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FAQs Undergraduate
Are there any post-admission requirements?
Yes. All newly admitted students are required
- to attend the Orientation Session scheduled during the week before the start of classes ;
- to comply with the immunization regulations of the Provincial Health Authorities related to vaccine-preventable communicable diseases;
- to complete a Criminal Record Check (CRC), First Aid/CPR BLS level for Helthcare certification and N95 mask fitting test.
For more information on post-admission requirements, please refer to "Post Admission Program Requirements" section.
Are ‘KN95’ or other types of particulate filter respirator masks allowed to be used for fit-testing?
KN95 mask are respirator masks made according to China’s standards, and although very similar, there have been some differences in the breathability, and observed inconsistencies in the level of particulate filtration, which have been found upon testing conducted in Ottawa and the US (See quote and reference links below). So, while KN95 masks may be acceptable for average consumer use, it is not considered safe for healthcare standards where a nursing student/ healthcare provider would be working in an environment with a high risk of direct exposure to various microscopic infective particles. Furthermore,
“Health Canada indicates the N95 and KN95 standards are similar "with respect to design, filtration, performance and materials standards." However, it says that "recent testing performed by the CDC resulted in concerns with some KN95 respirators (specifically those with ear loop design) that pose a difficulty in achieving a proper fit, which is essential for use." (Source: https://healthycanadians.gc.ca/recall-alert-rappel-avis/hc-sc/2020/73063a-eng.php)
With that said, at this time we must continue to adhere to the list of healthcare provider approved masks referenced above. Please also ensure that your mask fit-testing provider is utilizing masks approved for Healthcare provider use and that their testing services are conducted in accordance with the CSA Standard CAN/CSA-Z94.4.02.
What are my options if I cannot find an approved N95 certification provider?
Please make your best effort to get fit-tested according to the guidelines stated. However, should you not have access to fit-testing providers that can meet the identified standard, you will be asked to indicate that to the BSN program at the time of certificate collection. If you do not have a valid certificate which meets the school’s requirements, when the school arranges for testing, you will be responsible for testing cost, and you will also be required to participate at the scheduled time designated by the BSN program.
Please note, it is in your best interest if you have access to appropriate vendors, to get tested before the start of the term (i.e. September 3, 2020 Winter 1). Alternatively, for students who were not able to get fit-testing certificates, the School of Nursing will arrange testing, as early as September 8th . There will be limited flexibility in the fit-testing sessions at UBC and students will not be able to select a time. Appointments will be scheduled in tandem with other scheduled on-site activities.
What is the N95 Particulate Respirator Mask and where can I go to get one?
As a requirement for practice, each student must be fitted with an N95 respirator prior to the start of practicum, by a certified provider.
BSN program students are also required to submit N95 mask fit-testing certification annually, regardless of the expiry date listed on their previous certificate. N95 re-certification needs to be valid until at least May 2024, so it takes students through to the end of preceptorship/graduation in May 2024.
A respirator is a mask worn over one’s nose and mouth to keep airborne contaminants out of the wearer’s respiratory system and provides a safe air supply while wearing it. The N95 respirator is a specially fitted mask required for use in the care of patients with Airborne infection control precautions.
An “N-95” mask means it is Not resistant to Oil is at least 95% efficient at removing particles 0.3 micrometers in diameter from the air while being used in the course of care and with proper fit and use. Fit testing certification for an N95 mask is to be renewed annually by an approved provider.
Some Suggested N95 Fit Testing Locations include:
Link2Life
2378 Alberta Street Vancouver, BC
Ph: (604) 428-1870
Email: office@link2life.ca
Please click on link below to sign up for a session.
Sign up for N95 Mask Fit Testing
EMTEC Environmental Consulting Ltd.,
#121-8680 Cambie Road, Richmond, B.C.
Ph: 604-232-3365
Email: info@EmtecEnvironmental.com
Sign up for N95 Mask Fit Testing
Vida First Aid
Phone: (604) 351-6639
Email: info@vidafirstaid.com
Training Location: 7818 6th Street, Unit 304, Burnaby, BC
Sign up for N95 Mask Fit Testing
NB: This list is not exhaustive, as new suppliers and brands may be updated from time to time.
The above companies are recommended but is not an all an exclusive list. Outside the lower mainland you may find N95 Fit testing services for health facilities in your own community. The service you need is N95 respirator fit testing services conducted in accordance with the CSA Standard CAN/CSA-Z94.4.02. The masks generally supplied in the relevant clinical placements in the BC Health Authorities include: 3M Aura 1870+ (3M 1870 to be phased out by 2016), 3M 1860, 3M 1860S, Kimberly Clark Regular, Kimberly Clark Small.
Furthermore, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) is a US agency that approves respirators. According to WorkSafeBC, NIOSH-approved masks are also approved for use in the Canadian healthcare setting, as they meet the similar safety standards.
KN95 mask are respirator masks made according to China’s standards, and although very similar, there have been some differences in the breathability, and observed inconsistencies in the level of particulate filtration, which have been found upon testing conducted in Ottawa and the US (See quote and reference links below). So, while KN95 masks may be acceptable for average consumer use, it is not considered safe for healthcare standards where a nursing student/ healthcare provider would be working in an environment with a high risk of direct exposure to various microscopic infective particles. Furthermore,
“Health Canada indicates the N95 and KN95 standards are similar "with respect to design, filtration, performance and materials standards." However, it says that "recent testing performed by the CDC resulted in concerns with some KN95 respirators (specifically those with ear loop design) that pose a difficulty in achieving a proper fit, which is essential for use." (Source: https://healthycanadians.gc.ca/recall-alert-rappel-avis/hc-sc/2020/7306…)
With that said, at this time we must continue to adhere to the list of healthcare provider approved masks referenced above. Please also ensure that your mask fit-testing provider is utilizing masks approved for Healthcare provider use and that their testing services are conducted in accordance with the CSA Standard CAN/CSA-Z94.4.02.
Should you not have access to fit-testing providers that can meet the identified standard, you will be asked to indicate that to the BSN program at the time of certificate collection. If you do not have a valid certificate which meets the school’s requirements, when the school arranges for testing, you will be responsible for testing cost, and you will also be required to participate at the scheduled time designated by the BSN program.
Please note, it is in your best interest if you have access to appropriate vendors, to get tested before the start of the term. Alternatively, for students who were not able to get fit-testing certificates, the School of Nursing will arrange testing. There will be limited flexibility in the fit-testing sessions at UBC and students will not be able to select a time. Appointments will be scheduled in tandem with other scheduled on-site activities.