Canadian RN Exam

June 2012 CRNE Prep Courses

2012-02-13T10:39:00.001-08:00

The June 2012 Canadian RN Exam is only three and a half months away, so it's time to start thinking about how you are going to prepare to tackle this exam. Let PRIMED help you succeed, by enrolling in our highly regarded CRNE prep course.

PRIMED is please to announce they are offering SEVEN courses this spring, including a new live online course. Click on the links below to enroll:

Live Online Course April 28-29, 2012: www.eplyevents.com/LiveOnlinePRIMEDCRNEPrepWorkshop459507

Edmonton May 5-6, 2012: www.eplyevents.com/Edmonton-Spring2012PRIMEDCRNEReviewWorkshop456606

Vancouver May 5-6, 2012:www.eplyevents.com/VancouverSpring2012-PRIMEDCRNEReviewWorkshop456806

Toronto May 12-13, 2012: www.eplyevents.com/Toronto-Spring2012PRIMEDCRNEReviewWorkshop457106

Calgary May 12-13, 2012: www.eplyevents.com/Calgary-Spring2012PRIMEDCRNEReviewWorkshop457606

Winnipeg May 12-13, 2012: www.eplyevents.com/Winnipeg-Spring2012CRNEReviewWorkshop457706

Ottawa May 26-27, 2012 www.eplyevents.com/Ottawa-Spring2012PRIMEDCRNEReviewWorkshop458607

For more information please visit www.primededucation.ca

CRNE Prep June 2012

2012-02-13T10:38:00.001-08:00

Live Online Course April 28-29, 2012: www.eplyevents.com/LiveOnlinePRIMEDCRNEPrepWorkshop459507

Edmonton May 5-6, 2012: www.eplyevents.com/Edmonton-Spring2012PRIMEDCRNEReviewWorkshop456606

Vancouver Edmonton May 5-6, 2012:www.eplyevents.com/VancouverSpring2012-PRIMEDCRNEReviewWorkshop456806

Toronto May 12-13, 2012: www.eplyevents.com/Toronto-Spring2012PRIMEDCRNEReviewWorkshop457106

Calgary May 12-13, 2012: www.eplyevents.com/Calgary-Spring2012PRIMEDCRNEReviewWorkshop457606

Winnipeg May 12-13, 2012: www.eplyevents.com/Winnipeg-Spring2012CRNEReviewWorkshop457706

Ottawa May 26-27, 2012 www.eplyevents.com/Ottawa-Spring2012PRIMEDCRNEReviewWorkshop458607

For more information please visit www.primededucation.ca

Further information on new CRNE exam in Canada

2011-12-19T11:34:00.000-08:00

The College of Registered Nurses of BC (CRNBC) has released some further information on the development of a new nursing exam.

CRNBC is stating that the new exam will be able to accurately assess Canadian RNs through:

Studying nursing practice to ensure the exam assesses entry-level practice competencies
Including Canadian nurses in exam preparation
Include Canadian nurses for sensitivity and translation reviews of the examination
Ensure regulatory bodies are collaborating on the administration of the exam
Ensuring nursing educators and students have time to learn about the new examination

From the way CRNBC is presenting these future changes, it seems as though the exam will not be the NCLEX, rather a Canadian version of the exam, developed through the same organization that develops the NCLEX. However, the differences between the new exam and the existing NCLEX are not yet clear.

The introduction of the new exam will be January of 2015. Therefore Canadian students have 9 further examinations using the current CRNE.

Here are a list of the provinces that have stated they will be implementing this new examination. This list appears to indicate the implementation of the exam will affect almost all of Canada.

Alberta
British Columbia
Manitoba
New Brunswick
Newfoundland and Labrador
Northwest Territories and Nunavut
Nova Scotia
Ontario
Prince Edward Island
Saskatchewan

There is no mention of the nurses in the Yukon, or Quebec (although Quebec has traditionally written a french language examination).

Here is a link to CRNBC's website so you can read more:
https://www.crnbc.ca/crnbc/Announcements/2011/Pages/RNExam.aspx

We will continue to update you as we learn more details.

PRIMED Educational Associates.

Canadian Nurses to be licensed using NCLEX! -Update

2011-12-14T12:36:00.000-08:00

As many people have now heard, last week it was announced that as early as 2014 or 2015 the CRNE will be replaced with the NCLEX.

You can read about this here:

http://www.cna-aiic.ca/CNA/news/releases/public_release_e.aspx?id=307

In other words, starting in a few years, in order to become a nurse in Canada you will need to write the American nursing examination!

While the reasons for this change are unknown, this has ignited a hot debate within the Canadian nursing community. The Canadian Nursing Association feels this change will pull Canadian educated nurses to the United States, making it easier for nurses to travel and obtain work south of the border.

Certainly it seems there is a risk of this, which is particularly contentious in current climate of a Registered Nursing shortage.

While we haven’t been able to find a statement from the licensing organizations yet (such as nursing colleges or provincial associations), there are likely various reasons they have decided to move to the NCLEX.

While it may seem the switch to the NCLEX is an easy option, the NCLEX is a very different exam from the CRNE.

Interestingly at PRIMED we find that many Canadian educated nurses struggle more with the NCLEX and many internationally educated nurse struggle more with the CRNE.

Here is a breakdown on some of the differences between the CRNE and the NCLEX.

	NCLEX	CRNE
Administration	Anytime- Students book through the testing centre Via computer- Students write the exam on computer	3 times/ year: the CRNE is administered winter, fall and spring yearly Via paper/ pencil: papers are marked
Number of Questions	Exam ends when students reach passing or failing mark. May end after 60-80 questions. Questions can have multiple correct answers and students may be instructed to “choose all that apply”	200-220 questions. 200 questions, all are marked. Students also have 20 test questions on top of the 200. Mark is based on 200 questions. Each question has 1 correct answer.
Cognitive Domains	Uses Bloom’s taxonomy for cognitive domain- Describes the majority of the examination as being “higher level of cognitive ability”. Unclear if exam also covers affective domain.	Outlines 3 taxonomy levels: Cognitive Domain 1. Knowledge comprehension 2. Critical Thinking Affective Domain 1. Attitudes and Judgments
Content of exam	NCLEX is organized into “Client Need” categories: 1. Safe & Effective Care Environment 2. Health Promotion and Maintenance 3. Psychosocial Integrity 4. Physiological Integrity	CRNE is organized into 4 Competencies: 1. Professional Practice 2. Nurse-Client Partnership 3. Health & Wellness 4. Changes in Health

Here is an example, taken from the NCLEX development website of an NCLEX sample question. This question can easily illustrate some of the differences between the Canadian and American exams.

“The nurse is caring for a client in a long term care facility. The client’s spouse asks the nurse a question regarding the client’s treatment plan. Which of the following responses would be most appropriate for the nurse to make?

a. I cannot give you information on any client.

b. Can you verify the clients date of birth?

c. Let me ask the primary health care provider to speak with you

d. You should speak directly to the client about the treatment plan.

The NCLEX states that the correct answer is:

a. I cannot give you information on any client

Many Canadian educated nurses might struggle with this question.

While we are taught that we cannot provide confidential client information to other people, we are also taught from a model of family centered care in which we try to share “complete and unbiased information whenever possible”. In the CRNE this question would likely be worded differently, with an option for the nurse to extend a more family centered care perspective to the patients spouse. The nurse who has prepared for the CRNE might expect to see something like:

“I’m unable to give you confidential information on your partner, but let me speak with your spouse so I can determine what he/she would like me to share with you”

Another difference is that much of the content covered in the NCLEX guides can fit within one of the Canadian competencies- the “Changes in Health” competency. This is seen through an increased number of questions that are more clinically or process focused. The NCLEX seems to offer fewer questions on communication and aspects of nurse-client partnership as outlined by the Canadian competencies.

The change from the Canadian RN exam to the NCLEX leaves many nurses, educators and students with outstanding questions.

1. How will Canadian content be included or accounted for in the exam

2. Will curriculums need to be altered to ensure students achieve success on the licensing exam?

3. What will the cost of the new exam be to students?

4. Will this exam draw more Canadian nurses to the USA as the CNA fears

5. How will this change be implemented

6. How do we ensure Canadian nurses continue to meet the standards of practice for Canada when we are not examining on these standards?

PRIMED Educational Associates will continue to offer CRNE preparation and continue to monitor this situation as it develops. We will update our students on the conversation as it unfolds.

In the meantime, we wish everyone continued success with their education and for those students writing the CRNE this winter 2012- time to get studying!

Happy Holidays,

PRIMED Education

Vancouver CRNE Prep Help Available!

2011-12-01T12:56:00.000-08:00

Spaces are now open for the Vancouver PRIMED CRNE review course. The weekend workshop is taking place January 14-15 at the downtown Vancouver SFU campus-Harbourfront centre.
If you are graduating student or an international student and would like some help in preparing for the February 1, 2012 CRNE then sign up for PRIMED's intensive two day prep course. For two full days PRIMED facilitators will lead through different areas of nursing to review fundamental content essential in critical thinking which is an area the CRNE examines you on. In addition, you will practice over 200 mock CRNE questions over the two days and be sent home with a 55 question exam with answers and rationales.
If you live outside Vancouver, you will be pleased to hear PRIMED is also offering courses in Lethbridge, Toronto and Calgary in January.
For more information or to sign up online please visit www.primededucation.ca

CRNE private online tutoring

2011-11-20T17:21:00.000-08:00

PRIMED is now offering private online tutoring for students that are too far away to join one of our group sessions.Let our experienced Master's educated nurses privately tutor you to success on the CRNE. As part of the private sessions you will receive over 16 hours of one on one instruction with a PRIMED facilitator and a 160 page review manual, that includes over 200 mock CRNE questions. In addition, you will be provided with an access code to PRIMED's 200 question mock CRNE exam.

Topics included during the private tutorials include:

Test taking strategies
Community Health
Cardiac
Respiratory
Pediatrics
Geriatrics
Mental Health
Ethics
Clinical Skills
Infectious diseases
Maternity
Gastrointestinal
Endocrine
Neurology
Genitourinary
Pharmacology

The registration fee for private online tutorials is $950+HST

If you are interested in arranging private online tutoring please contact Marlene Burrows and Laura Housden at info@primededucation.ca or 604 839 7520 (Vancouver) or 902 449 4603 (Halifax)

Success on the October 2012 CRNE

2011-11-09T08:10:00.000-08:00

PRIMED is happy to report we are getting several emails a day from students all saying the PASSED the CRNE!

Congratulations to all of you, your hard work and commitment has paid off. All the best in your future careers as nurses.

Read below to see what students are saying:

I just wanted to let you all know that I was successful in the CRNE and passed!!! I am sooo happy and excited at the moment and have shared the great news with my family and friends.

I took the CRNE prep course in Vancouver and I want to thank you all for putting together an amazing review session with the printed material. I feel that I was able to pass the CRNE because of the help and support I received from all of you. I would definitely recommend the two day prep course to anyone writing the CRNE, it was well worth my money and time.

Once again, thank you very much!!!

I received my letter in the mail this morning!!!! It's a PASS!!!!!
I am glad that I was a part of your group :) Thank you for all your tips and information!

Toronto results are out, I passed!
Thanks for your wonderful help and encouragement.

I got the result today and passed, Thank you so much PRIMED!!

PRIMED is offering workshop in January 2012 in preparation for the February 2012 CRNE. To register please visit www.primededucation.ca

CRNE Prep Lethbridge AB

2011-11-03T06:56:00.000-07:00

PRIMED is pleased to announce that due overwhelming demand (especially students at the University of Lethbridge) we will be travelling to Lethbridge, AB in January 2012.

The workshop is scheduled to take place January 7-8, 2012 at the University of Lethbridge-Anderson Hall 117. It will be a busy two days as two Master's prepared facilitators lead you through review of core nursing concepts and teach you strategies to approaching multiple choice questions that you will encounter on the CRNE. Plus, you will have the opportunity to practice over 200 unique mock CRNE questions that you won't find anywhere else.

PRIMED is also offering workshop in January 2012 in the following cities:
Vancouver, Calgary and Toronto

To secure your seat in the course sign up online at http://www.primededucation.ca/ before December 31, 2011 to save $50 off your registration fee.

