Nursing Education Program of
Saskatchewan (NEPS) Exit Survey:
Graduates of the 2003-2004
Academic Year
Prepared for
The College of Nursing of the University
of Saskatchewan, and the Nursing
Division of the Saskatchewan Institute of
Applied Science and Technology
Final Report
July 2004
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
This report was compiled by Insightrix Research Services
#113-15 Innovation Blvd.
Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
S7N 2X8
306.657.5640
Project #1246
Corrin Harper, Director of Research Services, harper@insightrix.com
Ian Kosokowsky, Director of IT Services, ian.kosokowsky@insightrix.com
Jackie Chometa Keele, Project Manager, jackie.keele@insightrix.com
Hing Sham, Production Manager, hing.sham@insightrix.com
Adrienne Nordquist, Data Analyst, adrienne.nordquist@insightrix.com
July 2004
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
Nursing Education Program of Saskatchewan (NEPS) Exit Survey:
Graduates of the 2003-2004 Academic Year
Executive Summary
July 2004
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
Acknowledgments
We wish to acknowledge the support and direction from the Deans of the Nursing Education
Program of Saskatchewan:
Dean Beth Horsburgh
College of Nursing
University of Saskatchewan
Dean Diana Davidson Dick
Nursing Division
Saskatchewan Institute of Applied
Science and Technology
and the members of the Ad Hoc Advisory Team:
Lois Berry
Mary MacDonald
Marlene Smadu
Barbara Smith
Norma Wildeman
We also wish to acknowledge the Financial Support from the following:
Saskatchewan Health
Saskatchewan Registered Nurses Association
Saskatchewan Union of Nurses
The final report prepared by Insightrix, Nursing Education Program of Saskatchewan (NEPS) Exit
Survey: Graduates from the 2003-2004 Academic Year. Final Report. (July 2004) is available
from either the College of Nursing, University of Saskatchewan, or the Nursing Division,
Saskatchewan Institute of Applied Science and Technology.
Gail Laing (CofN), Joan Sawatzky (CofN), and Diane Jensen (SIAST)
Project Coordinators
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
Executive Summary
This report summarizes the results of the 2003-2004 Graduate Exit Survey for the Nursing
Education Program of Saskatchewan (NEPS). This is the second exit survey that has been
conducted; it examines anticipated employment and graduate expectations at program
completion. This report includes the comparisons between the 2002-2003 and 2003-2004 exit
surveys.
Response Rates and Representativeness
Data were collected at the time of program completion: October 2003; December 2003; April
2004. Of the total 216 graduates, 127 completed the questionnaire, representing a 59%
response rate.
Who is the Nursing Graduate?
Of the graduates surveyed, 91% were female and 9% were male. The majority of the graduates
(92%) grew up in Saskatchewan. Only 52% of the graduates were 20 years of age or younger
upon entering the program. Of the total graduates, approximately 8% identified themselves as
aboriginal. Also, over half (55%) were single at the time of graduation.
Of the total graduates surveyed, almost 28% had previous education in the health care field, prior
to starting the NEPS program; this is up from 16% from the previous year. Prior to starting NEPS
almost 40% of respondents had some university education; this was similar to the results in the
2002-2003 survey where 37% indicated some university. Also, respondents with a baccalaureate
degree upon entry were up slightly as well from the previous year from 7% to 11%
The main activity of the graduate prior to beginning NEPS was attending school (56%). Another,
42% of respondents indicated that they were working in the year before starting NEPS. Of those
working, 38% worked in the health care field.
During the NEPS Program
Eighty percent of respondents indicated starting their program in 2000, therefore, of those
surveyed, 20% took longer than four years to complete the program.
Over half (57% of respondents) indicated that Saskatoon was the program site of entry and 43%
began the program in Regina. This was similar to the findings of the 2002-2003 survey where
54% entered the program in Saskatoon and 46% entered in Regina.
Almost 60% (59.1% of respondents) indicated that they had worked as a Senior Assist during the
NEPS program. Of the total graduates surveyed, 75% indicated they worked, other than as a
senior assist, while taking the NEPS program. Nearly half (48%) of the respondents indicated
that they worked 11-20 hours a week. As the NEPS program requires 15-18 hours a week in
courses and labs, these students are committed up to 38 hours per week, not including time for
study and assignments.
More students this year indicated they worked as compared with the previous exit survey in which
67% of the graduates indicated they worked while taking the NEPS program, but students from
this survey worked fewer hours each year of the program than the students from the previ ous exit
survey. The mean number of hours worked per week during the NEPS program is as follows:
Year 1
Year 2
Year 3
Year 4
2002-2003
19.6 hours/week
17.7 hours/week
14.8 hours/week
15.2 hours/week
2003-2004
17.6 hours/week
14.6 hours/week
13.9 hours/week
12.8 hours/week
I
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
Three quarters (73% of respondents) indicated they had received bursaries or scholarships
during the program, compared with 67% from the previous year. The average scholarship and
bursary amount was $7012, compared to $4,065 from the 2002-2003 survey. The percentage of
respondents receiving student or other educational loans was 74%, compared with 79% from the
previous year. The mean total dollar value of student or educational loans at the completion of the
NEPS program was $28,976, compared to $21,916 from the previous year. The number of
respondents who indicated they received loans was down from the previous year, while the
amounts of the loans were up.
The major life change experienced by over half (52.8%) of the respondents was change of
residence during the NEPS program, while only 38% in 2002-2003 relocated their residence.
Another 46% of respondents indicated that they had experienced the illness or death of family a
member or friend while in the NEPS program, similar to the 42% from last year.
Over half (58% of respondents) indicated Saskatoon as their program site at graduation, while
42% indicated Regina as their program site at graduation.
Employment Expectation
Hiring
Almost all (98%) of the respondents indicated they expected to be employed as a nurse within the
first six months after graduation. Twenty-six percent of respondents found their experience in
finding their first job more difficult than they had expected, while only 11% of the respondents
from the 2002-2003 survey found their experience in finding their first job more difficult. The
percent of respondents who found finding a job more difficult than expected more than doubled
from the previous year.
Of the total graduates, 57% of respondents indicated having a confirmed job as a graduate nurse
at the time of graduation, this is compared with 82% of the respondents from the previous year;
again this proportion is markedly different than the previous year.
By completion date, only 65.6% of the December graduates had confirmed employment, followed
by October graduates at 55.6% and April graduates at 52.5%. This is compared to the 20022003 Exit survey where more students who graduated in the month of April had confirmed
nursing jobs (88.9%), followed closely by those who graduated in December (88.5%). A smaller
proportion of students who graduated in September had a confirmed job at 74.3%, followed by
February at 60%.
Of the respondents who worked as Senior Assists during the NEPS program, 59% received a job
offer from a unit in which they were employed as a Senior Assist, compared with 53% from the
2002-2003 survey. Also, 61% of respondents indicated they received a job offer from the unit
where they did their 4th year practicum, compared with 68% from the previous year.
Location
Of the total graduates employed as a nurse, 89% of respondents indicated they would be
employed as a nurse in Saskatchewan; this is up just slightly from the 81% from the previous
year.
The majority (87% of respondents) indicated their first job would be in an urban setting. Of the
graduates surveyed, 79% of respondents indicated that the location of their first job was ideal or
highly ideal; slightly lower than the 83% of the respondents from the 2002-2003 survey who
indicated the location of their first job was ideal or highly ideal.
II
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
Choosing a Job
Family and community commitments continue to be the number one factor in determining job
location. Overall, 58% of the respondents indicated family and community commitments as the
most influential factor in choosing the job location of their first nursing position, compared with
68% from the previous survey.
Orientation
The majority (65% of respondents) indicated that their expected orientation would last between 6
and 30 days at their first nursing job. Another 35% of respondents indicated that their expected
orientation would last between 2 and 5 days at their first nursing job. This is compared with the
results of the 2002-2003 survey where 72.3% expected 6-30 days of orientation, followed by
23.8% who expected 2-5 days of orientation.
Profile of First Job
The majority (71% of 127 respondents) indicated that they anticipate working at 1 site for their
first job as a graduate nurse. Another 24% of respondents indicated they anticipate working at 2
sites, and 4% of respondents indicated they expect to work at 3 or more sites. This compares to
the previous survey responses, in which 76.5% expected to work at one site, followed by 19.6%
who expected to work at two sites and 4% who expected to work at three sites.
86% of respondents (compared with 63% from 2002-2003) indicated that their primary work site
would be a general hospital with over 100 beds. Ninety-four percent of respondents indicated
that they would be employed as a staff nurse at their primary site and 100% of respondents
indicated that their main area of responsibility at the primary site would be direct care.
Of the respondents providing direct care, 64% (compared with 62% from the previous year)
indicated that their area of service at the primary site will be medical/surgical and 18% indicated
pediatric care, which is up from 9% from the 2002-2003 survey.
Of the respondents with confirmed employment, 58% (compared with 68% from the previous
year) indicated they will be employed on a regular full-time basis, and 24% of respondents
(compared with 20% form the previous year) indicated they would be working casual full time
hours.
Of the 72 graduates with confirmed jobs, 65% (compared with 79% from the 2002-2003 survey)
indicated that the client group of their first job is ideal or highly ideal and 76% of respondents
(compared with 86% from the previous year) indicated that the level of responsibility of their first
job is ideal or highly ideal. Also, 72% of respondents (compared with 85% from the previous
year) indicated that the work environment of their first job is expected to be ideal or highly ideal
while 79% (compared with 83%) indicated that the location was ideal or highly ideal. Sixty-four
percent of respondents indicated that the shifts of their first job are ideal or highly ideal, this was
similar to the 68% from the 2002-2003 survey.
Compensation
Of the total graduates, 43% of respondents indicate that their expected total annual gross
earnings will be between $40,000 and $54,999; this is the same percentage as the respondents
from the 2002-2003 survey.
Further Education
Fifty-nine percent of the respondents expressed an intent to pursue graduate studies at some
time in the future; this is similar to the previous survey, where 54% planned to pursue graduate
studies.
III
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
Summary
The findings of this Exit Survey of NEPS graduates reflect many similarities to the findings of the
2002-2003 NEPS Exit Survey. Students continue to struggle financially. For example, the costs of
education are still a challenge. Although 75% of the respondents received scholarships or
bursaries, averaging approximately $7000 per student, 76% of the students reported student or
educational loans, averaging $28,000, $6000 more than the previous survey indicated. Seventyfive percent (75%) worked at a job other than Senior Assist while in the NEPS program,
averaging over 12 hours per week.
Most respondents (98%) expected to be employed as a nurse in the first 6 months after
completing the NEPS program. Students who worked as Senior Assists during their program
were more likely to receive a job offer (59%) than reported by the 2002-2003 Exit Survey (53%),
but still less likely than what was reported by the 2000 (65%) and 2001 (74%) graduates in the
NEPS 2-year Follow-Up surveys. Job offers arising from Senior Practicum placements were
consistent with previous surveys (about 60% received offers). Only 57% of the respondents had
confirmed employment at the time of the survey, whereas 82% of the new graduates from the
2002-2003 survey had confirmed employment at the time of program completion. This year, a
higher number of graduates (26%) found it more difficult than expected to find a job, compared to
10% from the 2002-2003 Exit survey. As well, fewer graduates (58%) in 2003-2004 indicated
they would be working regular full-time hours, compared to 68% in 2002-2003.
The most frequently cited factor for determining work location continues to be family and
community commitments. Their first job is most likely to be on a regular, full-time basis, on a
medical-surgical unit in an urban setting in Saskatchewan.
This second exit survey provides a valuable comparative examination of the 2002-2003 and
2003-2004 NEPS Exit surveys and will aid in the comparative studies of subsequent years.
