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Hamilton Health Sciences, Internationally
Educated Nurse (IEN) and English as a
Second Language (ESL) Nurse Integration
Project 2012‐2015
INTERIM REPORT
Andrea Baumann, RN, PhD Jennifer Blythe, PhD
Series Report 37 • May 2013
1
Hamilton Health Sciences, Internationally Educated Nurse (IEN) and English as a Second
Language (ESL) Nurse Integration Project 2012‐2015
Series # 37
Andrea Baumann, RN, PhD, Associate Vice President, Global Health, Faculty of Health Sciences &Scientific Director, Nursing Health Services Research Unit (McMaster University site)
Jennifer Blythe, PhD, Senior Scientist, Nursing Health Services Research Unit (McMaster University Site)
Contact Andrea Baumann Phone (905) 525‐9140, ext. 22581 E‐mail [email protected] Website www.nhsru.com
This research has been generously funded by a grant from the Ontario Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration and Citizenship and Immigration Canada. The views expressed in this report do not necessarily reflect those of the Government of Ontario or the Government of Canada.
2
PROJECT TEAM
Principal Investigators
Dr Ruth Lee (Project Lead), Chief of Nursing Practice, Hamilton Health Sciences (HHS)
Dr Andrea Baumann, Associate Vice‐President, International Health, Faculty of Health Sciences and Co‐Director, Nursing Health Services Research Unit (NHSRU), McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario
Co‐investigators
Anthea Banks, Director of Clinical Practice & Education, HHS
Kirsten Krull, Vice‐President, Inter‐Professional Practice and Chief Nursing Executive, HHS Nancy Brown‐Fellows, Program Manager, Mohawk College Institute for Applied Health Sciences: Bridging for Internationally Educated Nurses (BIEN), Hamilton, Ontario Dr. Jennifer Blythe, Senior Scientist, NHSRU Zubeida Ramji, Executive Director, Centre for Internationally Educated Nurses (CARE)
Project Manager
Daniela Dijmarescu, HHS
HHS IEN/ESL ADVISORY COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Anthea Banks, Director of Clinical Practice and Education (CP&E), Hamilton Health Sciences
(HHS)
Dr. Andrea Baumann, Associate Vice‐President, International Health, Faculty of Health Sciences and Co‐Director, Nursing Health Services Research Unit (NHSRU), McMaster University Dr. Jennifer Blythe, Senior Scientist, NHSRU
3
Nancy Brown‐Fellows, Program Manager, Program Manager, Part Time and Graduate Studies Institute for Applied Health and Science (IAHS), Mohawk College Daniela Dijmarescu, Project Manager, HHS Maureen Williamson, President of Ontario Nurses Association (ONA)& Local Coordinator Abdullah Hassan, Project Participant, HHS Jane Hastie, Specialist, Human Rights and Diversity, HHS Kirsten Krull, Vice‐President Inter‐Professional Practice and Chief Nursing Executive, HHS Elisabeth Leduc, Registered Nurse, Vascular Access, HHS Dr. Ruth Lee, Chief of Nursing Practice, HHS Evelyn Myrie, Executive Director, Hamilton Centre for Civic Inclusion (HCCI) Rosalie Prokopetz, Manager, Talent Solutions: Human Resources & Development, HHS Zubeida Ramji, Executive Director, Centre for Internationally Educated Nurses (CARE) Joanne Roth, Regional Manager West, CARE Romaine Sheriff, Manager, Office of Student Education, CP&E, HHS Louise Taylor‐Green, Executive Vice‐President, Corporate Affairs & Strategy, HHS Cherilyn Van Berkel, Discharge Specialist, Quality, Patient Safety & Risk Program, Transitional care Clinical Resource Management Team, HHS Pat Wright, Manager of Training and Community Engagement, HCCI
PARTNERS
Mohawk College Institute for Applied Health Sciences, Bridging for Internationally Educated Nurses (BIEN) Centre for Internationally Educated Nurses (CARE) Hamilton Centre for Civic Inclusion (HCCI) McMaster University, Nursing Health Services Research Unit (NHSRU)
4
SPONSOR/FUNDING AGENCIES
Government of Ontario, Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration
5
Table of Contents FIGURES AND TABLES ........................................................................................................................... 7
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ......................................................................................................................... 9
1. INTRODUCTION .............................................................................................................................. 15
2. DESIGN AND METHODS .................................................................................................................. 17
PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVES ............................................................................................................... 17
Purpose .................................................................................................................................... 17
Objectives ................................................................................................................................ 17
Numeric Targets ....................................................................................................................... 18
DESIGN .............................................................................................................................................. 18
Community Collaboration Employment Model ....................................................................... 18
Study Site ................................................................................................................................. 19
Project Partners ....................................................................................................................... 21
External stakeholders .............................................................................................................. 22
Project Team ............................................................................................................................ 22
METHODS .......................................................................................................................................... 23
IEN and ESL Participants: Study Sample .................................................................................. 23
Clinical Integrators: Study Sample ........................................................................................... 24
Participant and Clinical Integrators: Description and Tracking ............................................... 24
Baseline Testing: Institutional CELBAN (I‐CELBAN) .................................................................. 25
Interventions, Programs and Resources .................................................................................. 25
Publicity and Dissemination ..................................................................................................... 31
Success Stories ......................................................................................................................... 31
Evaluation ................................................................................................................................ 31
3. SAMPLE DESCRIPTION .................................................................................................................... 33
Participant Sample ............................................................................................................................ 33
Clinical Integrator Sample ................................................................................................................. 40
4. BASELINE MEASURES ..................................................................................................................... 43
5. RESULTS ......................................................................................................................................... 45
CARE Cntre for Internationally Educated Nurse's: Language Communication for IENs – Advanced
Course ................................................................................................................................................... 45
Participant Self‐Assessment of Nursing Communication Skills: Pre and Post Course ............. 45
Instructors Assessment ............................................................................................................ 46
Participant Feedback ............................................................................................................... 48
6
The Mohawk Learning Resource Centre Simulation Laboratory ...................................................... 50
HCCI Cultural Training Module.......................................................................................................... 51
HHS Job Coaching/Mock Interview preparation ............................................................................... 52
Pre job‐coaching confidence questionnaire ............................................................................ 52
Post Job‐coaching interview assessment ................................................................................. 53
HHS/CNO Learning Plan/HHS Policies and Procedures on the Intranet ........................................... 54
The HHS Intranet: SharePoint Website ............................................................................................. 54
Nurses Nurturing Nurses (N3) ........................................................................................................... 56
HHS Professional Workplace Experience/Integration ...................................................................... 57
HHS Job Shadowing .................................................................................................................. 57
HHS Second Day of General Nursing Orientation .................................................................... 58
HHS Career Progression Opportunities .................................................................................... 59
6. PROJECT EVALUATION: OVERALL RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS ...................................................... 63
Numeric Targets and Achievements ................................................................................................. 63
Participant evaluation of the project: Exit Interviews ...................................................................... 64
Assessment of Interventions ................................................................................................... 64
Evaluation of Project Manager ................................................................................................ 65
Use of SharePoint Website ...................................................................................................... 65
Recommending the program to other IEN/ESL nurses ............................................................ 65
Getting a job ............................................................................................................................ 65
Participant Recommendations ................................................................................................ 66
Evaluation of Interventions ............................................................................................................... 66
Lessons Learned ................................................................................................................................ 67
Next Steps: Program Development .................................................................................................. 67
Sustainability Planning: The Community Collaboration EmploymentModel ................................... 68
APPENDICES ....................................................................................................................................... 70
Appendix A: Evaluation Tools Index .................................................................................................. 70
Appendix B. Consent form ................................................................................................................ 72
Appendix C: Dissemination .............................................................................................................. 77
Appendix D: Participant Evaluation of the Job Shadowing Experience ............................................ 80
7
FIGURES AND TABLES
Figure 1. Project Model .................................................................................................
Figure 2. Community Collaboration Employment Model ..............................................
Figure 3. Organizational Structure .................................................................................
Table 1. Participant Sample Composition .....................................................................
Table 2. Entry in Project Year ........................................................................................
Table 3. Project Referrals ..............................................................................................
Table 4. Age of Participants ..........................................................................................
Table 5. Gender of Participants ....................................................................................
Table 6. Highest Level of Nursing Education .................................................................
Table 7. Country of Nursing Education .........................................................................
Table 8. Country of Highest Level of Non‐Nursing Education .......................................
Table 9. Level of Non‐Nursing Education in Country of Origin .....................................
Table 10. Immigration Class ..........................................................................................
Table 11. Current Immigration Status ...........................................................................
Table 12. Year of Migration ...........................................................................................
Table 13. Years of Experience Prior to Migration .........................................................
Table 14. Years in Canada Not Practicing Nursing ........................................................
Table 15. Practice in Canada .........................................................................................
Table 16. Examination Status ........................................................................................
Table 17. Registration Status ........................................................................................
Table 18. Number Completing Clinical Placements in HHS ..........................................
Table 19. Location of Clinical Placements .....................................................................
Table 20. Age of CIs .......................................................................................................
Table 21. Country of Nursing Education .......................................................................
Table 22. Country of Highest Education: Non‐Nursing .................................................
Table 23. Migration Status ............................................................................................
Table 24. Year of Migration to Canada .........................................................................
Table 25. CELBAN Testing and Results ………………………………………………………………………
Table 26. Course Attendance ........................................................................................
Table 27. Summary of Completed Assessments ...........................................................
Table 28. Instructor's assessment of Participant's Progress Course 2(N=22) ...............
Table 29. Evaluation for Courses 2 and 3 ......................................................................
Table 30. Course Components Participants Reported as Valuable ..............................
Table 31. Attendance ....................................................................................................
Table 32. LRC/Simulation Lab Sessions: Physical Assessment ......................................
Table 33. Post Course Evaluation ..................................................................................
18
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8
Table 34. Pre‐Intervention Confidence .........................................................................
Table 35. Evaluation for Courses 2 and 3 ......................................................................
Table 36. HHS/CNO Learning Plan/HHS Policies and Procedures on the Intranet .......
Table 37. HHS Intranet: Share Point Website ...............................................................
Table 38. Visits per Month ............................................................................................
Table 39. Sources of Information About Website .........................................................
Table 40. Persons Accessing Web Site ..........................................................................
Table 41. NRU Participant/Clinical Integrator Partnerships .........................................
Table 42. Job Shadowing Numbers and Locations ........................................................
Table 43. Lunch and Learn Sessions ..............................................................................
Table 44. Projected and Actual Project Sample ............................................................
Table 45. Exit Interviews (N=12)* .................................................................................
Table 46. Summary Evaluation of Interventions ...........................................................
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9
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The Internationally Educated Nurse (IEN) and English as a Second Language (ESL) Nurse
Integration Project aims to ensure Registered Nurses (RNs) and Registered Practical Nurses
(RPNs) educated abroad or in Canada are fully integrated into the nursing workforce. Its
purpose is to create, implement and evaluate integration strategies. The project provides
IEN/ESL nurses with various clinical and communication skills supports from pre hire
through orientation and clinical integration, including clinical assessment and development,
problem solving, team relationships, professionalism and managing conflict in a hospital
setting.
The project was funded between April 1, 2012 and March 31, 2015. It is based on a
Community Collaboration Employment Model (CCEM) that engages stakeholders who
contribute their time and expertise. Hamilton Health Sciences (HHS), a family of six
hospitals and a cancer centre, carried out the project with the support of the following key
partners:
1. Centre for Internationally Educated Nurses (CARE): This non‐profit agency provides
services educational and advisory services to IENs in Ontario.
2. Mohawk College Institute for Applied Health Sciences: Offers a Bridging for
Internationally Educated Nurses (BIEN) program to help IENs meet the College of Nurses of
Ontario (CNO)’s criteria for registration as an RN or RPN.
3. Hamilton Centre for Civic Inclusion (HCCI): A community‐based organization committed to
creating a community that respects diversity, practices equity and speaks out against
discrimination.
4. McMaster University NHSRU: Conducts research on nursing human resources.
10
OBJECTIVES
Project objectives in the Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration (MCI) contract with HHS
include:
Between April 1, 2012 and March 31, 2015, develop, adapt, deliver and evaluate
a project to support the successful workplace integration and retention of
IEN/ESL nurses into HHS and other Ontario health care facilities.
Develop a suite of tools and processes for IEN/ESL nurses, particularly new hires,
practicing in a hospital environment.
Meet the numeric targets established by the Ministry of Citizenship and
Immigration.
Build the mentorship and coaching capacity of up to 60 frontline RNs, clinical
educators and clinical managers with at least one year’s nursing experience as
clinical integrators (CIs) to facilitate the integration of IEN/ESL nurses.
Develop and implement a strategy to ensure that the program delivery will
continue beyond the end of the funding (Sustainability Plan).
Evaluate program components including interventions and stakeholder
satisfaction
Numeric Targets
The following numeric targets for IEN/ESL nurses participating in the 2012‐15 project were
set by MCI:
Nurses assessed for eligibility: 180
Participants accessing the program (i.e., participate in a minimum of two
interventions): 145
Participants completing a significant component of the program (four interventions):
120
Participants who become/remain employed as nurses: 120
CIs completing training 60
PROGRAM PARTICIPATION
Participants were encouraged to complete Institutional Canadian English Language
Benchmark Assessment for Nurses ( I‐CELBAN) testing during the project if they had not
11
done so upon enrolment. Most Participants met the levels of proficiency demanded by the
CNO.
INTERVENTIONS
The following interventions were implemented:
CARE Centre for Internationally Educated Nurses Workplace Communication Course
The CARE Language Communication for Nurses Course (advanced) was offered: October,
2011, ‐February, 2012, June ‐ October, 2012 and October 2012‐ February 2013. The course
lasted 96 hours. Orientations for the second and third courses were held in May, 2012 and
October 2012 respectively. Skills taught included: the Nurse‐Client Interview, documenting
progress notes, giving verbal reports, receiving verbal reports, making and receiving
telephone calls, receiving doctors’ orders, health teaching, therapeutic listening, and
responding, and communicating assertively with colleagues and clients. Self‐evaluation by
participants and the instructor suggested a significant increase in confidence and skill levels
among participants.
BIEN Mohawk College Learning Resource Centre Simulation Laboratory
Group sessions for practical review and hands on clinical skills practice were held using the
Learning Resource Centre/Simulation Laboratory. Eight group sessions lasting 2 hours, were
led by BIEN, Mohawk College faculty and staff in October and November 2012. Twenty four
Participants attended in October and 21 in November. Eleven Participants attended in
January, 2013 and 8 in February, 2013. A pre and post survey indicated that the
participants were relatively confident before their laboratory experience and only
somewhat more confident after their experience. Nevertheless, their comments suggest
that they found their practice in the lab extremely worthwhile.
