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New program could remedy nursing shortages

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Photo courtesy of Amber-Joy Gruben. Tutyoyaktuk-born Amber-Joy Gruben, a recent grad from the Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at the University of Victoria at Aurora College, says Aurora College's new Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program could remedy the shortage of nurses in the region, while adding cultural sensitive to the workplace through the care of Indigenous nurses. May 31, 2018.

A Tutyoyaktuk-born Aurora College nursing grad says a new practical nursing program coming to Inuvik's campus this fall stands to boost Indigenous representation in health care while tackling a shortage of professionals in the North. "It's important to bring new grads back home because we need more Indigenous representation in the health care system, "said Amber-Joy Gruben, who recently graduated from the University of Victoria's bachelor of science in nursing program at Aurora College.

Tutyoyaktuk-born Amber-Joy Gruben, is a recent grad from the University of Victoria Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Aurora College. photo courtesy of Amber-Joy Gruben

The two-year, federally funded project announced in January, will offer 18 Indigenous women the opportunity to enter a Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN) program, where 23 courses – from anatomy and physiology to pharmacology and community-focused nursing – will be taught to prepare students for "an entry-level nursing position," stated Aurora College communications manager Jayne Murray in an email.

The Inuvik campus-based program – a partnership with the Inuvialuit Regional Corporation – will use $826,984 in federal dollars to "test innovative training approaches, address barriers to employment and build capacity throughout the Inuvialuit Settlement Region," stated the federal government in a January news release.

For Gruben, who hopes to hone her skills at Yellowknife's Stanton Territorial hospital before pursuing rural nursing. Her ultimate goal is to return back home to practise in the Beautford Delta region.

"Ideally, I would like to get my master's here in Yellowknife because I'd like to stay in the North," said Gruben.

"There is definitely a shortage of indeterminate nurses in the Beaufort Delta," she said. "They are mostly nurses who come for a short time then leave."

But Gruben plans on staying once she becomes a nurse practitioner. She's seen first hand the need for Indigenous health care workers in Northern hospitals and facilities.

"It comforts the patient knowing they are being cared for by another Indigenous person. We already have that rapport and trust built," said Gruben.

Gruben added that by utilizing resources like the new LPN program, grads will help "bridge the gap between the health care system," because Indigenous nurses and health care practitioners can "advocate for our people's health and well-being."

"We need a better culturally safe system where Indigenous people feel more comfortable going to the hospital," she added. "I want to help Indigenous people who suffer from inter-generational trauma from the past."

Murray told News/North the goal of the still-in-its-infancy program is to add to the number of nurses available to work in the Beautfort Delta, and to "provide training for (community members) that can lead to rewarding, in-demand careers."

"There is a demand for practical nurses. As well, having trained nurses who could support keeping elders in their communities," wrote Murray, adding the program aims to foster culturally-appropriate health care practices.

Eric Lavoie, a former registered nurse in the emergency room at the Inuvik Regional Hospital who has since moved on to practise in Alberta, told News/North he applauds the innovation and vision behind the program.

"I am elated for the people of Inuvik," said Lavoie, calling the project a "smart, targeted and strategic investment not only in Inuvik's future, but the entire region's future."

"These nurses will have a really good grasp on the cultural context in which we deliver care. They will undoubtedly shine as patient advocates at the bedside, but also at the systemic level by influencing health care policy within a uniquely nursing lens," said Lavoie.

To underscore the importance of cultural competency in providing health care in the North, Lavoie drew from a past a anecdote.

"Seeing the 'seal finger' in the emergency room. This is a particular type of infection...that you really only see in those who have injured themselves while working with seal products. If you aren't culturally competent, it can lead to serious negative outcomes."

Last year, a third-party report called for increased "cultural safety training" and an "anti-oppression framework," to be implemented in NWT healthcare following the death of Aklavik man Hugh Papik, who died after being misdiagnosed as drunk.

"Being served in your own language, regardless of where you are in the world gives you a sense of reassurance that you're heard and really understood."

"So, a locally trained nurse, who speaks the local language, is an asset with no price," said Lavoie.

The partnership between the college and the IRC aims to spur "local education opportunities in Inuvik that keeps families close and together," stated IRC communications director Taylor Giffin.

And staying close is just what Amber-Joy Gruben intends to do.

"I want to be an example for the Indigenous people who are afraid to leave home and pursue an education. If they see I can do it, they can do it too," said Gruben.

According to Murray, the college is still accepting applications and encourages interested parties – particularly Inuvialuit and Gwich'in students – to apply.

Eighteen seats in total are available.