I am a Registered Nurse (RN) who has previously worked as a Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) for seven years. This petition is not just about me, but for all the nurses who have transitioned from RPN to RN roles. Our experience and dedication should be recognized and rewarded appropriately.

Currently, the healthcare system does not count our years of service as an RPN towards our RN work experience or pay scale. This lack of recognition undermines our previous contributions as healthcare professionals, despite the fact that we have provided essential care to patients in both roles.

According to a 2019 study by the Canadian Institute for Health Information, there are more than 60,000 RPNs working across Canada. Many of these nurses may eventually transition into RN roles, where their previous work experience will not be acknowledged under current policies.

We believe that this policy needs to change. We call on healthcare institutions and nursing associations across Canada to recognize prior work experience as an RPN when determining placement on the RN pay grid. This would ensure fair compensation for those who have dedicated their careers to providing quality patient care in both capacities.

Please sign this petition if you believe in fair recognition and remuneration for all nursing professionals based on their total years of service in patient care – regardless of whether they served as an RPN or an RN.