Victoria, BC (Vocus/PRWEB ) November 18, 2009 -- As British Columbians line up to receive immunizations against H1N1 and other strains of the flu, there is an increased need for trained practitioners to administer vaccines and screen and monitor patients. Recent news stories reported that retired nurses were being recalled to join the fight against the flu, causing questions to arise about why campaigns weren’t utilizing Licensed Practical Nurses. According to UCW Academy of Health, using LPNs with Immunization certificates as part of the vaccination campaigns will open up a number of job opportunities for practical nurses across the country.
“LPNs are very qualified professionals and they’re able to do a lot of things,” says Patricia Hitchens, Director of Nursing at UCW Academy of Health. “Even though vaccinations are not currently included in LPNs scope of practice, they can upgrade their skills if they are interested in administering vaccines.”
For years, LPNs have had the ability to administer intramuscular and subcutaneous injections as basic practical nursing education programs have included this type of training. In order to administer immunizations, LPNs require training beyond the regular education program, including an Immunization certificate through the College of Licensed Practical Nurses of BC (CLPNBC).
Even with the additional certification, health employers can still restrict the scope of practice for any nurse regardless of their credentials. This is why Hitchens encourages her students to ask about their daily duties when interviewing for a nursing position. This way, new LPNs can take the jobs that offer them opportunities to utilize all of their training, including administering immunizations.
“It’s both cost-effective and smart,” she adds. “As the nursing shortage increases across the province, more hospitals and agencies will no doubt be recognizing and utilizing LPNs who have their upgrade to administer vaccinations.
UCW Academy of Health is now accepting applications for its Practical Nursing program in Victoria and Richmond. More information is available on their website.
More information on the immunization courses for LPNs is available at the CLPNBC’s website.
About UCW Academy of Health
UCW Academy of Health (http://www.academyofhealth.ca) provides accelerated market-driven career training programs to students seeking a skills-based education as an entry point into a competitive job market. UCW Academy of Health strives to be a center of excellence for health care related training where students master the tools, techniques and technologies used in their chosen career fields. Health services curriculum is developed based on recommendations and input from consultants, professionals and practitioners in the field to ensure that graduates develop the specific skill sets that the industry demands.
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