If you are interested in any of the following courses contact chad.obrien [at] nsnu.ca

General Labour Relations

An important part of being a union member is knowing your collective agreement, and how to deal with situations where your employer has violated that agreement. This course familiarizes participants with the basic structure of the Nova Scotia Nurses’ Union and gives an overview of the important aspects of labour relations. Topics covered include roles and responsibilities of locals, meetings and conflict resolution basics, the grievance process, safe staffing, and occupational health and safety basics.

Safe Staffing and Nurse Workload (CCRs)

Nurses are subject to high levels of stress and burnout in their work lives, and identify increased workload and insufficient staffing as the main cause. In 2014, the Nova Scotia Nurses’ Union negotiated new collective agreement language giving nurses a mechanism to address workload issues. If nurses get an inadequate response from their manager after reporting a workload issue, they can fill out a Clinical Capacity Report. This course gives participants background on the topic of nurse workload and helps participants learn how to utilize the safe staffing process.

Professionalism for the Digital Age

Offered online at specific times during the year, see NSNU e-memo’s for dates.

Understanding the potential impact of social media on your nursing practice is important when deciding to venture into the online world. In the past ten years, the number of ways that we can connect with others online has exploded. Having an online presence has almost become a necessity in the modern world, but comes with many precautions and dangers. This course helps participants understand what social media is, and what to be mindful of when choosing to go online. Other topics discussed include cyberbullying, nursing practice implications, privacy, and mental health.

Workplace Violence (Online Only)

Violence in the workplace is an issue that affects the safety and security of employees, patients/clients/residents, visitors and family members. Workplace violence claims a high personal cost due to the emotional trauma and physical injury. It can also lead to increased absenteeism, higher sick leave costs, lost productivity, high employee turn- over, higher insurance premiums and increased WCB premiums. This course will examine the tools and resources union members possess to promote safer workplaces for all.