Tips for Nursing Documentation

2011-10-28T13:16:00.000-07:00

PRIMED not only wants you to be successful on the CRNE, but be successful in your nursing practice.
Here are some tips regarding documentation to keep in mind for the exam and for real life practice:

Chart as soon as possible, especially vital signs. When the health care team rounds in the morning they need to know the most recent vital signs. Charting the at 10 am is not as useful
Be as descriptive as possible. When describing an assessment finding don't hesitate to use non-conventional words if nothing else seems appropriate
When charting about complex wounds it is very helpful to have a picture or tracing of the wound to monitor progression
Remember to never use an eraser or liquid eraser on charts. Instead put a single line through the words and initial them
Sign off on your medications after you administered them, so there is no confusion about what the patient did and did not receive
Remember to use objective non-biased language

New workshop dates announced for January 2012

2011-10-08T11:14:00.000-07:00

PRIMED is pleased to announce registration is now open for January 2012 workshops to help students prepare for the February 2012 Canadian Registered Nurses Exam (CRNE)!

PRIMED will hold 4 locations for the upcoming review sessions:

January 7-8, 2012: Lethbridge Alberta
January 14-15, 2012: Vancouver, BC
January 14-15, 2012: Toronto, ON
January 21-22, 2012: Calgary,. AB

To receive the early registration rate and guarantee yourself a seat in the course sign up today at:
www. primededucation.ca

CRNE Workshop Succes!

2011-10-01T06:59:00.000-07:00

PRIMED is happy to report the fall workshops to prepare students for the October 5 CRNE were a success. PRIMED ran five courses in the following cities: Vancouver, Edmonton, Calgary and Toronto. PRIMED facilitators enjoyed meeting students from across the country both new graduates and IENs.

Good luck to everyone writing next week!!

Edmonton CRNE PREP Course

2011-09-21T06:12:00.000-07:00

If you are a graduating U of A or Grant MacEwan nursing student, congratulations!!
Are you writing your CRNE next month and would like some assistance in preparing for the exam?
Then sign up for PRIMED's two day CRNE prep workshop September 24-25, 2011. It's being held at U of A from 9-5.

This weekend's session will consist of three experienced nurse educators and clinicians leading you through a review of different nursing areas as well as giving you the opportunity to practice over 100 questions. In addition, the 200 page workbook you receive has a 55 question mini mock CRNE with answers and rationales for you to TAKE HOME!

PRIMED will prepare you to be more successful on the exam.
Don't miss out sign up today at http://www.primededucation.ca/

Last minute spots available for Toronto CRNE Prep

2011-09-15T05:11:00.001-07:00

Don't miss out on this weekends CRNE prep course in Toronto! There are still seats available for the September 17-18, 2011 review workshop taking place at Women's College.

Let two experienced nurse educators guide you through the essentials of testing taking and nursing content to get you ready for the exam!

Sign up today at http://www.primededucation.ca/

Last minute spots for Vancouver CRNE prep still available!

2011-09-05T06:09:00.000-07:00

If you are looking for a course that will help you prepare for the October CRNE, there are still spaces available in the Vancouver course. The course is taking place at SFU-Downtown Harbourfront Campus September 10-11, 2011.

Let two experienced Master's prepared nurses guide you through the essentials to help you be successful on the exam.

Register today at http://www.primededucation.ca/

Feedback on PRIMED CRNE Prep Course

2011-08-31T09:52:00.000-07:00

If you're looking for a CRNE prep course, look no further than PRIMED. We offer a 2 day prep course that is designed to get you ready for the exam-CRNE Boot camp!
This is feedback that we received from our Spring 2011 registrants in various locations (Vancouver, Calgary, Kingston, Toronto, Halifax):

I found the review course extremely helpful!! I would definitely recommend this course to anyone who is about to write the CRNE!

I thought it was very well executed. The presenters were knowledgeable and friendly, spoke clearly and presented topics in an easily understandable manner. The breakdown of the course helped to focus studying on important topics. Many important tips were provided for writing the CRNE. Other courses I looked at didn't seem to have a breakdown like this course, more focused on test taking tips and strategies, this is what led to my decision to pursue this course.
It was very thorough and the instructors made it easy to understand. Great review and I feel much more prepared.
It was great I thought! The price seemed high at first, however all the prep courses in Toronto are the same price so still a deal. I thought it really helped give me confidence regarding the fact that they emphasized things such as "you are an entry level nurse" and that we don't need to know every disease and how to diagnose it etc. which I previously thought before the course from reading Mosby prep guide. It really brought the important topics out to study before the exam.
I found the PRIMED CRNE Review course very helpful. The instructors answered all my questions, and they made each section very easy to understand. I now feel more confident in preparing for this exam.

I thoroughly enjoyed participating in the PRIMED CRNE Review Course. Before attending, I had anticipated I would leave the course feeling more frustrated with the CRNE, feeling "like I don't know anything!" However, after leaving it was the opposite. I felt much more confident in my knowledge base!
I found it really helpful. I felt that it gave me a sense of direction in terms of what I should focus on as before I felt confused and thought that there was nothing really to guide students. Now I also know which sections are my strengths and the areas in which I need to spend more time studying. The practice questions at the end of each section were great and very helpful.

Spaces are limited so sign up today at http://www.primededucation.ca/

Early registration deadline ends August 31!

2011-08-26T07:55:00.000-07:00

If you're thinking about attending PRIMED's 2 day CRNE prep course, make sure you sign up and pay by August 31. After September 1, 2011 the registration fee will increase by $50+ tax.

Let PRIMED's experienced facilitators guide you through the essentials of what you need to do to be successful on the CRNE exam. The workshop will start off with a short session on Test Taking Strategies to help you better approach questions. Then you will move into the various systems review such as Community Health, Pediatrics, Maternity, Cardiac, Respiratory, Pharmacology etc. In total you will review 15 different different body systems, which are each followed by 10-15 mock CRNE questions. You will have a chance to answer these questions independently before reviewing and discussing the answers with the group.

The review session will be intense, and each registrant will receive a 200+ page booklet and a mini mock CRNE exam to take home, with answers and rationales.

Don't miss out, sign up today at http://www.primededucation.ca/

Practice mock CRNE question

2011-08-13T04:35:00.000-07:00

Below is an example of a question styled to look what you might see on the CRNE:

The nurse is working with a 52 year old patient Samuel, who has recently received a tracheostomy after a motor vehicle accident resulted in severe head injury and respiratory failure. His wife is very concerned about his comfort during suctioning and asks the nurse how they will ensure that the patient has adequate oxygenation during the procedure. What is the best response?

1. “I will provide your husband with oxygen before I suction him, and monitor his oxygen saturation during the procedure which won’t last longer than 10 seconds”

2. “I will only suction your husband for 15-20 seconds which is the normal suctioning length of time”

3. “I will monitor your husband’s oxygen level after the procedure and apply oxygen if he is hypoxic”

4. “I will hold my breath during the procedure and stop when I feel discomfort, the procedure won’t last longer than 15 seconds”

Answer: 1

Rationale: It is recommended that patients receive oxygen prior to tracheal suctioning. Additionally, O2 saturation should be monitored closely during the procedure which should last no longer than 10 seconds.

For more practice questions try PRIMED's 200 question online mock CRNE exam or sign up for an upcoming 2 day workshop at http://www.primededucation.ca/

Spots filling up!

2011-07-29T13:21:00.000-07:00

Spots for the upcoming PRIMED CRNE review sessions are filling up quickly, especially for Toronto and Vancouver. Sign up today to ensure you seat in the course that will help prepare you be more confident and less anxious during your big day.

Course locations and dates:
September 10-11th: Vancouver-St. Paul's Hospital

September 10-11th: Halifax-Dalhousie University

September 17-18th: Toronto-Toronto General Hospital

September 17-18th: Calgary-University of Calgary

September 24-25th: Edmonton-Location: TBA

Visit our website at http://www.primededucation.ca/

October CRNE

2011-07-07T14:02:00.000-07:00

Many of you are probably starting to think about getting started in your studying for the October 2011 CRNE. If you are, that's great! PRIMED Ed. has some tips for you to get started:

Prepare a study schedule-Many of you are probably trying to balance work, family and studying and planning out a schedule will help you set realistic goals as well as reduce anxiety.
Start to plan dates with study group or or partner-Choose a topic that you've both reviewed ahead of time prior to meeting that you will REVIEW when you get together
Use the CNA's prep guide-The CNA writes the exam and therefore this guide should be your primary resource to study from
Identify your areas that need improvement-It's more tempting to study the stuff your good at, because it's a lot less work than studying the stuff you don't know very well. But, leave the stuff you're more comfortable about closer to the end of your studying

Hope this tips help!
To register for September PRIMED CRNE prep workshops please visit http://www.primededucation.ca/

Registration for Fall 2011 courses now open!

2011-06-22T16:12:00.000-07:00

PRIMED Education's fall 2011 courses are now open for registration.
Spaces fill up quickly so register today to secure your spot.

Our courses and locations are:

September 10-11th: Vancouver
September 10-11th: Halifax
September 17-18th: Toronto
September 17-18th: Calgary
September 24-25th: Edmonton

You can register at www.primededucation.ca or by clicking on a links located on this blog.

We hope to see you there!
PRIMED Education

Good luck next week on the CRNE!

2011-05-28T11:22:00.000-07:00

From all of us at PRIMED we'd like to extend good luck to all of our students writing their exam on June 1, 2011. No doubt this weekend will be a busy one for you, doing last minute revising and practice.
Remember how important ABC's and the nursing process.
Another reminder to look through the CNA's LeaRN guide and review the competencies the exam will be based on.
For those of you wanting a mock CRNE exam, you may purchase and write a 200 question exam at www.primededucation.ca
You have two attempts at the exam and it will be marked and feedback will be sent to you immediately after it's submitted.

Mock CRNE Exam

2011-05-15T13:37:00.000-07:00

Visit www.primededucation.ca to practice a 200 question mock CRNE exam.
For only $55 you get two attempts at the exam. After you submit it, you will immediately receive a score and the rationales to all the questions.
Try it out today!

Space still available in the Vancouver CRNE course!

2011-04-04T17:34:00.000-07:00

There are still spots available in this weekends (April 9-10, 2011) CRNE prep workshop. The course is taking place at St. Paul's Hospital Conference Centre in downtown Vancouver.

This two day workshop will be an intense review to help you prepare for the June 2011 CRNE. You will review nursing content as well as practice questions. The course includes a booklet that is 200 pages long with a mini mock CRNE take home exam with answer and rationales.

Sign up today at http://www.primededucation.ca/

Calgary CRNE review workshop sold out

2011-03-24T16:21:00.000-07:00

PRIMED has now closed it's registration for the Calgary CRNE prep course taking place April 19-20, 2011as it is SOLD OUT, however there is still lots of room in our other sites, including Edmonton.

If you would like an intensive 2 day review workshop that will help you succeed on the CRNE then register online at www.primededucation.ca

Venues announced

2011-03-16T04:26:00.000-07:00

PRIMED is please to announce that the venues for the upcoming dates for the CRNE prep workshops have been determined.

Vancouver (April 9-10)-St. Paul's Hospital
Edmonton (April 16-17)-University of Alberta
Calgary (April 19-20)-University of Calgary
Toronto (April 30-May 1)-Toronto General Hospital
Halifax (May 7-8)-Dalhousie University
Kingston (May 14-15) venue TBA

To register for this two day workshop, please visit http://www.primededucation.ca/

A bit about PRIMED

2011-02-26T06:07:00.000-08:00

PRIMED Ed. was developed by Marlene Burrows & Laura Housden. Their goal was to develop a concise two day prep course for students preparing for the CRNE. In essence a "CRNE bootcamp". This was in response to the lack of study tools/aids and prep courses available and the desperate need demonstrated by students.

With regards the CRNE most students have one of these two concerns or both:
1. They need practice with answering CRNE style questions (often psychosocial questions)
2. They need review on core nursing concepts

The PRIMED CRNE review course does both of things. We not only practice questions but we review content too! The two day workshop is structured according to nursing topics and each one is followed by CRNE style questions. This allow students to better determine where there areas of strengths and weaknesses are to focus and utilize their study time better.
The 2011 June CRNE has prompted PRIMED to hold CRNE review courses in many cities across Canada including:
Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Toronto, Kingston and Halifax.
If you would like more information please visit http://www.primededucation.ca/

Here you can view the 2 day course outline (About page) and sign up online.

