Registered psychiatric nurses (RPNs) have successfully completed an entry-level bachelor of psychiatric nursing education program and met
BCCNM licensing requirements.
RPNs are the only nursing profession in Canada educated exclusively in psychiatric and mental health nursing. They bring deep expertise in psychosocial, mental, emotional, and behavioural health across the lifespan.
RPNs provide nursing services for the for the promotion, maintenance, and restoration of health and the prevention of illness and injury, with a particular focus on therapeutic relationships, trauma-informed practice, and the social and environmental factors that shape mental health.
RPNs practise in a wide range of settings, including mental health and substance use services, hospitals, community health, correctional facilities, and primary care. They practise both autonomously and in collaboration with other health-care team members and play a central role in supporting some of BC's most vulnerable populations, supporting integrated, person-centred care.
Employed student psychiatric nurse (ESPN)
Students enrolled in a BCCNM recognized entry-level bachelor of psychiatric nursing education program who are in good standing may be eligible to apply for licensing as an employed student psychiatric nurse (ESPN).
Like the ESN designation, the ESPN pathway supports students in bridging education and practice. ESPNs carry out nursing activities for which they have acquired the competence to safely perform as part of their entry-level program, under the supervision of a nurse. This allows psychiatric nursing students to build on and apply their knowledge and skills, to consolidate their learning and continue building clinical skills in practice settings, including mental health and substance use services.
Certified registered psychiatric nurse (RPN-C)
Registered psychiatric nurses who successfully complete a BCCNM-recognized certification program may apply for RPN-C licensing.
Currently, certification for RPNs is offered in opioid use disorder. RPN-Cs have expanded knowledge and skills in this area, enabling them to perform nursing activities autonomously, including the diagnosis and treatment of select diseases and disorders as defined by their certification program. This expanded scope supports timely, evidence-informed care for clients experiencing opioid use disorder and reflects the significant role RPNs play in BC's substance use and harm reduction landscape.