Welcoming Employed Student Nurses into the Workplace

Nursing students who were successful in obtaining an Employed Student Nurse (ESN) position will begin work at various worksites in a supernumerary capacity - that is, they will be scheduled in addition to regular staff. They will work under the direction of a nursing unit manager or designate.

BCNU's position has always been that mentoring nurses is critical to their career development. Experienced nurses can help by creating an environment where ESNs feel comfortable to ask questions and develop their skills. It is important that fellow staff acknowledge the ESN's level of education and training as they will work under a reduced scope of practice. It is also required that these ESNs be trained and oriented into their work. By advocating for the proper supports to be in place for ESNs, nurses can help to make this program a success for everyone at the worksite.

To help nursing students make the transition from school to practice BCNU has developed a number of student nurse programs, including the Employed Student Nurse Program. The program was launched in 2001 following negotiations between BCNU, student nurses, employers, educators and the Registered Nurses' Association of BC. Together, they created a job description to match the skills and knowledge of third- and fourth-year students.

The rules governing the program are set out in the Memorandum of Agreement for Employed Student Nurses. It is re-negotiated in each round of bargaining by the Nurses' Bargaining Association.

The mentoring role that nurses can provide is of course encouraged and very valuable. When mentoring a student nurse, not only does the mentee receive the transfer of knowledge but it also improves the mentor's leadership and professional development.