On Thursday October 5, 2023 IWK Health and Nova Scotia Health celebrated a group of nurses who recently completed the Registered Nurse Prescribers course at Dalhousie University. RN Prescribers (RN-AP) are self-regulated health care professionals who, through the practice of nursing, incorporate independent and collaborative care to ensure safe, competent, compassionate and ethical care to patients across the life span.
At IWK Health six nurses graduated with a certification in RN Prescribing. Three nurses in our Emergency Department (ED) enrolled in the first cohort. Nicole Evanson, Samantha McCarville, and Krystal Forrest were the essence of innovation in pioneering a new role. In the ED they approach care using the expanded scope and have mentored many of the RN prescribing students who registered in following cohorts.
Bridget Pinaud and Emily Woodgate, nurses who specialize in wound and ostomy care, use their expanded scope daily and have found the ability to prescribe for their patient population greatly beneficial.
Laura Foley, a registered nurse who works in the Ears, Nose and Throat (ENT) clinic now utilizes her skill and knowledge to have team members see patients that best utilize their skills, knowledge and ability.
All six nurses completed the three graduate level courses required for the RN Prescribing certification during the peak times of COVID 19, with such poise and commitment. We celebrate their devotion to improving care and making things better for IWK patients.