HCCI Cultural Competency Awareness Workshop
This three‐hour training workshop, held on December 19, 2012, was intended to help
IEN/ESL nurse participants, Clinical Integrators (CIs) and Clinical Managers/Manager
delegates increase their cultural awareness. Based on the participants' evaluations, the
workshop was well received and its objectives were met.
12
HHS Job Coaching/Mock Interviews
This intervention prepares participants for real job interviews. Both the presentation and
the individual sessions were rated highly. Individual mock interviews were held throughout
the year.
HHS/CNO Learning Plan/HHS Policies and Procedures on the Intranet
Participants review materials relevant to their learning plan within a year of project
enrolment. Pre‐intervention questionnaires suggest that participants are relatively
confident in their ability to access and use the material. The post‐questionnaire has been
administered only to the 35 Carryover Participants from 2011‐2012.
HHS SharePoint Website
The site posts relevant forms and provides updates on the project, including interventions,
evaluation and activities (e.g., the N3 program) and resources available for IEN/ESL nurses.
The post‐intervention questionnaire was administered only to the 35 Carryover Participants
from 2011‐2012.
HHS N3 Networking Program
The Nurses Nurturing Nurses (N3) program is a loosely structured supportive arrangement
for sharing between two nurse colleagues, an experienced nurse clinician (CI) and an
IEN/ESL nurse. There are currently 17 Nurse‐clinical integrator dyads,
HHS Professional Workplace Experience/Integration
Participants took part in a number of new activities. Evaluation of some of these activities is
limited for this year as they were under development. Most participants rated the
interventions highly.
HHS Job Shadowing
Eight participants completed assignments
HHS Second Day of General Nursing Orientation
During May, September and October 2012, fifteen Participants attended. In
November and December, 8 Participants attended.
Career Progression Opportunities
13
These included:
1. Academic Writing and Documentation Workshops: Workshops were held
December 20, 2012 attended by 20 participants and Feb. 15, 2013 by 12
Participants. The sessions were positively evaluated by the Participants.
2. E‐Learning lab: Participants can access online courses via e‐learning at HHS
and other resources.
3. Certification courses: Participants were able to attend the following
certification courses. Certification is a requirement of the jobs for which they
wish to apply.
Basic Cardiac Life Support (Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation) Course.
Seven Participants attended the course. Subsequently 3 attendees
obtained nursing employment outside of HHS, 2 obtained non‐
nursing (Health Care Aide) positions outside of HHS.
HHS Advanced Cardiac Life Support Course. Six Participants attended
this course. All were subsequently hired, 4 within HHS and 2 outside
HHS.
4. Nursing Rounds (Lunch and Learns) were provided to Participants by
Clinical Integrators to review and enhance nursing skills and knowledge.
OVERALL RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS
All numeric targets were exceeded in 2012‐13. There were 206 participants in the program
at the beginning of the Project in April 2012. However, this number included participants
who had almost completed their program and were about to exit. Thirty five participants
carried over from years 1‐3 and remained in the program until February 2012. A total of 166
new participants entered the program in the first year of the new program, more than
double the numeric target. One hundred and sixty six participants accessed a significant
component of the program by taking part in at least two interventions and 109participants
accessed four or more interventions. Seventy three nurses became/remained employed in
their profession at the end of 2012‐13.Twenty six frontline nurses completed training as CIs
in 2012‐13.
14
Exit Surveys indicated that participants leaving the program had increased their nursing
skills and familiarity with the Canadian workforce,
NEXT STEPS: PROGRAM DEVELOPMENT
During 2012‐13, work was undertaken on the development of new project components,
including on‐line modules which will be implemented in 2013‐2014.
15
1. INTRODUCTION
Canadians, and the healthcare professionals responsible for their care, are aging. It is vital
to tap into such sources of workforce renewal as internationally educated nurses (IENs).
During the past decade, the federal and provincial governments, nursing organizations and
educators have collaborated to make it easier for IENs resident in Canada to re‐enter their
profession. Efforts include bridging and adaptation programs intended to help IENs become
examination ready. However, there are still challenges to integration. IENs can be
disadvantaged by lack of information about licensing and registration. Once registered, IENs
are handicapped in their job search by unfamiliarity with local job markets and lack of
Canadian contacts and Canadian work experience. Some clinical managers (CMs) hesitate to
hire IENs because they are unfamiliar with their credentials and have concerns about their
communication skills. These managers also require support to hire IENs and ESL nurses if
employment barriers are to be removed. Once hired, IENs need assistance to integrate into
the Canadian workplace. Recognizing the importance of removing barriers to workplace
integration for IEN and ESL nurses to facilitate workforce renewal, Citizenship and
Immigration Canada (CIC) and the Government of Ontario, Ministry of Citizenship and
Immigration (MCI) provided funds for a targeted three‐year project (2009‐2012) entitled the
Internationally Educated Nurse (IEN) and English as a Second Language (ESL) Nurse
Integration Project.
Based on the success of this project, funding from MCI was renewed for the period of April
2012 – March 2015. The current project builds on the initial project to address the needs of
IEN/ESL nurses, such as language and clinical skills, and provides cultural competency
training for nurses, Clinical Managers and Clinical Integrators (CIs). The project helps IEN and
ESL nurses to perform competently within their scope of practice, communicate effectively
and function as part of the inter‐disciplinary health care team. IENs and ESL nurses are
supported from pre‐hire, through orientation, and during integration with a continuum of
clinical and communication supports.
An innovative aspect of this project has been the recognition of the needs of nurses who
speak English as a Second Language. Some ESL nurses educated in Canada face similar
workforce integration challenges to those educated abroad and require similar assistance.
16
As new graduates, they may require support in obtaining the linguistic and cultural
competence needed in the workplace.
17
2. DESIGN AND METHODS
PURPOSE AND OBJECTIVES
Purpose
The purpose of The Internationally Educated Nurse (IEN) and English as a Second Language
(ESL) Nurse Integration Project is to ensure Registered Nurses (RNs) and Registered Practical
Nurses (RPNs) educated abroad or in Canada, are fully integrated into the workforces of
Hamilton Health Sciences (HHS)and other Ontario health care facilities. The project targets
three groups: IENs with English as a Second Language, IENs with English as a First Language
and ESL nurses who have graduated from Canadian universities and colleges. It is designed
to remove workplace barriers to entry and create greater employment equity for these
nurses by enabling them to gain clinical experience in a major, Canadian teaching hospital.
The project provides IEN/ESL nurses with various clinical and communication skills including
clinical assessment skills, problem solving, team relationships, professionalism, workplace
experience, and managing conflict in a hospital setting.
Objectives
The project objectives described in the Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration (MCI)
contract with HHS include the following:
Between April 1, 2012 and March 31, 2015, develop, adapt, deliver and evaluate a
project to support the successful workplace integration and retention of IEN/ESL
nurses into HHS and other Ontario health care facilities.
Develop a suite of tools and processes for IEN/ESL nurses, particularly new hires,
practicing in a hospital environment.
Meet the numeric target established by the Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration.
Build the mentorship and coaching capacity of up to 60 frontline RNs, clinical
educators and clinical managers with at least one year’s nursing experience as
clinical integrators (CIs) to facilitate the integration of IEN/ESL nurses.
Develop and implement a strategy to ensure that the program delivery will continue
beyond the end of the funding (Sustainability Plan).
Evaluate program components including interventions and stakeholder satisfaction.
A pre‐ and post‐ evaluation of program interventions will measure participant
18
Figure 1. Project Model
confidence, communication and preparation for integration into the healthcare
workforce.
Numeric Targets
The following numeric targets for IEN/ESL nurses participating in the 2012‐15 project were
set by MCI:
Nurses assessed for eligibility: 180
Participants accessing the program (i.e., participate in a minimum of two
interventions): 145
Participants completing a significant component of the program (four interventions):
120
Participants who become/remain employed as nurses: 120
CIs completing training 60
DESIGN
Community Collaboration Employment Model
Recognizing that the integration of IEN/ESL nurses into the workplace depends on various
stakeholders, the research team developed a
Community Collaboration Employment model.
The model continues to guide the current
project. Its function is to engage all
stakeholders (i.e. employers, educational
institutions and community organizations) in
helping IEN/ESL nurses integrate into the
workforce (see Figure 1). A Project Charter was
developed, approved by the IEN/ESL Advisory
Committee and submitted to the MCI.
Implementation of the model was based on an Eight Step Process:
1. Project Initiation: HHS defined the project goal, scope, parameters and
infrastructure needed for appropriate funding.
19
2. Identification of Educational Institution: HHS invited the Mohawk College BIEN
program to be a project partner.
3. Identification of Community Organizations: HHS invited CARE and HCCI to be
community partners. CARE has expertise in preparing IENs for registration and entry
to the Canadian workplace, while HCCI has expertise in the areas of cultural
competence and equity.
4. Identification of Evaluator: HHS invited the NHSRU to be an evaluator and assess the
effectiveness of each intervention and the overall project.
5. Formation of an Interagency Advisory Committee: An interagency Advisory
Committee was created to advise and provide feedback.
6. Refinement of the Project Interventions: The team confirmed intake criteria and
each partner’s role in the project.
7. Development of an Evaluation Plan: Employer and project partners identified the
evaluation tools to be used and an independent evaluator led the development of
the research plan.
8. Implementation of the Project: To meet the participants' needs, the team
collaborated with partners and HHS stakeholders (e.g., CMs) to make course
corrections and modify the interventions.
Study Site
The project is being implemented at HHS, a family of six hospitals and a cancer centre that
serves more than 2.2 million residents of Hamilton and central south and central west
Ontario. HHS offers a range of acute and specialized services, catering to health care needs
from preconception through to aging adults. Each hospital has specific areas of expertise.
Hamilton General Hospital is a regional centre of excellence in cardiovascular care,
neurosciences, trauma and burn treatment. It has one of the Province's few Burn
Units and an Integrated Stroke Unit. The General is also home to leading edge
research. A 100,000‐square‐foot Regional Rehabilitation Centre, opened in
September 2009, provides care to stroke, spinal cord injury, amputee, trauma,
neuro‐behavioural and acquired brain injury patients.
20
Chedoke Hospital is a major support site for non‐acute care programs and hospital
administration
Juravinski Hospital provides acute inpatient and palliative care, diagnostic services
and supports the needs of cancer patients and the Juravinski Cancer Centre. The
Juravinski Hospital's Orthopaedic program combines health care and research to
offer patients a range of services dedicated to helping them prepare for and recover
from joint replacement surgery.
Juravinski Cancer Centre provides genetic and psychosocial counselling and is the
region’s most comprehensive centre for cancer care and research.
McMaster University Medical Centre (MUMC) plays a major role in the provision of
healthcare services for Hamilton and the surrounding region of central‐west Ontario.
MUMC includes Adult Day Clinics (Medical and Surgical), McMaster Children's
Hospital and the Women's Reproductive Health and New‐born Care program.
McMaster Children's Hospital is one of the top paediatric academic health science
centres in Canada. MCH serves the special and unique healthcare needs of children
using a family‐centred model of care
Regional Rehabilitation Centre accommodates all ambulatory and outreach services
and has 91 inpatient beds. There are a number of indoor and outdoor exercise and
practice facilities, a therapeutic pool and a full range of specialized consultative
resources
St. Peter's Hospital is a complex continuing care hospital that provides inpatient,
outpatient, and community‐based programs and services that focus on Dementia,
Aging, Palliative Care and Rehabilitation.
21
Project Partners
For this project, HHS has
collaborated with four partners (see
Figure 2):
1. CARE Centre for
Internationally Educated
Nurses: This non‐profit
agency provides services to
IENs in Ontario.
Responsibility: Sector Specific
Nurse Training in Workplace
Communication for IENs.
2. Mohawk College Institute for Applied Health Sciences: Offers the BIEN program to
help IENs meet the criteria of the College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO) for registration
as an RN or RPN. HHS provides 1000 clinical placements per year to nursing students
from McMaster University and Mohawk College including approximately 40 IENs
enrolled in Mohawk College Bridging for Internationally Educated Nurses (BIEN)
program.
Responsibility: Assessment and preparation of IENs for employment through CELBAN
nursing language assessment tool, skills labs and development of clinical assessment
tools with HHS.
3. Hamilton Centre for Civic Inclusion (HCCI): A community‐based organization
committed to creating a united community that respects diversity, practices equity
and speaks out against discrimination.
Responsibility: Cultural Inclusion and Diversity Training for Participants and HHS
staff.
4. McMaster University Nursing Health Services Research Unit (NHSRU):Conducts
research on nursing human resources.
Figure 2. Community Collaboration Employment Model
22
Responsibility: Project Evaluation, Co‐Chair of Project Research Committee.
External Stakeholders
External stakeholders include:
1. The Canadian Nurses Association:
Responsibility: Dissemination of project model and project results.
2. York University:
Responsibility: Collaborate on respective projects and project results.
Project Team
The principal
Investigators are the
Chief of Nursing
Practice, McMaster
University Medical
Centre (MUMC) and
McMaster Children’s
Hospital, and the Co‐
Director, Nursing
Health Services
Research Unit (NHSRU),
McMaster University.
Co‐investigators
include the Director of Clinical Practice & Education who acts as project lead, HHS, and the
Vice‐President, Professional Affairs and Chief Nursing Executive, HHS (See Figure 3). Other
co‐investigators represent two project partners, the Institute for Applied Health and
Science, (IAHS) Mohawk College, CARE: Centre for Internationally Educated Nurses and
NHSRU.
Figure 3. Organizational Structure
23
METHODS
IEN and ESL Participants: Study Sample
Eligibility
Eligibility criteria for participants include:
IENs with English as a Second Language
IENs with English as a First Language
ESL nurses graduating from Canadian nursing programs
Sample Size
The following numeric targets for IEN/ESL nurses participating in the 2012‐15 project were
set by MCI:
Nurses assessed for eligibility: 180
Participants accessing the program (i.e., participate in a minimum of two
interventions): 145
Participants completing a significant component of the program (four interventions):
120
Participants who become/remain employed as nurses: 120
Recruitment Strategy
Marketing, and promotion, of the IEN/ESL Nurse Integration Project is carried out externally
and internally at HHS. On the second day of the HHS Nursing Orientation, the Project
Manager provides an outline of the Project, as well as hard copies describing the Project and
contact information. IENs and ESL nurses are encouraged to enrol in the project to receive
increased support through the employment integration process within their specific area at
HHS. If necessary, the Project Manager (PM) will contact the hiring Clinical Manager. In the
past, several Clinical Managers at HHS have contacted the PM for support for their IEN/ESL
employees. The PM in collaboration with Human Resources work together to recruit IEN
and ESL nurses who are not employed at HHS. Human Resources identify current and
anticipated vacancies. The PM monitors the HHS Careers website for new job postings,
24
advises on their suitability and helps participants create a profile so they can apply for
future positions.
