I am a third-year nursing student who has been hired to work in a summer camp as a camp nurse. What is my role during my employment?

The title “nurse” is protected under the Nursing Act, 1991. In Ontario, only members of the College of Nurses can use the title of nurse, Registered Nurse, Registered Practical Nurse, or any variation, abbreviation or equivalent in another language. Individuals enrolled in a nursing education program should only use the title “nursing student” during the school year. In their position at the summer camp, nursing students are referred to as Unregulated Care Providers (UCPs) or first aiders. You should clarify what title you will use during your employment.

The employer provides the expectations of your role at the camp. UCPs are not regulated and are accountable only to their employers. It is the employer’s responsibility to ensure that you are competent to perform any assigned task. UCPs have no access to controlled acts unless delegated to them by a member of the profession who has access to the controlled acts or the act is considered a routine activity of living. Routine activity of living should be well established as part of a client’s daily routine.

The summer camp experience can help you develop confidence and organizational skills to be utilized in your future nursing career.