Kingston date added!

2011-02-20T15:42:00.000-08:00

PRIMED is pleased to announce they have added another Ontario stop to their spring 2011 CRNE review workshops!

PRIMED will be holding a two day CRNE prep workshop in Kingston, ON
May 14-15, 2011

This is the workshop for you whether you are a new grad or an internationally educated nurse preparing the write the June 2011 CRNE.

To register online please click on the link in the left hand corner of the page.

PRIMED CRNE Prep Workshops-Spring 2011

2011-02-09T16:32:00.000-08:00

PRIMED is pleased to announce registration has opened for the CRNE review workshops taking place in Vancouver, Calgary, Edmonton, Toronto and Halfax! We will get you PRIMED for the June 2011 CRNE.

Vancouver, BC April 9-10, 2011
Edmonton, AB April 16-17, 2011
Calgary, AB April 19-20, 2011
Toronto, ON April 30-May 1, 2011
Halifax, NS May 7-8, 2011

Past participants have described our workshops as being like "CRNE bootcamp".
For more information and to sign up online visit http://www.primededucation.ca/

CRNE Practice Questions

2011-01-28T15:08:00.000-08:00

If you are looking to practice CRNE style questions in preparation for the big exam, the try the PRIMED mock CRNE Exam!
It consists of 200 online practice questions that mimic the real things. For only $55 you get two attempts at the exam.

Visit http://www.primededucation.ca/ Quizzes page to practice online!

Winter Wrapup

2011-01-27T16:49:00.000-08:00

PRIMED has just finished a busy January running three CRNE review courses in Vancouver, Calgary and Toronto. Students came from close and far to join PRIMED facilitators in the intensive 2 day review course to help prepare them for the February 3, 2011 CRNE.

We enjoyed meeting the various students from across the country including new grads and internationally educated nurses. Good luck to each of them on their exam.

Calgary CRNE review workshop!

2011-01-19T06:54:00.000-08:00

It's not too late to register for the CRNE prep review course taking place this weekend-January22-23 at the University of Calgary.

Experience two full days of facilitating by masters prepared nurses who have helped hundreds of students suceed on the CRNE. You will have the opportunity to review core nursing concepts plus practice over 200 mock CRNE questions.

For more information or to sign up online please visit http://www.primededucation.ca/

CRNE Prep Course in Vancouver

2011-01-12T05:24:00.000-08:00

There are still spots available in this weekends (January 15-16, 2011) CRNE prep workshop. It is being held at St. Paul's Hospital Conference Centre in Vancouver. If you want a chance to review core nursing knowledge regarding the different nursing areas and practice writing CRNE style questions, then this is the course for you!
If you are interested sign up online at www.primededucation.ca or contact us by email info@primededucation.ca or by phone 604 839 7520 or 902 449 4603.

On another note, last weekends course in Toronto January 8-9, 2011) was a huge success and participants raved about the information and test taking strategies they received. Toronto's session was sold out and despite all the snow on Friday night we started bright and early Saturday by starting with the Test Taking Skills Section, before delving into the other sections such as community and population health, ethics, geriatrics, cardiac, etc.
All participants scored their readiness level to write the CRNE at a higher level after the course, and they know that they can contact us at anytime for ongoing study support up until the date of the CRNE on February 2, 2011.
Good luck to all of them!

2 Spots left for Toronto CRNE Prep!

2011-01-06T13:43:00.000-08:00

There are 2 spots in this weekends (January 8-9, 2011) CRNE review prep course. If you want to grab one of the last couple of spots sign up now at http://www.primededucation.ca/
This weekends session looks to be fantastic. So if you are looking for a nursing concept review plus help in ways to better tackle CRNE questions don't miss the review class running this weekend at Ryerson.
If you have any questions please call or email us at:
info@primededucation.ca
604 839 7520-Laura
902 449 4603-Marlene

Vancouver CRNE Tutoring

2010-12-18T05:12:00.000-08:00

Spots are still available for the Vancouver PRIMED CRNE review workshop.

If you are writing the February 2011 CRNE and are worried about if you are going to be prepared then let PRIMED help you.

By attending our two day workshop January 15-16, 2011 not only will you have the opportunity to practice over 200 mock CRNE questions, but you will also review core nursing concepts and knowledge including health challenges you will likely see on the exam. Also, PRIMED facilitators will give you tips on how to approach and answer those tough questions.

For more information and online registration please visit http://www.primededucation.ca/.
Workshops are also available in Calgary and Toronto in January.

Toronto CRNE Prep workshop

2010-12-14T15:25:00.000-08:00

Spots for the PRIMED CRNE prep workshop in Toronto are filling up fast! There are only 10 spots left, so sign up today to receive the early registration rate of $300.

For more information about this two day intensive workshop visit http://www.primededucation.ca/

Vancouver CRNE Help Available!

2010-12-08T18:08:00.000-08:00

Are you writing the Canadian Registered Nurse Exam in February 2011?
Are you starting to feel anxious about how you are going to study for the exam?
Are you feeling like you've done a lot of the practice questions but need new ones?
Are you feeling like you need a strategy to writing the CRNE?

If you are a new grad, or a internationally educated nurse and want help studying for the CRNE and don't know where to look, then look no further.... we can help you get PRIMED for your big day. PRIMED Ed Assoc. is co-founded by two nurses who have helped hundreds of nurses be successful on their CRNE.
PRIMED offers an intensive two day workshop that reviews fundamental nursing concepts and incorporates over 200 mock CRNE questions.

There are upcoming PRIMED CRNE review sessions in Vancouver, Toronto and Calgary in January 2011 in preparation for the February 2011 CRNE. For more information or to registered online visit http://www.primededucation.ca/

CRNE mock question

2010-11-25T06:50:00.000-08:00

See if you can answer the following CRNE style question correctly:

1. The nurse is reviewing a client's nursing admission notes from the emergency room, where the client spent 3 days. The nurse sees an entry in the paper chart stating "patient is manipulative, and lies". What is the appropriate action of the nurse in this situation?

     1. Delete the entry by drawing a line through it and initialing it
     2. Approach the patient regarding your concerns
     3. Assess the patient to determine if he is manipulative
     4. Ensure that your charting is objective and factual

Answer: 4
Rationale: When charting ensure that your statement remain objective and factual. Avoid using language that is judgemental. Nurse's never delete another professionals written note.

For more questions like this please visit http://www.primeducation.ca/

Toronto CRNE Venue Announced

2010-11-19T10:02:00.000-08:00

PRIMED is please to announce that the Toronto CRNE preparatory workshop will take place at

Ryerson University:
Room # POD370 (3rd floor)
Podium building
350 Victoria Street
Toronto, Ontario M5B 2K3

Campus map/direction: www.ryerson.ca/map

This review course will take place January 8-9th, 2011. Limited spots are available so sign up today at www.primededucation.ca

CRNE January 2011 Dates

2010-11-14T18:08:00.000-08:00

The 2011 Canadian Registered Nurse Exam (CRNE) takes place:

February 2, 2011

June 1, 2011

October 5, 2011

According to the CNA in order to register for the exam, you must go through the process according to the provinical regulatory body that governs your area. Also, please check on the CNA website to see when the application deadline is and where the closest CRNE testing centre is.

For help preparing for the CRNE please visit http://www.primededucation.ca/ for information regarding the next CRNE prep sessions in Vancouver, Toronto and Calgary in January 2011.

Toronto CRNE date added!

2010-11-12T04:15:00.000-08:00

For those of you in the Greater Toronto Area, looking for a Canadian RN Exam Prep course you'll be happy to hear the PRIMED is coming!
Due to popular demand and increasing enrollment for several groups at universities, PRIMED has decided to offer a course in the new year in Toronto. PRIMED's intensive 2 day prep course will run January 8-9, 2011 at Ryerson University in downtown Toronto. This workshop will help prepare you to be successful for the February 2011 CRNE.
Our workshop is unique as you will not only practice several dozen mock CRNE questions, but the facilitators will also guide you through a thorough review of nursing fundamentals to help you determine where you need to focus your studying.

Spots are limited so sign up today to reserve your spot in the Toronto course at www.primededucation.ca

CRNE iphone App

2010-11-09T03:58:00.000-08:00

PRIMED has updated their CRNE iphone App!

So if you would like to practice mock Canadian RN exam (CRNE) questions on the go, then download our app. For only $15 dollars you get unlimited attempts at 100 questions which have been written to help you succeed. Each question has a rationale that accompanies it, so you can determine if you are on the right track.

Visit http://www.primededucation.ca/ and click on quizzes to download our app or try out 200 question mock CRNE exam.

MOCK CRNE Exam Online

2010-09-26T13:23:00.000-07:00

If you're looking for more CRNE style questions to practice, please visit www.primededucation.ca

PRIMED co-founders Marlene Burrows & Laura Housden have developed a mock 200 question CRNE exam. This exam includes case study questions as well as independent questions just like the real thing. For just $55 you have two attempts at writing different questions than the CNA review guide offers you.
All you need is a PayPal account set up to register. Then you will have instant access to your exam. After you have submitted your exam it is immediately marked and scored out of 200. You will also receive the rationales for the questions you incorrectly answered.

We also offer a iphone app with 100 questions that is a fun way to test your knowledge! Please visit our the Quizzes page on our website to access these tools.

Better Business Bureau Approved

2010-09-24T11:11:00.000-07:00

PRIMED is pleased to announce they have been accredited by the Better Business Bureau (BBB) of Canada!

The approval was granted August 31, 2010. This means that it supports BBB's services to the public and meets BBB Accreditation standards. PRIMED is committed it's students and aims to meet their needs and maintain services to the highest of standards.

Here is the link to the BBB site with our rating:
http://www.bbb.org/mbc/business-reviews/tutoring/primed-educational-associates-in-port-moody-bc-1251339#ratingdetails

Vancouver is PRIMED, next is Edmonton and then Calgary!

2010-09-14T13:37:00.000-07:00

PRIMED is pleased to announce the Vancouver CRNE prep workshop was a success! We really enjoyed meeting the students who included new university grads (from the Vancouver area, Vancouver Island and Calgary), and internationally trained nurses (from the US, Japan, Korea).

Next, we are off the Edmonton where we have a SOLD OUT course! But, if you are interested we still have spots available in the Calgary course September 18-19, 2010 at the University of Calgary. Please visit www.primededucation.ca for more information and online registration.

Last minute registrants for Vancouver

2010-09-09T17:19:00.000-07:00

We are still taking last minute registrants for the Canadian Registered Nurses Exam Prep course taking place this weekend, September 11-12, 2010 at St. Paul's Hospital Conference Centre-Room 6.

The workshop runs from 9-5 both days and includes a catered lunch and a 160 page review booklet. If you are interested please sign up online at www.primededucation.ca to pay by email money transfer or PayPal. If this form of payment is not accessible to you, please email us and we can work out a cash payment.

The course fee is $350.
Please visit our website for more information.

Seats filling up!

2010-09-03T05:48:00.000-07:00

If your waiting out on signing up for the CRNE prep workshops that are quickly approaching don't wait too much longer as seats are filling up quickly.

Here are the venues:

September 11-12, 2010 Vancouver-St. Paul's Hospital conference room 6

September 16-17, 2010 Edmonton-University of Alberta-Lister Centre-Evergreen Room

September 18-19, 2010 Calgary-University of Calgary-Murray Fraser Hall Rm. 164

Don't delay sign up today! Sign up online at www.primededucation.ca

Early Registration Rate Ends Aug.31!

2010-08-30T06:46:00.000-07:00

Register by tomorrow to take the advantage of the early registration rate of $300 for the PRIMED CRNE review courses taking place in September in Vancouver, Edmonton and Calgary.
Starting September 1 the registration fee will be going up to $350.

