Structured Support: A Transition Program for Internationally Educated Nurses

The number of internationally educated nurses (IEN) registered in Ontario reached 5,491 in 2023, a 3.5-fold increase over four years (College of Nurses of Ontario, 2024). In 2024, 25-50 per cent of new hires at UHN are IENs, with 71 per cent having less than one year of experience in Ontario. An environmental scan identified gaps in courses and clinical preparation for IENs.

An IEN Pathway Program was created to provide structured support, assessments, and resources for the IENs to safely transition into independent practice.