Over 60% of Ontario RPNs have considered leaving profession, poll shows

Polling shows a majority of Registered Practical Nurses in Ontario have contemplated leaving the profession amid staffing shortages and increased stress.

Polling shows a majority of Registered Practical Nurses in Ontario have contemplated leaving the profession amid staffing shortages and increased stress.

The polling was done by Nanos Research of behalf of the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE) and SEIU Healthcare. Results show 60 per cent of registered practical nurses are either considering or somewhat considering leaving the profession and 82 per cent of respondents say they experience high stress as result from their job.

“Stress is endemic. Trouble sleeping is pervasive and dread is everywhere,” said Jackie Walker, SEIU Healthcare nursing division president. “We have a crisis in Ontario’s healthcare system.”

Abie Osawe has been working as an RPN for over two decades and recently she said she and her colleagues have been feeling increased stress amid staffing shortages.

“Nurses have been struggling,” she said.

According to College of Nurses Ontario, the main difference between RNs and RPNs is foundational education. The website said RNs study for a longer period of time, allowing for a greater depth and breadth of foundational knowledge.

Osawe said she is often called upon to cover for RN colleagues.

“It is not uncommon for RPN to look after 130 residents and be in charge of 130 residents. …There is no RN. There is so much shortage of nurses and the RPNs have to pick and do that role,” she said.