IV
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
Table of Contents
1
Introduction and Methodology.......................................................................................................................1
1.1
1.2
1.3
1.4
2
GOALS AND OBJECT IVES............................................................................................................. 1
SCOPE OF W ORK........................................................................................................................... 1
SURVEY DESIGN ........................................................................................................................... 1
SURVEY DISTRIBUTION................................................................................................................ 1
Survey Results......................................................................................................................................................2
2.1
2.2
2.3
2.3.1
2.3.2
2.3.3
CONFIDENCE INTERVALS............................................................................................................. 2
RESPONSE RATES.......................................................................................................................... 2
OVERALL RESULTS....................................................................................................................... 2
Prior To Starting The NEPS Program.............................................................................2
2.3.1.1
Did you have any previous education in the health care field prior to starting
the NEPS program? ..................................................................................................... 2
2.3.1.2
Please identify your previous education in the health care field (check as many
as apply): ....................................................................................................................... 3
2.3.1.3
What was your highest educational achievement prior to starting the program?
..................................................................................................................................... 4
2.3.1.4
Please specify the degree(s)/diploma(s)/certificates (including field of study)
you held prior to starting the program: .................................................................... 4
2.3.1.5
What was your major activity in the year before starting NEPS? ....................... 5
2.3.1.6
Was this work in the health care field? .................................................................... 6
During the NEPS Program................................................................................................7
2.3.2.1
What year did you start your NEPS program? ........................................................ 7
2.3.2.2
What was your age when you entered the NEPS program? ................................. 8
2.3.2.3
What was your marital status when you entered the NEPS program? ............... 9
2.3.2.4
What was the program site at entry to the NEPS program? ............................... 10
2.3.2.5
Please indicate if you experienced any of the following significant life
changes during the NEPS program. (check all that apply)................................. 11
2.3.2.6
Did you work as a Senior Assist during your NEPS program? ......................... 13
2.3.2.7
Did you have a job, other than as a Senior Assist, while in the NEPS program?
................................................................................................................................... 14
2.3.2.8
On average, how many hours a week did you work at your job?...................... 15
2.3.2.8.1
a. 1st Year................................................................................................................ 15
2.3.2.8.2
b. 2nd Year .............................................................................................................. 16
2.3.2.8.3
c. 3rd Year.............................................................................................................. 17
2.3.2.8.4
d. 4th Year............................................................................................................... 18
2.3.2.9
Did you receive any scholarships or bursaries during the program? ................ 19
2.3.2.10
What was the total dollar value of scholarships or bursaries you received
during the NEPS program? ...................................................................................... 20
2.3.2.11
What was the major source of your scholarship/bursary support?.................... 21
2.3.2.12
Did you obtain any student or educational loans during the program? ............ 22
2.3.2.13
What was the total dollar value of your student or educational loans at
completion of the NEPS program? ......................................................................... 23
2.3.2.14
What date did you complete your NEPS program? ............................................. 24
2.3.2.15
What was your program site at graduation from the NEPS program? ............. 24
Job Search and Anticipated Employment......................................................................25
2.3.3.1
At this time, do you have a job as a graduate nurse confirmed? ....................... 25
2.3.3.2
If you have confirmed employment, to what extent does your first job meet
your ideal preferences?............................................................................................. 26
2.3.3.2.1
a. Location.............................................................................................................. 26
2.3.3.2.2
b. Client Group...................................................................................................... 27
2.3.3.2.3
c. Responsibilities ................................................................................................. 28
2.3.3.2.4
d. Shifts................................................................................................................... 29
2.3.3.2.5
e. Work Environment........................................................................................... 30
2.3.3.3
Name the (one) most positive aspect of your first job?....................................... 31
2.3.3.4
Within the first 6 months after graduation, do you expect to be:...................... 32
i
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
2.3.3.5
2.3.4
If you do not expect to be employed as a nurse in the first 6 months after
completing the NEPS program, what is the MAIN reason why?...................... 33
2.3.3.6
What is/would likely be the geographical location of your first job as a
graduate nurse?........................................................................................................... 34
2.3.3.7
Please specify whether the location of your first job as a graduate nurse
is/would likely be:...................................................................................................... 35
2.3.3.8
Please rank the top 3 factors that will/has influenced your choice of work
location for your first job as a nurse....................................................................... 36
2.3.3.9
Which strategy has been most useful in your job search?.................................. 40
2.3.3.10
Did you get a job offer from a unit where you were employed as a Senior
Assist?.......................................................................................................................... 41
2.3.3.11
Did you get a job offer from a unit where you had your 4th year senior
practicum experiences?............................................................................................. 42
2.3.3.12
How does your experience in finding your first job compare with your
expectations?.............................................................................................................. 43
2.3.3.13
What will be the work hours of your first job as a graduate nurse?.................. 44
2.3.3.14
Is being employed on a {Reg. FT/Casual FT/Reg. PT/Casual PT} basis your
preference? (Coincides with the answer to question 2.3.3.13) .......................... 45
2.3.3.15
Hours worked that are not the preference of the respondent.............................. 45
2.3.3.16
When you start your first nursing job, what do you expect will be the length of
your orientation (including "buddy" shifts)?......................................................... 46
2.3.3.17
How many sites will you/do you expect to work at for your first job as a
graduate nurse?........................................................................................................... 47
2.3.3.18
What type of organization will you be working at?............................................. 48
2.3.3.18.1
a. Primary Site:.................................................................................................... 48
2.3.3.18.2
b. Secondary Site: ............................................................................................... 49
2.3.3.18.3
c. Third Site: ........................................................................................................ 50
2.3.3.19
What is your position?.............................................................................................. 51
2.3.3.19.1
a. Primary Site:.................................................................................................... 51
2.3.3.19.2
b. Secondary Site: ............................................................................................... 52
2.3.3.19.3
c. Third Site: ........................................................................................................ 53
2.3.3.20
What is your main area of responsibility? ............................................................. 54
2.3.3.20.1
a. Primary Site:.................................................................................................... 54
2.3.3.20.2
b. Secondary Site: ............................................................................................... 55
2.3.3.20.3
c. Third Site: ........................................................................................................ 56
2.3.3.21
In what area will you provide:................................................................................. 57
2.3.3.21.1
a. Primary Site ..................................................................................................... 57
2.3.3.21.2
b. Secondary Site ................................................................................................ 58
2.3.3.21.3
c. Third Site.......................................................................................................... 59
2.3.3.22
On average, how many hours per week will you work? ..................................... 60
2.3.3.23
What do you expect will be your total annual earnings per year before taxes
and deductions (Canadian Dollars)? ....................................................................... 60
General Information..........................................................................................................62
2.3.4.1
Are you registering with any of the following associations (check all that
apply)? ......................................................................................................................... 62
2.3.4.2
What is your gender?................................................................................................. 63
2.3.4.3
Where did you grow up? .......................................................................................... 64
2.3.4.4
Are you of Aboriginal ancestry?............................................................................. 65
2.3.4.5
You indicated you are of Aboriginal ancestry; please indicate if you are:...... 66
2.3.4.6
What is your current marital status?....................................................................... 67
2.3.4.7
How satisfied are you with your educational experience in the NEPS
program? ...................................................................................................................... 68
2.3.4.8
How well do you believe your educational program has prepared you for
nursing practice?........................................................................................................ 69
2.3.4.9
Do you plan to pursue graduate studies (Masters/PhD) at some time in the
future?.......................................................................................................................... 70
2.3.4.10
Do you have any additional comments regarding the education you received
in the NEPS program? ............................................................................................... 71
ii
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
3
July 2004
Summary .............................................................................................................................................................72
3.1.1
3.1.2
3.1.3
3.1.4
Prior to the NEPS Program.............................................................................................72
During the NEPS Program..............................................................................................72
Job Search and Anticipated Employment......................................................................74
General Questions.............................................................................................................77
Appendix A....................................................................................................................................................................79
Please specify the degree(s)/diploma(s)/certificates (including field of study) you held prior to
starting the program: .........................................................................................................................................79
iii
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
1 Introduction and Methodology
1.1 Goals and Objectives
The purpose of this survey is to track the progress of students through NEPS and identify the
career paths of Saskatchewan basic nursing education graduates. The goals include the
following.
•
Establish employment profiles of graduates and to identify trends over time
•
Identify self-perceptions of preparation and support for entry into the workforce
•
Explore details of the job search process
•
Identify predictors of student success and employment decisions.
Ethics approvals for the individual phases of this project were obtained from the University of
Saskatchewan Advisory Committee on Ethics in Behavioral Science Research.
These survey results represent the exit survey for the graduates of the 2003-2004 academic year
and are compared with the results of the 2002-2003 NEPS Exit survey.
1.2 Scope of Work
The College of Nursing of the University of Saskatchewan, and the Saskatchewan Institute of
Applied Science and Technology (SIAST) contracted Insightrix Research Services to conduct
analysis of the 2003-2004 Exit Survey of the Nursing Education Program of Saskatchewan
(NEPS) graduates. The survey was conducted online and by mail.
1.3 Survey Design
The questions were similar to the NEPS Exit 2002-2003 survey, a survey designed jointly by
Insightrix and NEPS. Insightrix programmed the survey online; as well as created a version on
paper to distribute to those who did not have e-mail addresses.
1.4 Survey Distribution
Insightrix received 201 e-mail addresses of the graduating students and each potential
respondent was sent a personalized e-mail with a link to the survey. Fifteen potential
respondents did not have e-mail addresses and these individuals were sent the survey by mail.
The data collection was divided into three phases. The survey was delivered to the graduates
upon their completion of the NEPS program, either in October, December or April.
1
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
2 Survey Results
2.1 Confidence Intervals
With a population of 216 NEPS graduates, a sample size of 127 completed surveys (121 online
and six by mail), and a confidence level of 95%, the confidence interval is 5.59%. This means
that the reader can be 95% sure that the true percentage of the population is +5.59% of the
percentage being reported.
2.2 Response Rates
The survey was conducted online by an e-mail invitation sent to 201 graduates and by mail to 15
graduates. Of the 216 graduates, 127 completed the survey (121 completes online and 6
completes by mail), giving a response rate of 59% overall.
2.3 Overall Results
2.3.1 Prior To Starting The NEPS Program
2.3.1.1
Did you have any previous education in the health care field prior to starting the
NEPS program?
Label
Yes
No
Total
2002-2003
2003-2004
Total # % of Responses Total # % of Responses
16
15.7
35
27.6
86
84.3
92
72.4
102
100
127
100
Key Findings:
• In 2004, 27.6% of those surveyed indicated they had previous education in the health care
field prior to starting the NEPS program. This percentage increased from 2003 when
15.7% of the respondents indicated they had previous health care education prior to
starting the NEPS program.
2
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
2.3.1.2
July 2004
Please identify your previous education in the health care field (check as many as
apply):
2003-2004
Description
Total # % of Responses Total # % of Responses
Health/Home Care 5
29.4
6
17.1
Health care/home care aide
LPN
1
5.9
5
14.3
LPN
Label
2002-2003
Lab tech /EMT
Volunteer Pgm
Other
2
1
8
11.8
5.9
47.1
7
6
17
20.0
17.1
48.6
Total
17
100
35
100
Lab tech/ EMT
Volunteer Program
Other, (please specify)
Key Findings:
• Of the respondents who have had previous education in the health care field prior to
starting the NEPS program 20.0% had Lab Tech or EMT experience, this figure
increased from the previous year when 11.8% of the respondents had Lab Tech or EMT
experience.
• Seventeen percent had experience in Health/Home Care as opposed to 29.4% in 2003.