Our sessions are as follows:

September 11-12, 2010 Vancouver, BC-St. Paul's Hospital
September 16-17, 2010 Edmonton, AB-University of Alberta
September 18-19, 2010 Calgary, AB-University of Calgary

You can register online at www.primededucation.ca or email info@primededucation.ca for more information

Why choose PRIMED for your CRNE prep?

2010-08-25T07:22:00.001-07:00

Many of you may be considering attending a CRNE prep course to help you prepare for the Canadian RN exam, but you're not sure which course to choose. There are a few different options out there and we here at PRIMED encourage students to choose the one that suits their needs.

Some CRNE courses only provide students with the opportunity to write practice exams. While it's great to do this, and if this is all you feel you need then hopefully you should be set. But, what we feel many students need is assistance in learning how to critically read and answer questions. The CRNE exam has its own style and one must get acquainted with this style in order to effectively read and answer the questions. During our two day course we help students narrow down their options and choose the best available option in a question. Other students feel they need to review the core information that they learned in their nursing degree program as 4 years is a lot to reviews and consolidate.

Why not combine both! By attending a PRIMED CRNE reviews course students will have the opportunity to review nursing content in the following areas:

· Test taking strategies

· Community health

· Nursing ethics

· Geriatrics

· Cardiac

· Respiratory

· Genitourinary

· Clinical Skills

· Pediatrics

· Neurology

· Gastrointestinal

· Endocrinology

· Infectious diseases

· Pharmacology

In addition, students will have the opportunity to practice review questions after each of the nursing areas. During the span of the two day course you will practice over 200 questions and have the chance to dissect and discuss each one.

Another reason to choose PRIMED is because of the quality of their facilitators. PRIMED facilitators are dedicated to helping you succeed on the exam. Our tutoring does not end on the last day of the course. We continue to provide assistance via email and by telephone for those that have questions or need support.

PRIMED facilitators are Registered Nurses or Nurse Practitioners with Master's degrees who have substantial clinical and teaching experience. All facilitators are registered with the College of Registered Nurses of BC. If you wish to verify the status of Marlene Burrows or Laura Housden please visit: https://www.crnbc.ca/Pages/NurseVerification.aspx.

Toronto course a possibility?

2010-08-20T04:31:00.000-07:00

Do you live in the Toronto area and want some help preparing for the Canadian Registered Nurse Exam, either for the upcoming sitting in October or for 2011? Then we want to hear from you!

We having received some emails from students living in the Greater Toronto area that would like us to put on a 2 day CRNE prep session, however we need to hear from more of you.

Currently, there is a student that is trying to gather enough student interest to plan a workshop in Toronto, please contact us or her if you are interested: http://ottawa.kijiji.ca/c-community-classes-lessons-Taking-the-Canadian-Registered-Nursing-Exam-October-6th-2010-W0QQAdIdZ222290592

Many of you will be graduating next year from the many schools of nursing in Ontario (University of Toronto, Ryerson University, York University, Seneca College, Brock University, Queens, McMaster, University of Western Ontario etc.) and will be looking for some help in preparing for the CRNE. Then why don't you organize your own school session. We will travel to your community to hold a 2 day prep session which includes lunch!

Please email us at info@primededucation.ca to let us know how we can work together.

For more information please visit our website at www.primededucation.ca

Practice question

2010-08-18T04:37:00.000-07:00

Let's practice a CRNE style question and break down the options.

Question: Suzy Ip is a 43 year old woman who has just been diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Suzy has been admitted to the hospital for investigations and has just been told of her diagnosis. Suzy is married to Hank, 45 years old, and has two children Patrina 12 years old and Kelsey 10 years old. They live in a middle class neighborhood in a suburban community, population of 50, 000. Suzy asks the nurse what her prognosis will be. What is the best response by the nurse?

1) Your prognosis is dependent on the type of MS you have
2) What did the physician tell you?
3) Let me discuss this with the team
4) It sounds like you would like to discuss the prognosis of the disease

Answer: 1 Your prognosis is dependent on the type of MS you have
Rationale: This is the only option that is answering Suzy's specific question. Option 2 and 3 are clearly not answering her concerns and option 4 is a redundant answer, therefore option 1 is the best answer.

How did you do? Would you like more practice? Try our 200 question mock CRNE style exam at www.primededucation.ca or download or Iphone app for practice on the go!

CRNE Prep

2010-08-09T10:57:00.000-07:00

Are you enjoying the nice warm summer weather. Does it feel like the CRNE is a long ways away? Well it's not that far around the corner. In fact, it is just over 60 days away. So it's definitely time to start thinking about how you are going to study for the CRNE whether you are winding up school or perhaps recently moved to Canada.

I'm sure many of you are dreading writing the four hour licensing exam and are not sure how to start studying, because after all there is a lot of information you're expected know. However, it is possible and necessary to study for this exam in order to be successful.

It is recommended that you have some sort of plan of attack. Take out a calendar and write in some dates that you want to have certain things reviewed by. Also slot in some study sessions, and write in the days that you are working or have other commitments so you can see what time left you really have left to study.

Next, suggestion is to maybe have a study timeline of topics that you need to get through. Remember to start with the areas you are weakest with first then move on to the topics that you are more familiar with. The sooner you start the better prepared you'll be. But also remember, not to pull all day marathon study sessions, especially this much before the exam or you'll burn out. Start with 2-3 hours and then you can increase it as time draws nearer.

Consider attending the PRIMED CRNE review workshops taking place in September in Vancouver, Calgary or Edmonton. This is a perfect way to review core nursing content while having the opportunity to practice over 200 CRNE style questions.

If you want to practice while your on the go, download the PRIMED CRNE iphone app available at http://www.appstorehq.com/crneprepquiz-iphone-241622/app

For more study tips, check out earlier blog entries and visit www.primededucation.ca

Edmonton workshop venue

2010-08-06T07:29:00.001-07:00

The Edmonton CRNE prep workshop will take place at the University of Alberta September 16-17, 2010.
Register now to save your seat in the course you don't want to miss!

EDMONTON workshop!

2010-07-30T18:00:00.000-07:00

PRIMED Ed. Assoc. is pleased to announce that due to popular demand an Edmonton date has been set for the CRNE prep workshop September 16-17, 2010. Exact venue is TBA.

So whether you are a new grad or internationally trained nurse, you will benefit from an intensive review of core concepts and also have the opportunity to practice 200 CRNE style questions.

You can register online at www.primededucation.ca
Register before Sept. 1 to save $50 off the registration fee.

CRNE exam help available

2010-07-22T17:27:00.000-07:00

Are you a student who was unsuccessful on the June, 2010 Canadian Registered Nurses Exam (CRNE). If so, do not despair. PRIMED education has had numerous emails and phone calls from students did not pass the CRNE and are looking for help when the rewrite in October.

Fortunately, there is help available through PRIMED's CRNE review workshops. These workshops include 15 hours of instruction by Master's prepared nurses who will take you through different areas of nursing and give you the opportunity to practice over 200 CRNE style questions. Please visit our website at www.primededucation.ca for more information.

Here is an example of the course outline for the May courses:

DAY 1

0845-0900: CHECK IN

9:00-9:05: INTRODUCTIONS AND ORIENTATION TO COURSE

9:05-9:20: Chapter 1: Test-Taking Strategies............................

9:20-10:30: Chapter 2: Community Health........................

10:40-11:05: Chapter 3: Ethics............................

11:05-11:55: Geriatrics...............................................

11:55-12:15: Morning questions and answers

12:15-1:00 = LUNCH 45 MINUTES

1:00- 1:55: Chapter 5: Cardiac....................

1:55-2:40: Chapter 6: Respiratory.....................

2:40-2:50: PM BREAK 10 MINUTES

2:50- 4:15: Chapter 7: Pediatrics..................................

4:15- 5:00: Chapter 8: Genitourinary-.....................

5:00: Day 1 wrap questions and answers

DAY 2

9:00-9:45: Chapter 9: Clinical Skills...............................................

9:45-10:30: Chapter 9: Gastrointestinal............................................

10:30-1045: Chapter 10: Hematology..............................................

10:45-11:00: AM BREAK 15 MINUTES

11:00-12:00: Chapter 11: Maternity..................................................

12:00-12:35: Chapter 12: Endocrine..................................................

12:35-1:15: LUNCH 40 MINUTES

1:15-2:00: Chapter 13: Mental Health................................................

2:00--2:45: Chapter 14: Neurology..................................................

2:45-3:00: PM BREAK 15 MINUTES

3:00-4:00: Chapter 15: Infectious Diseases.....................................

4:00-:4:45: Chapter 16: Pharmacology............................................

4:45-5:15: WRAP UP

Guest lecture at the University of Calgary

2010-07-06T10:09:00.000-07:00

PRIMED co-founders, Marlene Burrows & Laura Housden were invited by University of Calgary (U of C) assistant professor Judy Boychuk Duchscher to guest lecture a fourth year nursing class.

On Monday June 28th via Skype Laura and Marlene conducted a four hour class on preparing for the Canadian Registered Nurses Exam (CRNE). Included in the class was information about the exam, test taking strategies, and CRNE style questions to practice. The U of C students definitely showed their critical thinking skills and asked wonderful questions. We look forward to seeing many of them during a full PRIMED CRNE prep course which will take place:

September 18-19, 2010 at the University of Calgary from 9am-5pm

Students can register online at www.primededucation.ca

September Workshop

2010-06-17T20:13:00.000-07:00

Marlene Burrows & Laura Housden the co-founders of PRIMED Ed. Assoc. are deciding where to hold their September CRNE workshops.

A Vancouver date of Sept 11-12 has already been set to take place at St. Paul's Hospital.
We are considering holding a course in Edmonton and Halifax but we would love to hear from you if this is something you're interested in attending.

Please email us at info@primededucation.ca so we can hear your requests!

Iphone App now available!

2010-06-11T09:53:00.000-07:00

PRIMED Ed. Assoc. is pleased to be the first to offer an application (iphone app) to help students prepare for the Canadian RN Exam.

This is a 100-question practice quiz to prepare you for the Canadian Registered Nurse Exam (CRNE). It contains questions similar to those you will find on the real test.

Once you've downloaded the app it's yours to practice with as many times as you want. Good luck!!
To purchase and download the app please visit:

Visit the App store:
http://www.appstorehq.com/crneprepquiz-iphone-241622/app

ITunes Store:
http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewSoftware?id=372091606&mt=8?partnerId=30&siteID=KEmRFwU0WKY-5tpx1zMzkpigITYzhTI82g

Last Minute Canadain RN Exam tips

2010-06-01T08:23:00.000-07:00

Are you writing your CRNE tomorrow and want some last minute pointers? Read below for some practical do and don't tips that might help you get through that day a little smoother.

The Evening Before the Exam:

Get everything ready that you need. Take out the clothes that you will be wearing. We suggest dressing in layers as temperatures can be variable in the exam room. Get a pencil case ready with multiple pencils a couple of erasers and anything else you usually take to the exam (water bottle, kleenex). Wear your watch; it will prevent any unnecessary straining to find a clock in the room, not to mention save valuable time and any suggestion that you are cheating. Ensure you know exactly where the exam is. Have your route mapped out with appropriate transit lines or driving directions.

When this is done, try and relax a little. Read a book for pleasure, take a bath or spend time with your family. Last minute cramming is actually counterproductive at this point as it decreases your ability to critically think and problem solve. When you are ready for to go to sleep, you may want to set two alarms, just in case the first one fails, or have a friend that is writing the exam call to ensure you’re up.
The Day of the Exam

The morning of the exam, carry on with your usual routine, so if that involves walking Fido continue to do so. Ensure you have a wholesome breakfast that includes both carbohydrates and protein. Ensure you have some water in the morning and if you usually have caffeine continue to do so, just don’t consume any more than usual.

What if you’re too worried to eat?

Again, ensure you have water and it would probably be a good idea to drink an electrolyte solution, to prevent hypoglycemia. Something like gatorade/powerade is good. You could even take a meal replacement drink such as enusre. If you can try to eat a meal replacement bar if you can't eat an entire breakfast.

Plan to get to the exam writing centre at least 30 minutes before your exam, so that if you run into problems with traffic you have some leeway. In addition, this time will allow you to get acquainted with your surroundings and use the bathroom. It is vital that you avoid negative influences! If you see some of your classmates there and know that they exude a lot of negative energy before the exam ignore them! Instead, listen to music or stand alone or with a supportive friend while waiting to go in.