To date, the PM has invited each BIEN student assigned to a clinical placement at HHS to
participate in the project. She has also provided an overview of the project to BIEN/CARE
students and graduates. The PM has contacted CMs and education clinicians at HHS, BIEN
and CARE and asked for their support with the recruitment of participants.
Clinical Integrators: Study Sample
Eligibility
Clinical Integrators should be HHS RN/RPNs with at least 1 year nursing experience and an
interest in supporting IEN/ESL. The role of the CI includes support and giving informal
advice to a paired participant.
Sample Size
The numeric target for CIs completing training is set at 60.
Recruitment Strategy
The Project Manager contacts potential CIs and provides them with an overview of the
project. A Project Charter and booklet have been developed and are available, together
with other information, in the documents section of the SharePoint Website. The Project
Manager gives a presentation about the Project on the second day of the HHS General
Nursing Orientation. The Project Lead and Project Manager also promote the Project at
committees of which they are members (e.g. the McMaster University/Mohawk
College/HHS/Long Term Care Joint Executive Committee, Hamilton Wentworth region).
Participant and Clinical Integrators: Description and Tacking
Participants and CIs work with the PM to complete personal profiles that include
demographic information and professional experience. Participants are tracked on a
number of variables, in including those collected for the Ministry of Citizenship and
Immigration’s Monthly Numeric Performance Indicator Reports. A detailed description of
the Participants and CIs is provided in Chapter 3.
25
Baseline Testing: Institutional CELBAN (I‐CELBAN)
I‐CELBAN is designed to assess the English language proficiency of IENs applying for
registration. The assessment is recognized and accepted by nurse licensing bodies
nationwide. The score is based on the components of "Listening‐Reading‐Writing and
Speaking" (http://www.celban.org/celban/display_page.asp?page_id=1).
It is recommended that each participant have an Institutional CELBAN score in order to
provide baseline language information. Participants are encouraged to complete I‐CELBAN
testing during the project if they had not done so upon enrolment.
Interventions, Programs and Resources
All interventions initiated in the Pilot Project, 2009‐12 have been retained as has access to
various opportunities and resources. In addition, new interventions and resources are being
developed.
CARE Centre for Internationally Educated Nurses: Language Communication for IENs –
Advanced course for Internationally Educated Nurses
This course provides advanced communication strategies for working/workplace‐ready
IEN/ESL nurses. Topics include introducing, managing and ending a nurse‐client interview;
intercultural communication skills; documentation and reporting; communicating assertively
with clients and colleagues; lay vs. technical vocabulary; telephone communication skills,
therapeutic communication skills; and health teaching.
BIEN Mohawk College Learning Resource Centre (LRC) Simulation Laboratory
The LRC houses a high‐fidelity simulation laboratory, clinical practice laboratory, “activities
of daily living apartment” and a nursing station. It also offers a wide selection of models,
audiovisual resources and clinical skills equipment for use by nursing students and faculty.
Project participants were supported in various ways, including 1:1 student‐faculty
relationships and peer tutoring. In addition, RN technologists helped participants develop
their clinical skills.
All participants self‐evaluate their level of confidence for medical/surgical and physical
assessment nursing skills. They are also required to complete a pre‐intervention self‐
26
assessment checklist for both medical/surgical and physical assessment skills at the time of
enrolment in the project.
Through the BIEN LRC simulation lab, participants have the opportunity to practice two
selected nursing skills identified during their self‐assessment learning plan. A pamphlet
provides information for orientation and use of the LRC simulation lab. The expectation is
that within one year of participating in the project, the IEN/ESL nurses will have had the
opportunity to improve their confidence and ability in clinical skills such as vital signs,
medication administration, measurement and recording of client intake and output. In
2012, the pre‐and post‐Physical Assessment Checklist was revised to better capture the
participants’ experiences at the LRC. The gastrointestinal and gyne‐urinary assessment skills
check points were removed and a “comment” section was added to the pre‐ and post‐
evaluation form. All data was collected by the Project Team and forwarded to the NHSRU.
HCCI Cultural Competency Awareness Workshop
This three‐hour training workshop for IEN/ESL nurse participants, CIs and CMs/manager
delegates was developed by HCCI with input from HHS. The session explored different
methods of communication, including verbal and non‐verbal, and examined how
understanding culture can help avoid misunderstandings and improve intercultural
communication.
The purpose of the workshop was to enable attendees to:
deepen understanding of diversity and inclusion
review personal frames of reference, biases and ladders of inference
reflect on style of communication and the effect their use of language might have on
communication
understand culture and strategies for cross‐cultural communication and conflict
resolution
develop a framework for an inclusive approach to nursing, patient care and
counselling
It included case scenarios based on cultural diversity awareness, which were drawn from
the participants' experiences. The workshop is evaluated through a post‐workshop
evaluation questionnaire. A workshop was held on Dec 19, 2012.
27
HHS Job Coaching/Mock Interviews
Sessions conducted by the PM are intended to prepare Participants for real job interviews.
The IEN/ESL nurses' resumes, cover letters and 3 references are reviewed before the
interview. The Participants receive a pre‐interview preparation kit, which include a
description of the interview structure. A pre‐intervention survey assesses the participants'
level of confidence and their interview skills. Job Coaching sessions take one to two hours.
The interviewee practises establishing rapport with the interviewer and responds to general
and specific nursing‐related questions based on the RPN and RN medical/surgical job
description provided by HHS.
HHS/CNO Learning Plan/HHS Policies and Procedures on the Intranet
Each participant followed a learning plan, customized to include both clinical and
communication skills development. These plans were developed in collaboration with the
Mohawk College BIEN program. After recruitment, participants met with the PM and
discussed the learning plan they would follow for the duration of the course. The plan is
intended to help participants understand and become familiar with the CNO Quality
Assurance (QA) program and includes the CNO Learning Plan.
The QA program is based on the principle that lifelong learning is essential to continuing
competence. It is mandatory for every nurse registered in the General, Transitional and
Extended Classes in Ontario to participate in the QA program, which includes self‐
assessment practice reflection, developing and maintaining a learning plan, practice
assessment and peer assessment.
The customized learning plan used in the project includes a review of the following:
Entry to practice competencies for RNs and RPNs in Ontario from CNO website
CNO Professional Nursing Standards and Guidelines and the learning modules
from CNO website
Project interventions (participants are encouraged to participate in all seven
interventions)
HHS policies and procedures
MAC ‐ Consent, Withdrawal or Refusal of Consent for Treatment Policy
28
Documentation ‐ Transcription Process for Kardex
ENG ‐ Lockout/Tagout Procedure
Infection Control ‐ Clostridium Difficile Protocol
NUR ‐ RPN Scope of Practice F5 Medicine Policy
5 South Nursing Standards for Patient Safety During Transfer of Accountability
HR ‐ Confidentiality
PRI ‐ Disclosure of Personal Health Information of Current In‐Patients to Friends
and Family Guideline
ED ‐ Emergency Department Patient Safety and Restraints Policy
HSW ‐ Guidelines for Pregnant HHS Employees Working Directly or Indirectly
with Inpatients with Communicable Diseases
Infection Control ‐ Management of Proven or Suspected Diseases ‐ Guidelines
Transcription Process for Orders
Participants were asked to review all materials incorporated in the learning plan within a
year. There are spaces in the document to record the participant’s scores for the CNO
Learning Modules quizzes. They were allowed a year to complete the quizzes.
HHS SharePoint
This website was adapted from a site that targeted only CMs. It has been modified to serve
as a resource hub for IEN/ESL nurses, CIs and HHS CMs and external partners. The site posts
relevant forms and provides updates on the project, including interventions, evaluation and
activities (e.g., the N3 program) as well as available resources for IEN/ESL nurses. The PM
informs participants about the site and the information available on it. Participants are then
sent passwords and instructions on how to access the site. In 2012, The SharePoint Website
was updated with a general user name and password. A short survey was made available to
users. A blog and a discussion board for the IEN/ESL network has been created. It is
anticipated that the site will evolve during the project to make it more interactive.
HHS N3 (Nurses Nurturing Nurse) Networking Program
The N3 program, initially written by the Academy of Medical‐Surgical Nurses in the US, is a
loosely structured supportive arrangement for sharing between two nurse colleagues: an
experienced CI and an IEN or ESL nurse. It is based on the principles of adult learning and
29
focuses on the needs of the individual being nurtured. To prepare for their role, CIs are
invited to attend a Career Development Day offered by the Oncology Program Oncology
Nursing e‐Mentorship Program at the Juravinski Cancer Centre. This program is now offered
online.
CIs received information pertinent to helping IEN/ESL nurses develop their careers. The
program provided participants with an opportunity to review their careers to date and learn
strategies to facilitate future career decisions. The participants' career plan might include
finding a mentor or a mentee to help them achieve their goals.
CIs and participants completed an N3 Networking Program form to identify their areas of
interest. Based on four to five topics of discussion, the PM matched the participant with a
CI to form a dyad. CIs were invited to attend a Lunch and Learn session with participants to
review the project goals, the N3 program and the participants' learning plans. If a CI and a
matched participant were unable to attend the Lunch and Learn session, a separate meeting
was arranged with the PM. The PM acted as coordinator of the N3 program and oversaw
the completion of the evaluation forms.
The HHS/CNO learning plan was used as a basis for the discussions. The CI and the
participant determined the objectives for each meeting. The objectives reflected the needs,
concerns and/or issues identified by the participant. CIs and participants arranged to meet
on a regular basis (preferably every two weeks). It was envisaged that meetings might
become less frequent after three months, provided both parties agreed, but monthly
meetings were the requirement.
HHS Professional Workplace Experience/Integration
There are three components in this group of interventions 1) Job Shadowing, 2) Nursing
Orientation, 3) Career Progression opportunities. Evaluation tools were prepared to
measure usefulness of these interventions.
HHS Job Shadowing
Ten Participants have been involved in the Job Shadowing process at HHS since April
2012, in their areas of interest including Medical/Surgical/ICU and Rehabilitation list
to participate. The Project Manager met with the Manager of Clinical Practice and
30
Education to organize this process. It was decided to streamline Participants waiting
for placements into specific areas (Medical/Surgical, Rehab, Child and Youth and
Mental Health) where Project Clinical Integrators (CI) were working at HHS and
involve the CIs in this process. Currently, participants summarize their job shadowing
experience in a one page narrative.
HHS Second Day of General Nursing Orientation
The participants were invited to attend the second day of nursing orientation.
HHS Career Progression Opportunities
Components include the following:
1. Use of e‐learning lab. Two computers were available at the E‐learning lab. They
provide participants with access to:
o Computer keyboarding practice
o E‐documentation (Meditech Clinical Documentation) A hard copy of the
Status Board User Guide to e‐learning at HHS is also provided to Participants
o 50 on‐line learning courses which range from reviews for Fire, WHMIS and
Emergency Codes to courses about Infection Control
o Job applications
o CNO learning modules
o DVDs on clinical skills
2. Academic skills workshops
o Nursing documentation and academic writing skills
o Examination Preparation course
3. Certification courses
o HHS Advanced Cardiac Life Support course
o Basic Cardiac Life Support (Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation) course
4. Nursing Rounds (Lunch and Learns)
5. HHS career development e‐mentorship program
o All CIs are encouraged to complete workshops offered either in‐person or
on‐line workshops on mentorship by the Oncology Nursing e‐Mentorship
Program, McMaster University, Juravinski Cancer Centre. They were intended
31
to prepare clinical integrators to provide assistance to participants in the N3
(Nurses Nurturing Nurses) Networking program. Topics included:
The five phase mentoring relationship
Opportunity to network with nurses across the country in different
specialties
Electronic resources supporting the mentorship relationship
6. Charge Nurse Role Education Program at HHS:
o HHS Charge Nurse Orientation program
7. Volunteering opportunities ‐ i.e. HELP, e‐learning
Publicity and Dissemination
A marketing strategy was developed in 2009‐2012 to raise awareness of the project and to
facilitate recruitment remains in place (see Appendix C). Results of the project are
disseminated using various means, including posters and presentations (See Appendix C).
Success Stories
Participants and CIs complete templates, provided by the Ministry of Citizenship and
Immigration, which detail their experiences and personal stories. These are kept in their
files. With their permission, these stories are made available (see Appendix D).
Evaluation
Individual Interventions
The partners evaluate the individual interventions for which they are responsible.
Numeric Targets
A tracking mechanism has been developed and implemented to track the participants
engaged in interventions and their employment status 3, 6 and 12 months after completing
the interventions.
Measurable Success Indicators:
Project Work plan (yearly) ‐ all targeted activities achieved on time
Project Milestones (yearly) ‐ achieved on time
MCI/HHS Schedule B/Project deliverables (yearly) ‐ achieved/ funding released
32
MCI Numeric targets (yearly) ‐ achieved
Project success stories (format provided to project by MCI) ‐ released to MCI yearly
CCEM dissemination (yearly) ‐ at least one conference presentation
Overall Project Evaluation
Project evaluation, approved by the Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration, is delivered by
the Nursing Health Services Research Unit, McMaster University. The role of the NHSRU is
to integrate and discuss the implications of all evaluative data collected by the partners and
the research team and to collect and analyse additional data to assess the satisfaction of the
project partners with the project.
The project design was experiential rather than experimental. As limited research had been
carried out on the workplace integration of IEN/ESL nurses, the intention was to allow for
modification based on experience. On‐going evaluation of the program will lead to changes
resulting in increased efficacy. Interventions introduced in the early stages of the program
were refined and strengthened over time and new activities introduced to enhance
workplace exposure for participants. Some evaluation tools used in the pilot study were
modified and new tools created. A complete list of evaluation tools for all interventions is
presented in Appendix A.
33
3. SAMPLE DESCRIPTION
Participant Sample
During the first year of the renewed project 166nurses enrolled, surpassing the targeted
sample of 60 for that year. An additional 35 nurses remained in the project from the pilot
program, totalling 201.
Two nurses from year 4 exited the program before completion. Thirty four nurses from the
pilot project left, on February 6 2013 after completing the project (see Table 1).
In year 4, of the 166nurses entering the project, 23 were male, 143 were female.
Table 1. Participant Sample Composition Time IEN/ESL IEN/EFL ESL Total Exits Before Project
Completion
Year 1‐ 3 32 0 3 35 N/A
Year 4 147 15 2 166 2
Participants entered the project throughout the year (see Table 2).
Table 2. Entry in Project Year 4 Time Participants entered
April 2012 18
May 2012 19
June 2012 16
July 2012 10
August 2012 12
September 2012 17
October 2012 14
November 2012 5
December 2012 17
January 2013 18
February 2013 6
March 2013 14
Total 166
As shown in Table 3, most participants were referred to the project by HHS staff, a member
of the community or an academic advisor.
