of Complaint 0

Alternative Complaint Resolution Decisions Ratified 0

Alternative Complaint Reviews in Progress 0

Appeals to Court 0

Section 118 – Incapacity Assessments 0

Complaints Dismissed 11

Resolved by Complaints Director (Consent Resolution) 12

Surrendered Registrations 0

Member’s Location Unknown - File Suspended 0

Undertakings Completed 26

Member Deceased - File Closed 1

Complaint Withdrawn 1

Total Discipline Events 142

Interim Suspensions 5

Referrals to Attorney General 1

Monitoring of Orders 21


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.

Outcome File No. Complaint Type Finding (Sanctioned Orders)

C-09-05

C-09-11

C-09-12

C-09-18

C-09-26

C-10-01

Clinical Competence - Multiple

Clinical Competence- Multiple

Clinical Competence - Medication Administration

Clinical Competence- Multiple

Clinical Competence - Health Assessment

Theft

Contested HearingUnprofessional conduct on all allegations

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

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


ContestedUnprofessional conduct on all allegations with one exception

ContestedUnprofessional conduct on all allegations

ReprimandRemedial EducationConsultation with Director of Professional Practice & Develop Learning PlanAutomatic Suspension for Non-compliance

CautionRemedial Education

ReprimandRemedial Education

ReprimandFitness to Practice Statement from PhysicianRemedial Education

ReprimandRemedial EducationPartial Hearing Costs

Reprimand3-month Suspension of Practice PermitRemedial EducationReferral to Attorney GeneralPartial Hearing CostsDisclosure of Decision to Current and Future Employers for 2 yrsProvide Criminal Record Check for 2012 & 2013 Registration Years


Outcome File No. Complaint Type Finding (Sanctioned Orders)

C-10-06

C-10-08

C-10-11

C-10-13

C-10-15

C-10-21

C-10-26

C-10-30

C-10-31

C-11-44


Abuse - Verbal

Clinical Competence- Medication Administration



Unethical Conduct

Practicing Without a Permit


Clinical Competence - Medication Administration

Unethical Conduct

Contested HearingUnprofessional conduct on 1 of 3 allegations






ContestedUnprofessional conduct on all allegations

Partially ContestedUnprofessional conduct on all allegations



Reprimand

ReprimandRemedial EducationPartial Hearing Costs




ReprimandRemedial EducationPartial Costs of HearingFull Compliance Prior to Reinstatement

ReprimandRemedial EducationFineUndertakingFull compliance prior to reinstatement

ReprimandRemedial EducationTemporary Restriction on Practice PermitAutomatic Suspension for Non-compliance

CautionRemedial EducationAutomatic Suspension for Non-compliance

ReprimandPartial Costs of HearingLetter of Apology to EmployerRemedial EducationDisclosure 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.


Newly 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).

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

EDUCATION

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.

REFRESHER BURSARY PROGRAM

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

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


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.

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.

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.

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

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

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 post-basic 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.

Jan 31/11 April 31/11 July 31/11 Oct 31/11

Education Grant Funds 2011Requested Funds Approved Funds Distributed Funds

$28,265

$13,917 $10,544

$44,758$38,449

$33,631

$49,288

$36,340

$19,531

$80,307

$55,787

$28,890


The 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.

Validation

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.

CONTINUING COMPETENCY PROGRAM

20095% member participation

(400 LPNs)


(850 LPNs)

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%


(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, LPNCARE, 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



PRACTICE

The 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.

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

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

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

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.

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.

Practice Inquiries - 2011

Jan Feb Mar Apr May June July Aug Sept Oct Nov Dec Total 232 189 315 243 232 398 421 427 329 278 324 174 3562

Inquiries by Origin

LPNs

Managers/Administrator

Educator/CNS

Public (4%)

Other (1.5%)

Government (0.5%)

9%

5%

80%

Inquiries by Competency

Category

Professional Practice

Clinical Practice

LPN Specialty

20%

10%

70%


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.

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 self-regulation 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.


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.


