CRNA Application: Currency of Practice RN Expectations

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Registration #{{RegistrationNumber}}

Hello {{RegistrantFirstName}},  

Thank you for your email, the options to meet the currency of practice requirements as a registered nurse (RN) are the following: 

Option 1: Practice as a Registered Nurse anywhere you are actively registered as an RN. 

Outcomes: 

• Provide evidence of practicing 450 hours as a registered nurse in the past 2 practice years or at least 1,125 hours in the past 5 practice years (RN or NP hours accepted).
• The CRNA will determine if the evidence you submit meets the currency of practice requirement. You may then be eligible for an RN permit in Alberta.  

Option 2: Competency Assessment - Registered Nurses of Canada Competency Assessment Program (RNCCAP) 

How to Apply: 

• For more information about the RNCCAP please visit the Touchstone Institute website.    
• You do not need a referral from the CRNA for this assessment.  
• Your permit fee will be refunded, and the current permit application will be withdrawn.  

     Outcomes: 

• If you pass the RNCCAP, you will meet the currency of practice requirement and be able to apply for your RN permit.  
• If there are gaps identified by your RNCCAP assessment, you may be required to complete the full Bridge to Canadian Nursing (BCN) program. 

Option 3: Bridging Program 

Registering for a Bridging Program like  Bridge to Canadian Nursing - Mount Royal University or Bridge to Canadian Nursing - MacEwan University, or Bridge to Canadian Nursing - Keyano College or Bride to Canadian Nursing - Bow Valley College.

How to Apply: 

• You do not need a referral from the CRNA for this program and you may contact the above schools for admission information.  
• Your permit fee will be refunded, and the current permit application will be withdrawn.  

Outcomes: 

• Once you successfully complete the BCN, you will be able to re-apply for an RN permit. 
• If you are unsuccessful in completing the BCN, you may no longer be eligible for RN registration in Alberta. 

Option 4: Request a Review 

How to Apply: 

• Reply to this email indicating your interest in going forward with your current application and requesting a review.  
• Under the delegated authority of the Registration Committee, the CRNA would assess your application and make a decision on your request for an RN permit despite not meeting the currency of practice requirement.  
• Additional detailed information will be requested to support the assessment of your application. 

Outcomes: 

• The decision could be to approve, approve with conditions, or refuse your application for a RN permit. 

If you require more assistance, please contact us by email at casemanagement@nurses.ab.ca or by phone at 1.800.252.9392. Ensure you include your CRNA registration number with all email correspondence. 

 Thank you, 

Case Management Team
W 1.800.252.9392
E casemanagement@nurses.ab.ca
College of Registered Nurses of Alberta
nurses.ab.ca