MyCLPNA
Frequently Asked Questions: LPN Continuing Competence and Professional Development
Licensed Practical Nurses (LPNs) have a professional responsibility to be engaged in ongoing self-assessment of their professional practice and competence and to seek opportunities for continuous learning. Each year, LPNs must identify and engage in activities according to their own learning needs for continued competence development as part of the Continuing Competence Program (CCP).
This article answers common questions about LPN professional development, the CCP, and more.
What is the Continuing Competence Program?
The CCP supports LPNs in achieving and demonstrating competence through the completion of continuing competence activities, which includes both learning and practice in the profession. By completing the annual requirements, the public can be assured LPNs are committed to competence through professional development.
What are the requirements for the Continuing Competence Program?
There are two main aspects of the CCP: learning activities and practice hours.
To meet the learning activities requirement, LPNs are expected to engage in ongoing self-assessment of their practice in order to develop a learning plan that addresses areas of practice that require an increase in skill or knowledge or areas of interest where practice can expand. LPNs are expected to document their learning activities throughout the year and report them at their annual renewal.
LPNs must also practice a minimum of 1,000 hours in the preceding four-year period. These hours help ensure LPNs meet actively engaged requirements to maintain ongoing competence.
Where can LPNs apply for professional development funding?
The educational grants previously available from the Frederickson-McGregor Education Foundation for LPNs have been moved to the Alberta Registered Nurses Educational Trust (ARNET). This endowment supports LPNs pursuing professional development.
What professional development opportunities does the CLPNA offer?
The CLPNA offers modules and webinars that support LPN understanding of topics related to regulation. Note that modules are available via an LPN’s MyCLPNA account.
A list of topics can be found on the CLPNA’s Knowledge Hub and upcoming webinars can be found in the News.
Where else can LPNs meet their continuing competence goals?
Various sources can be used to meet the goal including books, videos, articles, workshops, in-services, conferences, courses, etc.
There are also many provincial and national nursing associations that provide networking, advocacy, and professional development for their members. LPNs can learn more about becoming a member of these associations through their websites.