Table 3. Project Referrals Reference Year 1‐3 Year 4
Academic 2 6
Community 6 38
HHS staff 13 23
Self‐referral 2 21
Other 12 Other=8
34
Other: Colleague=3Other: DOC, LTC=1Other: Friend=23Other: Mother=1
Other: Participant=28Other: St. Elizabeth Healthcare=11
Other HHS website=3Total other =78
Total 35 166
Most of the participants were women between 25 and 44 years of age (see Table 4 and
Table 5).
Table 4. Age of Participants Age Range Year 1‐3 Year 4
18‐24 3 11
25‐29 5 40
30‐34 5 29
35‐39 11 33
40‐44 7 37
45‐49 4 11
50‐54 0 6
Total 35 166
Table 5. Gender of Participants Gender Year1‐ 3 Year 4
Male 5 23
Female 30 143
Total 35 166
The participants' level and country of nursing and non‐nursing education varied widely (see
Tables 6, 7, 8).
Table 6. Highest Level of Nursing Education Education Year1‐ 3 Year 4
BScN 5 years 0 2
BScN 4 years 0 85
BScN 3 years 16 5
BScN 2 years 2 6
BScN‐ not specified 0 1
RN diploma 3 years 1 5
RN diploma ‐ not specified
9 41
Post graduate 2 6
RPN diploma 5 15
Total 35 166
Table 7. Country of Nursing Education Country Year 1‐ 3 Year 4
Cameroons 0 1
35
Columbia 0 1
Canada 6 14
China 2 7
Singapore 0 1
Croatia 1 0
Ethiopia 1 0
Haiti 0 2
Iran 0 7
India I7 42
Ireland 0 1
Israel 0 2
Jamaica 0 1
Japan 0 1
Jordan 2 3
Kenya 0 1
Lebanon 0 1
Lithuania 1 0
Nepal 0 1
Nigeria 0 2
Pakistan 1 1
Philippines 6 63
Poland 1 0
Portugal 0 1
Romania 4 4
Serbia 0 1
Taiwan 1 0
S. Korea 1 3
USA 0 2
Zimbabwe 0 2
Total 35 166
Table 8. Country of Highest Level of Non‐Nursing Education Country Year1‐ 3 Year 4
N/A 20 0
Argentina 1 0
Cameroon 0 1
Canada 0 2
China 2 10
Columbia 0 1
Croatia 1 0
Ethiopia 1 0
Haiti 0 2
India 2 42
Iran 0 6
Israel 0 2
Jamaica 0 1
Japan 0 1
Jordan 0 3
Kenya 0 2
Lebanon 0 1
Mexico 0 1
Nepal 0 1
Nigeria 0 3
Pakistan 0 1
36
Philippines 3 63
Portugal 0 1
Qatar 0 1
Romania 3 5
Russia 1 0
Serbia 0 1
South Korea 1 3
Sri Lanka 0 1
Zimbabwe 0 3
Total 35 166
The majority of participants reported high school as their highest level of non‐nursing
education although some had degrees or diplomas. Two had been medical doctors (see
Table 9).
Table 9. Level of Non‐Nursing Education in Country of Origin Level of Education Year 1‐ 3 Year 4
High School 0 120
College/Diploma 2 6
University ‐ Bachelors 11 22
University – MA/ MBA 1 4
Medical doctor 0 2
Doctor of dental medicine
0 1
Pre‐degree 0 8
Other‐ certificate 0 2
Not Clearly Specified 0 1
N/A 21 0
Total 35 166
The majority of participants reported their immigration class as Independent Professional or
family sponsored (see Table 10). In terms of their current immigration status, the majority
were permanent residents or Canadian citizens (see Table 11). Most participants had
migrated after 2000, the majority between 2006 and 2010 (see Table 12). One nurse
migrated twice.
Table 10. Immigration Class Immigration Class Year 1‐ 3 Year 4
Independent ‐ Professions/Skilled Trades
16 96
Family Sponsored 15 34
Convention Refugee 1 7
*Work Permit 1 9
Live‐in Caregiver 1 19
Born in Canada 1 1
37
Total 35 166
*In process of obtaining PR status
Table 11. Current Immigration Status Status Year1‐ 3 Year 4
Canadian Citizen 10 29
Permanent Resident 24 108
*Work Permit 1 25
Convention Refugee 0 4
Total 35 166
*In process of obtaining PR status
Table 12. Year of Migration Year Year 1‐ 3 Year 4
1990–1995 2 2
1996–2000 3 1
2001–2005 6 16
2006–2010 18 84
2011 6 40
2012 0 22
In process 0 1
Total 35 166
The majority of participants who had practiced prior to migration had between 1 and 5
years of experience (see Table 13). However, since coming to Canada, most had not
practiced for 1 to 5 years (see Table 14).
Table 13. Years of Experience Prior to Migration Years Year1‐ 3 Year4
> 1 year 4 13
1–5 years 6 47
6–10 years 10 41
11–15 years 7 24
16–20 years 2 16
20+ years 0 7
N/A 7 18
Total 35 166
Table 14. Years in Canada Not Practicing Nursing Years Not Practicing Year 1‐3 Year 4
>1 5 21
1–5 6 108
6–10 2 7
10+ 1 1
N/A 21 29
Total 35 166
Three Year 1‐3 nurses had worked in a third country (Libya, Saudi Arabia and Singapore).
38
Forty seven Year 4 nurses had worked in a third country. Twenty three nurses had worked
in Saudi Arabia, 3 in Kuwait, 2 in the USA and the UAE and one each in Bahrain, Bermuda,
Ireland, Hungary Republic of Maldives, Singapore, Qatar, Oman and Swaziland. Five nurses
had worked in more than one country (Yemen and Saudi Arabia; Saudi Arabia and the UAE;
Viet Nam, Sri Lanka, South Africa, Ethiopia and Sudan; Qatar, USA and England; and China
and Singapore).
Only one nurse had worked in a province other than Ontario (Nova Scotia). As shown in
Table 15, almost all nurses currently practicing in Canada had been doing so for less than 5
years.
Table 15. Practice in Canada Length of Practice in Canada
Year1‐ 3 Year 4
> 1 year 5 21
1–5 years 6 15
5+ years 3 0
N/A or 0 years 21 130
Total 35 166
All the Carry‐over Participantsand102 of the year 4 participants had passed their registration examinations (see Table 16) and the majority had completed registration (See Table 17).
Table 16. Examination Status Year 1‐3 Year 4
Passed CRNE 11 39
Passed CRPNE 16 59
Both passed 0 4
Failed one or more times 0 19
N/A 3 9
Eligible to write 0 25
Pending CNRE 0 1
Pending CRPNE 0 8
Not registered 0 2
Total 35 166
Table 17. Registration Status Year 1‐3 Year 4
Registered as RN 9 38
Registered as RPN 12 53
Registered as RN and RPN 0 3
Eligible to Register 6(RN) 5(RPN)3 (RN and RPN) 13(RN) 43(RPN)14(RN/RPN)
Not yet eligible 0 2
Not registered 14 166
39
Of the 35 Year 1‐3 Carry‐overs, 21 had permanent registration with the CNO. Of the 166
Year 4 Participants, 84 have permanent registration status and two have temporary
registration. All year 1‐3 and 160/166participants in year 4 had satisfied safe practice
requirements. Three year 1‐3 participants were in the BIEN bridging program. Twenty of
year 4 had CARE/BIEN membership 58 year 4 participants (BIEN & CARE=10; CARE=11;
Yes=39) were members of BIEN and/or CARE upon entry. Four participants from Year 1‐3
and 10 from year 4 had completed clinical placements lasting between one and six weeks in
various locations at HHS. One further placement had been scheduled (see Table 18 and
Table 19).
Table 18. Number Completing Clinical Placements in HHS Clinical Placement in HHS Year 1‐3 Year 4
No 31 155
Yes 4 11
Total 35 166
Table 19. Location of Clinical Placements Five participants from Years 1‐3 had placements as follows:
• Hamilton General, 6S.Aug‐Sept.2011• HGH, Stroke Unit 7S,Aug‐Oct.2011 • McMaster Children's Hospital 3D Jan‐Apr2011 • McMaster University Medical Centre, Diabetes Program Sept.2011‐Nov. 2011 • Scheduled for May 2012
Eleven participants from Year 4 had placements as follows:
HGH & St. Peters, Apr‐May 2012
McMaster, Juravinski
St. Peters, HGH, 3 West Palliative, Trauma, Med‐Surg., April‐May 2012
St.Peters3E (palliative),HGH(8W&6SMedSurg), Juravinski,F3 (Med/Surg.),Apr‐Aug,2012
ST. Peters(3W),HGH (6S&8W), Juravinsk I (E2 ) Preceptorship
St. Peters & HGH, Complex Care, 2011
HGH & St. Peters Hospital, Apr‐May 2012
St. Peter's, Palliative Care, HGH, 6S & 8S, July‐Aug.2012
St. Peters & HGH, 3E,8S,5S, July‐Aug. 2012
HGH, St. Peters and community, July to Nov. 2012
St. Peters and JHCC, Med/Surg, July‐Nov. 2013 (scheduled)
40
Clinical Integrator Sample
Of the 42 CIs recruited during the pilot project, 38 remain. Fourteen were recruited in 2009,
2 were recruited in 2011 and the remainder were recruited in 2010. They were joined by a
further 26 CIs in 2012. In 2010, 4 participants (1 male and 3 female) exited the project after
2, 8, 9 and 11 months respectively. In 2012 there were 64 CIs participating in the project.
Seven of the current CIs are men. The CIs range in age from less than 24 to over 65 (see
Table 20).
Table 20. Age of CIs Age Range Year 3
18‐24 2
25‐29 8
30‐34 6
35‐39 9
40‐44 14
45‐49 8
50‐54 9
55‐59 6
60‐65 1
65+ 1
Total 64
There are 33 nurses in group 1 (IEN&ESL), 2 in Group 2(IEN&EFL), 17 in Group (EFL, Educated
in Canada) 3(ESL, Educated in Canada) and 11 in Group 4.
Fifty three CIs had been referred to the project by hospital staff, 3 by an academic advisor, 2
the community, 3 from other sources and 3 were self‐referred. They had received their
nursing education in a variety of countries (see Table 21).
Table 21. Country of Nursing Education
Country Number Country Number
Canada 29 Ireland 1
Canada/Poland 1 Philippines 6
Australia 1 Poland 4
Bosnia‐Herzegovina 1 Rep. Moldova 1
China 2 Romania 2
Croatia 2 Serbia 1
El Salvador 1 Yugoslavia 2
India 6 England 1
Iran 2 Total 64
41
Almost all had completed their non‐nursing education in their countries of origin (See Table
22).
Table 22. Country of Highest Education: Non‐nursing
Eight CIs reported tertiary education other than nursing. Their qualifications included: MA in
leadership, a medical degree, B. Economics, BA in commerce, an unspecified university
degree, two years of teachers college, BSc in chemistry and physics and a degree in English
and French.
Most CIs had entered Canada either family sponsored or as independent professionals (See
Table 23).
Table 23. Migration Status Category NumberConvention Refugee 4
Family Sponsored 30
Independent. Professional 16
Other: Landed Immigrant 1
Other: Student 1
Other: Work Permit 1
N/A=11 12
Total 64
Two thirds of the CIs had entered Canada before 2006 (see Table 24). Currently 51 CIs are
Canadian citizens and 14 are permanent residents. One replied N/A
Table 24. Year of migration to Canada Year Number Before 1991 12
1991‐ 95 5
Country Number Country Number
Canada 2 Poland 3
China 3 Rep. Moldova 1
England 1 Romania 2
Ethiopia 1 Serbia 1
Ghana 1 South Korea 1
India 5 Togo 1
Kenya 1 Zimbabwe 1
Netherlands 1 N/A 33
Philippines 4 Total 64
42
1996‐2000 9
2001‐2005 16
2006‐2010 10
NA 12
Total 64
Additional information describing the CIs participating in the project included:
Thirty two CIs had no nursing experience prior to arriving in Canada, 18 had five
years of experience or less, 8 had 6‐10 years of experience and 8 had more than 10
years.
Two had worked in a country other than their own or Canada; 1 had worked in the
United Arab Emirates, and one did not specify.
Thirty oneCIs found the question about how long they had not worked as a nurse in
Canada after migration to be not applicable; of the remainder, 2 reported one year
or less, 18 less than six years, 10 reported 6‐10 years and 3 reported more than 10
years.
12 CIs found the question about how long they had worked in Canada since
migration to be not applicable; Of the remainder, 26 had worked five years or less,
14 had worked 6–10 years, 3 had worked 11–15 years, 2 had worked 16–20 years
and 7 had worked more than 20 years.
Twenty five were employed at Hamilton General Hospital, 4 at the Juravinski
Hospital and Cancer Centre, 6 at McMaster Hospital, 2 at Chedoke, 3 at St. Peter’s
and 1 covered all sites. They worked in various departments. The remainder were
employed outside HHS
Forty were permanent full‐time, 5 was temporary full‐time, 13 were permanent
part‐time 2 was occasional part‐time and 1 casual part time
1 left employment at HHS during the project
43
4. BASELINE MEASURES
The intention was to test ESL participants who had not previously taken CELBAN and to
retest those who had not taken it recently. Eight IEN/ESL (year 1‐3) participants and 14
IEN/ESL (year 4) participants had a CELBAN score before they entered the project. The
remainder were either English speakers or had not taken the test before entry.
BIEN, Mohawk College held voluntary I‐CELBAN testing sessions in:
June 2012, (4 Participants)
November 2012 (5 Participants)
December 2012 (5 Participants)
One other participant was also tested in 2012.
Sixteen year 1‐3 participants and 108 year 4 participants had taken tests other than CELBAN,
and some participants took multiple tests (see Table 25). The results showed that most of
the nurses in each of the groups met the levels of proficiency demanded by the CNO.
However, a few nurses had relatively low scores. Nurses with EFL were not required to take
CELBAN and were not tested in conjunction with the project.
Table 25. CELBAN Testing and Results Years 1‐3 Year 4
CELBAN at entry to the project 8/35 14/168
Dates of pre‐project CELBAN test
2008=12009=22010=12011=4
Total tests=8
2009=22010=4
2011=4 (1 was tested twice i.e.5 tests)2012=32013=1
Total tests =15
Baseline pre‐project scores 666689877988476788778877781?