During Lunch
Ensure that you eat a balanced lunch and stay hydrated. If you are able to get up and walk around for 10 minutes that would be beneficial to help you relax and clear your head. Again, don’t surround yourself with negative influences, and don’t discuss the questions from the morning session, as it will only provoke anxiety.

After the Exam

Celebrate! Congratulations on finishing your exam. You will probably go over some of the questions with your classmates at this time, but remember not to dwell on the ones you got wrong as we always remember those ones, and not all the questions we answered with confidence.

Mock CRNE style practice question

2010-05-24T06:28:00.000-07:00

Next week is the Canadian RN Exam. Hopefully, many of you have been studying hard and feeling somewhat ready to write the exam. I'm sure many of you are searching everywhere for some practice questions so let's try one:

1. The nurse has hung one unit of packed red blood cells after performing all the necessary safety checks. The nurse is assessing for signs/symptoms of an acute transfusion reaction which include:

1. Hypothermia

2. Epistaxis

3. Nausea

4. Pruritus

Remember that when writing a multiple choice exam it is important to read the stem of the question twice and all your options twice. Let's breakdown the question by looking at the different options.

1. Hypothermia: this answer is incorrect because in an acute transfusion reaction one of the most common reactions is high fever (hyperthermia)

2. Epistaxis: a nose bleed does not occur

3. Nausea: this is not a sign/symptom of an acute reaction

4. Pruritus: itchiness is a common reaction in an acute reaction.

Other common reactions include fever, chills, or urticaria. Other signs occurring in a blood transfusion include severe shortness of breath, red urine and loss of consciousness may be the first indication of a more severe potentially fatal reaction.

Now, what would be the nurses course of action in the above situation? Write down the nursing interventions for this scenario and prioritize them. Later in the week we will examine these nursing actions.

In the meantime if any of you would like to try more CRNE style questions please visit our website at www.primededucation.ca and on the home page click on the CRNE style testing centre. For $55 dollars you will receive two attempts at 200 questions.

Good luck!

MOCK CRNE available

2010-05-13T08:38:00.000-07:00

Are you tired of going over and over the CNA's red book for CRNE prep?
Are you finding that you have now memorized the answers to the questions?

Do you want some different questions to try?
If so, try PRIMED's 200 question mock CRNE style exam. For $55 you will have two attempts at practicing CRNE style questions. After you submit your quiz it will be automatically marked and give you a percentage. Then take some time to work on your areas for improvement. Then for your second attempt at the quiz we suggest simulating test day. Get up at the time you will need to for the exam get ready and sit down for the full four hours. Turn off you phone and any other distraction to try and simulate test day as much as possible.

Visit www.primededucation.ca and click on the button that says "CRNE style testing centre" in the top right hand corner. You need to have a PayPal account set up to transfer the funds. If you don't have one set up it just takes a few minutes. PayPal keep close track of all its products so you can rest assured you will not have any difficulties accessing the quiz.

Good luck!
Marlene Burrows & Laura Housden
www.primededucation.ca

Canadian RN exam prep workshop success!

2010-05-10T08:44:00.000-07:00

PRIMED is pleased to announce the Canadian Registered Nurses Exam (CRNE) prep workshop that was held in Vancouver May 8-9 at St. Paul's Hospital was a success!

The weekend was packed full of review of different nursing topics such as community health, cardiac, maternity etc. After reviewing the theory in each section, students had the opportunity to practice CRNE style questions. In total students practiced more than 200 questions over the 2 day workshop, which not only tested their knowledge of the content, but also familiarized them with the style of question they will see on the CRNE.

Students told us after they completed the workshop they felt more confident and ready to take the exam. Students will now continue to study but they also know that PRIMED is available to provide ongoing support to them until they write their exam in June.

Stay tuned for some CRNE style practice questions.
Also, please visit our website at www.primededucation.ca where you can practice a mock CRNE exam with 200 questions twice for $55.

Contest

2010-05-04T10:18:00.000-07:00

The first person to email us back with the correct answer to the following questions will receive 15% off their PRIMED CRNE review registration rate for the course May 8-9 in Vancouver.

What is one of the most common causes of croup?

a) streptococcus
b) Hib
c) HSV
d) RSV

email your answer to info@primededucation.ca

CRNE Prep Vancouver

2010-04-29T22:13:00.000-07:00

There is still room left in the Vancouver location of the PRIMED Canadian Registered Nurse Exam prep course taking place May 8-9, 2010 at St. Paul's Hospital downtown.

Whether your looking for the opportunity to write CRNE style questions, review nursing concepts or find out the areas you need to concentrate your studies on, the PRIMED CRNE review course is for you!

During this two full day workshop, you will practice over 200 CRNE style questions. Not only that, but PRIMED facilitators will review common clinical scenarios and nursing interventions that you need to know for the exam and for clinical practice.

In addition, the registration fee will include a 160 page workbook and lunch on both days!

Sign up now at www.primededucation.ca

Calgary success!

2010-04-25T18:24:00.000-07:00

PRIMED is pleased to announce the Canadian RN review preparation course at the University of Calgary April 24-25 was a success!

Students from University of Calgary and Mont Royal College joined us for the educationally packed weekend. We really enjoyed teaching this group of students as they were attentive, used critical thinking and asked interesting questions.

For example, students had many questions about the H1N1 influenza outbreak so we spent some time reviewing that as they are likely to encounter questions on the exam on this.

The students told us their confidence greatly improved and they feel much more ready for the CRNE in June, 2010.

We wish them all the luck in their future careers as nurses!

Last Minute Contest for Calgary!

2010-04-22T07:52:00.000-07:00

The first person to email us the correct answer to the following question will receive 20% off the registration fee for the upcoming PRIMED CRNE review prep course this weekend April 24-25 at U of C.

Which of the following diseases has been eradicated?

a) polio
b) smallpox
c) tuberculosis
d) dengue fever

email us at info@primededucation.ca

Special Rate for Calgary

2010-04-19T07:37:00.000-07:00

PRIMED is pleased to announce that they are offering a special rate of $300 for the April 24-25 course in Calgary. That's $50 off the regular rate, sign up today at www.PRIMEDeducation.ca

For $300 you will get 2 full days of instruction divided into different areas i.e. maternity, cardiac etc. reviewing anatomy, pathophysiology, common clinical scenarios and nursing interventions. Then after each section you will get to practice about 15 CRNE style questions. In total you will practice more than 200 questions over the two day.

The $300 registration rate also includes a 150+ page booklet and lunch on both days!

Sign up today at www.PRIMEDeducation.ca

MOCK CRNE Exam Online Now!

2010-04-16T20:03:00.000-07:00

PRIMED Educational Associates is pleased to announce the launch of a mock Canadian Registered Nurse Exam (CRNE) on the website www.PRIMEDeducation.ca

The mock exam is structured just like the real thing...there are 200 questions covering various nursing areas which are case-based and independent in nature. These questions were developed based on the Canadian Nurses Compentencies so they reflect the real exam.

You need to have PayPal account set up before signing up for the mock exam. Once you have the PayPal account set up visit www.PRIMEDeducation.ca to sign up for the quiz. You have two attempts at writing the quiz. Good luck!

Marlene Burrows & Laura Housden

Weekend workshop success!

2010-04-12T21:05:00.000-07:00

PRIMED is happy to report the CRNE prep workshop this past weekend held at Langara College in Vancouver, BC went very well!

Laura and Marlene had a fun time facilitating this group of bright students. The students asked great questions and had excellent examples and tips to share with the rest of the class. Students were from various background from new grads to international nurses from the UK and the Phillipines. Some participants had been unsuccessful on the past exam and were taking the workshop to improve their knowledge and confidence.

The students found the workshop very helpful and feel much more ready to take their exam in June.
We wish them the best of luck and success in their nursing career!

Special Course Price: April 10-11th CRNE prep course- Vancouver

2010-04-05T14:22:00.000-07:00

It is still not too late to sign up for PRIMED Education's Canadian RN Exam prep course, happening this weekend in Vancouver BC.

Date/ Location: April 10-11th at Langara College, Vancouver BC.

You will receive 16 hours of instruction by 2 facilitators, a 140 page course workbook and the chance to have your questions about the exam answered. Lunch is also provided on both days.

For the April 10-11th course only, we are offering a special discounted price.
When you register, tell us you heard about the discount on the blog and you can still register for the earlybird price of $300.00.

Other upcoming review dates include:

April 24-25th, University of Calgary, Calgary Alberta
May 8th-9th, St. Pauls Hospital, Vancouver BC

Remember, you can study for the CRNE and we can help!

CRNE Preparatory workshop in Alberta

2010-04-02T11:13:00.000-07:00

Are you a newly graduated nurse or a international nurse in Alberta and need to write your Canadian Registered Nurse Exam (CRNE)? Are you at a loss of where to begin? Perhaps, a concise review would help?

Well, then sign up for PRIMED Ed. Assoc. 2 day intensive preparatory workshop!

It is running April 24-25, 2010 at the U of C in Calgary, Alberta
Includes 150 page booklet reviewing different nursing areas, followed by 10-15 CNRE style questions (over 200 questions in total)
Taught by two masters prepared nurses with active clinical practice and teaching experience
Includes lunch on both days!

For more information please visit www.primededucation.ca or email us at info@primededucation.ca
or contact Laura at 604 839 750 or Marlene at 604 551 1756.

Early Registration Rate

2010-03-29T21:05:00.001-07:00

Sign up by April 1. 2010 to get the early registration rate of $300 for the upcoming PRIMED CRNE review courses. After April 1 the registration fee will be going up to $350, so don't wait any longer. You can register online at www.primededucation.ca. Payment can be made online through PayPal, email money transfer or by cheque.

The April 10-11 session at Langara College is looking to be the smaller of the two Vancouver courses so if you're wanting a quieter learning atmosphere with possibly more one-on-one attention this is the course for you.

Please contact Laura and Marlene at info@primededucation.ca or 604 839 7520 with any questions. Hope to see you soon!

Early Registration Rate Ending!

2010-03-25T14:10:00.000-07:00

If you've been putting off registering for the upcoming PRIMED CRNE review course don't wait any longer!
The early registration rate of $300 will be ending April 1. After that the registration rate will go up to $350.

Also, keep in mind that everyone who signs up will be entered in a contest to win a free registration to a PRIMED course. The winner will be drawn May 8, 2010 and a reimbured by cheque or cash.

Participant Feedback

2010-03-18T14:23:00.001-07:00

Marlene and Laura, the co-founders of PRIMED Ed. Assoc., have recently received dozens of emails from their students that took the CRNE review course in January. The news that is coming in is excellent......PASS on their Canadian Registered Nurse Exam, which means they now have all the credentials to practice as a registered nurse!

PRIMED would like to share with you the feedback they received regarding the review workshop:

I just got my PASS result today! The word Thank You is not enough for me to say. You were both great teachers. The workshop helped me prepare and become confident. A lot of different topics were covered on the exam. It was useful to practice answering different questions from the various nursing areas. I am definitely be recommending to my friends about this workshop!!

I received my letter yesterday showing I had PASSED the CRNE. I wanted to thank you both for allowing me to attend your workshop. The workshop was most helpful in the way I was able to answer multiple choice questions, specifically how to eliminate and analyze the stem of the question. Once again thank you for your all help. The workshop was run just perfectly.

Hey, I PASSED I am so relieved! I think the CRNE prep session was really helpful. Practicing answering the questions over and over again was so useful, especially since I was unsuccessful on the exam once.

Good morning to both of you, I would like to say thank you because at last I made it, I passed the exam, of course with your help. I hope you continue helping people to become nurses in Canada. Thanks again and have a nice day!

YAHOOOOO!!!!!!! IT'S TIME TO CELEBRATE!!! I PASSED, I MADE IT!!!!!

THANK YOU VERY MUCH INDEED FOR ALL YOUR HELP, AND ALL THE KNOWLEDGE YOU SHARED.....

Hi, I took the CRNE course with you guys in January 2010 and just want to let you know that I received a PASS on my exam!!!! I'm so happy and would like to thank both of you for your help, information and knowledge that I gained by attending this 2 day course. It was really helpful and I would advise lots of students to attend this course.

