Indigenous 
Overview
This critical care specialty program provides RNs with the opportunity to expand their practice in perianesthesia nursing and develop a comprehensive understanding of perianesthesia nursing considerations in care provision. The four-course certificate uses a case study-based approach to explore foundational concepts and key aspects of pre, intra, and post-operative patient care. Cultural diversity and the care of special populations in the perianesthesia environment are embedded within each course.
Program Details
Program Outline
Please note: These courses can be taken in any order or combination
2026-2027
With a focus on perianesthesia nursing as a specialty, learners enrolled in this course will explore concepts related to the perianesthesia department, infection prevention and control, patient safety, ethical and current dilemmas experienced in the perianesthetic environment. Using a case study based approach learners will apply the theory learned to explore the considerations made for supporting patients from their initial pre-surgical screening and up to and including their day of surgery.
In this comprehensive course, learners will explore components of the pre and peri-anesthetic assessments and the different approaches to anesthesia. Airway management, the maintenance of fluid balance as well as the role that regional anesthesia plays in the peri-operative setting will be introduced in case studies to reinforce learning.
With an emphasis on effective communication and collaboration during transfer of care, this course will provide learners with an opportunity to explore pain management strategies, post operative complications, care for specialized populations and planning for safely discharging patients. Using a case study approach, learners will integrate theoretical knowledge with practical application to care provision for the post-operative patient.
Learners explore the transition of post-anesthetic patients, emphasizing surgical-focused assessments and interventions that integrate peri-anesthesia knowledge with post-surgical care. Monitoring, assessment, pain management, complications, special populations, and discharge education are addressed to promote safe and effective recovery.
Requirements
Admission Requirements
- Ontario College Diploma, Advanced Diploma, Degree or equivalent in Nursing.
- Proof of active unrestricted registration as a Registered Nurse (RN) in good standing with the College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO) (or equivalent) is required for enrollment. You must provide your CNO registered number at the time of registration.
- Evidence of direct post-graduation clinical practice hours (3,900 hours within the previous 5 years). *Documentation from previous employer(s) must be available for upload at the time of registration.
Please note: The course is designed for students who have previous critical care experience and as such 1000 hours of direct Critical Care experience or completion of the RNCC program is highly recommended to ensure success.
Fees
Course Fees
For course fees, please view the following page and click "Part-Time Fees - Quick Reference". Please note that fees are subject to change and updated fees will be available each semester during the registration process.
Career Opportunities
Peri-anesthesia nurses are employed in hospital and stand-alone clinic settings, providing specialized care in pre-surgical screening and post-anesthetic recovery areas. This course is designed to enhance perioperative knowledge and support nurses working with surgical patients across the continuum of care. Nurses who are interested in working directly within the operating room may wish to consider the RNOR program for more focused operating room preparation.
Program Contacts
Crystal Larose
Crystal.Larose@sl.on.ca