• Another 17% had volunteer experience and 14.3% had previous education experience as
an LPN, in 2003 only 5.9% had volunteer experience and LPN education.
Entries under "Other":
(2) Kinesiology
(1) 2 years of the old Nursing degree program
(1) 3rd yr Nursing, Philippines
(1) Arts and Sciences
(1) Canadian ski patrol course, National Lifeguard.
(1) Dental Assistant
(1) First Responder
(1) Group home-mental/phys disabilities.
(1) Microbiology
(1) Nutritionist
(1) Occupational/physical therapy assistant
(1) Pre pharmacy
(1) Psychology
(1) Rehabilitation Worker Certificate
(1) Taking anatomy degree
(1) Unit Clerk
3
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
2.3.1.3
July 2004
What was your highest educational achievement prior to starting the program?
2002-2003
Label
2003-2004
Description
Total
#
41
% of
Responses
40.6
Total
#
43
% of
Responses
33.9
SIAST courses
6
5.9
0
0.0
SIAST diploma
10
9.9
20
15.7
37
36.6
50
39.4
Some university classes
7
0
0
6.9
0.0
0.0
14
0
0
11.0
0.0
0.0
University baccalaureate (Under-Graduate) degree
Masters degree
PhD
101
100
127
100
High school
Some
university
Baccalaureate
Masters degree
PhD
Total
High school diploma
SIAST (or other Technical Institute) courses
SIAST (or other Technical Institute)
diploma/certificate
Key Findings:
• Of those surveyed, 39.4% had some university prior to starting the NEPS program.
• Nearly 34% had only a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Over 15% of the respondents had a SIAST diploma and 11.0% had a baccalaureate
degree before entering the NEPS program.
• This compares to the 2003 survey responses, in which 36.6% had some university, 40.6%
had finished high school, 9.9% had a SIAST diploma and 6.9% had a baccalaureate
degree.
2.3.1.4
Please specify the degree(s)/diploma(s)/certificates (including field of study) you
held prior to starting the program:
(12) Bachelor of Arts
(5) Bachelor of Science
(5) LPN
(3) EMT
For the full list of degrees and diplomas, see Appendix A
4
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
2.3.1.5
July 2004
What was your major activity in the year before starting NEPS?
Label
2002-2003
2003-2004
Total # % of Responses Total # % of Responses
Household resp
Going to school
Working
2
59
41
2.0
57.8
40.2
3
71
53
2.4
55.9
41.7
Total
102
100
127
100
Description
Household responsibilities
Going to school
Working
Key Findings:
• Over half (55.9%) of the respondents spent the majority of the year, prior to the NEPS
program, attending school. This was similar to the percentage of respondents from the
2002-2003 survey, 57.8% were attending school the year before entering the NEPS
program.
• Of those surveyed, 41.7% spent the previ ous year working, similar to the 40.2% of
respondents from the previous year.
5
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
2.3.1.6
July 2004
Was this work in the health care field?
Label
Yes
No
Total
2002-2003
2003-2004
Description
Total # % of Responses Total # % of Responses
13
31.7
20
37.7
Yes (please specify)
28
68.3
33
62.3
41
100
53
100
No
Key Findings:
• Of the respondents who spent the year prior to entering the NEPS program working,
37.7% worked in the health care field.
• This compares to the 2002 survey responses, in which 31.7% spent the year prior to
entering the NEPS program working.
If “yes”, please specify:
(3) Home care
(3) LPN
(2) EMS
(1) Abused women
(1) Cosmo Learning Centre
(1) Direct care worker - Chip and Dale Housing
(1) EMT
(1) ENT office secretary
(1) Group home for handicapped adults
(1) Lab/x-ray tech
(1) Medical office assistant/secretary in Doctor office
(1) Nursing home
(1) Obstetrics and clinic
(2) Special Care Aide
6
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
2.3.2 During the NEPS Program
2.3.2.1
What year did you start your NEPS program?
Total # % of Responses Cumulative %
1995
1996
1997
1998
1
0
0
2
0.0
0.8
0.0
1.6
0.0
0.8
0.8
2.4
1999
2000
2001
18
102
4
14.2
80.3
3.1
16.5
96.9
100.0
Total 127
100
Key Findings:
• Of those surveyed, 80.3% entered the NEPS program in 2000 and 16.6% began the
program in 1999 or earlier.
7
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
2.3.2.2
July 2004
What was your age when you entered the NEPS program?
Total # % of Responses Cumulative %
20 or younger
21-25
26-30
Over 30
Total
67
43
8
52.8
33.9
6.3
52.8
86.6
92.9
9
7.1
100.0
127
100
Age of Respondents When They Entered The NEPS Program
2002-2003
2003-2004
N
102
127
Min. Age
17
17
Max. Age
39
47
Avg. Age
21.2
21.9
Key Findings:
• Only 52.8% of respondents were 20 or younger when they began the NEPS program and
33.9% were between the ages of 21 and 25 when they entered the program.
• The average age of respondents when they entered the NEPS program was 21.9, similar
to the average age of respondents from the 2002-2003 Exit survey of 21.2.
8
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
2.3.2.3
July 2004
What was your marital status when you entered the NEPS program?
Total # % of Responses Cumulative %
Single
Married/Com Law
Separated
Divorced
Widow(er)
Total
109
16
1
1
85.8
12.6
0.8
0.8
85.8
98.4
99.2
100.0
0
0.0
100.0
127
100
Key Findings:
• Of the respondents, 85.8% were single when they entered the NEPS program and 12.6%
were married or common law when they began the program.
9
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
2.3.2.4
July 2004
What was the program site at entry to the NEPS program?
2002-2003
2003-2004
Total # % of Responses Total # % of Responses
Regina
47
46.1
55
43.3
Saskatoon 55
53.9
72
56.7
Label
Total
102
100
127
100
Key Findings:
• Of the respondents, 56.7% began the NEPS program in Saskatoon and 43.3% began the
program in Regina.
• This compares to the 2002-2003 responses in which 53.9% began in Saskatoon and
46.1% entered the program in Regina.
10
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
2.3.2.5
July 2004
Please indicate if you experienced any of the following significant life changes
during the NEPS program. (check all that apply)
Label
Total
#
Chg Marital
Stat
Birth of child
Death
2002-2003
% of
Responses
Total
#
2003-2004
% of
Responses
Description
22
21.4
35
27.6
Change in marital status
5
43
4.9
41.7
8
58
6.3
45.7
Birth of child
Illness or death of family member or friend
Personal illness
Uncertainty
Home reloc
10
20
39
9.7
19.4
37.9
9
45
67
7.1
35.4
52.8
Major personal illness or disability
Major uncertainty of Nursing as your profession
Home relocation
Care giving
12
11.7
16
12.6
Other
None
10
22
9.7
21.4
15
19
11.8
15.0
103
100
127
100
Total
Care giving for dependent children or dependent
adults
Other, (please specify)
None
Key Findings:
• Over half (52.8%) of those surveyed experienced a change of residence during the NEPS
program, while only 37.9% in 2002-2003 relocated their residence.
• Of those surveyed, 45.7% experienced illness or the death of a family member or friend as
compared to 41.7% in 2002-2003.
• Major uncertainty of Nursing as their profession was experienced by 35.4% of
respondents and in 2002-2003; this was experienced by only 19.4%.
• Nearly 30% saw a change in their marital status as compared to 21.4% in 2002-2003.
Entries under "Other":
(2) Engaged to be married
(2) Financial troubles
(2) Miscarriage
(1) Diagnosed with chronic disease
(1) Finished undergrad degree in psychology
(1) Gave up a full-time job
(1) Loss of spousal employment
(1) Menopause
(1) Moving to West Africa for a year
(1) Pregnancy
(1) Stress/migraine headaches
(1) Suicide of best friend
11
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
Totals
July 2004
"Significant life changes during program" by "Program site at NEPS entry"
Chg Birth
Personal
Home Care
Totals Marital of
Death
Uncertainty
Other None
illness
reloc giving
Stat child
127
35
8
58
67
16
15
19
9 (7.1%) 45 (35.4%)
(100%) (27.6%) (6.3%) (45.7%)
(52.8%) (12.6%) (11.8%) (15.0%)
55
15
4
22
4 (7.3%)
(43.3%) (27.3%) (7.3%) (40.0%)
72
20
4
36
Saskatoon
5 (6.9%)
(56.7%) (27.8%) (5.6%) (50.0%)
Regina
30
11
5
9
(54.5%) (20.0%) (9.1%) (16.4%)
37
5
10
10
29 (40.3%)
(51.4%) (6.9%) (13.9%) (13.9%)
16 (29.1%)
Note: "Refused / don't know" responses are included in the "Totals" column.
NOTE: Highlighted cells indicate the highest percent in each column. All cross tabulations in this
report have the same feature.
Key Findings:
• Percentages for significant life changes during the program do not differ drastically
between the program entry sites of Saskatoon and Regina. The two notable changes
respondents had to deal with during the program were 20.0% of those who entered the
program in Regina had to care for dependent children or dependent adults, while in
Saskatoon only 6.9% indicated care giving. Over 40% (40.3%) of the respondents who
entered the program in Saskatoon felt major uncertainty of Nursing as their profession
and only 29.1% of the Regina respondents indicated uncertainty.
"Significant life changes during program" by "Gender"
Chg
Birth
Personal
Home Care
Totals Marital
of
Death
Uncertainty
illness
reloc giving
Stat
child
126
35
8
58
(100%) (27.8%) (6.3%) (46.0%)
11
3
2
6
Male
(8.7%) (27.3%) (18.2%) (54.5%)
115
32
6
52
Female
(91.3%) (27.8%) (5.2%) (45.2%)
Note: "Refused / don't know" responses are
Totals
Other
None
67
15
15
19
(53.2%) (11.9%) (11.9%) (15.1%)
2
6
2
0
1
3 (27.3%)
(18.2%)
(54.5%) (18.2%) (0.0%) (9.1%)
61
13
15
18
7 (6.1%) 41 (35.7%)
(53.0%) (11.3%) (13.0%) (15.7%)
included in the "Totals" column.
9 (7.1%)
44 (34.9%)
Key Findings:
• By gender, a greater percentage of women (35.7%) felt major uncertainty of Nursing as
their profession than men (27.3%).
12
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
2.3.2.6
July 2004
Did you work as a Senior Assist during your NEPS program?
Label
Yes
No
Total
2002-2003
2003-2004
Total # % of Responses Total # % of Responses
58
45
103
56.3
43.7
100
75
52
127
59.1
40.9
100
Key Findings:
• Nearly 60% of the respondents worked as a Senior Assist during the NEPS program,
while 40.9% did not.
• This compares with the 2002-2003 responses in which 56.3% of those surveyed worked
as a Senior Assist during the program and 43.7% did not.
13
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
2.3.2.7
July 2004
Did you have a job, other than as a Senior Assist, while in the NEPS program?
Label
Yes
No
Total
2002-2003
2003-2004
Total # % of Responses Total # % of Responses
68
66.7
95
74.8
34
102
33.3
100
32
127
25.2
100
Key Findings:
• Over 70% of those surveyed did have a job, other than as a Senior Assist, while in the
NEPS program, just slightly higher than the previous year when 66.7% of the
respondents had another job.
14
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
2.3.2.8
2.3.2.8.1
July 2004
On average, how many hours a week did you work at your job?
st
a. 1 Year
Label
1-10 hours
11-20 hours
21-30 hours
31-40 hours
Over 40 hours
Total
2002-2003
2003-2004
Total # % of Responses Total # % of Responses
10
18.2
15
26.8
32
58.2
27
48.2
8
5
0
55
14.5
9.1
0.0
100
10
4
0
56
17.9
7.1
0.0
100
Key Findings:
• On average, 48.2% of the respondents who indicated they had a job, other than as a
Senior Assist, while in the NEPS program, worked 11-20 hours per week in their first year
of the program, followed by 26.8% of respondents who worked 1-10 hours per week.
