Nursing Program Continues BPSO Implementation

Following the awarding of a grant of $105,000 from the Registered Nurses Association of Ontario (RNAO) in June 2018, Nipissing University’s nursing programs are transforming through a pre-designation period in order to become a Best Practice Spotlight Organization (BPSO).

The award, which was granted in order to implement and evaluate the RNAO’s best practice guidelines, has an overall goal to result in Nipissing University becoming a recognized BPSO organization. This recognition is noted internationally, and is highly regarded in the nursing profession giving students the opportunity to graduate as a best practice champion.

With the pre-designation transformation now just over one year in, the School of Nursing’s comprehensive report has been submitted by the BPSO Lead team, which is comprised of Dr. Louela Rankin, Dr. Karey McCullough, Nicole Graham, and Erin Davis.The team analyzed all aspects of resources, research, implementation/dissemination models, student engagement, and demonstrated the academic tools developed to assist faculty . The report was successful, and the RNAO has awarded the second year of funding for the continued BPSO implementation.

A retreat was organized at the beginning of June 2019 for faculty from all Nursing programs to come together and discuss the action plans for best practice guidelines integration into the curriculum. A highlight of the retreat was the participation of three blended nursing students, Alicia Hintenberger, Lesley Stefek, and Patricia James. They presented their work under Steven Cairns, a blended Faculty member, highlighting a project which involved the evaluation of a best practice guideline and their active commitment within our best practice spotlight organization as student champions within our School of Nursing.