RPN Professional Development. Continuous professional development is a hallmark of professional nursing practice and as a self-regulating profession nurses are required to maintain competency. The parties jointly recognize the importance of maintaining a dynamic practice environment which may include ongoing learning, career development, career counselling and succession planning. The parties agree that professional development includes a diverse range of activities, including but not limited to formal academic programs; short-term continuing education activities; certification programs; independent learning committee participation. The parties recognize their joint responsibility in and commitment to active participation in the area of professional development. The Hospital will work jointly with RPNs to: • Promote Professional Development • Promote access to professional development opportunities for RPNs • Acknowledge that responsibilities for professional development are shared between the individual and the Hospital • Review and make recommendations regarding professional development initiatives, including but not limited to mentorship and internship • Review and make recommendations regarding the existing nursing continuing education programs; and on the use of technology to enhance access
