Continuing competence is career-long enhancement of knowledge, skill, and judgment required to practice safely and ethically.
The Continuing Competence Program (CCP) is a regulatory program and quality assurance mechanism. Every nurse in Nova Scotia is required to successfully complete the CCP requirements as part of their annual licensure requirement, regardless of their employment status.
History of the Program
When NSCN was formed on June 4, 2019, each legacy College had a slightly different continuing competence program (CCP). There is an ongoing plan to review and revise the continuing competence requirements for of all nurses with the expectation for a new CCP in 2024.
How CCP Protects the Public
CCP contributes to our mandate of public protection by requiring every nurse in Nova Scotia to participate in reflective learning activities designed to help them maintain and enhance their professional competence every year.
CCP provides a level of assurance to the public that nurses are continuously meeting their professional practice standards as required in the Nursing Act.
Meeting the CCP Requirement
Successful completion of CCP is a requirement for initial licensure or annual renewal. You are required to declare understanding of your accountabilities to complete CCP each year on your renewal form and submit your learning plan if selected for audit.
Program Steps and Tools to Complete
Important program support tools have been developed to help you successfully meet your CCP requirements. The tools are available here.
If you have any questions about CCP, read the CCP Frequently Asked Questions or reach out to us at ccp@nscn.ca.