15
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
2.3.2.8.2
nd
b. 2
July 2004
Year
Label
1-10 hours
11-20 hours
21-30 hours
31-40 hours
Over 40 hours
Total
2002-2003
2003-2004
Total # % of Responses Total # % of Responses
13
22.4
33
45.2
34
58.6
28
38.4
7
4
0
58
12.1
6.9
0.0
100
8
4
0
73
11.0
5.5
0.0
100
Key Findings:
• On average, 45.2% of the respondents who indicated they had a job, other than as a
Senior Assist, while in the NEPS program, worked 1-10 hours per week in their second
year of the NEPS program, followed by 38.4% who worked 11-20 hours per week.
16
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
2.3.2.8.3
July 2004
c. 3rd Year
Label
1-10 hours
2002-2003
2003-2004
Total # % of Responses Total # % of Responses
21
36.2
32
43.8
11-20 hours
21-30 hours
31-40 hours
Over 40 hours
30
7
0
0
51.7
12.1
0.0
0.0
31
7
3
0
42.5
9.6
4.1
0.0
Total
58
100
73
100
Key Findings:
• On average, 43.8% of the respondents who indicated they had a job, other than as a
Senior Assist, while in the NEPS program, worked 1-10 hours per week in their third year
of the NEPS program, followed by 42.5% who worked 11-20 hours per week.
17
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
2.3.2.8.4
July 2004
th
d. 4 Year
Label
1-10 hours
11-20 hours
21-30 hours
31-40 hours
Over 40 hours
Total
2002-2003
2003-2004
Total # % of Responses Total # % of Responses
18
40.0
28
50.9
18
40.0
18
32.7
8
1
0
45
17.8
2.2
0.0
100
7
2
0
55
12.7
3.6
0.0
100
Key Findings:
• On average, 50.9% of the respondents who indicated they had a job, other than as a
Senior Assist, while in the NEPS program, worked 1-10 hours per week in their fourth
year of the NEPS program, followed by 32.7% of respondents who worked 11-20 hours
per week.
18
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
2.3.2.9
July 2004
Did you receive any scholarships or bursaries during the program?
Label
Yes
No
Total
2002-2003
2003-2004
Total # % of Responses Total # % of Responses
69
34
103
67.0
33.0
100
93
34
127
73.2
26.8
100
Key Findings:
• Over 70% of those surveyed received some type of scholarship or bursary during the
program. This was slightly higher than the previous year when 67.0% of the respondents
received scholarships or bursaries.
19
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
2.3.2.10 What was the total dollar value of scholarships or bursaries you received during
the NEPS program?
2002-2003
2003-2004
Total # % of Responses Total # % of Responses
$1000 & under
8
12.9
2
2.2
Label
$1001-$2000
$2001-$5000
$5001-$10000
Over $10000
13
25
16
0
21.0
40.3
25.8
0.0
4
25
52
10
4.3
26.9
55.9
10.8
Total
62
100
93
100
Scholarship and Bursary Sums
2002-2003
2003-2004
Min.
$150
$500
Max
$10,000
$33,000
Avg
$4065
$7012
Key Findings:
• Of the respondents who received scholarships or bursaries, over half (55.9%) received
between $5000 and $10,000 while in the NEPS program, followed by 26.9% who
received between $2000 and 5000.
• Over 10% of the respondents who received scholarships or bursaries were given over
$10,000.
• The average scholarship and bursary amount was $7012, compared to $4,065 from the
2002-2003 survey.
20
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
2.3.2.11 What was the major source of your scholarship/bursary support?
Label
Government
2002-2003
2003-2004
Description
Total # % of Responses Total # % of Responses
36
54.5
69
72.6
Government
University
Reg Health Auth
First Nat. Bands
Other
6
15
0
9
9.1
22.7
0.0
13.6
7
9
3
7
7.4
9.5
3.2
7.4
Total
66
100
95
100
University
Regional Health Authority
First Nation Bands/Metis Organization
Other (please specify)
Key Findings:
• Government was the major source of scholarship/bursary support for 72.6% of
respondents who received scholarships/bursaries, as compared with the previous year
when government support was the major source for only 54.5% of those surveyed.
• The Regional Health Authority was the major support for only 9.5% of those respondents
in 2003-2004 but in the 2002-2003 survey, 22.7% of those respondents indicated the
RHA was their major source for scholarships and bursaries.
Entries under "Other":
(2) National Aboriginal Achievement Foundation
(1) CST (Canadian Scholarship Trust fund)& SGEU
(1) Father's company from USA
(1) Mining Corporation
(1) RSAR
21
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
2.3.2.12 Did you obtain any student or educational loans during the program?
Label
Yes
No
Total
2002-2003
2003-2004
Total # % of Responses Total # % of Responses
81
79.4
94
74.0
21
102
20.6
100
33
127
26.0
100
Key Findings:
• Nearly three quarters of the respondents received student or educational loans during the
NEPS program. This is compared with the 2002-2003 survey, where 79.4% of those
surveyed obtained loans during the program.
22
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
2.3.2.13 What was the total dollar value of your student or educational loans at
completion of the NEPS program?
2002-2003
2003-2004
Total # % of Responses Total # % of Responses
$5000 & under
4
5.6
2
2.1
Label
$5001-$10000
$10001-$15000
$15001-$20000
$20001-$25000
10
11
14
13
13.9
15.3
19.4
18.1
7
11
11
14
7.4
11.7
11.7
14.9
$25001-$30000
7
9.7
21
22.3
Student and Educational Loan Sums
Min
2002-2003
$2,000
2003-2004
$5,000
Max
$77,000
$280,000
Avg
$21,916
$28,976
Key Findings:
• Of the respondents who obtained student loans, 22.3% received between $25,000 and
$30,000, followed by 14.9% who received between $20,000 and $25,000.
• The mean total dollar value of student or educational loans at the completion of the NEPS
program was $28,976, compared to $21,916 from the previous year.
23
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
2.3.2.14 What date did you complete your NEPS program?
2002-2003
Label
2003-2004
Description
Total # % of Responses Total # % of Responses
October
35
34.0
36
28.3
October 2003
December
26
25.2
32
25.2
December 2003
February
5
4.9
0
0.0
February 2004
April
37
35.9
59
46.5
April 2004
103
100
127
100
Total
Key Findings:
• The majority from both program years completed their studies in April, 46.5% in 2004 and
35.9% in 2003, followed by October, 28.3% in 2004 and 34% in 2003.
2.3.2.15 What was your program site at graduation from the NEPS program?
2002-2003
Label
2003-2004
Total # % of Responses Total # % of Responses
Regina
40
39.2
53
41.7
Saskatoon
62
60.8
74
58.3
Total
102
100
127
100
Key Findings:
• Of those surveyed, 58.3% graduated from the NEPS program in Saskatoon and 41.7%
graduated from the program in Regina, compared with the results from the 2002-2003
survey where 60.8% graduated from Saskatoon and 39.2% graduated from Regina.
24
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
2.3.3 Job Search and Anticipated Employment
2.3.3.1
At this time, do you have a job as a graduate nurse confirmed?
Label
Yes
No
Total
2002-2003
2003-2004
Total # % of Responses Total # % of Responses
84
82.4
72
56.7
18
102
17.6
100
55
127
43.3
100
Key Findings:
• Of the respondents, 56.7% have a job as a graduate nurse confirmed, while 43.3% do not.
• This is compared with the survey results from 2002-2003 where 82.4% had a confirmed
nursing job and only 17.6% did not.
"Confirmed graduate nurse job" by
"Completion Date" 2002-2003
Totals
Sept 2002
Dec 2002
Feb. 2003
April 2003
Totals
102 (100%)
35 (34.3%)
26 (25.5%)
5 (4.9%)
36 (35.3%)
Yes
84 (82.4%)
26 (74.3%)
23 (88.5%)
3 (60.0%)
32 (88.9%)
No
18 (17.6%)
9 (25.7%)
3 (11.5%)
2 (40.0%)
4 (11.1%)
"Confirmed graduate nurse job" by
"Completion Date" 2003-2004
Totals
October 2003
Dec 2003
February 2004
April 2004
Totals
127(100%)
36 (28.3%)
32 (25.2%)
0 (0.0%)
59 (46.5%)
Yes
No
72(56.7%) 55(43.3%)
20(55.6%) 16(44.4%)
21 (65.6%) 11 (34.4%)
0 (0.0%) 0 (0.0%)
31 (52.5%) 28 (47.5%)
Key Findings:
• From the 2002-2003 Exit survey, more students who graduated in the month of April had
confirmed nursing jobs (88.9%), followed closely by those who graduated in December
(88.5%). A smaller proportion of students who graduated in September had a confirmed
job at 74.3%, followed by February at 60%.
• From the 2003-2004 survey, only 65.6% of the December graduates had confirmed
employment, followed by October graduates at 55.6% and April graduates at 52.5%.
25
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
2.3.3.2
July 2004
If you have confirmed employment, to what extent does your first job meet your
ideal preferences?
Ranking Scale:
1 = not at all ideal
5 = highly ideal
2.3.3.2.1
a. Location
Label
2002-2003
2003-2004
Total # % of Responses Total # % of Responses
not ideal - 1
2
3
7
0
7
8.3
0.0
8.3
5
2
8
7.0
2.8
11.3
4
highly ideal - 5
Total
11
59
84
13.1
70.2
100
18
38
71
25.4
53.5
100
Key Findings:
• Of the respondents who do have confirmed employment, 53.5% find the location of their
first job highly ideal, as compared to 70.2% of those surveyed in the 2002-2003 survey.
26
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
2.3.3.2.2
July 2004
b. Client Group
Label
2002-2003
2003-2004
Total # % of Responses Total # % of Responses
not ideal - 1
2
3
4
1
13
4.8
1.2
15.5
4
4
17
5.6
5.6
23.9
4
highly ideal - 5
Total
25
41
84
29.8
48.8
100
16
30
71
22.5
42.3
100
Key Findings:
• Of the respondents who do have confirmed employment, 42.3% find the client group of
their first job highly ideal, as compared with 48.8% of the respondents from the 20022003 survey.
27
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
2.3.3.2.3
July 2004
c. Responsibilities
Label
2002-2003
2003-2004
Total # % of Responses Total # % of Responses
not ideal - 1
2
3
4
5
1
6
30
6.0
1.2
7.1
35.7
1
4
12
23
1.4
5.6
16.9
32.4
highly ideal - 5
Total
42
84
50.0
100
31
71
43.7
100
Key Findings:
• Of the respondents who do have confirmed employment, 43.7% find the responsibilities of
their first job highly ideal, as compared with 50% of the respondents from the 2002-2003
survey.
28
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
2.3.3.2.4
July 2004
d. Shifts
Label
not ideal - 1
2
3
4
highly ideal - 5
Total
2002-2003
2003-2004
Total # % of Responses Total # % of Responses
5
6.0
8
11.4
3
3.6
4
5.7
19
27
30
84
22.6
32.1
35.7
100
13
21
24
70
18.6
30.0
34.3
100
Key Findings:
• Of the respondents who do have confirmed employment, 64.3% find the shifts of their first
job ideal or highly ideal, as compared with 67.8% of the respondents from the 2002-2003
survey.
