PHSA - BCCDC - Immunization Competency Course

  • Course Type: eLearning Course
  • Length: 15 hours
  • Category: Clinical

LearningHub is only to be used by those working and studying in British Columbia.

This course will equip new immunizers with the necessary knowledge to provide safe and effective Immunization programs based on the Immunization Competencies for BC Health Professionals (a provincial adaption of the Public Health Agency of Canada Immunization Competencies for Health Professionals).

Topics include:

  • Vaccine preventable diseases
  • The immune system
  • Vaccine development and evaluation
  • Types of immunizing agents
  • The vaccine immune response
  • Immunization schedules
  • Populations requiring special considerations
  • Storage and handling of immunization agents
  • Administration of immunizing agents
  • Reactions following immunization and anaphylaxis
  • Documentation
  • Legal and ethical aspects of immunization
  • Population health
  • Immunization communication principles
  • Childhood immunization communication and adult immunization communication
  • The Canadian immunization system

All health professionals who administer immunizations in BC such as: registered nurses (RNs and RPNs), licensed practical nurses (LPNs), pharmacists, naturopathic physicians and community paramedics.
15 hours
20112

This course is employer-mandated in some practice settings. Please consult your health professional's regulatory body, as well as your employer, who can advise you of respective requirements in order to safely administer immunizations.

The BCCDC Immunization Competency Course has been recognized as the gold standard for education in BC related to the 16 immunization competencies as laid out in the Immunization Competencies for BC Health Professionals. These competencies range from the scientific basis of immunization to essential immunization practices and contextual issues relevant to immunization, and provide foundational knowledge applicable to all immunization providers regardless of which vaccine(s) they provide or the age of their clientele.

The BCCDC Immunization Competency Course consists of two components:

  • The Online Immunization Course and Basic Exam (12-15 hours).
  • The Immunization Skills Checklist (requires additional support from the Employer).

The BCCDC Immunization Competency Course is a comprehensive course. Completion of all 16 modules within the course can take learners approximately 8 to 11 hours and the Basic Exam may take up to approximately 4 hours depending on the learner’s level of experience.

Contact Information

Competency Help

Competencyhelp@bccdc.ca