7‐7‐8‐89‐9‐8‐87‐9‐8‐77‐6‐6‐7
6‐7‐7‐6 and 9‐7‐789‐8‐7‐88‐7‐7‐87‐7‐7‐77‐6‐7‐69‐7‐7‐66‐7‐6‐810‐8‐8‐89‐5‐6‐69‐7‐6‐8
44
CELBAN test since project entry 7 nurses took CELBAN tests 2011= 4 2012 =1
One participants took tests in both 2011 and 2012
16 nurses took CELBAN tests in2012 and 7 in 2013
Scores for I‐CELBAN during the project
7464109698877
8568/887787676768
6‐8‐6‐78‐8‐7‐77‐5‐6‐79‐8‐7‐77‐6‐6‐710‐8‐8‐86‐4‐7‐88‐6‐6‐89‐9‐7‐89‐5‐6‐88‐8‐7‐79‐7‐6‐88‐7‐5‐89‐9‐7‐99‐8‐8‐95‐5‐6‐65‐6‐6‐79‐7‐6‐89‐7‐6‐98‐7‐6‐79‐7‐6‐79‐7‐6‐77‐7‐5‐6
Other language tests taken by participants
16 had taken additional language tests
MELAB=9IELTS =4TOEFL=1
MELAB and IELTS =1IELTS and TOEIC =1
139 had taken additional language tests
COPE, U. of T=1 CLB=20
CLBA=3ESL=8IELTS=38
MELAB=33TOEIC=6
Combinations of 2 tests=29Combinations of 3 tests =4
Due to the changes in the CNO English Proficiency requirements, as of January 2013, only
IELTS, CELBAN or a Bridging program will be accepted as proof of language proficiency. The
project also accepts these tests. The Canadian Language Benchmark Assessment (CLBA) test,
level 7 or higher is desirable for this program.
45
5. RESULTS
CARE Centre for Internationally Educated Nurse's: Language Communication for
IENs – Advanced course
The CARE Language Communication for Nurses Course (advanced) was offered: October,
2011, ‐February, 2012, June ‐ October, 2012 and October 2012‐ February 2013. The course
lasted 96 hours. Orientation for the second and third courses was held in May, 2012 and
October 2012 respectively. Attendance at the courses is shown in Table 26.
Table 26. Course Attendance
The reasons cited most frequently for poor attendance and/or withdrawal from the session
(when provided) included, conflicting work or educational schedules, commuting distance,
commitment to job search activities and family obligations. The percentage of participants
receiving certificates of attendance or completion was higher in the second and third course
but still represented only a third of those that attended the course.
Participant Self‐Assessment of Nursing Communication Skills: Pre and Post Course
Participants are required to complete a Self‐Assessment survey in class at the beginning of
the course, and submit it to the instructor. At the end of the course, they are given a new
copy of the same Self‐Assessment survey to complete. Each participant is required to rate
themselves from 1 to 5 based on the rating scheme outlined below in each of the 9 tasks
listed. The results of each of these assessments is tabulated, averaged and summarized in
the form. Individual forms for each participant are maintained on file.
Attendance October 2011 ‐February2012
June ‐ October, 2012 October 2012‐ February 2013
Number of registrants 26 30 34
No shows 5 (19%) 2 (7%)
11 (32%)
withdrew 9 (35%) 6 (21%)
8 (35%)
>50% attendance 1 (4%)
6 % 8 (35%)
50‐69% attendance 1(4%) 3 (11%) 2(9%)
Certificate of attendance70‐84% attendance
4 (15% )
10 (36%) 5 (21%)
Certificate of completion85%+ attendance
7 (27%) 9 (32%) 8(35%)
Total attending 22 28 23
46
The skills included: the Nurse‐Client Interview, documenting progress notes giving verbal
reports, receiving verbal reports making and receiving telephone calls, receiving doctors’
orders, health teaching, therapeutic listening, and responding, Communicating assertively
with colleagues and clients (see Table 27).
Table 27. Summary of Completed Assessments
Communication Tasks Course 1
PreAvg.
Course 1 PostAvg.
Course 2 PreAvg.
Course 2 postAvg.
Course 3 pre Avg.
Course 3 postAvg.
Nurse‐Client Interview 3 4 3.2 4.2 3.3 4.5
Document Progress Notes 2.7 4 3.2 4.2 3.1 4.4
Give Verbal Reports 2.7 4 3.0 4.0 3.4 4.4
Receive Verbal Reports 2.7 4 3.2 4.3 3.3 4.4
Make and Receive Telephone Calls
2.7 4.4 3.0 3.9 2.8 4.0
Receive Doctors’ Orders 2 4 2.9 4.2 2.8 4.3
Health Teaching 3 4 2.8 4.2 3.4 4.6
Therapeutic Listening and Responding
3 4 3.2 4.2 3.3 4.5
Communicate Assertively with Colleagues and Clients
2.7 4.4 3.3 4.2 3.0 4.3
AVERAGE 2.7 4.0
3.1 4.2 3.1 4.4
RATING SCHEME: 1 ‐ Not Confident, 2 ‐ Slightly Confident, 3 ‐ Somewhat Confident, 4 ‐ Fairly Confident, 5 ‐ Very Confident
Course 1: Oct 2011‐March, 2012. Only three nurses completed both questionnaires. The 3
respondents claimed considerable improvement overall with averages of 2.7 pre course and
4.0 post‐course.
Course 2: June ‐ October, 2012. Twelve nurses completed both questionnaires. The overall
pre‐course score was 3.1 and the average post score was 4.2, indicating significant
improvement
Course 3: October 2012‐Feb 2013.10 of 23 nurses completed both questionnaires. The
overall pre‐course score was 3.1 and the average post score was 4.2, indicating significant
improvement
Instructors Assessment
The instructor reported on the participants’ progress as a result of the course. For courses 2
and 3, a detailed table was made available (see Table 28).
47
Table 28. Instructor’s Assessment of Participant’s Progress Course 2 (N=22)
RATING SCHEME: 1 – Not Consistent, 2 – Fairly Consistent, 3 – Somewhat Consistent 4 –Consistent, 5 – Very Consistent
The instructor also provided a general assessment of the Participants’ progress in all 3 courses.
Course 1: The instructor felt that the motivation of the students that finished the course
was very high. She observed some to significant change in performance and ability of the
class overall in accuracy in spoken English, accuracy in written English and pronunciation.
Areas in which she observed significant change in performance and ability included: fluency
in spoken and written English, listening ability, ability to use nursing terminology correctly
when speaking and writing, ability to use English phraseology correctly when speaking,
Nurse‐client interview skills, colleague communication skills and client and family member
communication skills. The instructor reported that communication skills or situations the
class found most challenging included; Saying no and being assertive while advocating for
self and providing advice and empathy. The latter was challenging due to problems with
English phraseology. The Instructor’s opinion of overall communication ability of the
participants, on average, related to communication in a nursing context was Highly Skilled
Communicators.
Skill Area in Nursing Level
Course 2 3 4 5
Speaking Accuracy: Ability to use correct grammar and word choice
23
1(4%)0
12(55%)4 (31%)
9(41% 9 (69%))
0
Speaking Fluency Ability to get your meaning across while maintaining a fluid and coherent flow of conversation
23
0 7(32%)0
11(50%) 13 (100%)
4(18%)
Pronunciation Ability to speak clearly and comprehensibly to others
23
00
8(36%)1(8%)
9(41%) 12(92%)
5(23%)0
Listening ComprehensionAbility to understand main ideas and relevant details in conversation
23
00
8(36%)1(8%)
9(41%) 10(77%)
5(23%)2(15%)
Writing Proficiency Ability to write logical, coherent and grammatically accurate text when documenting
23
00
11(50%)0
9(41%) 13(100%)
2(9%)0
Socio‐Cultural ProficiencyAbility to interact according to commonly accepted cultural norms and expectations
23
00
5(23%)0
10(45%) 5 (38%)
7(32%)8(62%)
48
Course 2: The instructor noted substantial improvement was observed in the students’ self‐
confidence, especially when performing verbal reports, such as end‐of‐shift and handover
reports. Improvement was also observed in written communication skills. Anecdotally
students noted their listening skills also improved. As the course focuses on listening, taking
notes, processing information and acting on it in a timely and efficient manner, with practice
the students were able to discern the key points of the messages they listened to and not
waste time on insignificant details. In conclusion, there was significant improvement in
verbal interactive skills with colleagues, clients and family members, documentation skills,
self‐confidence and assertiveness was noted with this cohort. To a lesser degree, passive
language skills such as listening improved as well. The instructor rated the motivation of
two participants as high and two as very high.
Course 3: Based on course assessments and one–on‐one student feedback, substantial
improvement was noted in the students’ self‐confidence in telephone skills, verbal
reporting, and written reports. At the beginning of the course they admitted that verbal
interaction, especially professional telephone skills and verbal reporting, was their biggest
fear. The telephone role‐plays and situational class activities helped students learn to
process the information they listened to over the phone, and take action. By the end of the
course, students were able to create end‐of‐shift reports and reports and deliver them with
accuracy. The e‐learning lounge facilitated pronunciation, fluency, rhythm and intonation
the students needed to deliver the report. The role‐plays and activities used in the class
enabled the participants to express their professional opinions and they became very
assertive in stating their needs and negotiating their goals. Significant improvement
occurred in students’ self‐confidence using verbal communication skills with colleagues,
clients and family members, as well as using the telephone in the workplace. Substantial
progress was observed in written skills, especially summarizing, and using clipped structures
and abbreviations in documentation.
Participant Feedback
In Course 1 Participants completed a survey on perceived changes in their personal
communication ability. Five Participants completed the survey. At the end of the course
49
four participants considered themselves competent communicators and one a highly skilled
Communicator. Participants in courses 2 and 3 completed a course evaluation
questionnaire (see Table 29).
Table 29. Evaluation for Courses 2 and 3
RATING SCHEME: 5 – Excellent 4 – Great 3 – Good 2 – Fair 1 – Poor
All participants provided qualitative feedback about what they found most valuable about
the course (see Table 30).
Table 30. Course Components participants reported as valuable Course 1 Course 2 Course 3 End‐of‐shift report. Non‐therapeutic interviews. Giving advice. Communication with clients and family members. Video with different scenarios. Gambits – as these are used
The technicality and therapeutic style in the whole course Communicating well with confidence Audio and video materials New methods of communication, which will help improve job
Therapeutic communication skills Interactive portion of the class along with the chance to interact, communicate, network and make friends Documentation/progress note,
Course Element
Course number
Number of Participants Who Responded
1 2 3 4 5
Course content 23
10
00
11
4 3
1310
Audio and video materials 23
00
10
35
10 6
53
e‐Learning Lounge materials 23
00
10
71
9 7
16
Your learning experience in this class
23
10
00
21
3 4
139
Opportunity for participation and discussion
23
10
00
19
6 4
1110
Class schedule 23
10
00
40
8 4
610
Length of breaks (30 minutes) 23
10
00
10
7 2
1012
Fairness of evaluation methods 23
10
00
10
5 1
1213
Instructor’s knowledge of communication skills
23
10
00
00
5 1
1313
Instructor’s presentation of the material
23
10
00
00
5 2
1312
Helpfulness of instructor 23
10
00
00
4 2
1412
50
commonly. Writing progress notes. Assertive communication – helps in dealing with delicate situations. Mock interviews; questioning techniques – improves self‐confidence. Dialogues for comforting and supporting family members of patients.
performanceTherapeutic communication, documentation, telephone conversation, job interview Confidence to do their career in Canada e‐Learning Lounge Confidence in English communication Relevance of course content for better communication Everything is valuable; participant was happy taking the course End‐of‐shift reporting Student networking and great learning experience
assessment skills Able to communicate better in Canadian systems Language Communication techniques Learning to communicate in an effective manner
The Mohawk Learning Resource Centre Simulation Laboratory
Group sessions for practical review and hands on clinical skills practice were held using the
Learning Resource Centre/Simulation Laboratory. Group sessions for this Project year
began in October, 2012. Eight sessions lasting 2 hours were held in October and November.
These sessions were led by BIEN, Mohawk College, faculty and staff. In October these
sessions were delivered to 24 Participants, 21 in November and 11 in January and 8 in
February (weather was a factor influencing attendance on this day) (see Table 31). Pre and
post instruments were used to evaluate confidence (See Table 32). Participants needing
further practice are eligible to access the LRC/Simulation lab more than once. Further
monthly sessions are planned.
Table 31. Attendance Date Attended CommentsOctober 24
November 21
January 30 11 (Gp1=8; Gp2=2; Gp 3=1)
February 27 8 (Gp1=8) Weather problems
Total 64
Table 32. LRC/Simulation lab Sessions: physical assessment: Pre and post confidence scores A =Cardiovascular
C2 (7 Subcategories)B = Respiratory
C1 (8 Subcategories)C = Central Nervous System (i) Glasgow
Coma Scale Pre Post Pre Post Pre Post
Year 1‐3 Carryovers N=6
4.25
4.14
3.7
3.9
3.3
3.8
51
Year 4 (2012‐13) N=53
4.41 4.58 4.31 4.45 3.69 4.27
RATING SCHEME: 1=not confident, 2= Not very confident 3.Somewhat confident 4.Confident 5.Very
confident
The survey indicated that the participants were relatively confident before their laboratory
experience and were only somewhat more confident after their experience. Nevertheless,
their comments suggest that they found their practice in the lab extremely worthwhile.
They were uniformly positive. They agreed that it was an excellent workshop and that they
had both refreshed their knowledge though the review process and had learned a lot about
physical assessment skills and about the nurse client relationship in Canada. They
appreciated the hands on opportunities afforded by using mannequins and recordings of
lung/heart sounds. One noted that the she had discovered differences between procedures
learned here and her previous practice. They found the instructor knowledgeable and
helpful. Many said that the experience had increased their confidence. Several said that
they would like more or longer sessions. They suggested that all IENs would benefit by the
experience.
HCCI Cultural Training Module
Seven participants attended a 3‐hour workshop on Dec 19 2012 from 10am ‐1 pm at the
Chedoke Site. The attendees included 4 IENs, 1 CI, 1 clinical manager or their delegates and
one manager. All 7 participants completed a post course evaluation (see Table 33).
Table 33. Post course evaluation Did the course: Not at all Somewhat Mostly Completely Deepen your understanding of diversity and inclusion
1 0 4 1
Cause you to review your personal frames of reference, biases and ladders of inference
1 0 3 2
Cause you to reflect upon your communication style
1 0 2 3
Provide strategies for cross cultural communication and conflict resolution
1 0 3 2
Offer a framework for an inclusive approach to nursing, patient care and counselling.
1 0 3 2
Do you agree 1 Not at all
2 Somewhat 3 Mostly 4 Completely
The material presented was relevant to your needs
0 0 0 6
52
You will be able to apply the strategies recommended to your practice
0 0 2 2 (1 did not answer this question
How do you rate: 1 Poor
2 Adequate 3 Good
4 Excellent
The course overall? 0 0 0 6
The presenter? 0 0 0 6
The group exercises? 0 0 3 3
The usefulness of the case study? 0 0 1 5
The hand‐outs? 0 0 1 5
Based on the participants' evaluations, the workshop was well received and its objectives
were met.2 participants noted that it was excellent.
HHS Job Coaching/Mock Interview Preparation
Sixty participants have been involved in this intervention since April, 2012, some on more
than one occasion. Twenty eight of the 60 nurses who undertook the mock interviews in
2012‐13 had experienced an interview in Canada. The remaining 32 had not.
