Nursing (BScN Degree) NSG

Holland Code: S (Social)

What academic skills do I need to be successful in the program?

This list does not replace the admission requirements you must have for admission to the program. Please see website for details.

Literacy Excellent writing skills and reading comprehension are needed.

Math & Science Have accuracy with basic math skills. Students should have an aptitude for sciences (biology, chemistry, anatomy), but also enjoy writing and reflection.

Technology Basic computer skills required (Microsoft Office suite, Internet, checking student portal daily).

What personal qualities should someone interested in this career have?

The College of Nurses has published a detailed list of the skills abilities needed for nurses. See their list here.

• Able to empathize with others
• Prepared to work with vulnerable people
• Willing to handle situations involving blood, bodily matter and personal situations
• Able to cope in busy/changing environments
• Able to work in stressful situations
• Able to make decisions in life and death(crisis) situations
• Flexibility – able to deal with uncertainty and changing situations
• Personal integrity
• Able to respect private and confidential information
• Enjoy working with and caring for people of all ages
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to work as part of a team
• Strong organizational skills
• Able to set priorities

Useful background experience for this program would be

Previous work as a lifeguard, leadership experience in youth activities (school council, youth group or church leader, camp counsellor); work with service clubs related to health care or health promotion, i.e. St. John’s ambulance; or volunteer or co-op experience at a hospital or home for the elderly.

What kind of work could I do when I graduate?

Graduates of this program may go on to become a

Registered nurse or a public health nurse.

Places you may find yourself employed include …

Public health unit, clinics (ambulatory, medical, dental and community), nursing homes, hospitals, in clients homes, or government services (for example, penitentiaries, outpost nursing, the foreign service, the Canadian Armed Forces).

Typical working conditions for this kind of work:

• Shift work
• Night and weekend work required
• Long periods of standing
• Lifting required

Tasks a graduate may do in the workplace

• Assessing the needs of individuals, families, groups or communities throughout the lifespan
• Planning, implementing, evaluating and documenting nursing care
• Coordinating patient care
• Managing and implementing patient care plans, leading and supervising nursing teams and advocating for clients.
• Coordinating and supervising the activities of multi-disciplinary teams responsible for planning and implementing patient care
• Facilitating case management by coordinating health care
• Observing, assessing and monitoring patient symptoms, and evaluating reactions and progress
• Independently implementing nursing interventions as needed
• Collaborating with other members of health care teams regarding patient treatments and examinations
• Administering medications, injections and intravenous therapy
• Preparing patients and assisting surgeons during operations
• Assisting in childbirth, managing labour and caring for newborns and their families
• Preventing or treating injuries or illness, and managing chronic diseases
• Educating patients about health care
• Managing nursing services
• Leading and participating in research activities
• Nurses may specialize in other areas such as Community Health Nurse, Occupational Health Nurse, Psychiatric Nurse

Helpful links for further research into this Fanshawe College program and career opportunity

• National Council of State Boards of Nursing exam (NCLEX-RN)
• College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO)
• Registered Nurses Association of Ontario (RNAO)
• Different types of nursing - http://careersinnursing.ca/why-nursing/career-options/types-nursing
• Fanshawe’s library has prepared a subject guide for current students in this program. You may find the links and information provided very useful in learning more about this career.

Opportunities for further development or education

• With further study (Master’s degree), graduates may work in education, or management and administration.

Last Modified: June 1, 2022