New Entry-Level Competencies for Registered Psychiatric Nurses

The Registered Psychiatric Nurse Regulators of Canada updated the Registered Psychiatric Nurses’ Entry-Level Competencies. These updated Registered Psychiatric Nurses Entry-Level Competencies replace the 2014 competencies effective January 1, 2026. 

Click here for the new Entry Level Competencies.
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The 2025 Registered Psychiatric Nurse Entry-Level Competencies reflect the foundational knowledge, skills, judgments and attitudes required of Registered Psychiatric Nurses to provide safe, competent, ethical and compassionate care. Registered Psychiatric Nurses are expected to provide culturally safe care and actively embrace cultural humility.  

The entry-level competencies are used by the regulatory body, psychiatric nursing education programs and other external partners for several purposes, including but not limited to curriculum development, psychiatric nursing education program review and approval, the development of the Registered Psychiatric Nurses of Canda Examination (RPNCE) and for professional conduct review.

Educators of psychiatric nurse education programs will incorporate the updated entry-level competencies in the psychiatric nurse curriculum and program right away. Registered Psychiatric Nurses, the public and others are encouraged to read and understand the updated the entry-level competencies.