29
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
2.3.3.2.5
July 2004
e. Work Environment
Label
not ideal - 1
2
3
4
highly ideal - 5
Total
2002-2003
2003-2004
Total # % of Responses Total # % of Responses
4
4.8
3
4.2
0
0.0
5
7.0
9
26
45
84
10.7
31.0
53.6
100
12
26
25
71
16.9
36.6
35.2
100
Key Findings:
• Of the respondents who do have confirmed employment, 71.8% find the work environment
of their first job ideal or highly ideal, as compared with 84.6% of the respondents from the
2002-2003 survey.
30
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
Average Importance Ratings
Label
2002-2003 2003-2004
a.
b.
c.
Question
N Avg N Avg
84 4.4
71 4.2
Location
84 4.2
71 3.9
Client Group
84 4.2
71 4.1
Responsibilities
d.
e.
84 3.9
84 4.3
70 3.7
71 3.9
Shifts
Work Environment
Key Findings:
• On average, Location and Responsibilities received the highest ratings for meeting the
ideal preferences of the respondents first jobs, at 4.2 and 4.1 respectively (on a scale of
one to five). All ratings were slightly lower than those of the previous year.
2.3.3.3
Name the (one) most positive aspect of your first job?
(12) Full time employment
(11) Supportive staff members
(9) Working in the field of my choice
(5) Location
(4) Increased knowledge and experience
(3) Client group
(3) Getting paid
(3) I am familiar with the routines because I have worked there before
(3) I did my senior assisting there
(3) Working with children
(1) A chance to gain acute care experience on a ward with positive supportive people in my home
community
(1) Autonomy
(1) Being able to help people
(1) Challenging and rewarding
(1) Good place to start my career
(1) I have not started my first job yet
(1) Mentorship; ability to seek and receive help
(1) Paying off debt
(1) The degree of responsibility
(1) Variety
31
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
2.3.3.4
July 2004
Within the first 6 months after graduation, do you expect to be:
Total # % of Responses Cumulative %
Nurse
124
97.6
97.6
Not employed
Other than nurse
2
1
1.6
0.8
99.2
100.0
Total
127
100
Key Findings:
• Within the first six months after graduating from the NEPS program, 97.6% of those
surveyed plan to be a nurse. This is similar to the 99% of those surveyed in 2002-2003.
32
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
2.3.3.5
July 2004
If you do not expect to be employed as a nurse in the first 6 months after
completing the NEPS program, what is the MAIN reason why?
Total # % of Responses Cumulative %
Other
1
33.3
33.3
Traveling
Family respons.
Do not expect
1
1
0
33.3
33.3
0.0
66.7
100.0
100.0
Health reasons
Wanted time off
Going to school
0
0
0
0.0
0.0
0.0
100.0
100.0
100.0
Total
3
100
Key Findings:
• Of the three respondents who do not expect to be a nurse within the first six months after
graduating, one respondent plans to travel, one respondent has family responsibilities
and one respondent plans to raise children.
• In the 2002-2003 survey, there was one respondent who did not expect to be a nurse
within the first six months after graduating because he or she was going to attend school.
Entries under "Other":
(1) Child rearing
33
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
2.3.3.6
July 2004
What is/would likely be the geographical location of your first job as a graduate
nurse?
Total # % of Responses Cumulative %
SK
AB or BC
113
6
89.0
4.7
89.0
93.7
USA
MB or East Can.
Other
4
2
2
3.1
1.6
1.6
96.9
98.4
100.0
Total
127
100
Key Findings:
• Of those surveyed, 89.0% have or would likely have their first job as a graduate nurse in
Saskatchewan, compared with 81.4% of the respondents from the 2002-2003 survey.
Entries under "Other":
(2) Unsure
34
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
2.3.3.7
July 2004
Please specify whether the location of your first job as a graduate nurse is/would
likely be:
Total # % of Responses Cumulative %
Urban
Rural
Both
Total
110
10
86.6
7.9
86.6
94.5
7
5.5
100.0
127
100
Key Findings:
• Of those surveyed, 86.6% have or would likely have their first job as a graduate nurse in
an urban location, compared with 80.4% of the respondents from the 2002-2003 survey.
35
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
2.3.3.8
July 2004
Please rank the top 3 factors that will/has influenced your choice of work location
for your first job as a nurse.
Ranking Scale:
1 = “most important”
3 = “least important”
Ranked as first influential factor:
Value Labels: top value is number of responses, bottom value is percentage of responses
2002-2003
% of
Responses
2003-2004
% of
Responses
Label
Total
#
Fam/Comm
Clinical
Position I want
Shift I wanted
56
13
9
0
54.9
12.7
8.8
0.0
54
14
14
2
43.2
11.2
11.2
1.6
Family or community commitments
Clinical/client group I wanted
Position I wanted
Shift I wanted
Hours I wanted
Sign. bonus
Salary
Desire to travel
3
8
4
2
2.9
7.8
3.9
2.0
6
4
1
3
4.8
3.2
0.8
2.4
Total hours I wanted
Signing bonus
Salary
Desire to travel
Student loan
Housing
Career plan
Mentorship
0
0
3
2
0.0
0.0
2.9
2.0
1
0
0
1
0.8
0.0
0.0
0.8
Student loan assistance
Housing provided
Career planning
Mentorship opportunities
Grad assist
Reputation
Coll. friends
Orientation
0
0
0
1
0.0
0.0
0.0
1.0
0
5
0
2
0.0
4.0
0.0
1.6
Graduate school assistance
Reputation of the Institution as a quality workplace
College friends
Orientation program
Geo Loc'n
Famil Hosp
Other
0
0
1
0.0
0.0
1.0
3
10
5
2.4
8.0
4.0
Geographic Location
Familiarity with Hospital where Completed Practicum
Other, (please specify)
102
100
125
100
Total
Total
#
Description
Key Findings:
• The number one factor that will or has influenced the respondents choice of work location
with 43.0% of those surveyed was family or community commitments. 55% indicated
family or community commitments in the 2002-2003 survey.
36
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
Ranked as second influential factor:
Value Labels: top value is number of responses, bottom value is percentage of responses
Label
Fam/Comm
Total
#
9
2002-2003
% of
Responses
8.7
Total
#
11
2003-2004
% of
Responses
8.9
Description
Family or community commitments
Clinical
Position I want
Shift I wanted
19
19
2
18.4
18.4
1.9
18
15
4
14.6
12.2
3.3
Clinical/client group I wanted
Position I wanted
Shift I wanted
Hours I wanted
Sign. bonus
Salary
Desire to travel
8
15
10
5
7.8
14.6
9.7
4.9
6
10
7
1
4.9
8.1
5.7
0.8
Total hours I wanted
Signing bonus
Salary
Desire to travel
Student loan
Housing
Career plan
Mentorship
0
0
0
6
0.0
0.0
0.0
5.8
1
0
8
5
0.8
0.0
6.5
4.1
Student loan assistance
Housing provided
Career planning
Mentorship opportunities
Grad assist
Reputation
Coll. friends
Orientation
0
4
2
3
0.0
3.9
1.9
2.9
1
1
4
5
0.8
0.8
3.3
4.1
Graduate school assistance
Reputation of the Institution as a quality workplace
College friends
Orientation program
Geo Loc'n
0
0.0
11
8.9
Famil Hosp
0
0.0
14
11.4
Geographic Location
Familiarity with Hospital where Completed
Practicum
Other, (please specify)
Other
Total
1
1.0
1
0.8
103
100
123
100
Key Findings:
• The second most influential factor in determining work location for the respondents, at
15%, was obtaining the clinical/client group they wanted, followed by 12% who indicated
it was the position they wanted. This is compared with the 2002-2003 survey where 18%
indicated clinical/client group and also 18% who indicated it was the position they
wanted.
37
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
Ranked as third influential factor:
Value Labels: top value is number of responses, bottom value is percentage of responses
2002-2003
% of
Responses
2003-2004
% of
Responses
Label
Total
#
Fam/Comm
Clinical
Position I want
Shift I wanted
5
6
12
3
5.2
6.2
12.4
3.1
9
7
15
0
7.3
5.6
12.1
0.0
Family or community commitments
Clinical/client group I wanted
Position I wanted
Shift I wanted
Hours I wanted
Sign. bonus
Salary
Desire to travel
7
13
12
2
7.2
13.4
12.4
2.1
11
10
7
3
8.9
8.1
5.6
2.4
Total hours I wanted
Signing bonus
Salary
Desire to travel
Student loan
Housing
Career plan
Mentorship
1
3
4
4
1.0
3.1
4.1
4.1
1
2
7
3
0.8
1.6
5.6
2.4
Student loan assistance
Housing provided
Career planning
Mentorship opportunities
Grad assist
Reputation
Coll. friends
0
6
5
0.0
6.2
5.2
2
8
4
1.6
6.5
3.2
Graduate school assistance
Reputation of the Institution as a quality workplace
College friends
Orientation
Geo Loc'n
5
0
5.2
0.0
6
8
4.8
6.5
Famil Hosp
0
0.0
20
16.1
Orientation program
Geographic Location
Familiarity with Hospital where Completed
Practicum
Other
Total
Total
#
9
9.3
1
0.8
97
100
124
100
Description
Other, (please specify)
Key Findings:
• The third most influential factor for respondents for determining work location, at 16%, was
familiarity with the hospital where their practicum took place. Compared with the
previous year, none of the respondents in the 2002-2003 survey indicated familiarity with
the hospital. Factors for the 2002-2003 survey concentrated on signing bonus (13%),
salary (12%) and getting the position they wanted (12%).
38
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
Top 3 factors (combined):
Key Findings:
• Overall, 58% of the respondents indicated Family and community commitments as the
main factor in determining job location, compared with 68% from the previous survey.
39
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
2.3.3.9
July 2004
Which strategy has been most useful in your job search?
Label
Recruit. Fair
Total
#
14
2002-2003
% of
Responses
13.7
Total
#
11
2003-2004
% of
Responses
8.7
Employer visits
Internet directo
Word of mouth
Advertisements
0
6
26
5
0.0
5.9
25.5
4.9
4
9
18
4
3.1
7.1
14.2
3.1
Clinical work
45
44.1
70
55.1
Other
Total
6
102
5.9
100
11
127
8.7
100
Description
Recruitment Fairs
Recruitment visits to programs site from employers
Internet directories
Word of mouth
Advertisements (journals, newspapers, postings)
Clinical or work experience in the facility during the
program
Other (please specify)
Key Findings:
• Clinical work has been the most useful strategy in finding a job for 55.1% of those
surveyed, followed by word of mouth at 14.2%.
• This compared with the results from the previous year when 44.1% felt clinical work was
the most useful strategy, followed by word of mouth at 25.5%.
Entries under "Other":
(2) Letters from the Health Regions
(1) Being from the health authority
(1) Don't have job yet
(1) Family living close by
(1) Going to ward & meeting nurse mgrs
(1) None - it has been nearly impossible to find a job
(1) Nurse recruiter I found on web
(1) Signing a contract to stay in Regina
(1) Speaking with managers and staffing consultants
(1) Taking resumes in person
40
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
2.3.3.10 Did you get a job offer from a unit where you were employed as a Senior Assist?
Label
Yes
No
Total
2002-2003
2003-2004
Total # % of Responses Total # % of Responses
30
52.6
44
58.7
27
47.4
31
41.3
57
100
75
100
Key Findings:
• Of respondents who have confirmed employment, 58.7% were offered a job from the unit
where they were employed as a Senior Assist, as compared with 52.6% of respondents
from the previous year.
41
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
th
2.3.3.11 Did you get a job offer from a unit where you had your 4 year senior practicum
experiences?
Label
Yes
No
Total
2002-2003
2003-2004
Total # % of Responses Total # % of Responses
69
67.6
77
61.1
33
102
32.4
100
49
126
38.9
100
Key Findings:
• Over 60% of the respondents were offered a job from the unit where they had their 4th
year senior practicum experience, this is just slightly lower than the results from the 20022003 survey where 67.6% of the respondents were offered a job from a unit where they
had their 4th year senior practicum.
