The BC College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM) is looking for registered psychiatric nurse (RPN) volunteers for the ongoing development of the Registered Psychiatric Nurses of Canada Exam (RPNCE). Successful candidates may be invited by the exam vendor to participate in item bank maintenance or item writing activities. Dates of activities are listed below:
- Item Bank Maintenance – 27 April–1 May, 2026
- Item Writing #1 – 15–19 June, 2026
- Item Writing #2 – 13–17 July, 2026
- Item Writing #3 – 26–30 Oct., 2026
Criteria for participation
To be considered for participation, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be currently registered as a practicing RPN in good standing with BCCNM.
- Possess psychiatric nursing experience beyond the basic level, acquired either through education preparation or clinical experience.
- Have knowledge of current practice for registered psychiatric nurses beginning to practice.
- View psychiatric nursing and the nursing process in broad, general terms.
- Possess flexibility in using different approaches to solving problems.
- Think critically and creatively, and express ideas effectively both orally and in writing.
- Be able to work well in a group.
- Be able to work intensively on a project.
- Possess basic computer literacy (e.g., Microsoft Word).
In addition, you will need to:
- Be willing and available to travel to Ottawa to participate in these multi-day exam development activities. While exam development activities are voluntary, travel and accommodation costs are covered by the vendor.
How to apply
To apply, please email your name and resume or curriculum vitae to
epr@bccnm.ca by
Oct. 24, 2025, with “RPN Exam Development Volunteer" in the subject line. If you are selected to participate, you will be contacted directly by the exam vendor.