Northern Health specialty education program for nurses granted accreditation  

FORT ST. JOHN, B.C. — A registered nurse specialty education program offered by Northern Health is receiving praise from the Canadian Nurses Association.   

The Northern Health neonatal education and specialty training (NHNEST) program has received accreditation from the Canadian Nurses Association, the health authority announced in a Facebook post.

The program is being recognized for excellence in preparing nurses to care for critical, stable, pre-term and term infants, read the post. 

“From simulation labs to hands-on NICU [neonatal intensive care unit] practice, NHNEST helps nurses build the skills to support families during some of their most vulnerable moments.” 

According to Northern Health’s website, the NHNEST program combines online curriculum from the Association of Women’s Health, Obstetric and Neonatal Nurses’ neonatal orientation and education program with in-person skills and clinical practicums.

A neonate refers to a newborn baby within the first 28 days of life. 

NHNEST participants are recommended to have a minimum of one-year acute care experience. Pediatrics or postpartum experience is preferred, but not mandatory. 

Participants in the training program will complete a minimum of 20 shifts, totalling 220 hours. All practicum hours will be completed at a tier four NICU in B.C. 

Applicants must:

• Be registered with the BC College of Nurses and Midwives as a practicing nurse registrant. 
• Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident or hold an appropriate work permit.
• Be available for full-time work at the training site.
• Have flexibility to travel for practicums.
• Some positions require current basic life support certification. 

Those who wish to apply can view the speciality education postings page or contact SpecialtyEducation@northernhealth.ca.