Pre job‐coaching confidence questionnaire
The majority of the participants were either not very confident or somewhat confident in
performing well in a job interview before their job‐coaching session (see Table 34).
Table 34. Pre‐intervention Confidence Level of Confidence Number of responses
Not confident 3
Not very confident 19
Somewhat confident 23
Confident 11
Very confident 4
Total 60
When asked what they would like to gain from the interview process they said:
Confidence
Assessment their interviewee skills
Constructive criticism
Learn how to prepare for an interview.
Resume preparation communication skills,
Learn expectations in nursing interviews.
Learn how Canadian employers carry out job interviews
•Learn interview skills techniques, strategies. •Improve performance at an interview •Learn how to present themselves •Learn about interview introductions, endings • Become familiar with types of questions asked •Learn how to respond to questions •Learn how to dress appropriately
53
Post Job‐coaching interview assessment
All 52 participants who answered the post‐ intervention questions replied “Yes” to the
question Has the mock interview process increased your level of confidence in your interview
skills?
Responses to the question, What did you like about the mock interview process? were very positive. The participants mentioned that they had: •Gained confidence •Learnt details of the interviewing process •Experienced a realistic interview •Benefited from one on one interview with instant feedback and suggestions. •Had practice at answering questions •Prepared for typical and unanticipated questions •Received a good presentation •Learned about resources (websites, educational opportunities etc.) •Benefited from examples and scenarios
•Learned how to emphasize strengths • Became aware of the need to know the scope of nursing practice and nursing ethics in Canada •Received clear explanations and information •Had useful discussions •Received information about nursing practice in Canada •Had the opportunity to identify their strengths and weaknesses •Received useful hand‐outs
Responses to the question What did you gain from the mock interview process? elicited similar responses •Confidence • How to succeed at interviews •What to expect in an interview • The Canadian interview process • How to prepare for an interview • How to answer different types of questions
•Information about what employers want • Knowledge of the stages of the interview, •Information about critical thinking •Improved communication skills • How to emphasise strengths •Refreshment of things already known
There were very few critical responses to the question, What did you not like about the mock interview process? One participant felt it was too long but more participants would have liked longer or multiple sessions and more practice. One participant would have liked visual aids and more questions Several recommendations were made in response to the question: How can the mock interview process be improved? The participants suggested:
There should be more than one session, more time or a whole course on the job interview
The session could include: More discussion, topics, questions, examples, visual aids, preparatory material, online support, group practice, entry to the interview room and multiple interviewers
54
The participants rated the job coaching presentation very highly. The presentation, the
topics selected and the overall quality of the presentation were given the highest rating (5)
by almost all the participants. All participants agreed that the presentation should continue
to be included in the training modules (See Table 35). The participants commented that the
presentation was excellent overall. The presentation was easy to understand and the
presenter was willing to clarify as required. The topics and examples selected were relevant
and informative. The scenarios helped with critical thinking.
Table 35. Evaluation of the Mock Interview Presentation N=52
How do you rate the instructor’s presentation? 12345 (Difficult > Easy to Understand)
How do you rate the topics of presentation? 12345 (Not Informative >Very Informative)
Overall how would you rate the presentation? 12345 (Poor >Excellent)
Should this presentation remain in the training modules? yes/no
Year 4 48=5 2=4 1=3
49=53=4
51=51=4
51=yes Missing=1
HHS/CNO Learning Plan/HHS Policies and Procedures on the Intranet
All participants took part in this intervention. The leaning plan included the CNO
(College of Nurses of Ontario) Entry to Practice National Competencies for RNs and
RPNs, professional nursing standards, Quality Assurance and use of updated learning
modules as outlined on CNO website, HHS policies and procedures are integrated into
the Learning Plan. After the intervention, most of the Carry‐over group were either very
confident or confident in their use of the policies and Procedures. The post‐intervention
questionnaire has not yet been administered to Year 4 participants (see Table 36).
Table 36. HHS/CNO Learning Plan/HHS Policies and Procedures on the Intranet Year Not
Confident Not Very Confident
Somewhat Confident
Confident Very Confident
Carryovers‐ pre 5 19 5 5 1
Carryovers‐ post
0 0 3 12 20
Year 4‐ pre 15 15 24 56 44
Year 4‐ post * * * * *1
*Not yet administered
HHS Intranet: SharePoint Website
This website is used by Participants, Clinical Integrators, Clinical Managers and the
general public. A blog for the IEN/ESL network has been created. The SharePoint
55
Website has been updated with a general user name and password. Almost all the
Carry‐over group were very confident or confident in their use of the Share Point site.
The post intervention questionnaire has not yet been administered to the Year 4
participants (see Table 37).
Table 37. HHS Intranet: Share Point Website Year Not
confident Not very confident
Somewhat confident
Confident Very confident
1‐3 carry overs ‐pre
6 18 7 4 0
1‐3 carry overs ‐pre
0 0 1 17 17
Year 4 ‐pre 21 15 29 50 39
Year 4 post * * * * *1
*Not yet administered
The SharePoint site was regularly accessed during the first year of the project. A survey
carried out on the users of the SharePoint Website provided data on 253 visits between 27
June 2012 and 25 March 2013 (see Table 38).
Table 38. Visits per month Month Number of visits June, 2012 4
July 27
August 42
September 41
October 49
November 12
December 15
January, 2013 25
February 28
March 19
Total 253
The survey revealed that while the majority of users learned about the website from the
HHS web site. The remainder learned about it from a variety of academic, community and
personal contacts (see Table 39).
Table 39. Sources of information about website Source Number using
source HHS Website 143
HHS Staff 28
Friend/relative 28
56
Community 14
CARE 11
Academic 7
St Elizabeth’s 7
Participant 3
Co‐worker 2
Google/Internet 5
Other 2
Did not answer 2
Total visits 253
The majority of individuals accessing the website were IEN/ESL nurses, including project
participants. HHS staff and managers had also accessed the site as had a number of
healthcare educators (see Table 40).
Table 40. Persons Accessing Web Site Visitor Number of
Visits Visitor Number of
Visits IEN/ESL nurse 170 Clinical integrator 1 IEN/ESL Project Participant
35 Employment advisor
1
HHS Staff 19 Director of education 1 Other Health Care Organization
6 Writer
1
HHS Clinical Manager 3 Project applicant 1 ESL educator 3 Nurse outside Canada 2 Student 3 Other 3 Nursing faculty 2 Did not answer question 2
Total 253
Nurses Nurturing Nurses (N3)
The Project continues to build on the existing networking program (Nurses Nurturing
Nurses (N3) to create an HHS network for IEN/ESL nurses. The HHS IEN/ESL network
continues to be an avenue for IEN/ESL nurses to communicate with their peers about
professional practice issues, integration, inclusion and cultural diversity as well as to
provide support to one another. One session was held in August. Four Participants
discussed differences between nursing in India and Canada. Another session was held
upon completion of the LCN3 course in which Participants were encouraged to maintain
the relationships they developed during the course.
Currently, there are 17 dyads in place (Participant/Clinical Integrator). Two CIs worked
with one of the participants. The partnerships were set up throughout the year.
57
Table 41. NRU Participant/Clinical Integrator Partnerships Month Partnerships
established
April 2012 4
May 2012 1
June 2012 1
July 2012 4
September 2012 1
October 2012 2
November 2012 3
January 2013 1
HHS Professional Workplace Experience/Integration
Participants took part in a number of activities. Evaluation of some of these activities is
limited for this year as they were under development. General comments made by
participants who did not rate the experiences separately reiterated comments made in the
individual evaluations. They rated the interventions highly. Suggestions for improvement
included more participation and hands –on practice. They would like to learn more from
colleagues and internet sources.
HHS Job Shadowing
Ten participants were selected to complete job‐shadowing in their areas of interest over
two or three days during 2012. Eight were scheduled to attend sessions and all did so.
Three attended in February, one in August and two each in November and December.
Sessions were held in the following locations (see Table 42).
Table 42. Job shadowing: Numbers and locations Location Attendance Comments
Juravinski, Medical Surgical
2
C4, Oncology, Juravinski
1
Medicine, HGH 0 Scheduled‐ did not attend
Mental Health 0 Scheduled‐ did not attend
HGH, 6S, Trauma Surgery
1 the last of 3 days job shadowing was cancelled due to sickness on the ward)
E3, Medical Surgical Juravinski
1
HGH, Rehabilitation, B2 North
2
Juravinski, ICU & CICU 1
Total 8
58
Four participants wrote a one page summary of their experiences (See appendix D). All
participants were positive about their experiences, there were no negative comments. All
would like to do more job‐shadowing in the future. Specific comments related to:
Friendly reception
Helpful and knowledgeable preceptors
Good unit orientation
Variety of learning materials available
Cleanliness and organization of the unit
Opportunity to become familiar with Canadian medical terminology
Introduction to modern technology (e.g. catheters, PCA, bladder catheters, TPN
solutions, vital signs machine and devices for patient’s transfer)
Introduction to workplace practices and team relations
Introduction to procedures
Introduction to documentation (forms, e‐doc)
Procedures related to medication
Four Year 4 participants completed a brief questionnaire. All said that the activity had met
their learning needs completely (1on a Likert scale of 1‐4 where 1=completely) and that they
were very confident (scoring 1on a Likert scale of 1‐4 where 1=very confident) they could
apply what they had learned to their practice. All agreed that the session had identified
gaps in their knowledge or understanding of the RN/RPN role in the Canadian Healthcare
setting. Suggestions for improvement included participation as well as observe and they
would have preferred their experience to have been in their specialist areas.
HHS Second Day of General Nursing Orientation
The second day of the HHS General Nursing Orientation is held on the third week of each
month and is available to 5 Participants. During the months of May, September and October
2012, 15 Participants attended, November and December, 8 Participants attended. This
intervention was not available during the summer months (June‐August) due to the high
volume of New Grad Guarantee hires at HHS. Topics covered during these sessions include:
59
Vascular Access Therapy, care and management, Senior Friendly Care, Alaris Pumps, Glucose
Meter, and Chest Drainage.
The activity was evaluated by 4 year 4 Participants who completed a brief questionnaire.
They varied in the extent to which they considered the Orientation met their needs. Using a
4 point Likert scale where 1= Completely and 4= Not at all, one participant scored the
session as 1, two as 2 and one as 3. Three felt that they could apply what they learned to
their practice completely and one to a considerable extend. All agreed that the session had
identified gaps in their knowledge or understanding of the RN/RPN role in the Canadian
Healthcare setting. They commented that they found the session overwhelming. They
needed more time to review and practice and would have appreciated more examples from
work experience.
HHS Career Progression Opportunities
Academic Writing and Documentation Workshop
Workshops were held at HHS, Chedoke Site on December 20, 2012 and Feb. 15, 2013 The
first session was attended by 20 Participants (Group 1:16, Group 2:0, G3‐ 4 and) the second
by 12 Participants (Group 1: 11, Group 2‐0, Group 3‐1).
Twelve participants evaluated the first session. Using a Likert Scale where 1 = Completely
and 4= Not at all, 3 participants rated the extent to which the presentation met their
learning needs as 1, 8 as 2 and one as 3. Five Participants reported that they were very
confident that they could apply what they had learned to their practice, 3 that they were
confident and 2 that they were somewhat confident. One did not answer that question.
Eleven agreed that the session had identified gaps in their knowledge and understanding of
the RN/RPN role in a Canadian health care setting. One disagreed.
Only two participants completed evaluation questionnaires. One Participant was very
confident and one fairly confident that he or she could apply what had been learned to their
practice. Both agreed that the session had identified gaps in their knowledge and
understanding of the RN/RPN role in a Canadian health care setting.
Suggestions for improvement included: More workshops; more cases/scenarios; more
practice questions; more information from colleagues and Internet
60
E‐Learning lab
All Participants have access to the E‐learning lab which contains 2 computers. These are
used by Participants to provide computerized resources to prepare for interventions and
employment. Resources include e‐documentation (e.g. Meditech Clinical Documentation).
A hard copy of the Status Board User Guide is provided to Participants), The Participants
have access to 50 online courses via e‐learning at HHS. The course range from reviews of
Fire, WHMIS and Emergency Codes to courses about Infection Control practices, information
about job applications, CNO learning modules. DVDs are available to review nursing skills.
There is no specific evaluation component for use of the e‐learning lab.
Certification courses
The project arranged for participants to attend the following certificate courses.
Certification was a requirement of the jobs for which they wished to apply
i.Basic Cardiac Life Support (Cardio Pulmonary Resuscitation) course. Seven
Participants attended the course. Subsequently 3 attendees obtained nursing
employment outside of HHS, 2 obtained non‐ nursing (Health Care Aide) positions
outside of HHS.
ii. HHS Advanced Cardiac Life Support Course Six Participants attended this course
All were subsequently hired, 4 within HHS and 2 outside of HHS.
Nursing Rounds (Lunch and Learns)
Lunch and Learn sessions were provided to Participants by Clinical Integrators to review and
enhance nursing skills (see Table 43).
Table 43 Lunch and Learn Sessions Title Date and Location Attendance
1.RN/RPN Exam Preparation Presentation by Sudha Sharma (HHS Participant)
Date: April 4, 2012HHS, Chedoke Site, Wilcox Building, Room 119A
Participants:9 (Group 1:7, Group 3:2) Total=9
2.RN/RPN Exam Preparation Presentation by Sudha Sharma (Participant)
Date: April 19, 2012HHS, Chedoke Site, Wilcox Building, Room 119A
Clinical Integrators:1 Participants: 9(Group 1:8, Group 3:1) Total=10
3.Wound Care‐ Presentation by EwaSawicki (Clinical Integrator, HHS RPN) & Sarah Suresh (Clinical Integrator, HHS RN)
Date: (1)May 10, 2012 (2)September 24, 2012 (3) March 28,, 2013
1.Participants:20 Total=20 2.Participants:19 (Group 1: 16, Group 2: 1, Group 3:1 CI=1)
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HHS, Chedoke Site, Wilcox Building, Room 119A
Participants: 17 (Group 1: 15 , Group 2: 0 , Group 3: 1 CI=1 )
3, Nursing rounds‐ professional practice issues, Intravenous (IV) Therapy: Infusion Pump Use and Maintenance – Alaris Pump. Presentation by Elisabeth Leduc (Clinical Integrator, HHS, RN, Vascular Access),
Dates: (1)July 31, 2012; (2)September 24,2012 Chedoke Site, Wilcox Building, Room 119A
1,Participants: 19 (Group 1: 14), (Group 3: 5) Total=19 2.Participants:18(Group 1: 16, Group 2: 1, Group 3:1)
6.Lunch& Learn India Network This is part of the IEN/ESL Network bringing together Participants and Integrators informally, to remind them about Project Interventions, particularly, the networking program (N3 Nurses Nurturing Nurses). No presenter.