Hi I just wanted to let you guys know that I passed my board exam! Yet again, thank you for all of your help!

Do you need some help with the CRNE: Let's review a sample question

2010-03-15T21:12:00.000-07:00

From time to time we at PRIMED Ed Assoc. like to review a CRNE style question by analyzing the question and options. Let's take a look at the question below.

1. Cassie Paetzhold, 17 years old visits the community health nurse as she has questions regarding Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). Which of the following is true about HPV?

a. HPV is only spread by sexual intercourse
b. HPV, like many other sexually transmitted infections is curable
c. HPV can be transmitted by skin-to-skin contact
d. HPV is only carried by women

Answer: C
Rationale: HPV is a sexually transmitted infection that is transmitted most commonly by skin to skin contact. This includes any contact with any area of skin that is infected by the virus.This means that utilizing barrier methods like condoms is not fully protective as the virus may be on an area not covered by the condom.

a. This option is incorrect as HPV is also spread by skin-to-skin contact
b. HPV is a virus that cannot be medically cured
d. HPV is a virus that can be carried by both men and women

How did you do? Do you need to review information on HPV and other sexually transmitted infections? If so,
go to your medical-surgical nursing books or use reputable websites such as links for the Society of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists of Canada (SOGC).

Be sure to check in to the blog regularly for CRNE exam tips and more CRNE style sample questions.

Canadian Registerd Nurse Exam Background

2010-03-12T17:51:00.000-08:00

So, some of you may be wondering after four years and obtaining a university degree, why on earth you have to write the Canadian Registered Nurses Exam (CRNE). After all, you've clearly written and been successful on many tests over the years.

According to the CNA (2010) each Canadian provincial and territorial regulatory authority i.e. College of Registered Nurses of BC (CRNBC) has the responsibility to ensure all nurses meet the competency criteria for safe practice. This also ensures that there is a common standard for entry level practice in Canada. The tool the regulatory authorities have chosen to utilize to determine these competencies is the CRNE.

The CRNE has been existence since 1970 and since that time has undergone many transformations. Many years ago the exam was a few days long, but for last several years the exam has consisted of two parts with approximately 200 questions each, one exam administered in the morning separated by lunch and a second exam. Now, the Canadian Nurse Association (CNA) has moved to only one exam consisting of approximately 200 questions, not including the experimental questions that appear on every CRNE. The CNA (2010) claims that "with 148 competencies to measure and a sound sampling approach for these competencies, an exam of between 180-200 questions is sufficient to make both reliable and valid decisions about a candidate's readiness to practice nursing safely, ethically and effectively" (p. 9).

Now, we here at PRIMED Ed. Assoc. think that there are positive and negative aspects to moving to a shorter exam. First, let’s discuss the benefits. A shorter exam, will probably lead to less exam fatigue. Take it from Laura and Marlene, having to go in after a lunch break to write the second half of the CRNE exam was not fun. We were exhausted and mentally drained. This is all we can really think of as being beneficial, except perhaps some may perceive a shorter exam as less anxiety provoking. However, most view a shorter exam as more anxiety provoking as what it really means is you have a smaller margin for error. For example, let’s say an exam consists of 400 questions, and you need to get 70% on the exam to pass (The CNA adjusts the pass rate for every test, but frequently it hovers around 70%), this means you technically get a score of 420 and pass. In other words you can get 120 questions wrong and still pass. Now, take and exam that’s only 200 questions total. In order to pass this, you need to get a score of 140, or only 60 questions wrong to be able to pass. So really, by making the exam shorter you have less of an opportunity to do well. If you had a longer exam or two sessions and a less than stellar morning performance, you could have a break refocus and attempt to do better on the second part of the exam.

This June 2010 will be the first time the CRNE will consists of an exam this short and concise in format. Now doubt, the CNA will be scrutinizing the results and feedback they receive about the new exam format. Owing to the fact, the exam has been changed many times recently; we suspect this is not the end of revisions to the CRNE. Only time will tell, what the future holds in the world of licensing international and Canadian nursing graduates.

How to study for the CRNE

2010-03-05T12:01:00.000-08:00

We get asked many questions on how to study for the Canadian nurses exam. Many nurses feel as though it is an exam that you "can't" study for, or an exam that is nearly impossible to prepare for.

This is a MYTH! It is possible and necessary to study for the Canadian Nursing Examination.
Here is our recommendations as well as one potential study plan to help you prepare for your upcoming examination.

Study timeline: 3 months minimum.
Many students need more than 3 months. You might also need more time if you are:
-an internationally educated nurse
-a nurse returning to practice
-a nurse who has English as a second language
-or you want to ensure you are as prepared as possible.

3 Months until the Exam

1. Purchase Canadian RN exam prep guide:
http://www.cna-nurses.ca/CNA/nursing/rnexam/preptools/default_e.aspx
This is the book that is written by the Canadian Nurses Association (that's who develops the exam)

-Review this book in detail.

-Do the practice questions, paying careful attention to the questions you get wrong:
Look for themes, i.e. Did you get struggle with the pediatric or maternity questions.

-Take out a "fundamentals of nursing" book from the library or from your personal library. Do some reading reviewing the fundamental concepts of nursing

-Have a look at the CNA core nursing competency

-Start taking notes of what is the "current climate" is in Canada. For example, if there was a recent flu pandemic, do some review on this subject. Look up the Public Health Agency of Canada. You can try to anticipate the types of questions you might see on the exam.

-Look into other study tools, such as the iphone application for the CRNE. (Not yet available, but coming soon!).

-Look into the Mosby's review guide. This guide is a bit more complicated then the CNA guide. But it does have some good clinical skills review. Don't be too discouraged if you struggle with this guide.

-Check into the PRIMED blog regularly for tips and tricks.

2 Months until the Exam

2. Take a PRIMED Education course to review
-This course will go over core concepts and information that you need to know for the exam, as well as CRNE style practice questions.
-We recommend taking our course at least 1 month before the exam. Then you will have a strong foundation to review your areas of conceptual weaknesses.

During your second month you should try to spend as much time as possible going through questions.

After the PRIMED course, sign up for PRIMEDs 200 question online quiz. This quiz will simulate the Canadian RN exam.
-Try to do the quiz all in one sitting.

-Print off and review the questions you got wrong.

-Retake the exam just before 1 month is up.

1 Month Until the Exam:

-Arrange with work to take at least 2-3 weeks off leading up to the exam.
This is integral to exam success. You need to be able to concentrate on the exam components and practice questions.
-The key to success is to practice!

If you have any study tips for the exam, email us!

info@primededucation.ca

The June 2010 CRNE

2010-03-01T11:55:00.000-08:00

As of June 2010, the CRNE wil be based on revised competencies. With this the layout and format of the exam will change somewhat.

"Canadian nurses and regulatory bodies have identified148 competencies to be measured during the 2010-15 examination cycle. These competencies have been organized into a framework that reflects a primary health-care model. They are grouped under the categories of: Professional Practice (28 competencies); Nurse-Client Partnership (14 competencies); Health and Wellness (27 competencies); and Changes in Health (79competencies)" (CRNE Bulletin, No. 13, June 2009).

The exam will consist of 180-200 multiple choice questions, plus about 20 experimental questions. These questions will be independent and case based. These competencies are

Professional Practice 14-24%
Nurse Client Parternship 19%
Nursing Practgice: Heatlh & Wellness 21-31%
Changes in Heatlh 40-50%

The CNA offers the CRNE three times per year. The remaining dates this year are:

June 2, 2010
October 6, 2010

The exam administration dates for 2011 are:
February 2, 2011

June 1, 2011

October 5, 2011

For more information about the exam visit the Canadian Nurses Association website.

Early Regisration Now Open

2010-02-27T16:20:00.000-08:00

If any of you are like me and have been glued to the TV following the Olympics for the last two weeks, it's probably a good thing that they conclude tomorrow so that we can get back to a regular schedule. However, I will miss all of the daily excitement….go Canada!!

Getting back on to a regular schedule may involve that you draw up a study timeline in preparation for the Canadian Registered Nurses Exam (CRNE) on June 2, 2010.

It might feel very overwhelming to study for a test that examines al the content that you have learned over a four year period, however we would suggest picking up a copy of the Canadian Nurses Association's Canadian Exam Prep Guide-5th edition. Now, remember that this book is a supplementary guide to your studying and you will need to access your text books and notes to have a comprehensive review.

Many students find studying for this exam daunting and benefit from attending an organized CRNE review session. PRIMED Educational Associates offers these types of workshops.

If you would like to receive a $50 discount off a PRIMED CRNE workshop, sign up by April 1 to get early registration rate of $300.

Registration is now open for the following courses:

April 10-11, 2010 Langara College, Vancouver

April 24-25, 2010 University of Calgary, Calgary

May 8-9 St. Paul's Hospital Conference Centre, Vancouver

In addition, when you register you will automatically be entered into a random draw for a free PRIMED course. If you win, you will be notified via e-mail and your registration will be refunded at the time of the course.

Please visit our webste at http://www.primededucation.ca/ for more information.

Canadian Nurses volunteer at Vancouver 2010 Olympics!

2010-02-21T14:20:00.000-08:00

PRIMED Education would like to give a big thank you to all the medical volunteers including nurses who are providing expert care during the Vancouver 2010 Olympics and Paralympics Games.

Marlene and Laura personally know many of their friends and colleagues who have taken unpaid leave or used their own vacation time to volunteer for the games. These medical volunteers are providing amazing care to the injured and ill here in Vancouver and in Whistler.

A big thank you as you are vital to delivering safe games.

CRNBC tutor list

2010-02-18T16:09:00.000-08:00

As many of you know, Laura Housden and Marlene Burrows are official Canadian Registered Nurses Exam (CRNE) tutors, approved by the College of Registered Nurses of BC (CRNBC).

Recently, Laura and Marlene received a letter from the CRNBC stating that it was no longer the Colleges mandate as a regulatory body to maintain a tutor list. This list was originally developed when the CRNBC was the Registered Nurses Association of BC (RNABC) and apparently the tutor list is not consistent with the CRNBCs mandate. As a result the policies have been rescinded and CRNBC will no longer approve tutors or maintain a list of approved tutors.

We understand how disconcerting this must be to many of you as you rely on a professional organization such as the CRNBC to give you contact information of reliable and legitimate tutors who will help prepare you for the CRNE. However, don’t worry Laura and Marlene will continue to offer their exceptional tutoring through their group tutoring service PRIMED Educational Assoc.

We currently are three upcoming dates for CRNE prep sessions:

April 10-11, 2010 Langara College, Vancouver BC

April 24-25, 2020 University of Calgary, Calgary AB

May 8-9, 2010 St. Paul’s Hospital Conference Centre, Vancouver BC

In addition, PRIMED Ed. Assoc. will travel to your community if you are able to organize a large enough group, please contact us at info@primededucation.ca if you are interested in this option.

For any other information please visit www.primededucation.ca

PRIMED's new website!

2010-02-10T20:53:00.000-08:00

PRIMED is happy to announce the launch of their new flash website at http://www.primededucation.ca/

This website is equipped to handle online registration and payment through PayPal or e-mail money transfer. But, don't worry you can still send in cheques to us if you prefer.

Try our quiz! You can practice answering some CRNE style questions on the website which will calculate your score based on correct answers and the amount of time you take to answer. So go ahead and give it a try!

You can also link to our Facebook page, Twitter and our Blog through the site.

Please e-mail us at info@primededucation.ca with any questions.

PRIMED Education's Course Giveaway!

2010-02-07T14:24:00.000-08:00

For the first time, PRIMED Educational Associates will be offering a course give-away.
Students who register between now and April 1, 2010 will be put into a draw, where the winner will be refunded 100% of their registration fee during the PRIMED course.

Register today and you might be the lucky student who gets to attend the weekend course for free!

For more information contact us at:

primededucation@gmail.com

All the best in studying for your CRNE!!!

Tips for the Upcoming Exam

2010-01-26T09:21:00.000-08:00

Are you writing your CRNE next week February 3, 2010? Are you starting to feel anxious about it? We have some practical do and don't tips that might help you get through that day a little smoother.