42
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
2.3.3.12 How does your experience in finding your first job compare with your
expectations?
Label
More difficult
2002-2003
2003-2004
Description
Total # % of Responses Total # % of Responses
11
10.8
33
26.4
More difficult than expected
Same as expected
Less difficult
54
37
52.9
36.3
54
38
43.2
30.4
Total
102
100
125
100
About the same as expected
Less difficult than expected
Key Findings:
• Of those surveyed, 43.2% found finding their first job the same as they had expected,
compared with 52.9% from the previous year, 30.4% found finding their first job less
difficult than expected, compared with 36.3% from the previous year and 26.4% found it
more difficult, compared with 10.8% from the previous year.
43
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
2.3.3.13 What will be the work hours of your first job as a graduate nurse?
2002-2003
2003-2004
Description
Total # % of Responses Total # % of Responses
Reg FT
70
68.0
73
57.5
Regular full-time
Casual FT 21
20.4
31
24.4
Casual full-time
Label
Reg PT
Casual PT
9
3
8.7
2.9
16
7
12.6
5.5
Total
103
100
127
100
Regular part-time
Casual part-time
Key Findings:
• Of the respondents, 57.5% have or would like to have regular full time hours at their first
job, followed by 24.4% who have or would like to have casual full time hours.
• This is compared with 68% of the respondents from the 2002-2003 survey who have or
would like to have regular full time hours at their first job, followed by 20.4% who have or
would like to have casual full time hours.
Definitions
"Regular" reflects permanent employment, even though it may be time limited;
"Casual" reflects the fact that the employment does not guarantee a fixed number of hours of
work per pay period. (It also would include occasional, on call, on demand, or seasonal work.)
44
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
2.3.3.14 Is being employed on a {Reg. FT/Casual FT/Reg. PT/Casual PT} basis your
preference? (Coincides with the answer to question 2.3.3.13)
Label
Yes
No
Total
2002-2003
2003-2004
Total # % of Responses Total # % of Responses
79
79.0
92
72.4
21
21.0
35
27.6
100
100
127
100
Key Findings:
• The hours respondents will work or expect to work are the preference for 72.4% of
respondents, as compared to 79% of those surveyed in the previous year.
2.3.3.15 Hours worked that are not the preference of the respondent
Key Findings:
• Of the respondents who do not prefer their hours or expected hours of their job (27.6%),
60% do not prefer casual full time hours, followed by 22.9% who do not prefer regular
part time hours.
45
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
2.3.3.16 When you start your first nursing job, what do you expect will be the length of
your orientation (including "buddy" shifts)?
Label
< 1 day
1 day
2 - 5 days
6 - 30 days
None
Total
2002-2003
2003-2004
Total # % of Responses Total # % of Responses
0
0.0
0
0.0
2
2.0
1
0.8
24
73
2
101
23.8
72.3
2.0
100
44
82
0
127
34.6
64.6
0.0
100
Key Findings:
• Over 60% of those surveyed expect to have an orientation that will last 6 to 30 days,
followed by 34.6% who expect to have an orientation of 2-5 days.
• This is compared with the results of the 2002-2003 survey where 72.3% expect 6-30 days
of orientation, followed by 23.8% who expect 2-5 days of orientation.
46
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
2.3.3.17 How many sites will you/do you expect to work at for your first job as a graduate
nurse?
Label
1 site
2 sites
3 or more
Total
2002-2003
2003-2004
Total # % of Responses Total # % of Responses
78
76.5
90
70.9
20
4
102
19.6
3.9
100
31
6
127
24.4
4.7
100
Key Findings:
• Over 70% of respondents expect to work at one site for their first job as a graduate nurse,
followed by 24.4% who expect to work at two sites.
• This is compares to the 2002-2003 survey responses, in which 76.5% expect to work at
one site for their first job as a graduate nurse, followed by 19.6% who expect to work at
two sites.
Sites include:
- Different work sites but same employer
- Different units but same employer
- Different employers with same or different units
- For public health nurses, many schools would be one unit
47
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
2.3.3.18 What type of organization will you be working at?
(Note: The primary site is the site where you had the most hours per week)
2.3.3.18.1 a. Primary Site:
Label
< 100 beds
> 100 beds
2002-2003
2003-2004
Description
Total # % of Responses Total # % of Responses
18
25.0
9
12.5
General hospital, less than 100 beds
45
62.5
62
86.1
General hospital, 100 beds and over
Mental health
Commun. health
Nursing Stations
Long Term Care
2
3
0
1
2.8
4.2
0.0
1.4
0
0
0
1
0.0
0.0
0.0
1.4
Mental Health Centre
Community Health/Health Centre
Nursing Stations (Outpost or clinics)
Nursing Home/Long Term Care Facility
Rehab/Convales
Family Practice
Occup. Health
Private Nursing
0
1
0
0
0.0
1.4
0.0
0.0
0
0
0
0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
Rehabilitation/Convalescent Centre
Physician's Office/Family Practice Unit
Business/Industry/Occupational Health
Private Nursing Agency/Private Duty
Home Care
Educational Inst
Assoc/Government
Self-employed
1
1
0
0
1.4
1.4
0.0
0.0
0
0
0
0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
Home Care Agency
Educational Institution
Association/Government
Self-employed
Other
0
0.0
0
0.0
Other, (please specify)
72
100
72
100
Total
Excludes
13
0
"refused / don't know" responses
Key Findings:
• The primary working site for 86.1% of respondents who have confirmed nursing positions
after graduation will be in a general hospital with more than 100 beds, this is compared
with the 2002-2003 survey where 63% of the respondents would be in a general hospital
with more than 100 beds.
• Of respondents who have confirmed nursing positions after graduation, 12.5% will work at
a general hospital with less than 100 beds, this is compared with the previous year when
25% would work at a general hospital with less than 100 beds.
48
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
2.3.3.18.2 b. Secondary Site:
Value Labels: top value is number of responses, bottom value is percentage of responses
Label
< 100 beds
> 100 beds
2002-2003
2003-2004
Description
Total # % of Responses Total # % of Responses
1
6.3
2
18.2
General hospital, less than 100 beds
5
31.3
6
54.5
General hospital, 100 beds and over
Mental health
Commun. health
Nursing Stations
Long Term Care
0
4
1
3
0.0
25.0
6.3
18.8
1
1
0
1
9.1
9.1
0.0
9.1
Mental Health Centre
Community Health/Health Centre
Nursing Stations (Outpost or clinics)
Nursing Home/Long Term Care Facility
Rehab/Convales
Family Practice
Occup. Health
Private Nursing
0
0
0
0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0
0
0
0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
Rehabilitation/Convalescent Centre
Physician's Office/Family Practice Unit
Business/Industry/Occupational Health
Private Nursing Agency/Private Duty
Home Care
Educational Inst
Assoc/Government
Self-employed
1
0
0
0
6.3
0.0
0.0
0.0
0
0
0
0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
Home Care Agency
Educational Institution
Association/Government
Self-employed
Other, (please specify)
Other
Total
Excludes
3
1
6.3
0
0.0
16
100
11
100
4
"refused / don't know" responses
Key Findings:
• Of the respondents who have a confirmed nursing job after graduating from NEPS, eleven
respondents indicated they will be working at a secondary site. For six of these
respondents, they will be at a general hospital with more than 100 beds, this is compared
with the 2002-2003 survey where 5 of the respondents indicated they would be working
in a general hospital with more than 100 beds.
49
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
2.3.3.18.3 c. Third Site:
Label
2002-2003
2003-2004
Total # % of Responses Total # % of Responses
Description
< 100 beds
> 100 beds
Mental health
Commun. health
0
1
1
0
0.0
25.0
25.0
0.0
1
0
0
0
100.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
General hospital, less than 100 beds
General hospital, 100 beds and over
Mental Health Centre
Community Health/Health Centre
Nursing Stations
Long Term Care
Rehab/Convales
0
1
0
0.0
25.0
0.0
0
0
0
0.0
0.0
0.0
Nursing Stations (Outpost or clinics)
Nursing Home/Long Term Care Facility
Rehabilitation/Convalescent Centre
Family Practice
Occup. Health
Private Nursing
Home Care
0
0
1
0
0.0
0.0
25.0
0.0
0
0
0
0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
Physician's Office/Family Practice Unit
Business/Industry/Occupational Health
Private Nursing Agency/Pr ivate Duty
Home Care Agency
Educational Inst
Assoc/Government
Self-employed
Other
0
0
0
0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0
0
0
0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
Educational Institution
Association/Government
Self-employed
Other, (please specify)
Total
4
100
1
100
Key Findings:
• The third working site for one of the respondents will be a general hospital with less than
100 beds, this is compared with the 2002-2003 survey where one of the respondents
would be in a general hospital with more than 100 beds, one respondent in a mental
health facility, one respondent in long term care and one respondent in a private nursing
home.
50
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
2.3.3.19 What is your position?
2.3.3.19.1 a. Primary Site:
Label
Staff Nurse
CNO/CEO
2002-2003
2003-2004
Description
Total # % of Responses Total # % of Responses
68
97.1
70
97.2
Staff Nurse/Community Health Nurse
1
1.4
0
0.0
Chief Nursing Officer/Chief Executive Officer
Direct/Assis Dir
Mgr/Assist Mgr
Clinical Special
Educator
0
0
1
0
0.0
0.0
1.4
0.0
0
0
0
0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
Director/Assistant Director
Manager/Assistant Manager
Clinical Nurse Specialist
Instructor/Professor/Educator
Researcher
Consultant
Nurse Pract.
Other
0
0
0
0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0
0
1
1
0.0
0.0
1.4
1.4
Researcher
Consultant
Nursing Practitioner
Other, (please specify)
70
100
72
100
Total
Excludes
15
0
"refused / don't know" responses
Key Findings:
• The position at the primary site for 97% of the respondents with confirmed employment
will be staff nurse.
Entries under ‘Other’:
(1) Public Health Nurse
51
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
2.3.3.19.2 b. Secondary Site:
Label
Staff Nurse
CNO/CEO
2002-2003
2003-2004
Description
Total # % of Responses Total # % of Responses
12
85.7
11
100.0
Staff Nurse/Community Health Nurse
0
0.0
0
0.0
Chief Nursing Officer/Chief Executive Officer
Direct/Assis Dir
Mgr/Assist Mgr
Clinical Special
Educator
0
1
1
0
0.0
7.1
7.1
0.0
0
0
0
0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
Director/Assistant Director
Manager/Assistant Manager
Clinical Nurse Specialist
Instructor/Professor/Educator
Researcher
Consultant
Nurse Pract.
Other
0
0
0
0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0
0
0
0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
Researcher
Consultant
Nursing Practitioner
Other, (please specify)
14
100
11
100
Total
Excludes
5
4
"refused / don't know" responses
Key Findings:
• The position at the secondary site for eleven of the respondents who have confirmed
employment will be staff nurse.
52
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
2.3.3.19.3 c. Third Site:
Total # % of Responses Cumulative %
Staff Nurse
1
100.0
100.0
Consultant
Nurse Pract.
Other
0
0
0
0.0
0.0
0.0
100.0
100.0
100.0
Researcher
Clinical Special
CNO/CEO
Direct/Assis Dir
0
0
0
0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
100.0
100.0
100.0
100.0
Mgr/Assist Mgr
Educator
0
0
0.0
0.0
100.0
100.0
Total
1
100
Key Findings:
• The position at the third site for one of the respondents who have confirmed employment
will be staff nurse.