Date: August 24, 2012HHS, Chedoke Site, Wilcox Building, Room 119A
Participants:4 Total=4
Wound Care‐ Presentation Sarah Suresh (Clinical Integrator, HHS RN) and Alaris Pumps – Presentation by Elisabeth Leduc (Clinical Integrator, HHS, RN, (Clinical Integrator, HHS, RN, Vascular Access)
Date: September 24, 2012HHS, Chedoke Site, Wilcox Building, Room 119A
Participants: 18 ( Group 1=16, Group 2=1, Group 3=1) Clinical Integrators: 1 Total=18
IEN/ESL Holiday Network
Date: Thursday, December 20, 2012 Location: Chedoke Site, Wilcox Building, Room 119A
Participants: Group 1=12, Group 3=4 Total =16
Lunch & Learn, RPN Success Story, Presentor: Clinical Integrator, Lidia Dolibog
Location: Hamilton Health Sciences, Chedoke Site, Wilcox Building, Room 119A Date: February 13, 2013
Number of Participants: 14 (Group 1: 14, Group 2: 0, Group 3: 0)
Lunch & Learn Academic Writing and Documentation
(1) December 20, 2012 PresenterDaniela Dijmarescu: Project Manager (2) February 15, 2013‐ Presenter: Clinical Integrator Yayra Amenudzie
(1) 20 Participants (Group 1:16 , Group 2:0 , G3‐ 4 ) (2) 12 Participants (Group 1: 11, Group 2‐0, Group 3‐1)
* In addition to the Lunch and Learn sessions described in Table 42 above, CARE offered a one week Preparation for CRNE and CPNRE Examination course, August 23‐September 4, 2012. This short course was a pilot for CARE. These sessions were offered for the IEN/ESL nurses who had been unsuccessful in previous attempts. Five participants attended.
HHS career development/ e‐mentorship program
o E‐mentorship program.
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The CIs were informed about on‐line sessions held in May, June,
September, October, November and December, 2012. CIs have
continuing access to these sessions.
o Charge Nurse Role Education Program at HHS:
Information was sent to all Clinical Integrators working at HHS. Two 3‐
day sessions were held at HHS in May, 2012 (2 registrants) and
September, 2012 (5 registrants).
Volunteering opportunities
Participants were invited to assist others in the e‐learning lab.
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6. PROJECT EVALUATION: OVERALL RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS
This section focuses on the extent to which this project met its numeric targets and
describes its overall evaluation by the participants. The project is also evaluated in terms of
the experiences of the participants in relation to each intervention. Recommendations for
the future are made and next steps are considered.
Numeric Targets and Achievements The following numeric targets for IEN/ESL nurses participating in the project 2012‐15 were
set by MCI: The plan was to integrate 145 IEN/ESL nurses into HHS during the three years of
the project. The research team set the following numeric targets for nurses and CIs:
Nurses assessed for eligibility: 180
Participants accessing the program (i.e., participate in a minimum of two
interventions): 145
Participants completing a significant component of the program (four interventions):
120
Participants who become/remain employed as nurses: 120
CIs completing training: 60
All numeric targets were exceeded in 2012‐13. There were 201 participants in the program
at the beginning of the Project in April 2012. However, this number included participants
who had almost completed their program and were about to exit. Thirty five participants
from years 1‐3 remained in the program until February 2012. A total of 166 new
participants entered the program in the first year of the new program, more than double
the numeric target. One hundred and sixty six participants accessed a significant
component of the program by taking part in at least two interventions and 109 participants
accessed four or more interventions. Seventy three nurses became/remained employed in
their profession at the end of 2012‐13. Twenty four frontline nurses completed training as
CIs in 2012‐13 (see Table 44).
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Table 44. Projected and actual project sample 2012‐13 Criterion Target Actual
Number of participants who applied to the program and/or services offered
60 228
(ii)Number of participants who accessed the significant component of the program/services (2 Interventions out of 8 offered by project) for which they applied
49 166
Number of participants who completed the significant component of the program/services (4 Interventions out of 8 offered by project) for which they applied:
40 109
(Number of participants who obtained employment in their profession, trade, occupation after completing the bridge training program:
40 73 24 hired at HSS into 24 jobs
49hired in nursing outside HHS into 67 jobs
Total: 91 Jobs
(v)Number of front‐line nurse mentors (Clinical Integrators) who complete the Mentorship training
20 26
Participant evaluation of the project: Exit Interviews
Thirty four nurses exited the program on February 6, 2013.They included 28 IEN/ESL and 6
ESL participants. Two Nurses had exited earlier in the year. At the time of writing, Exit
Interview Questionnaires had been completed by only 12 participants. All of these
participants had been in the Project for over a year.
Assessment of Interventions
Their answers to question about the interventions are summarized in Table45.
Table 45. Exit Interviews (N=12)* Did the Program meet your needs (Yes/No,/Somewhat)
Yes=12
Were the following interventions 1Very relevant 2. Relevant 3.
Somewhat relevant 4. Not relevant
Should the following interventions be 1 Retained 2 Minor changes 3 Major changes
4 Removed
CELBAN 1=8;2=1;3=1 1=8;2=1 Missing =1
CARE 1=10;2=1 1=10;2=1
Simlab 1=9;2=1;3=1 1=9;2=2
Job Coaching 1=10 1=9 Missing=1
Cultural Awareness module 1=7;2=1;3=1 1=8;2=1
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HHS Policies and procedures 1=9;2=1; 3=2 1=11Missing=1
HHS SharePoint site N=11 1=8; 2=2 3=1 1=10;2=1
N3 Networking program N=9 1=8;2=1 missing=1 1=10
Workplace Experience N=10 1=10 N=10;1=9;2=1
*Numbers do not add up to 12 because participants did not do all interventions
Ten of the 12 respondents had finished the project, and one left for another reason. One
response was missing. Although they had completed the program some had completed
more project activities that others. One had done no activities; 2 did 3; 1 did 4; 4 did 5; one
did 6 and one 7. Nine said they would be interested in taking part in other activities.
Evaluation of Project Manager
The project manager received very positive evaluations. Eleven respondents said that she
had provided guidance and assigned them to a Clinical Integrator. The other participant said
that the question was not relevant to her. All 12 respondents agreed that she had explained
project activities clearly, facilitated their participation in the activities and answered their
questions. Comments also indicated that the PM had performed her duties well and that the
team had been supportive.
Use of SharePoint Website
Nine of the respondents had used the SharePoint and three had not. Of those that had not
used it one had cited” no time” and one “no need for information” as the reason. One cited
both “no time” and” no need for information”. Of the 9 participants that had used the site,
1 had accessed it once, 6 had accessed it 2‐5 time, one had used it 6‐20 times and one over
10 times. The 8 participants that responded to a question about whether SharePoint was
easy to use agreed that it was.
Recommending the program to other IEN/ESL nurses
All 12 respondents said that they would recommend the program to ESL IENS and to EFL
language nurses from abroad. Eleven said that they would recommend it to ESL nurses
educated in Canada.
Getting a job
Eleven of the 12 respondents had applied for a job at HHS and 10 had subsequently
attended an interview. Six of the twelve applicants got a job at HHS as a result of their
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interview. One respondent did not accept her job offer because it was not in her specialty
area. Nine respondents had jobs outside HHS. These included 4 respondents who had jobs
both at HHS and elsewhere.
Ten of the 12 respondents said that the project had helped them get a job. Two said that it
had not. However, one of these participants had not taken part in any activity.
Participant Recommendations
Participants suggested the following enhancements would be helpful to IENs attempting to
integrate into the Canadian workforce.
1. Re‐certification of BCLS, mask fittings, and other basic requirements needed in the work
place
2. Further language and job interview support
3. Development and expansion of job shadowing
4. A website for IENS or ESL nurses
5. Courses for skill enhancement e.g. wound care
6. Work with their CI in the workplace
Evaluation of Interventions
Table 46. Summary Evaluation of Interventions Intervention Comments
1. CARE Centre for Internationally Educated Nurses: Workplace Communication Course
These courses have been rated highly but there has consistently been a problem with attendance due to time conflicts for participants. Recommendation It is recommended that the provision of pre‐course orientation/information sessions should continue so that participants were aware of the time commitment required. An overall increase in the number of participants completing 50% or more of the course after introducing the information session indicated that this initiative had achieved its purpose
2. LRC Simulation Laboratory The LRC program has been very successful and evaluation of the course suggests that it is extremely beneficial to the participants
3 HCCI Cultural competency awareness Workshop
Seven participants attended a 3‐hour workshop on Dec 19 2012. The Participants’ evaluations were extremely positive. Recognition that more participants should benefit from this course has led to recommendations and plans for the development of an on‐line version of the intervention.
4. HHS Job Coaching/Mock Interview Sessions
The participants rated this intervention very highly. Several recommended that the scope and content of the intervention be increased. Recommendation Consideration should be given to the further development of the intervention
5. HHS Intranet: Share Point Website The site continues to be used effectively by Participants, Clinical
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Integrators, Clinical Managers and the general public. A pre‐intervention summary revealed that more than one third of the 4th year participants were less than confident about accessing these documents. The post‐intervention questionnaire has not yet been administered. Post‐intervention assessment in previous years indicates that participants are either confident or very confident in accessing and using the documents. The intervention has been enhanced through the creation of a blog. It is expected that the site will continue to evolve during the project.
6. HHS/CNO Learning Plan/HHS Policies and Procedures on the Intranet
A pre‐intervention summary revealed that approximately one third of the 4th year participants were less than confident about accessing these documents. The post‐intervention questionnaire has not yet been administered. Post‐intervention assessment in previous years indicates that participants are either confident or very confident in accessing and using the documents.
HHS N3 Networking Program. Seventeen dyads of Participants and clinical integrators are currently in place Recommendation: Further efforts to encourage pairing for the N3 program may be required.
Workplace experience Most of these interventions are in the pilot stage. Evaluations have not been completed and analysed. Job shadowing – The intervention was positively evaluated by participants. Changes were made during the year to improve the process of assigning participants to clinical areas.
Lessons Learned
A recognition that it is sometimes difficult for Participants to take part in interventions due
to time conflicts and transportation problems has led to a recognition of the importance
creating a variety of communication tools and using a variety of media. The creation of a
Share point blog and planning the development of on‐line tools has been a response to this
issue. Further developments are likely during the project.
Next Steps: Program Development
During 2012‐13, work was undertaken on the development of new project components
which will be implemented in the next year
1. CARE Centre for Internationally Educated Nurses: is working with HHS to develop a
videoconference delivery format to increase access to the occupation‐specific language and
communication training workshop series offered by CARE
2. An Advanced Standing Clinical Competency Assessment Tool is being developed and
evaluated by the HHS project team and BIEN, Mohawk College for use by employers, both at
HHS and outside, to test clinical and communication competencies for Internationally
Educated Nurses with previous critical care experience.
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The purpose of the exercise is to provide an intervention that includes high fidelity
simulation exposure for Project Participants in a Critical Care situation (focus on Intensive
Care Unit (ICU)/Cardiac Care Unit (CCU)/Emergency/Operating Room (OR). The outcome is
to assist participants in building a professional portfolio and learning plan to reflect Ontario
Critical Care Standard of practice. A course will be offered to IEN RNs who are employment
ready, have completed all relevant project interventions and language specifications and
have 3 to 5 years of practice within last 10 years in ICU/CCU/Emergency/OR
BIEN Mohawk College/HHS have set up a project team and a sub‐committee for the
creation of tools and framework for the Advanced Standing Clinical Competency Assessment
Tool and a development team has been identified. An advisory/review team will also be
established with representatives from HHS, Participants, Clinical Integrators and Clinical
Managers/Delegates/Education Clinicians, and surveys have been administered. A focus
group will be held on March 21, 2013. It is anticipated that the development phase will be
complete by March 31, 2013.
3. HCCI‐ Diversity and Inclusion Training. The project Team met with a HCCI representative
in July‐2012 about the development of an on‐line tool for HHS orientation. The tool will
also be available for access on the Project Share Point website. Registration for cultural
awareness training workshop at HHS will be included in the tool. To enhance the
training provided to IEN/ESL nurses, HCCI has developed an on‐line component so that
course materials will be available to more participants.
Sustainability Planning: The Community Collaboration Employment Model
The Project has enjoyed a very successful first year. Based on the Community collaboration
Employment model (CCEM) collaboration among HHS and its community partners has
continued through the year through formal meetings and informal communication. The
partners have continued to provide interventions to assist IENs and ESL nurses throughout
the year. A strategy to ensure that the program delivery will continue beyond the end of
this funding includes the development of an array of clinical and communications
integration tools available for HHS and the community partners. The on‐line component of
current interventions to be implemented next year will contribute to the sustainability of
the project.
69
The project team has created community links beyond the immediate partnership. For
example, collaboration between the Project team with HHS Discharge Planning resulted in
an invitation to the Project team to join the Long Term Care (LTC) Joint Executive
Committee, Hamilton/Wentworth region. The Project Manager attended a meeting at St.
Peters Long Term Care facility in November and December, 2012 where other LTC facilities
participated via OTN. The Project Manager met with Human Resource (HR) and senior
leadership at St. Elizabeth’s Healthcare Agency, Halton and Hamilton, as well, with HR
representatives and clinical managers/delegates at Credit Valley/Trillium Hospital. These
networking opportunities as well as presentations at conferences and workshops has made
the project visible in the healthcare community resulted in increased awareness about the
project and the potential for hiring IEN/ESL nurses. Several Participants are employees at
these facilities and the Director of Care from St. Joseph’s Villa recognized the importance of
the Project support that their IEN nurses received. Finally, the program has helped a
considerable number of IENs to enter the work force as professional nurses. Their
appreciation of the program has led previous participants recommend the program to
colleagues and to offer their services as CIs. This has created a pool of facilitators in the
regional nursing community willing to assist incoming IENs to enrol in the program.
