Registered Psychiatric Nurse

As a Registered Psychiatric Nurse (RPN) in B.C., you will draw upon your unique expertise to provide vital care for patients with complex psychosocial and mental health needs. In partnership with other health-care professionals, you will provide patients with assessments, nursing diagnoses, and evidence-based nursing care. Focusing on patient-centred care, RPNs are dedicated to developing strong therapeutic relationships with clients, families, and the communities they work with. A challenging and rewarding career, RPNs are a critical and growing workforce as their knowledge and care help reduce the stigma surrounding mental illness.  

Registered Psychiatric Nursing in B.C.

  • Observe, assess and monitor patients to identify proper treatments, in collaboration with other health-care professionals
  • Document patient symptoms, reactions and progress
  • Consult with patients and their families
  • Administer medications and treatments
  • Work with a health-care team
  • Educate and inform about mental health illnesses, nutrition, self-care, medication management, disease prevention and promotion of health to patients/clients, families and caregivers
  • Advocate for health-care improvements
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  • Meet the registration requirements set out by the British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM)
  • Complete a registered psychiatric nursing program recognized by the BCCNM
  • Be eligible to write or have already passed the Registered Psychiatric Nurses of Canada Examination (RPNCE)
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  • Hospitals
  • Primary care clinics
  • Community health centers
  • Extended care facilities
  • Rehabilitation centers
  • Correction services
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  • The publicly funded health authorities in B.C. offer comprehensive compensation packages for regular-status employees, including employer-paid benefits
  • Wages: $41.42 – $59.52 CAD per hour (as of April 1, 2024)
  • Paid Vacation Time: 4 weeks per year, after first year of employment
  • Pension Plan
  • BC Medical Services Plan (MSP)
  • Extended Health Care
  • Dental Coverage
  • Life Insurance
  • Short-Term and Long-Term Disability
  • Employee and Family Assistance Plan
  • Other Benefits: such as maternity, paternity and adoption leaves
  • Relocation Assistance: Relocation assistance may be available for many nursing jobs. Please speak with health authorities directly for more information
  • Additional incentives may be available for rural and remotely located employees
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Licensing

To work as a Registered Nurse (RN), Registered Psychiatric Nurse (RPN) or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) in British Columbia, registration from the British Columbia College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM) is required.

Learn more about licensing in B.C.

Financial support 

Get settled sooner and get ahead faster with the many bursaries, incentives, and loan forgiveness programs available to trained healthcare workers to help you make your move. British Columbia has several incentives in place to support your transition into the province and your new workplace or community. 

Learn more about available financial support