The Evening Before the Exam:

Get everything ready that you need. Take out the clothes that you need. We suggest dressing in layers as temperatures can be variable in the exam room. Get a pencil case ready with multiple pencils a couple of erasers and anything else you usually take to the exam (water bottle, kleenex). Wear your watch; it will prevent any unnecessary straining to find a clock in the room, not to mention save valuable time and any suggestion that you are cheating. Ensure you know exactly where the exam is. Have your route mapped out with appropriate transit lines or driving directions.
When this is done, try and relax a little. Read a book for pleasure, take a bath or spend time with your family. Last minute cramming is actually counterproductive at this point as it decreases your ability to critically think and problem solve. When you are ready for to go to sleep, you may want to set two alarms, just in case the first one fails, or have a friend that is writing the exam call to ensure you’re up.

The Day of the Exam

The morning of the exam, do your usual routine, so if that involves walking Fido continue to do so. Ensure you have a wholesome breakfast that includes both carbohydrates and protein. Ensure you have some water in the morning and if you usually have caffeine continue to do so, just don’t consume any more than usual.

What if you’re too worried to eat?

Again, ensure you have water and it would probably be a good idea to drink an electrolyte solution, to prevent hypoglycemia.

Plan to get to the exam writing centre at least 30 minutes before your exam, so that if you run into problems with traffic you have some leeway. In addition, this time will allow you to get acquainted with your surroundings and use the bathroom. It is vital that you avoid negative influences! If you see some of your classmates there and know that they exude a lot of negative energy before the exam ignore them! Instead, listen to music or stand alone or with a supportive friend while waiting to go in.

During Lunch

Ensure that you eat a balanced lunch and stay hydrated. If you are able to get up and walk around for 10 minutes that would be beneficial to help you relax and clear your head. Again, don’t surround yourself with negative influences, and don’t discuss the questions from the morning session, as it will only provoke anxiety.

After the Exam

Celebrate! Congratulations on finishing your exam. You will probably go over some of the questions with your classmates at this time, but remember not to dwell on the ones you got wrong as we always remember those ones, and not all the questions we answered with confidence.

Weekend workshop success

2010-01-13T17:00:00.000-08:00

The PRIMED CRNE review session that took place this past weekend (January 9 & 10) was a great! Marlene and Laura had a wonderful time meeting all the registrants which come from various nursing backgrounds. Several students traveled a fair distance to attend the course. We'd like to thank these out of town registrants who came from Winnipeg, Edmonton and Victoria, for their dedication.

The course was essentially sold out and participants gave us great feedback. We wish all the best on your exam February 3, 2010.

The next Canadian Registered Nurse Exam takes place Wednesday June 2, 2010. This is the largest writing of the three that takes place during the year. PRIMED is anticipating a large demand for seats in their spring workshops. So to answer this demand, we are going to be offering two workshops in Vancouver one in April and the second one in May. The exact dates will be announced on our website soon http://www.primededucation.ca/ .We are also trying to work out details to run a workshop in Alberta, either Edmonton or Calgary, so if you have a preference please let us know at primededucation@gmail.com

Mock CRNE exam at the PRIMED workshop

2010-01-06T13:45:00.000-08:00

If you have signed up for the PRIMED CRNE workshop this weekend (Jan. 9-10, 2010), you'll be pleased to hear we are offering a mock CRNE exam.

Registrants will have the option of staying for an hour after the course on Sunday to write a mock exam with 50 questions. This will give you the oppurtunity to sit for an hour and concentrate on practicing dozens of questions. Afterwards, the correct responses will be shown so you can mark your exam and see how you did.

If you are wondering if you can sign up for the course, it is not too late! We have just a few spots available so, please contact us as soon as possible to see about saving a seat for this weekends exam review.

Please contact us at:
primededucation@gmail.com
or 604 551 1756

Win a discount to the upcoming PRIMED CRNE course

2010-01-02T16:05:00.000-08:00

Well, this will be the last chance to win a discount to the January 9-10 PRIMED CRNE review workshop.
The first person to e-mail us the answer to the following question will win 20% off the registration fee.

Who is known as the the father of medicare?

a) John A. McDonald
b) Jean Chretien
c) Sir Henry Woods
d) Tommy Douglas

e-mail us your answer at primededucation@gmail.com

Only a few spots left!

2009-12-29T15:17:00.000-08:00

If you've been putting off registering for the PRIMED CRNE review workshop, you better not wait for too much longer! Spots are filling up quickly and there are only a few seats left.

It's going to be a great review session, we have students registered from all types of backgrounds from new nursing graduates including domestic and international, to experienced international nurses seeking registration in BC. Having this type of dynamic in the classroom enhances the learning experience as students ask wonderful questions and offer their perspectives on questions and real life clinical experiences.

We will move through the sections at a fairly quick pace, but will ensure there is adequate time to review the necessary information, and that everyone understands the core concepts before moving on. Best of all you will have approximately 10-15 CRNE style questions to practice after every nursing section, so you will really get the hang of it. We also offer ongoing support after the exam, so if you are studying and have any questions you can contact us and we will attempt to help you with that area.

Please contact us if you have any question primededucation@gmail.com

2009-12-14T11:19:00.000-08:00

Let’s break down a CRNE style question

1. A Hepatitis A virus outbreak has occurred at the cafeteria of a large high school. Public health nurses have been immunizing students that ate there with Hepatitis A Immune globulin. This works by:

a. Stimulating the body to produce antibodies to attack the Hepatitis A virus

b. Causes the immune system to release memory B cells to attack the Hepatitis A virus

c. Antibodies in the Immune globulin attack the hepatitis A virus

d. Stimulates the body to release IgA antibodies

Reflective Points

This question is really trying to determine if you understand what Hepatitis A immune globulin is and how it works. So let’s analyze the options:

a. This sounds like a good option, as it is antibodies that attack the virus, however we know that it takes about two week to get an adequate immune response against a foreign agent. But, if it takes two week to build up an immune response this will not protect the students who were potentially exposed the Hepatitis A virus.

b. Memory B cells only develop if a person is naturally exposed to Hepatitis A or if immunized against Hepatitis A in the past, so this is not the correct response

c. Hepatitis A Immune globulin consists of preformed antibodies (grown in culture media) that are ready to attack Hepatitis A. So, this sounds like the right answer so far, but let’s take a look at the last option.

d. This is the weakest option. It’s a bit vague compared to option A and C but could refer to either.

Hope this helps you to analyze the questions and answers on the CRNE.
For more practice with this enroll in our CRNE review workshops.
Next sesion is January 9-10, 2010 in Vancouver.
For more information e-mail us at primededucation@gmail.com or visit us http://www.primededucation.ca/

Early Registration Deadline

2009-12-11T14:57:00.000-08:00

If you've been putting off getting your registration in to the PRIMED CRNE review workshop, you'll want to hurry up!

There is only a few more days left until Dec. 20th and if you want to get the early registration rate of $250 you'll need to put your registration in the mail by Monday to guarantee it gets in by the 20th. For those of you that prefer to do your banking electronically and prefer to pay by an e-mail transfer, contact us at primededucation@gmail.com to setup a password.

Finally, if you have any questions about what the PRIMED CRNE review workshop will look like or topics we are going to cover don't hesitate to e-mail or call us at the number found on the registration form.

We look forward to helping you succeed on the Canadian Registered Nurse Examination (CRNE)!

Enroll now, only a few spots left!

2009-12-07T15:18:00.000-08:00

For those of you contmeplating enrolling in the PRIMED CRNE review session for the January 9-10th workshop, you need to hurry up as there is only 8 spots left!
Also, there is not much time left to get you registration form in the mail to ensure the early registration rate of $250. You have until December 20th to do this.

Please visit http://www.primededucation.ca/ for more information.

Why choose PRIMED for your CRNE preparation

2009-12-03T09:33:00.000-08:00

There are many reasons PRIMED can help you in preparing for your Canadian Registered Nurse Licensing Exam (CRNE). First, the PRIMED CRNE review workshop was made for nurses by nurses. Your facilitators (Marlene Burrows & Laura Housden) are both Masters’ educated and have active clinical practices, experience teaching at the university level, and a passion to help you succeed. Marlene and Laura’s past clinical experience are primarily in acute and community care, respectively, so they complement each other’s knowledge nicely. Past students have raved about the community nursing section of the PRIMED review session, as they were not able to access this information to review in any of their practice workbooks. Similarly, students have also found the pediatric and maternity nursing sections useful as many students had limited exposure in these areas. Finally, our students have had a pass rate of almost 100%.

What will the PRIMED review session look like?

The workshop consists of two full eight hour days. The days are divided into sessions in which we review key nursing areas such as cardiac nursing, community health, or pediatric nursing. During this time we briefly review anatomy, physiology and prominent conditions/diseases that the CRNE will focus on. We will then discuss nursing assessment, interventions and evaluation of these conditions and finish the section with several CRNE style multiple choice questions. We give students approximately 10 minutes to complete the questions on their own, and then we reconvene as a group. At this point we closely analyze the questions and answers to determine what the question is really asking and the best answer out of the available options. This is where many students need some extra help, as they are not use to the style of questions on the CRNE.

The feedback we have received from students after they have taken the PRIMED review session is that they feel much more prepared, less anxiety and more confident to write the CRNE. They also found the review session was wonderful in terms of reviewing nursing content and various skills for when they start their clinical practice. For more information on testimonials or to register, visit the PRIMED website http://www.primededucation.ca/.

RN positions

2009-11-25T17:59:00.000-08:00

Though the nursing shortage poses many healthcare challenges, it does present the new RN with a myriad of choices. Browsing through workopolis one will notice positions posted in various specialty areas such as ICU, NICU, emergency and to be a nurse clinician. In addition, there are various positions outside of acute care in communicable diseases, mental health and home health. Take advantage of this oppurtunity by choosing the area and location in which you want to start your career. And don't ever forget that as a nurse you have the ability to change your area of work if it is not working out for you. One of the worst things you can do is stay in an area in which you are unhappy for various reasons. We have all seen individuals such as this, and know that they are not fun to work with. Self-awareness is key in recognizing your job satisfaction.

Remember to build on your knowledge by reading scholarly journals, attending conferences and workshops. Strive to improve your practice and thus, patient care. In doing this you will become a nurse leader and inspire others to follow suit. Ways of doing this include starting a journal club, critically questioning policies or procedures in your work area, and mentoring new nurses.

Early Bird Registration

2009-11-20T10:29:00.000-08:00

Only 1 more month left to register for the PRIMED CRNE review course and get the early registration rate of $250. So, sign up by December 20th to get the early registration rate!

After December 20th, 2009 the registration rate will be $275.

Do you have friends/colleagues that are interested in taking the PRIMED review course? If so, refer them to our course, and receive $25 dollars off your registration for each person you refer. So if you refer 10 people, you will attend the PRIMED course for free!

These prices include taxes, lunch on both days, and a 140 page booklet. This also includes instruction by facilitators that are approved by the College of Registered Nurses of BC as official CRNE tutors. These facilitators are also Masters' educated and have clinical and teaching experience.

Here are a few more details about the PRIMED review course:

Review areas include:
Test taking strategies, nursing ethics, geriatrics, pediatrics, neurology, cardiology, respiratory, GI/GU, musculoskeletal, hematology, pharmacology, principles of community health, endocrine, infectious diseases and health promotion.
After a brief review of key areas, including anatomy and physiology, students and facilitators will work on dozens of problems together, applying best nursing practices to common clinical scenarios. CRNE style questions are reviewed for each area.

After taking the PRIMED CRNE review session past students told us they found a substantial improvement in their level of confidence and readiness which lead to success on the exam.

Cost (includes study booklet and lunch):
Early registration rate if received by Dec. 20th: $250
If registration received after Dec. 20th: $275

For more information:
Please visit: www.primededucation.ca
or e-mail us @: primededucation@gmail.com

Answer

2009-11-14T16:18:00.000-08:00

Congratulations to the student who e-mailed us the corret answer to the following question:

1. Which of the following substances was invented in Canada?
a) Penicillin
b) Insulin
c) Digoxin
d) Contact lens

Answer B: Insulin.
In 1921 Frederick Banting and Charles Best began a series of experiments at the University of Toronto on pancreatic secretions in attempt to find a cure for diabetes mellitus. In 1922, the first successful clinical test was performed on a diabetic patient.

