From Registered Nurse to Prescriber: Sarah Doucette and Ashlee Watts 

At Parkstone Enhanced Care, registered nurses Sarah Doucette and Ashlee Watts are advancing their careers with the Certificate in Registered Nurse Prescribing from Dalhousie University. This achievement marks an exciting step forward for nursing at Shannex, expanding their roles and enhancing care for residents. We spoke with them about their journey and what this certification means for their future.

Ashlee Watts, a 2013 Dalhousie nursing graduate, began her career at Parkstone Enhanced Care before gaining experience at DePaul Hall and returning to pursue this opportunity. Coming from a family of nurses, she has a deep-rooted passion for healthcare. Sarah Doucette, a 2018 graduate, started at Arborstone Enhanced Care, later worked with the Victorian Order of Nurses, and now specializes in Complex Care at Parkstone, providing expert support for residents with higher needs.

The Certificate in Registered Nurse Prescribing is a rigorous yet rewarding program that equips RNs with the skills and knowledge to provide evidence-based prescribing, enhancing clinical decision-making in a safe, effective, and cost-efficient manner. The program consists of three intensive courses: Advanced Health Assessment, Pharmacotherapeutics, and an Integrated Professional Practicum – blending theory, hands-on practice, and assessments.

According to Sarah and Ashlee, this program has been an exciting challenge and important for career growth. The mix of practical work and theory-based exams pushed them to develop new skills and deepen their understanding of medication management. Now, with their expanded scope of practice, they can prescribe medications, ensuring residents receive timely treatment without unnecessary delays. Nurses have built strong connections with residents and have developed an understanding of their individual care needs. This not only improves patient outcomes but also eases the workload of doctors and nurse practitioners, streamlining care delivery. 

In the ever-evolving healthcare landscape, staying informed is essential – especially in a long-term care setting. Nurses will have access to updated prescription lists, online resources, and regular policy updates to ensure they are aligned with the latest best practices. To maintain safe and efficient care, they will use tracking systems to manage incoming prescriptions effectively. 

The Certificate in Registered Nurse Prescribing Program equips nurses like Sarah and Ashlee with the skills to enhance patient care and streamline healthcare processes. For more information on the innovative pilot program at Dalhousie University, visit: Continuing Care Nurses Training to Prescribe Medications.