CARE’s Observational Job Shadowing (OJS) is a free, unique learning opportunity for Internationally Educated Nurses (IENs) who are CARE members to be partnered with an expert nurse through three to five work shifts and observe first-hand the nursing profession in Ontario. It aims to increase the understanding of IENs about the role and scope of practice of a nurse in a particular health care setting and get them more acquainted with the language and culture of the Canadian workplace.
What is the difference between OJS and clinical practice/practicum?
OJS is strictly observational with no direct hands-on patient care. It also has a shorter duration, typically ranging from two to five shifts. On the other hand, clinical practice/practicum involves hands-on patient care for 200 hours or more under the supervision of a clinical instructor. Some schools offer this but you would usually have to complete a number of prerequisite courses before you could join.
Eligibility
CARE members who meet OJS requirements (i.e. who have completed their recommended courses) are eligible to join CARE’s OJS program at any stage of their journey to registration
OJS Requirements
- Nursing In Ontario or equivalent
- Completed application form with OJS Learning Plan
- Immunization records
- Mask fit testing
- CPR BCLS Level C for HCP
- Police check
- Current resume
- $25 accident insurance premium paid and policy active
How to Apply
Step 1 – Get an application package from your Case Manager.
Step 2 – Fill out application form and complete all requirements.
Step 3 – Submit application form and provide copies of required documents to CARE’s OJS Coordinator.
Step 4 – After verifying your documents, CARE’s OJS Coordinator will schedule you to attend the next OJS registration/orientation session.
How long does it take to arrange a placement?
It usually takes one to three months to arrange a placement so it is advisable to submit your application with complete requirements early.
Participating Facilities
The OJS Coordinator will provide a list of participating health care facilities for you to select from at the registration/orientation session.
We will first try to arrange a placement in your preferred facility. If it is not available, we will try your second choice. If you have completed a placement and would like to do another one, we might be able to accommodate your request depending on the availability of the facility.
Cancelling your Application
Please be mindful that a lot of effort is spent to arrange a placement. However, if you become unavailable to participate, please advise the OJS Coordinator of your decision to cancel as early as possible.
If you have other questions about Observational Job Shadowing, please contact CARE’s OJS Coordinator, Ruth Wojtiuk, at 416-226-2800 ext. 232 or rwojtiuk@care4nurses.org