Stay tuned for upcoming contests to win more discounts toward PRIMED CRNE review courses!

Get 10% off January PRIMED CRNE review course

2009-11-11T22:23:00.000-08:00

Would you like to get 10% off your PRIMED review course fee? Answer the following question below and e-mail your answer to primededucation@gmail.com
The first person to answer it correctly, will receive 10% off the January 9-10, 2010 PRIMED CRNE review course. That's a savings of $25!
Enter now!

1. Which of the following substances was invented in Canada?

a) Penicillin

b) Insulin

c) Digoxin

d) Contact lens

We will notify the winner via e-mail.
Contest closes November 18, 2009.

CRNE Content

2009-11-03T14:05:00.000-08:00

Layout of the exam

The questions are all multiple choice. They are either case based or independent in nature.

Competencies

1. Professional Practice (20-24% of exam): safe, competent, ethical care

2. Nurse-Client Relationship (9-13% of exam): communication techniques, teaching-learning principles, appropriate cultural care, professional boundaries

3. Nursing Practice: Health and Wellness (22-26% of exam): health promotion, disease and illness prevention, primary health care

4. Nursing Practice: Alterations in Health (41-45% of exam): care of clients with acute, chronic, palliative or rehabilitation

Domains

1. Cognitive Domain:

Knowledge/Comprehension
Application
Critical Thinking

2. Affective domain

Attitudes and judgment

3. Critical Thinking

Content on the Exam

1. Basic Nursing Care: hygiene, asepsis, infection control, bowel and urinary elimination, nutrition, wound care, exercise, sexuality, CAM, health promotion and injury prevention

2. Basic Health Assessment: including VS, expected/unexpected findings, interviewing/communication, psychosocial and physical health assessment

3. Clinical Skills: Know common steps and procedures i.e. catheterization, dressing changes, suctioning, chest tubes, enemas, tracheostomy, injections, intravenous therapy

4. Professional Practice: documentation, accountability, informed consent, scope of practice, professional boundaries, advocacy, and working with other care providers

5. Maternal-Child Nursing: concepts of normal pregnancy, labour and delivery, common high risk situation, normal neonate, psychosocial aspects of pregnancy and loss

6. Pediatrics: G& D, communication, techniques, safety, IZ, common pediatric diseases and disorders

7. Mental Health: common mental health disease and therapeutic nursing communication/management

8. Adult Diseases: There are too many diseases to know, so think at a macro level and think of the problems the disease causes on a systems level.

9. Medications: Know drug classifications and frequently prescribed medications and OTC medications. Be aware that you are expected to know about commonly used herbal medications. Also, know your formulas for calculating dosages, drip rates etc.

10. Laboratory tests: normal ranges for common tests should be studied
a. Hematology: CBC and diff., Hgb, A1C, WBC, INR, Hct, Plt, PT, PTT
b. Biochemistry: glucose, electrolytes (Na+ , K+ , Cl-), BUN, creatinine, cholesterol, TG, cardiac enzymes (CK, CK-MB, troponin)
c. Urinalysis: pH, specific gravity, glucose, casts, ketones, protein
d. Microbiology: C& S

CRNE Questions and Answers

2009-10-21T11:57:00.000-07:00

CRNE Questions and Answers

What is the CRNE?

The Canadian Registered Nurses Exam (CRNE) is a multiple choice exam consisting of approximately 300 questions, which partially assesses your level of competence prior to entering nursing practice.

Why do I have to write the CRNE?

"The purpose of the CRNE is to protect the public by ensuring that the entry-level registered nurse possesses the competencies required to practice safely and effectively". (CNA, 2009).

How do I register to write the CRNE?

In order to register for the CRNE, you must first register with your provincial/territorial nursing regulatory body. See contact information below.

BRITISH COLUMBIA College of Registered Nurses of British Columbia 2855 Arbutus Street Vancouver BC V6J 3Y8 Tel: (604) 736-7331 Fax: (604) 738-2272 E-mail: info@crnbc.ca	ALBERTA College and Association of Registered Nurses of Alberta 11620 - 168 Street Edmonton AB T5M 4A6 Tel: (780) 451-0043 Fax: (780) 452-3276 E-mail: carna@nurses.ab.ca
SASKATCHEWAN Saskatchewan Registered Nurses' Association 2066 Retallack Street Regina SK S4T 7X5 Tel: 1-800-667-9945 / (306) 359-4200 Fax: (306) 525-0849 E-mail: info@srna.org	MANITOBA College of Registered Nurses of Manitoba 890 Pembina Hwy Winnipeg MB R3M 2M8 Tel: (204) 774-3477 Fax: (204) 775-6052 E-mail: info@crnm.mb.ca
ONTARIO College of Nurses of Ontario 101 Davenport Road Toronto ON M5R 3P1 Tel/Tél. : 1-800-387-5526 / (416) 928-0900 Fax/Télécopieur : (416) 928-6507 E-mail/Courriel : cno@cnomail.org	QUÉBEC Ordre des infirmières et infirmiers du Québec 4200, boul. Dorchester Ouest Montréal QC H3Z 1V4 Tel/Tél. : (514) 935-2501 / 1-800-363-6048 Fax/Télécopieur : (514) 935-1799 E-mail/Courriel : inf@oiiq.org
NEW BRUNSWICK Nurses Association of New Brunswick 165 Regent Street Fredericton NB E3B 7B4 Tel/Tél. : (506) 458-8731 Fax/Télécopieur : (506) 459-2838 E-mail/Courriel : nanb@nanb.nb.ca	NOVA SCOTIA College of Registered Nurses of Nova Scotia Suite 4005 7071 Bayers Road Halifax NS B3J 2A8 Tel: (902) 491-9744 Fax: (902) 491-9510 E-mail: info@crnns.ca
PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND Association of Registered Nurses of Prince Edward Island 53 Grafton Street Charlottetown PE C1A 1K8 Tel: (902) 368-3764 Fax: (902) 628-1430 E-mail: arnpei@pei.aibn.com	NEWFOUNDLAND AND LABRADOR Association Of Registered Nurses Of Newfoundland And Labrador 55 Military Rd St. John’s NL A1C 2C5 Tel: (709) 753-6040 Fax: (709) 753-4940 E-mail: info@arnnl.nf.ca
NORTHWEST TERRITORIES Registered Nurses Association of the Northwest Territories and Nunavut Box 2757 Yellowknife NT X1A 2R1 Tel: (867) 873-2745 Fax: (867) 873-2336 E-mail: nwtrna@theedge.ca	YUKON Yukon Registered Nurses Association 204 - 4133 - 4th Avenue Whitehorse YT Y1A 1H8 Tel: (867) 667-4062 Fax: (867) 668-5123 E-mail: yrna@yknet.ca

How much does the CRNE cost?

The fee is $600 dollars (Canadian).

What are the exam due dates, and what are the locations I can write in?

The exam dates are:

Feb 3 (Vancouver, Surrey, Richmond)

June 2 (Vancouver, Surrey, Richmond, Victoria, Kamloops, Castelgar, Prince George, Kelowna, Nanaimo, Terrace)

October 6 (Vancouver Surrey, Richmond, Kamloops, Nanaimo)

For more information visit: http://www.crnbc.ca/Graphics/ExamDates2010.gif

More about what the CRNE actually examines coming soon…

Immunology: Reviewing the basics

2009-10-18T17:05:00.000-07:00

The Canadian nursing examination often includes basic questions on immunology and vaccinology.
To prepare for the exam, the basic principles of how vaccines work should be reviewed, as well as the following definitions:

-Active vs Passive Immunity
-Antibody
-Antigen
-Lymphocyte
-Active vs. Passive Immunizing agents

The Canadian RN exam often reflects the current healthcare situation in Canada. When West Nile was prominent, the exam began to have some West Nile questions. After SARs, some SARs questions were on the exam. Looking at the current health situation, it is likely that H1N1 questions will also start showing up on the examination.

Currently the public health agency of Canada has a very good write up on H1N1 and the Canadian vaccine program.

http://www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/alert-alerte/h1n1/faq_rg_h1n1-eng.php

Nursing Education in Canada

2009-10-08T09:48:00.000-07:00

In Canada, the entry to practice education required in all provinces and territories is a baccalaureate degree (exception Quebec and Yukon). This shift occurred during the early to mid 2000s based on much research showing that staffing with baccalaureate prepared nurses is associated with improved patient safety and positive patient outcomes. “One study showed a five-per-cent decrease in the risk of patient death for every 10-per-cent increase in the proportion of hospital RNs holding degrees. There have been similar findings for community-based health services; the health outcomes of people cared for by baccalaureate-educated RNs were significantly better. Better patient outcomes also mean cost savings for the health-care system (CNA, 2009, ¶2). In addition, a higher level of education makes the health-care system more efficient and accessible.

There are various structures of baccalaureate nursing programs within in Canada. Some schools operate year round, with no summer, so that students will graduate more quickly while others maintain some or all their summer semesters off. An increasing number of students have significant post-secondary education before starting their nursing degree, and many have already obtained a degree in another discipline (CNA, 2009). Please visit the following website for information on schools of nursing in Canada: http://www.cna-aiic.ca/nursingpgms/public_browse.asp

After completing a baccalaureate degree in nursing and working for a period of time, some nurses will return to school to obtain advanced certifications or degrees. For example, a nurse wanting to practice in a specialty area such as maternity, intensive care, emergency or operating room nursing needs to attend a specialty program that includes theory courses and clinical education to be able to work in that area.

Other nurses may want to study at a graduate education level to obtain a master’s or doctoral degree to work in advanced practice nursing. We will discuss this type of special nursing in an upcoming blog so stay tuned…
All nurses are required by their national and provincial regulatory body to engage in continuing education in order to provide competent care. This can be achieved by attending conferences, workshops, journal clubs and participating in other activities that encourage learning and straying up to date so that they will provide evidence-based nursing.

What is CRNBC?

2009-10-02T09:24:00.000-07:00

Many nurses that are registering in Canada for the first time, whether they are Canadian graduates or international nurses may be a bit confused by the regulatory system in Canada.

In British Columbia (BC), nursing has been a self-governing profession since 1918. This means that nursing governs or exercises control over itself. This is accomplished by a provincial regulatory body. Every province has its’ own regulatory body. In BC the College of Registered Nurses of British Columbia (CRNBC) regulates over 39, 000 registered nurses, nurse practitioners and licensed graduate nurses. Under provincial law, called the Health Professions Act, it is the duty of the CRNBC to protect the public by regulating its members.

CRNBC’s mission: Protecting the public through the regulation of registered nurses by registered nurses, setting standards, supporting registered nurses to meet standards, acting if standards are not met (CRNBC website, 2009).

More specifically, the CRNBC makes these commitments to fulfilling its mandate and mission:

Public Interest - To protect the public through the regulation of registered nurses
Self-regulation - To manifest the College's commitment to the privilege and responsibility of self-regulation.
Education Standards - To establish entry-level competencies that reflect practice requirements and to recognize entry and re-entry nursing education programs in B.C. where graduates meet these competencies and the College's Standards of Practice.
Registration Standards - To ensure that all registrants meet the standards for entry and re-entry into the profession and that these standards reflect British Columbia practice requirements.
Standards of Practice - To establish and communicate Standards of Practice that define the level of practice that registered nurses are required to meet.
Continuing Competence - To support registered nurses to understand and fulfill their obligation to uphold the Standards of Practice by maintaining their professional ethics and competence.
Practice Environments To work with registered nurses, health organizations and other stakeholders to create and sustain practice environments that support safe, competent and ethical nursing care for the public.
Complaint Process To provide an accessible and responsive complaint process to ensure that concerns about the practice of registered nurses are addressed in the public interest
(CRNBC, 2009)
Other activities carried out by the CRNBC include:

• Setting requirements to enter the profession of nursing

• Ensuring the standards of nursing practice are developed, monitored and enforced

• Require initial and annual registration to ensure safe, ethical and competent practice.

The CRNBC will support nurses to carry out their mission, and intervene when they feel nursing practice is questionable.