Prince Edward Island is running two advanced nursing programs aimed at building specialized skills in intensive care and emergency settings, giving nurses structured training to handle high-pressure patient situations.
The Critical Care Nursing Program and the Emergency Nursing Program are offered through the province and are open to registered nurses working in ICU and emergency departments across the island. Both programs blend online coursework, in-person instruction, skills labs, simulation training and clinical practice.
How the programs work
The Critical Care Nursing Program runs for 13 weeks full-time and is offered twice a year for ICU nurses. The Emergency Nursing Program is 16 weeks full-time and runs in the fall and winter. Although participation is optional, it is strongly recommended for nurses working in those environments.
Janelle Jackson and Cassie Andrews lead both programs. Their responsibilities include teaching in labs and simulations, developing curriculum, supporting online learners and keeping up with current best practices.
Simulation as a training tool
A central part of both programs is simulation training at the Clinical Learning and Simulation Centre at the UPEI Medical School. The facility is designed to replicate real hospital units and uses advanced manikins capable of mimicking patient responses.
Andrews said the controlled environment gives nurses room to develop without putting patients at risk. “These courses are a very safe place to learn,” she said. “It gives nurses the chance to make mistakes, ask questions, and try again without risk to patients.”
Jackson said exposure to nurses from different facilities strengthens the training. “Because we teach nurses from everywhere, we often hear how things are done differently in other places,” she said. “That helps us work toward more consistent care across Prince Edward Island.”
Mental health support included
The programs also address the emotional demands of critical and emergency care. Trained professionals lead sessions focused on mental health and self-care as part of the curriculum.
“Working in ICU and emergency is challenging,” said Jackson. “It’s fast paced and intense, but also incredibly rewarding. These programs give nurses time to step back, learn deeply, and build confidence.”
