What was news at CAPNE Conference?

We returned Wednesday from PEI where we attended the conference for the Canadian Association of Practical Nurse Educators (CAPNE). We saw the Anne of Green Gables Musical which was superb, and walked the streets and paths of Charlottetown.

Eighty CAPNE educators from across Canada came together to discuss education, and to enhance their abilities to provide excellent education for the students in the Practical Nursing programs.

The role of the LPN has changed, the scope has expanded! The colleges are tasked with helping students develop skills, behaviours and knowledge that once was covered in two and three year RN programs.

Elaine Leclerc spoke about generational differences, (the Traditionalists, Baby Boomers, Generation X, and the Millenials) and how these differences play out in the classroom setting and in the workforce. It was fascinating. I reflected on the many times we talk about multicultural issues, but neglect to contemplate the multi-generational conflicts… stemming from individuals coming from such different cultures within the same apparently homogeneous community.

Barb Fry (barbfry.com) had us hooting about challenges in the workplace while reflecting on our behaviours and attitudes and how they impact patient care, workplace relationships and quality of worklife. Barb discussed ideas for working with toxic characters such as the “workplace queens” and “negaholics”. What was most impressive to me was her resilience when her job was cut due to the merger of several hospitals, and how she was able to turn that into a wonderful time of growth and new opportunities. Years ago I came upon a quote that read

“Prepare then for opportunity disguised as loss.”

Barb has done a good job of doing just that!

It was a privilege to present the “Essentials in Hospice Palliative Care” resources at the conference, and I hope we can continue to provide support and resources to educators in the future.

Kath