“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, LPNCARE, Volume 25, 3rd Edition, Fall 2011


FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTSCOLLEGE OF LICENSED PRACTICAL NURSES OF ALBERTA

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


STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITION

As at December 31, 2011 2011 2010

ASSETS CURRENT Cash $ 728,526 $ 570,189 Cash held for restricted funds 255,467 38,322 Short-term investments 4,854,161 3,863,336 Accounts receivable 11,858 17,273 Prepaid expenses 67,433 56,341

5,917,445 4,545,461

INVESTMENTS RESTRICTED FOR ENDOWMENT FUND 3,027,326 3,022,795 Capital Assets 553,023 649,547

$ 9,497,794 $ 8,217,803

LIABILITIES CURRENT Accounts payable and accrued liabilities $ 246,942 $ 185,919 Deferred grant revenue 247,332 - Prepaid registration fees 3,223,925 2,486,825

3,718,199 2,672,744

LEASE INDUCEMENT 150,904 174,120 3,869,103 2,846,864

NET ASSETS Unrestricted 944,258 536,231 Restricted net assets Endowment Fund 3,027,085 3,022,553 Refresher Bursary Fund 1,103,806 1,107,514 Capital Fund 553,023 649,547 Operating Room Nursing Specialty Education Fund 519 43,094 Alberta Provider Directory Fund - 12,000

5,628,691 5,370,939

$ 9,497,794 $ 8,217,803

Approved by the Council:

Council member

Council member


STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS - GENERAL FUND AND CAPITAL FUND

As at December 31, 2011 2011 2010

REVENUES Registration Fees Active $ 2,790,848 $ 2,215,370 Out of province assessment 67,620 48,551 Initial 32,425 26,600 Late 25,140 20,310 Reinstatement 14,200 15,575 Fines 14,000 16,500 Associate 13,825 10,620 License verification 10,999 9,890 Document fees 2,886 880 National examinations 219,190 259,170 Annual general meeting 149,174 143,603 Grant administration fees - 26,000 Alberta Health and Wellness grant 298,648 - Foreign Qualifications Recognition grant 170,676 - Labour Market Partnerships grant 82,225 - Occupational Health and Safety grant 7,500 - Grants - other - 10,500 Continuing competency profile 47,100 35,775 Program fees 29,600 32,465 Advertising 32,257 15,043 Interest income 32,417 13,172 Miscellaneous 7,920 6,649

4,048,650 2,906,673

EXPENSES Administration Marketing 5,088 - Rent and occupancy costs 177,209 178,824 Office and computer 133,694 61,904 Amortization of capital assets 220,608 179,417 Bank charges and interest 76,203 49,469 Postage 32,842 64,693 Professional fees 58,902 44,993 Telephone and utilities 28,914 24,069 Consulting fees 28,876 31,743 Printing 10,751 6,764 Loss on disposition of capital assets - 21,695 Travel 42,715 52,166 Alberta Health and Wellness 298,648 - Foreign Qualifications Recognition 170,676 - Labour Market Partnerships 82,225 - Occupational Health and Safety 7,500 - Personnel Costs 1,185,710 1,064,090 Cost of Services 1,176,586 1,229,810

3,737,147 3,009,637

EXCESS OF REVENUES OVER (UNDER) EXPENSES $ 311,503 $ (102,964)


STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

As at December 31, 2011

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS - ENDOWMENT FUND

As at December 31, 2011 2011 2010

REVENUES Investment income $ 96,932 $ 99,885 Unrealized gain (loss) on held-for-trading portfolio investments (30,144) 171,905 Gain (loss) on disposal of long-term portfolio investments 47,290 (66,715)

114,078 205,075

EXPENSES Brokerage fee 20,016 18,901 Donation to Fredrickson McGregor Education Foundation 89,530 82,768

109,546 101,669 EXCESS OF REVENUES OVER EXPENSES $ 4,532 $ 103,406

Unrestricted $ 536,231 $ 532,111 $ (124,084) $ 944,258

Capital Fund 649,547 (220,608) 124,084 553,023

Operating Room Nursing Specialty Education Fund 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

Alberta Provider Directory Fund 12,000 (12,000) - -

$ 5,370,939 $ 257,752 $ - $ 5,628,691

NET ASSETS AT

BEGINNING OF YEAR

Excess of revenue

over (under) expenses

Investmentin capital

assets

NET ASSETS AT END OF

YEAR

2011 Poster

St. Albert Trail Place13163 -146 Street

Edmonton, AB T5L 4S8

Phone 780.484.8886 Toll Free 1.800.661.5877

Fax 780.484.9069

www.clpna.com

2011 ANNUAL REPORT | College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Alberta

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Transcript of 2011 ANNUAL REPORT | College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Alberta