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APPENDICES
Appendix A: Evaluation Tools Index
CARE Centre for Internationally Educated Nurses Workplace Communication Course
Participant Self‐Assessment of Nursing Communication Skills ‐ Pre and Post Course
Instructor’s Progress Report on the Participants’ Overall Level of Proficiency in their
Communication
Participant Final Course Evaluation
BIEN Mohawk College Learning Resource Centre Simulation Laboratory
Nursing skills assessment ‐ pre
Physical skills assessment ‐ pre
Nursing skills ‐ post
Physical assessment ‐ post
HHS Job Coaching/Mock Interviews
Pre‐interview prep kit
Pre‐confidence survey
Post‐confidence survey
Effectiveness survey
Presentation evaluation sheet
APS Procedure for the assessment of pain in adult, paediatric and neonatal patients
as per HHS policy
Critical care nursing: Hints and kinks for nurses PQRST method of pain assessment
Post‐interview questionnaire
Interview questions based on real patient case scenarios
HCCI Cultural Competency Awareness Workshop
NHSRU Cultural Competency for IENI‐ESL Nurses Course Assessment Post Session
HHS/CNO Learning Plan/HHS Policies and Procedures on the Intranet
MAC ‐ Consent, Withdrawal or Refusal of Consent for Treatment Policy
Documentation ‐ Transcription Process for Kardex
ENG‐ Lockout/Tagout ‐ Procedure
Infection Control ‐ Clostridium Difficile Protocol
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NUR ‐ RPN Scope of Practice F5 Medicine Policy
5 South Nursing Standards for Patient Safety During Transfer of Accountability
HR ‐ Confidentiality
PRI ‐ Disclosure of Personal Health Information of Current In‐Patients to Friends and
Family Guideline
ED ‐ Emergency Department Patient Safety and Restraints Policy
HSW‐Guidelines for Pregnant HHS Employees Working Directly or Indirectly with
Inpatients with Communicable Diseases
Infection Control ‐ Management of Proven or Suspected Diseases ‐ Guidelines
Transcription Process for Orders
HHS SharePoint
SharePoint website pre‐competence survey
SharePoint website post‐competence survey
HHS N3 Networking Program
Networking program: Discussion topics questionnaire – dyads: Participant
Networking program: Discussion topics questionnaire –dyads: clinical integrator
Participants N3 program satisfaction survey
HHS Professional workplace experience/integration
HHS Professional workplace experience/integration‐post survey
Program Exit
Exit survey
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Appendix B: Consent Form
Internationally Educated Nurse (IEN) and English as a Second Language (ESL)
Nurse Integration Project
2012‐2015
Information & Consent Form
________________________________________________________________
Co‐Principal Investigators:
(1) Dr Ruth Lee, Chief of Nursing Practice, Hamilton Health Sciences, McMaster Site, 1200
Main Street West, Hamilton, ON L8N 3Z5
(905) 521‐2100 x 73828
(2) Dr. Andrea Baumann, Associate Vice President, Faculty of Health Sciences International
and the Co‐Director of the Nursing Health Services Research
Unit, Michael G. DeGroote Centre for Learning and Discovery, MDCL 3500,
1200 Main St. West, Hamilton, Ontario L8N 3Z5
(905) 525‐9140 x 22581
Community Partners:
Centre for Internationally Educated Nurses (CARE)
Hamilton’s Centre for Civic Inclusion (HCCI)
McMaster University, Nursing Health Services Research Unit (NHSRU)
Mohawk College, Bridging for Internationally Educated Nurses (BIEN)
Sponsor/Funding Agency:
73
Government of Ontario, Ministry of Citizenship and Immigration
The Project
You are being invited to take part in a project to improve the integration of Internationally
Educated Nurses and English as a Second language nurses into the workforce at Hamilton
Health Sciences and community. The project will provide you with assistance in improving
your clinical, cultural, communication skills and competencies. Recruitment, hiring and
retention of internationally educated nurses will be improved as a result of this project.
Clinical managers/educators and clinical integrators will also be involved.
What will be expected of you as a participant? You will meet with the clinical
managers/educators/clinical integrators to assess your needs and to incorporate these into
an individualized learning plan based on the National Entry to Practice Competences for
nurses. You will participate in communication and cultural workshops, School to Career
transition curriculum, a language screening tool assessment and focus groups.
How will you benefit from participating in the project? Taking part in the study is by choice.
You are free to decide whether you will participate. There are no known risks to
participation. An individualized learning plan is developed with you. You will have free
access to communication, clinical and cultural competency resources and tools to help you
to better integrate into your clinical unit. Your involvement will assist in the further
development of tools and resources to improve and support the integration of
internationally educated nurses into the workforce.
Who can participate? Participants will be recruited from Mohawk College’s Bridging for
Internationally Educated Nurses program, as well as English as a Second Language nurses
who have graduated from Canadian nursing institutions. Another recruitment source is the
community.
Confidentiality Any personal information collected during this project will be kept
confidential. It may appear in reports or publications with your permission. Your name will
74
not be identified in transcripts of interviews or focus groups. Only members of the research
team will have access to the information you provide us. Audiotapes and digital audio files
will be stored in locked filing cabinets until the end of the project, at which time they will be
destroyed. Transcripts from the focus group sessions and face‐to‐face interviews will be
entered into the INVIVO software package for analysis. All electronic files will be password
protected and will not be transmitted over the internet. Only members of the investigation
team will have access to this stored information. You have the right to listen to any tapes
made during interviews. When the project is completed, study database files, including
INVIVO files, will be burned to CD/memory disc and removed from all study computers.
These files will be retained on CD/memory disc only, for 10 years in secure storage as per
Research Ethics Board policy.
Initials
Person obtaining consent ______
Participant ______
75
Internationally Educated Nurse (IEN) and English as a Second Language (ESL)
Nurse Integration Project
2012‐2015
Consent Form
________________________________________________________________
Consent to participate
I understand the information given to me about this study. My questions about the study
have been answered clearly. I am willing to participate in the project using an individualized
learning plan developed for me, in addition to Culture and Communication Workshops,
School to Career transition curriculum, Language screening tool and Focus groups. I
understand that all information collected for this study will be confidential and that I will not
be identified in reports or publications without my permission. I know that I can leave the
study at any time and that this will not affect my job as a nurse. I understand that I will
receive a signed copy of this form.
I agree to participate in this study explained to me by
________________________________________________________________
Person obtaining consent Signature Date
________________________________________________________________
Participant Signature Date
For questions about this project, please contact:
Dr. Ruth Lee, Co‐Principal Investigator, HHS, IEN/ESL Nurse Integration Project
(905) 521‐2100 x 73828
76
Daniela Dijmarescu, Project Manager, HHS IEN/ESL Nurse Integration Project
(905) 521‐2100 x 77511
If you have any questions regarding your rights as a research participant, you may contact
the Office of the Chair of Hamilton Health Sciences/Faculty of Health Sciences Research
Ethics Board as (905) 521‐2100 x 42013
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Appendix C: Dissemination
Project Charter
A Project Charter has been developed
Project Promotion
Display of Project Panels to promote the Project to employees and visitors at
Hamilton Health Sciences’ (HHS) six hospital sites, September, 2012.
The Clinical Manager booklet is complete and the Project pens and pin are being
used for marketing and promotion. The booklet, pen and the Project Manager’s
business card will be distributed to provide Project information to Clinical
Managers/Delegates and other stakeholders. The pins will be distributed to each
Clinical Integrator, recognizing their continuous, voluntary support of our Project
Participants.
The continuous collaboration of the Project team with HHS Discharge Planning
resulted in the Project team being invited to join the Long Term Care (LTC) Joint
Executive Committee, Hamilton/Wentworth region. The Project Manager attended a
meeting at St. Peters Long Term Care facility in November and December, 2012
where other LTC facilities participated via OTN. Several of our Participants are highly
regarded employees at these facilities and the Director of Care from St. Joseph’s Villa
recognized the importance of the Project support that their IEN nurses received. The
Project Manager also met with Human Resource (HR) and senior leadership at St.
Elizabeth’s Healthcare Agency, Halton and Hamilton, as well, with HR representatives
and clinical managers/delegates at Credit Valley/Trillium Hospital. These networking
opportunities resulted in increased awareness about our Project and the potential
hiring our IEN/ESL nurses. Project information was provided to St. Joseph’s Hospital
in Hamilton and several hospitals in the Niagara Healthcare System in December,
2012.
Presentations
Dijmarescu, D.Internationally Educated Nurse (IEN) and English as a Second
Language (ESL) Nurse Integration Project – Transition and Integration into
78
Employment. The Partners in Education & Integration of Internationally Educated
Nurses: 6th National Conference, April 25–27, 2012. Winnipeg, MB.
Lee, R and Dijmarescu, D. (2012). Nursing: Caring to Know, Knowing to Care Learning
from the Past, Acting in the Present, Shaping the Future” RNAO International Nursing
Conference “Nursing: Caring to Know, Knowing to Care”,June 4‐7. Jerusalem, Israel,
Iqbal Hotel Liberty Bell Park.
Lee, R and Dijmarescu, D. (2012). The Path to Integration: A Workshop for Employers
of Internationally Educated Nurses Ontario Hospital Association, October 25.
Toronto, ON, Radisson Hotel Admiral Toronto – Harbourfront,
Lee, R and Dijmarescu, D. (2012). The Path to Integration: A Workshop for Employers
of Internationally Educated Nurses Ontario Hospital Association, October 26. .
Niagara‐on‐the‐Lake, ON, Hilton Garden Inn
Lee, R and Dijmarescu, D. (2012). The Path to Integration: A Workshop for Employers
of Internationally Educated Nurses Ontario Hospital Association, November 26.
Ottawa, ON, Hilton Garden Inn Ottawa Airport.
Lee, R and Dijmarescu, D. (2012). The Path to Integration: A Workshop for Employers
of Internationally Educated Nurses Ontario Hospital Association, November 30.
Windsor, ON, Holiday Inn & Suites
Dijmarescu, D. (2012). It takes a village: Harnessing the power of community
collaboration and in‐house volunteers to bolster immigrant nurse recruitment and
retention. 10th Annual International Bilingual Nurse Alliance Conference, October
25‐26, Chicago, Illinois. Mercy hospital and Medical Center
Lee, R., Baumann, A, Blythe, J & Dijmarescu, D. (2013). Internationally Educated
Nurses(IEN) and English as a Second Language (ESL) nurse integration Project. Power
Point presentation for the LHIN 4 Strategic HR Officers Group , St. Joseph’s
Healthcare Hamilton February 25, 2013
Other activities
A site visit to Bridging for Internationally Educated Nurses (BIEN), Mohawk College
included a demonstration of the simulation technology at the Learning Resource
Centre (LRC), Simulation Laboratory. (September 24, 2012A Nursing Week Dinner
was held on May 10, 2012at Carmen’s Banqueting Centre, Hamilton, Ontario. Nine
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participants attended (Group 1: 7, Group 3: 2) , 18 CIs and one Clinical
Manager/Delegate
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Appendix D: Participant Evaluation of the Job Shadowing Experience
1. Job shadowing at JHCC( C‐4)
First of all I would like to thank all members of the IEN project including Ms. Romaine Sheriff
&Irena. Through this shadowing I got an excellent opportunity to meet with patients,
equipment and designated staff members. Ms. Irena was my preceptor. She provided a
good unit orientation although she was very busy with her assignments. I referred to the
policy and protocols of HHS. A wide variety of learning materials opens a window towards
the future career for all aspirants. They are motivation so that this is not just a shadowing. It
is a clear reflection of job opportunity the attitude of every staff was really admirable.
Moreover the cleanliness and organization was wonderful, I think it is one of the most
remarkable hours of my life in Canada. I would like to keep in touch with all and the IEN
project.
2. IEN Project gives me a chance of job shadowing in this February 15 and 16.
The place of my job shadowing is Ward E4 in Juravinski Hospital. As an international
educated nurse, this is the first time that I was really in a Canadian hospital. I was very
excited but a little nervous. Do they welcome me? However, when I walked into Ward E4,
after the Head Nurse of this ward introduced me to everyone, everyone in this ward
welcomes me and was very kind to me. Then I felt relaxed. To me surprised, at the second
day Daniela came to E4 to see me and introduced me to the head nurse and my preceptor. I
am very appreciative.
My preceptor shows me:
All the room in E4 and their function
How is nurse working in this ward
How to work with other health team members.
How to use and fill forms
How to administer medications
How to use E‐Doc
I like and cherish this chance of Job Shadowing and I hope I can have more chances to be a
shadow
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3. My name is ‐‐‐. I am an IEN from Romania. Coming to Canada was for me a great
opportunity. Returning in to Nursing in Canada is my goal even if it is challenging in some
aspects. The IEN and ESL Integration Project help me and other IEN towards our goal.
One of the great opportunities I had was attending three sessions of job shadowing at
Juravinski Hospital‐ surgical oncology. That experience gave me the insight of hospital
health care in Canada. My clinical integrator is a great person and she showed me many
things. I saw how an IV pump works (I have not worked with one before in my country)
and how a bladder scanner works. I saw different types of iv catheters, PCA, bladder
catheters, TPN solutions, vital signs machineand devices for patient’s transfer. I was
impressed of how helpful the modern technology is in providing patient quality care. The
job shadowing gave me also the opportunity to familiarize with English medical
terminology from which I will benefit in my nursing career. I learned what you have to
do for a patient before and after the surgery and how you have to document the events.
I learned also the types of medication that are used in a particular setting and the usual
schedule for them. As a conclusion, I am glad that I had this experience, which will help
me practice successfully nursing in Canada. Considering that for IEN there are
differences between the way nursing is practiced in everybody’s home country and in
Canada, more nurses would greatly benefit from the experience of job shadowing.
4. Thank you for this opportunity which was great experience for me to see how is the
Canadian workplace going on. Actually, I saw the e‐documentation which is new to me
because my previous workplace in Qatar uses paper documentation. Also, l had a chance
to review some policies there which is good to have an idea about it. In my opinion
more time for job shadowing will be more effective , 2 days is not enough
5. A Summary of One Day’s shadowing in ICU. Participant (1‐0181)
On Dec 14th, 2012, at 8:00, I started my one day’s shadowing in Juravinski Hospital, ICU.
This was my first time accessed ICU in Canada. I was exciting but also stressful when I
entered into the unit. My preceptor is an experience‐rich nurse. She taught me her
patient’s status and her plan of that day. She introduced me about the environment as
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well. On that day, her patient was a cardiac patient with multiple organ failure, who was
supported by ventilator and CRRT. My preceptor was very busy to deal with a new set‐
up CRRT machine and recorded every parameter in per hour. I was not familiar with this
machine, but I liked to learn it, so my preceptor explained it when she was available. I
also observed another nurse moving the artery line and followed her to transfer her
patient to a medical floor. I learned a lot and I realized that it is not easy to be a ICU
nurse, but when I saw them helped each other and tried their best to take care patients,
I made my decision to be an ICU nurse.
The day was not long enough to let me know ICU, but it is a good way to let me know if I
fit this job and what I need to fix before I can work independently in ICU, so these are
what I like. As to what I dislike, I think it was that I did not permit to do anything for
patients even help my preceptor reposition her patient. I felt weakness when I just stood
there watch them hurried. This shadowing gave me more concepts about real situation
in ICU. I agree this is a wise method to provide an international educated nurse with a
chance to be in touch a real workplace to let them reflect “Do I really prepare for this
job?”, “Being a nurse is really fit me?”… My recommend is more shadowing chances
should be provided to any international educated nurses who eager to be nurse in
Canada. This was an unforgettable experience. I feel very thankful for the two ICU
managers who provided this chance to me and also Daniela and Janice who helped me
prepare for this shadowing.