The Perioperative Post-Diploma Certificate is designed to provide Registered Nurses and Licensed Practical Nurses the theoretical and technical knowledge required to provide safe competent care across all phases of the perioperative process.

The 18-credit program is offered in a blended format with theory courses delivered asynchronously online, while skills labs and clinical practicums are delivered in person. Laboratory components will be delivered once a week during the duration of the perioperative nursing skills lab which will be delivered over 8 weeks.

Work Integrated Learning

The perioperative nursing preceptorship will occur over a duration of 8 weeks, which could be subject to change based on the availability of preceptorship placements. Preceptorship placements may be outside the City of Calgary as well as any area within Calgary. The start date of the preceptorship placement can vary and is dependent on the availability of the preceptorship site (i.e., operating room facility).

If a student declines an assigned preceptorship placement, they will need to meet with an Associate Dean and Program Chair to determine if another preceptorship placement will be granted.

Students will only have one year to complete the NURS3999 Perioperative Nursing Preceptorship course. The one-year period will start immediately after grades are entered for the NURS3304 course.

Students should prepare for the possibility of daytime, evening, night, or weekend shifts for the duration of the preceptorship experience. Knowledge and experience gained through learning theory, skills labs, and work integrated learning provides the student with the required knowledge and skills to work in a perioperative environment.

Students are responsible for their own transportation and accommodation that may be required for a preceptorship placement.