53
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
2.3.3.20 What is your main area of responsibility?
2.3.3.20.1 a. Primary Site:
Total # % of Responses Cumulative %
Direct Care
Research
Administration
72
0
0
100.0
0.0
0.0
100.0
100.0
100.0
100.0
Education
0
0.0
Total
72
100
Key Findings:
• At the primary site, the main area of responsibility for 100% of the respondents who have
confirmed employment, will be direct care.
54
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
2.3.3.20.2 b. Secondary Site:
Total # % of Responses Cumulative %
Direct Care
11
100.0
100.0
Research
Administration
Education
0
0
0
0.0
0.0
0.0
100.0
100.0
100.0
Total
11
100
Key Findings:
• The main area of responsibility at the secondary site for eleven of those surveyed who
have confirmed employment after graduating, will be direct care.
55
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
2.3.3.20.3 c. Third Site:
Total # % of Responses Cumulative %
Direct Care
1
100.0
100.0
Research
Administration
Education
0
0
0
0.0
0.0
0.0
100.0
100.0
100.0
Total
1
100
Key Findings:
• The main area of responsibility at the third site for one of the respondents who has
confirmed employment after graduating, will be direct care.
56
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
2.3.3.21 In what area will you provide direct care?
2.3.3.21.1 a. Primary Site
Value Labels: top value is number of responses, bottom value is percentage of responses
Label
2002-2003
2003-2004
Total # % of Responses Total # % of Responses
Description
Med/Surg
Pediatric
Geriatric
Comm Health
43
6
1
1
62.3
8.7
1.4
1.4
46
13
2
0
63.9
18.1
2.8
0.0
Medical/Surgical
Pediatric
Geriatric/Long term care
Community Health
Home care
Oncology
Emergency care
Several clinics
0
2
1
2
0.0
2.9
1.4
2.9
0
3
5
1
0.0
4.2
6.9
1.4
Home care
Oncology
Emergency care
Several clinical areas
Mental Health
Maternal
Critical Care
Ambulatory Care
1
3
4
1
1.4
4.3
5.8
1.4
1
5
3
0
1.4
6.9
4.2
0.0
Psychiatric/Mental Health
Maternal/Newborn
Critical Care
Ambulatory Care
Occup. Health
Oper. Room/RR
Rehabilitation
1
0
0
1.4
0.0
0.0
0
0
2
0.0
0.0
2.8
Occupational Health
Operating Room/RR
Rehabilitation
Other
4
5.8
2
2.8
Other, (please specify)
69
100
72
100
Total
Key Findings:
• For 63.9% of those surveyed who have confirmed employment after graduating,
medical/surgical will be the type of direct care at the primary working site, similar to the
2002-2003 Exit survey, where 62.3% would be providing care in a medical/surgical area.
Entries under ‘Other’:
(1) Cardio sciences
(1) Medical/Palliative
57
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
2.3.3.21.2 b. Secondary Site
Value Labels: top value is number of responses, bottom value is percentage of responses
Total # % of Responses Cumulative %
Med/Surg
6
54.5
54.5
Oncology
Mental Health
Comm Health
1
1
1
9.1
9.1
9.1
63.6
72.7
81.8
Pediatric
Other
Occup. Health
Rehabilitation
1
1
0
0
9.1
9.1
0.0
0.0
90.9
100.0
100.0
100.0
Ambulatory Care
Oper. Room/RR
Several clinics
Geriatric
0
0
0
0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
100.0
100.0
100.0
100.0
Home care
Emergency care
Maternal
Critical Care
0
0
0
0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
100.0
100.0
100.0
100.0
Total
11
100
Key Findings:
• For six respondents who have confirmed employment after graduating, medical/surgical
will be the type of direct care at the secondary working site. This is compared to the
previous year when pediatrics, geriatrics, community health and maternal/newborn were
the primary areas of direct care at the second site.
Entries under ‘Other’:
(1) Palliative Care
58
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
2.3.3.21.3 c. Third Site
Direct Care
Value Labels: top value is number of responses, bottom value is percentage of responses
Total # % of Responses Cumulative %
Pediatric
Ambulatory Care
Critical Care
1
0
0
100.0
0.0
0.0
100.0
100.0
100.0
Occup. Health
Rehabilitation
Other
Maternal
0
0
0
0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
100.0
100.0
100.0
100.0
Oper. Room/RR
Several clinics
Comm Health
Geriatric
0
0
0
0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
100.0
100.0
100.0
100.0
Home care
Oncology
Med/Surg
Emergency care
0
0
0
0
0.0
0.0
0.0
0.0
100.0
100.0
100.0
100.0
Mental Health
0
0.0
100.0
1
100
Total
Key Findings:
• For one graduate who was surveyed, who has confirmed employment after graduating,
pediatrics will be the type of direct care at the third working site. Geriatric and
maternal/newborn were the areas of care for two respondents in the 2002-2003 survey.
59
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
2.3.3.22 On average, how many hours per week will you work?
Primary Site:
N
Minimum
Maximum
Average
hours/week
72
16
48
35.4
11
8
24
16.1
1
16
16
16.0
Secondary Site:
hours/week
Third Site:
hours/week
Key Findings:
• On average, the respondents with confirmed employment after graduating, will work 35.4
hours at the primary site and 16.1 hours at the second site.
2.3.3.23 What do you expect will be your total annual earnings per year before taxes and
deductions (Canadian Dollars)?
2002-2003
Label
< $20 000
2003-2004
Total # % of Responses Total # % of Responses
1
1.0
0
0.0
$20 000-$24 999
$25 000-$29 999
3
5
3.0
5.0
1
5
0.8
4.0
$30 000-$34 999
$35 000-$39 999
7
13
7.0
13.0
11
16
8.8
12.8
$40 000-$44 999
$45 000-$49 999
26
10
26.0
10.0
39
15
31.2
12.0
$50 000-$54 999
$55 000-$59 999
7
3
7.0
3.0
11
5
8.8
4.0
$60 000-$64 999
$65 000-$69 999
4
2
4.0
2.0
3
0
2.4
0.0
$70 000-$74 999
> $75 000
1
0
1.0
0.0
0
0
0.0
0.0
Don't know
18
18.0
19
15.2
Total
100
100
125
100
Key Findings:
• Over 30% of the respondents expect to earn between $40,000 and $44,999 a year, before
taxes; compared with 26% of those surveyed in 2002-2003 who expected to earn
between $40,000 and $44,999.
60
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
"Expected annual income (in thousands)" by "Geographical location for first nursing job"
Totals < $20
$20 - $25 $24
$29
999
999
$30 $34
999
$35 $39
999
$40 $50 $45 -$49
$44
$54
999
999
999
$55 $59
999
$60 $64
999
$65 - $70 Don't
$69
$74 > $75
know
999
999
125
0
1
5
11
16
39
15
11
5
3
0
0
0
19
(100%) (0.0%) (0.8%) (4.0%) (8.8%) (12.8%) (31.2%) (12.0%) (8.8%) (4.0%) (2.4%) (0.0%) (0.0%) (0.0%) (15.2%)
111
0
1
5
11
16
36
10
3
2
0
0
0
18
Saskatchewan
9 (8.1%)
(88.8%) (0.0%) (0.9%) (4.5%) (9.9%) (14.4%) (32.4%)
(9.0%) (2.7%) (1.8%) (0.0%) (0.0%) (0.0%) (16.2%)
Totals
Manitoba or
Eastern
Canada
2
0
0
0
0
0
0
2
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
(1.6%) (0.0%) (0.0%) (0.0%) (0.0%) (0.0%) (0.0%) (100.0%) (0.0%) (0.0%) (0.0%) (0.0%) (0.0%) (0.0%) (0.0%)
Alberta or BC
USA
6
0
0
0
0
0
2
2
0
1
0
0
0
0
1
(4.8%) (0.0%) (0.0%) (0.0%) (0.0%) (0.0%) (33.3%) (33.3%) (0.0%) (16.7%) (0.0%) (0.0%) (0.0%) (0.0%) (16.7%)
4
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
1
1
1
0
0
0
0
(3.2%) (0.0%) (0.0%) (0.0%) (0.0%) (0.0%) (0.0%) (25.0%) (25.0%) (25.0%) (25.0%) (0.0%) (0.0%) (0.0%) (0.0%)
Other, (please
2
0
0
0
0
0
1
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
specify)
(1.6%) (0.0%) (0.0%) (0.0%) (0.0%) (0.0%) (50.0%) (50.0%) (0.0%) (0.0%) (0.0%) (0.0%) (0.0%) (0.0%) (0.0%)
Key Findings:
• Expected annual incomes are the lowest in Saskatchewan and increase eastward through
Canada and then are the highest in the US.
"Expected annual income (in thousands)" by "Gender"
Totals
124
(100%)
11
Male
(8.9%)
113
Female
(91.1%)
Totals
$20 - $25 - $30 - $35 $40 < $20 $24
$29
$34
$39
$44
999
999
999
999
999
0
1
5
10
16
39
(0.0%) (0.8%) (4.0%) (8.1%) (12.9%) (31.5%)
0
0
2
0
1
3
(0.0%) (0.0%) (18.2%) (0.0%) (9.1%) (27.3%)
0
1
3
10
15
36
(0.0%) (0.9%) (2.7%) (8.8%) (13.3%) (31.9%)
$45 $50 - $55 - $60 - $65 $49
$54
$59
$64
$69
999
999
999
999
999
15
11
5
3
0
(12.1%) (8.9%) (4.0%) (2.4%) (0.0%)
1
3
0
1
0
(9.1%) (27.3%) (0.0%) (9.1%) (0.0%)
14
8
5
2
0
(12.4%) (7.1%) (4.4%) (1.8%) (0.0%)
$70 $74 > $75
999
0
0
(0.0%) (0.0%)
0
0
(0.0%) (0.0%)
0
0
(0.0%) (0.0%)
Key Findings:
• Female respondents have a lower expected annual income compared with their male
classmates.
61
Don't
know
19
(15.3%)
0
(0.0%)
19
(16.8%)
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
2.3.4 General Information
2.3.4.1
Are you registering with any of the following associations (check all that apply)?
Label
SRNA
2002-2003
2003-2004
Total # % of Responses Total # % of Responses
90
90.9
118
93.7
RPNAS
SRNA & RPNAS
Neither
8
0
5
8.1
0.0
5.1
0
4
3
0.0
3.2
2.4
Other licensure
Total
15
99
15.2
100
9
126
7.1
100
Key Findings:
• Over 90% of those surveyed will be registering with SRNA, compared to 90.9% in the
2002-2003 Exit survey who indicated they would be registering with SRNA.
• Four respondents indicated they would be registering with SRNA and RPNAS and no
respondents plan to register with just RPNAS, compared with eight respondents who
planned to register with RPNAS in the previous year.
Entries under "Other":
(5) AARN
(1) CRNM
(1) Minnesota Board of Nursing
(1) NCLEX
(1) UK
62
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
2.3.4.2
July 2004
What is your gender?
2002-2003
Label
2003-2004
Total # % of Responses Total # % of Responses
Male
14
14.0
11
8.7
Female
86
86.0
115
91.3
Total
100
100
126
100
Key Findings:
• Of those surveyed, 91.3% were female and 8.7% were male, compared to 86% of the
respondents in 2002-2003 were female and 14% were male.
63
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
2.3.4.3
July 2004
Where did you grow up?
Label
Regina
Saskatoon
2002-2003
2003-2004
Description
Total # % of Responses Total # % of Responses
15
15.2
18
14.2
Regina
9
9.1
22
17.3
Saskatoon
Other in Sask.
Town in Sask.
Rural Sask.
Outside Sask.
