SPEP-RN: As an internationally educated nurse (IEN) looking to become a registered nurse in Ontario, one of the final steps is the Supervised Practice Experience Partnership (SPEP-RN). This program offers IENs an opportunity to work in real-world settings while meeting the College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO) requirements. In this post, we’ll explore CNO-approved organizations for SPEP-RN, how to apply, and tips to help you succeed in this crucial step of your nursing career.
SPEP-RN:
What is the Supervised Practice Experience Partnership (SPEP)?
The SPEP-RN is an important program designed for internationally educated nurses who need to meet specific practice requirements to obtain their CNO registration. Through SPEP, IENs can demonstrate their skills in a supervised setting, ensuring they meet Ontario’s healthcare standards.
- Eligibility Requirements: You must have completed your nursing education, met CNO language proficiency, and be deemed eligible for SPEP by the CNO.
- Duration of the Program: The SPEP-RN program typically lasts about 400 hours, with flexible options for part-time and full-time work.
- Information for Applicants (cno.org)
CNO-Approved Organizations for SPEP-RN
Here is a list of CNO-approved healthcare organizations that are part of the Supervised Practice Experience Partnership (SPEP) in Ontario:
Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre
- One of the largest academic health sciences centers in Canada, specializing in trauma, cardiac, and neurosurgery care.
- SPEP Opportunities: Critical care, medical-surgical nursing, and mental health.
- Supervised Practice Experience Program (SPEP) – Careers – Sunnybrook Hospital
University Health Network (UHN)
- A network of hospitals in Toronto, including Toronto General Hospital and Princess Margaret Cancer Centre. UHN offers world-class training in oncology, cardiology, and transplant services.
- SPEP Opportunities: Oncology, surgical services, cardiology.
- UHN Internationally Educated Nurse (IEN) Program
- For more information, contact them on their Email
- Email: PBEnursinglearner@uhn.ca
St. Michael’s Hospital (Unity Health Toronto)
- Known for its high level of care in urban health, cardiac care, and intensive care units.
- St. Michael’s Hospital is a fully affiliated teaching and research institution that serves Toronto’s urban communities and beyond. As a Level 1 trauma center, it is a provincial hub for neurosurgery, advanced cardiac and cardiovascular care, and more. It also houses one of the largest Multiple Sclerosis (MS) Clinics in North America.
- SPEP Opportunities: Cardiology, critical care, and general medical nursing.
William Osler Health System
- A hospital system with multiple locations, including Brampton Civic Hospital and Etobicoke General Hospital. William Osler is known for its diverse patient population and comprehensive healthcare services.
- Contact Us – William Osler Health System (williamoslerhs.ca)
- rita.soni@williamoslerhs.ca
- Please forward your email confirmation from the CNO indicating your eligibility for the IEN/SPEP Program to rita.soni@williamoslerhs.ca. Please also attach your resume for consideration when sending to Rita Soni.
- Once received, they will update you throughout the process.
- SPEP Opportunities: Pediatrics, geriatrics, maternity care.
Hamilton Health Sciences (HHS)
- A group of six hospitals in the Hamilton area, including Jura Vinski Cancer Centre and McMaster Children’s Hospital.
- Contact the HHS IEN Program at HHSIENProgram@hhsc.ca
- SPEP Opportunities: Pediatric nursing, oncology, surgical services.
Lakeridge Health
- A leading hospital network in Durham Region, offering services in cancer care, surgical care, and rehabilitation.
- To apply for the IEN career pathway program, please contact Bronwen Carling, Interim Director of Interprofessional Practice at bcarling@lh.ca.
- SPEP Opportunities: Rehabilitation, cancer care, mental health nursing.
The Ottawa Hospital
- One of the largest hospitals in Canada, located in the nation’s capital. The Ottawa Hospital offers a range of specialized services including cancer treatment, rehabilitation, and cardiology.
- To apply to the TOH SPEP program, you must provide proof of your eligibility from the College of Nurses of Ontario.
- Interested? Please contact Ndolo Njie-Mokonya, IEN and SPEP Coordinator at nnjie@toh.ca.
- SPEP Opportunities: Oncology, rehabilitation, emergency nursing.
Trillium Health Partners
- Serving the Mississauga and West Toronto areas, this hospital network offers care across a broad spectrum of specialties, including maternity, geriatrics, and emergency care.
- Supervised Practice Experience Partnership (SPEP) (thp.ca)
- SPEP Opportunities: Maternity care, emergency services, geriatrics.
How to Apply for SPEP-RN with CNO-Approved Organizations
- Register with the CNO: Ensure your application for SPEP eligibility is complete.
- Select Your Preferred Organization: Based on your specialization interests, choose the healthcare facility that aligns with your career goals.
- Submit Your Application: Apply directly through the hospital’s recruitment or professional practice office, specifying your interest in the SPEP-RN program.
- Prepare for the Interview: Organizations may require interviews, so be prepared to showcase your clinical skills and understanding of Ontario’s healthcare system.
Supervised Practical Experience Partnership (SPEP)-RN Easy to Apply-ONTARIO,2024. – brandednurses
Tips for Success in Your SPEP-RN Placement
- Be Proactive in Learning: Take every opportunity to enhance your clinical skills, especially in documentation and patient communication.
- Understand Ontario’s Nursing Standards: Familiarize yourself with the CNO’s practice standards, especially in ethics, professionalism, and patient-centered care.
- Seek Mentorship: Connect with your supervisors for feedback and career advice during the program.
- Work on Your Soft Skills: Focus on time management, teamwork, and adapting to different clinical settings.
- SPEP-RN INTERVIEW: Best way to Ace the Supervised Placement Experience Partnership Interview 2024 – brandednurses
Conclusion:
Completing the SPEP-RN in a CNO-approved organization is a critical milestone for internationally educated nurses in Ontario. By choosing the right organization and following a well-prepared approach, you’ll be one step closer to becoming a registered nurse in Canada. Good luck on your SPEP journey!