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Blogs CRNA RN license renewal: Is it essential to continue practicing as a registered nurse in Alberta?

Jul 17, 2024

CRNA RN license renewal: Is it essential to continue practicing as a registered nurse in Alberta?

The College of Registered Nurses of Alberta (CRNA) mandates that all registrants renew their permits annually to ensure they meet the necessary requirements for safe and competent practice. One of the key requirements for renewal is the completion of 250 practice hours within the past year. These hours can be accumulated through various nursing activities, including direct patient care, administrative roles, education, and research. Additionally, registrants must complete the Continuing Competence Program (CCP), which involves self-assessment, peer feedback, and the development of a learning plan to address any identified learning needs. Compliance with mandatory jurisprudence education and maintaining professional liability coverage through the Canadian Nurses Protective Society (CNPS) are also required. Registrants must report any disciplinary actions, criminal charges, or health conditions that may affect their ability to practice. By fulfilling these requirements, nurses ensure they remain in good standing with the CRNA and continue to provide high-quality care to the public.

What are the specific steps to fulfill the 250-hour requirement for CRNA RN license renewal?

To fulfill the 250-hour requirement for CRNA RN license renewal, registered nurses in Alberta can follow these steps:

  1. Accumulate nursing practice hours: RNs must complete at least 250 hours of nursing practice within the five practice years preceding their application for renewal. These hours can include both RN and NP practice hours. Learn more
  2. Engage in eligible nursing activities: The 250 hours must be comprised of actual hours worked in approved nursing activities. This can include direct patient care, administrative roles, education, and research.More details
  3. Track and document hours: Keep accurate records of your nursing practice hours, including the type of work performed and the dates of service.
  4. Exclude non-eligible hours: Do not count hours for activities such as overtime, on-call time, travel to and from work, sick time, vacation, or paid/unpaid leave Reference
  5. Consider professional development: Some professional development activities may count towards practice hours. For example, nursing certificate courses, workshops, and conferences may be recognized as equivalent hours of nursing practice. Check eligibility
  6. Maintain active registration: Ensure you maintain an active practicing membership with the CRNA throughout the period you're accumulating hours. More info
  7. Submit evidence: When renewing your license, be prepared to provide evidence of your completed practice hours if requested by the CRNA.

It's important to note that if you cannot meet the 250-hour requirement, there are alternative ways to fulfill the currency of practice requirement, such as completing an approved nursing education program, the Registered Nurses Canadian Competence Assessment Program (RNCCAP), a recognized nursing bridging program, or an approved re-entry to nursing practice program.  Learn about alternatives

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