Regina -- The latest registration figures from the Saskatchewan Association of Licensed Practical Nurses show that the number of Licensed Practical Nurses practicing in the province last year stood at 2,818, the eighth straight year of growth in the profession.

The 2009 registration figures also show that the majority of Saskatchewan's Licensed Practical Nurses (58.7%) work in acute care facilities such as hospitals, while nearly one-quarter (23.6%) are employed in Long Term Care facilities such as nursing homes. Other members of the profession are employed in Community Care (5.6%), Home Care (4.2%) and other specialized programs (7.9%) across the province.

"While the number of Licensed Practical Nurses has been growing year over year, the professional requirements for licensure have also been evolving," said Colin Hein, Executive Director of the Saskatchewan Association of Licensed Practical Nurses.

"To maintain their professional status in Saskatchewan, Licensed Practical Nurses must meet annual Continuing Education requirements. These Continuing Education requirements ensure that Licensed Practical Nurses continue to improve their knowledge, skills and clinical judgment throughout their professional careers," Hein added.

"The Continuing Education requirements for Licensed Practical Nurses in Saskatchewan are an ongoing means of ensuring professional accountability and protection of the public. In order to be licensed in Saskatchewan, Licensed Practical Nurses must gain five Continuing Education points each year through formal education achievements and professional activities," Hein concluded.

The Saskatchewan Association of Licensed Practical Nurses is a self-regulating health professional organization that represents a growing, rapidly evolving component of the health provider team. The regulatory body's sole responsibility is to protect the public and promote patient safety through the efficient regulation of the profession.

Revisions to the Licensed Practical Nurses Act in 2000 gave Licensed Practical Nurses the power to practice autonomously and the authority to approve the profession's education and training programs. Today, Licensed Practical Nurses are independent members of the health provider team and one of three professions within the nursing discipline in Saskatchewan (Licensed Practical Nurses, Registered Nurses and Registered Psychiatric Nurses).

For Further Information Contact:

Colin Hein, Executive Director, Saskatchewan Association of Licensed Practical Nurses
306-525-1436, Ext. 227