Regional Perioperative Education Program (RPEP)

You can choose a leading-edge teaching and academic centre, where advanced technology, best practice and cutting edge research go hand-in-hand, or, you can choose to practice in a small community where your full range of skills is fully utilized.

As one of the largest health authorities in Canada, VCH operates 13 hospitals on Canada’s west coast including B.C.’s largest, Vancouver General, and is associated with UBC.  VCH is also home to Vancouver General Hospital Simulation Centre (VGH SIM), a unique facility that promotes education and innovative research using state-of-the-art technology, including cardiac simulators and “virtual hospital” settings.

RPEP is an innovative program that utilizes multiple learning modalities such as online learning, simulation strategy and preceptorship.  The theoretical component is based upon AORN’s Periop 101 online modules.  There is a strong emphasis on the clinical portion in various specialties within the operating room training sites.  Funding will consist of 100% of wages, tuition and books during the training program.  If you are looking for a rewarding, creative nursing career, you have found it in the Regional Perioperative Education Program!

Eligibility criteria

• Current practicing registration with the BC College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM)
• Recent acute medical/surgical nursing experience
• New graduates
• Must be a Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident (temporary Work Visas are not eligible)

Orientation

• Orientation prior to the start of the program
• Completion of four online modules prior to day one of the full-time program

The program is comprised of three main components:

1. Core

Length: 6 weeks of full-time educator-facilitated studies.
Description: 

~ 1 to 3 days/week in classroom:

• Completion of AORN Periop 101™ Modules 1-23
• Skills Laboratory
• Simulation Laboratory

~2 to 5 days/week at the site in which student was hired: 0700-1500 (hours may vary)

• Clinical Practice
• Skills Laboratory

2. CPE (Consolidated Practice Experience)

Length: 6 weeks of full-time educator-facilitated studies
Description: 5 days/week at the site in which students was hired: 0700-1500 (hours may vary)

• Simulation Laboratory

3. Preceptorship

Length: 4 to 12 weeks of full-time educator-supported preceptorship.
Description: Student schedules will align with that of their preceptors where possible

• Periop 101 Final Exam
• Depending on student progress, evenings, nights and weekend shifts may have to be rescheduled to meet learning needs.

Educator supported:

• RPEP educators connect with students and preceptors to assist with optimal learning experiences to consolidate knowledge
• RPEP educators continue to engage in formative assessments and facilitate summative evaluations

Students will be:

• Consolidating knowledge and practice
• Completing daily reflective evaluation
• Receiving feedback/Formative assessment (feedback daily)

Email: rpep@vch.ca
Phone: (778) 986-4997

Toni Robinson, Talent Acquisition Advisor
toni.robinson@vch.ca