17
24
26
8
17.2
24.2
26.3
8.1
18
22
37
10
14.2
17.3
29.1
7.9
Total
99
100
127
100
Other city in Saskatchewan
Town in Saskatchewan
Rural Saskatchewan
Outside Saskatchewan, (please specify)
Key Findings:
• Over 90% of those surveyed grew up in Saskatchewan.
o 29.1% grew up in rural Saskatchewan (compared to 26.3% from the previous year).
o 17.3% grew up in Saskatoon (compared to 9.1% from the previous year).
o 17.3% grew up in a town in Saskatchewan (compared to 24.2% from the previous
year).
o 14.2% grew up in Regina (compared to 15.2% from the previ ous year).
o 14.2% grew up in another city in Saskatchewan (compared to 17.2% from the
previous year).
Entries under "Other":
(3) Manitoba
(3) Alberta
(1) I grew up in both rural and urban Sk. & Mb.
(1) Philippines
(1) New Brunswick
(1)All across Canada, in the Armed Forces
64
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
2.3.4.4
July 2004
Are you of Aboriginal ancestry?
Label
Yes
No
Total
2002-2003
2003-2004
Total # % of Responses Total # % of Responses
6
5.9
11
8.7
95
94.1
116
91.3
101
100
127
100
Key Findings:
• Of those surveyed, 8.7% were of Aboriginal ancestry, this figure was up from 5.9% from
the previous year.
65
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
2.3.4.5
July 2004
You indicated you are of Aboriginal ancestry; please indicate if you are:
Label
Metis
Non-status
Status/Treaty
Inuit
Total
2002-2003
2003-2004
Total # % of Responses Total # % of Responses
2
33.3
9
81.8
1
16.7
1
9.1
3
0
6
50.0
0.0
100
1
0
11
9.1
0.0
100
Key Findings:
• Of the respondents who are of Aboriginal ancestry, 81.8% were Metis, 9.1% were Nonstatus and 9.1% were Status. This was compared with the 2002-2003 Exit survey where
50% were Status/Treaty, 33.3% were Metis and 16.7% were Non-status.
66
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
2.3.4.6
July 2004
What is your current marital status?
Label
Single
2002-2003
2003-2004
Total # % of Responses Total # % of Responses
67
67.0
70
55.1
Single
Married/Com Law
Separated
Divorced
Widow(er)
30
1
2
0
30.0
1.0
2.0
0.0
55
0
2
0
43.3
0.0
1.6
0.0
Total
100
100
127
100
Description
Married/Common Law/Living Together
Separated
Divorced
Widow(er)
Key Findings:
• Of the total respondents, 55.1% were single, 43.3% were married or common law and
1.6% were divorced. This was compared to the previous year where 67% were single,
30% were married or common law and 2% were divorced.
67
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
2.3.4.7
July 2004
How satisfied are you with your educational experience in the NEPS program?
2002-2003
Label
2003-2004
Total # % of Responses Total # % of Responses
very satisfied 11
10.9
13
10.2
satisfied
72
71.3
80
63.0
dissatisfied
10
very dissatis.
3
unsure
5
Total
101
9.9
3.0
5.0
100
20
4
10
127
15.7
3.1
7.9
100
Key Findings:
• Of those surveyed, 63.0% were satisfied with their educational experience in the NEPS
program, as compared with the respondents from the previous year, which 71.3% were
satisfied.
• Over 15% of those surveyed were dissatisfied with their experience, compared with the
respondents from the previous year, which 9.9% were dissatisfied
• Over 10% of the respondents were very satisfied, which was similar to the results of the
previous year.
"Satisfaction with NEPS education" by "Program site at NEPS entry"
Totals very satisfied satisfied dissatisfied very dissatis. unsure
Totals
127 (100%)
13 (10.2%) 80 (63.0%) 20 (15.7%)
4 (3.1%) 10 (7.9%)
Regina
Saskatoon
55 (43.3%)
72 (56.7%)
7 (12.7%) 31 (56.4%)
6 (8.3%) 49 (68.1%)
9 (16.4%)
11 (15.3%)
3 (5.5%) 5 (9.1%)
1 (1.4%) 5 (6.9%)
Key Findings:
• Over three quarters who entered the NEPS program in Saskatoon and 69.1% of the
respondents who entered the program in Regina were satisfied or very satisfied with the
NEPS education program.
68
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
Totals
Male
July 2004
"Satisfaction with
Totals
very satisfied
126 (100%)
13 (10.3%)
11 (8.7%)
1 (9.1%)
Female 115 (91.3%)
NEPS education" by "Gender"
satisfied dissatisfied very dissatis. unsure
79 (62.7%) 20 (15.9%)
4 (3.2%) 10 (7.9%)
6 (54.5%)
2 (18.2%)
1 (9.1%) 1 (9.1%)
12 (10.4%) 73 (63.5%)
18 (15.7%)
3 (2.6%) 9 (7.8%)
Key Findings:
• Over 70% of the female respondents and 63.6% of the male respondents were satisfied
with the NEPS education.
2.3.4.8
How well do you believe your educational program has prepared you for nursing
practice?
2002-2003
Label
2003-2004
Total # % of Responses Total # % of Responses
Very well
8
7.9
12
9.4
Well
70
69.3
83
65.4
Not well
Poorly
Unsure
Total
10
5
8
101
9.9
5.0
7.9
100
17
3
12
127
13.4
2.4
9.4
100
Key Findings:
• Nearly 75% of those surveyed believe the NEPS educational program prepared them well
or very well for a career in nursing, followed by 15.8% who believe the program did not
prepare them well or prepared them poorly.
• This is compared to the results of the previous year where 77.2% of those surveyed felt
the NEPS program prepared them well or very well for a career in nursing and 14.9%
who believe the program did not prepare them well or prepared them poorly.
69
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
“Quality of job preparation by NEPS program" by "Program site at NEPS entry"
Totals Very well
Well
Not well Poorly Unsure
Totals
127 (100%) 12 (9.4%) 83 (65.4%) 17 (13.4%) 3 (2.4%) 12 (9.4%)
Regina
55 (43.3%) 8 (14.5%) 30 (54.5%) 12 (21.8%) 1 (1.8%) 4 (7.3%)
Saskatoon
72 (56.7%)
4 (5.6%) 53 (73.6%)
5 (6.9%) 2 (2.8%) 8 (11.1%)
Key Findings:
• Almost 80% of the respondents who entered the program in Saskatoon and 69% who
entered the program in Regina felt they were well or very well prepared for a job in
nursing.
"Quality of job preparation by NEPS program" by "Program site at NEPS graduation"
Totals Very well
Well
Not well Poorly Unsure
Totals
127 (100%) 12 (9.4%) 83 (65.4%) 17 (13.4%) 3 (2.4%) 12 (9.4%)
Regina
53 (41.7%) 7 (13.2%) 30 (56.6%) 12 (22.6%) 1 (1.9%) 3 (5.7%)
Saskatoon
74 (58.3%)
5 (6.8%) 53 (71.6%)
5 (6.8%) 2 (2.7%) 9 (12.2%)
Key Findings:
• Almost 80% of the respondents who graduated in Saskatoon and 69.8% who graduated in
Regina felt well or very well prepared for a nursing career.
2.3.4.9
Do you plan to pursue graduate studies (Masters/PhD) at some time in the
future?
Label
2002-2003
2003-2004
Total # % of Responses Total # % of Responses
Yes
54
53.5
75
59.1
No
47
46.5
52
40.9
Total 101
100
127
100
Key Findings:
• Nearly 60% of respondents plan to pursue graduate studies at some time in the future,
compared with 53.5% from the 2002-2003 survey.
70
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
"Further education" by "Program site at NEPS graduation"
Totals
Yes
No
Totals
127 (100%) 75 (59.1%) 52 (40.9%)
Regina
53 (41.7%) 32 (60.4%) 21 (39.6%)
Saskatoon
74 (58.3%) 43 (58.1%) 31 (41.9%)
Key Findings:
• Over 60% of respondents who graduated in Regina and 58.1% who graduated in
Saskatoon plan to pursue graduate studies at some time in the future.
2.3.4.10 Do you have any additional comments regarding the education you received in
the NEPS program?
Total # % of Responses
Description
Other
More Practical
26
15
46.4
26.8
Other
More practical experience is needed
Inconsistency
Good Program
Repetitive
Ill Prepared
9
8
6
4
16.1
14.3
10.7
7.1
Inconsistencies with grading
Good Program
The curriculum is repetitive
I feel I am not prepared to work
Instructors
Communication
One Facility
4
3
3
7.1
5.4
5.4
There is a lack of good instructors
More communication between instructors & between instructors and students
The program should be at one location
Total
56
100
Key Findings:
• Nearly 30% of the respondents who gave additional comments felt there should be more
practical experience during the NEPS program, followed by 16.1% who felt there were
inconsistencies in grading by the instructors.
• Of the respondents who gave additional comments, 14.3% felt the NEPS program was
good.
71
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
3 Summary
3.1.1 Prior to the NEPS Program
• In 2004, 27.6% of those surveyed indicated they had previous education in the health care
field prior to starting the NEPS program. This percentage increased from 2003 when
15.7% of the respondents indicated they had previous health care education prior to
starting the NEPS program.
• Of the respondents who have had previous education in the health care field prior to
starting the NEPS program 20.0% had Lab Tech or EMT experience, this figure
increased from the previous year when 11.8% of the respondents had Lab Tech or EMT
experience.
• Seventeen percent had experience in Health/Home Care as opposed to 29.4% in 2003.
• Another 17% had volunteer experience and 14.3% had previous education experience as
an LPN, in 2003 only 5.9% had volunteer experience and LPN education.
• Of those surveyed, 39.4% had some university prior to starting the NEPS program.
• Nearly 34% had only a high school diploma or equivalent.
• Over 15% of the respondents had a SIAST diploma and 11.0% had a baccalaureate
degree before entering the NEPS program.
• This compares to the 2003 survey responses, in which 36.6% had some university, 40.6%
had finished high school, 9.9% had a SIAST diploma and 6.9% had a baccalaureate
degree.
• Over half (55.9%) of the respondents spent the majority of the year, prior to the NEPS
program, attending school. This was similar to the percentage of respondents from the
2002-2003 survey, 57.8% were attending school the year before entering the NEPS
program.
• Of those surveyed, 41.7% spent the previous year working, similar to the 40.2% of
respondents from the previous year.
• Of the respondents who spent the year prior to entering the NEPS program working,
37.7% worked in the health care field.
• This compares to the 2002 survey responses, in which 31.7% spent the year prior to
entering the NEPS program working.
3.1.2 During the NEPS Program
• Of those surveyed, 80.3% entered the NEPS program in 2000 and 16.6% began the
program in 1999 or earlier.
• Only 52.8% of respondents were 20 or younger when they began the NEPS program and
33.9% were between the ages of 21 and 25 when they entered the program.
• The average age of respondents when they entered the NEPS program was 21.9, similar
to the average age of respondents from the 2002-2003 Exit survey of 21.2.
• Of the respondents, 85.8% were single when they entered the NEPS program and 12.6%
were married or common law when they began the program.
72
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
• Of the respondents, 56.7% began the NEPS program in Saskatoon and 43.3% began the
program in Regina.
• This compares to the 2002-2003 responses in which 53.9% began in Saskatoon and
46.1% entered the program in Regina.
• Over half (52.8%) of those surveyed experienced a change of residence during the NEPS
program, while only 37.9% in 2002-2003 relocated their residence.
• Of those surveyed, 45.7% experienced illness or the death of a family member or friend as
compared to 41.7% in 2002-2003.
• Major uncertainty of Nursing as their profession was experienced by 35.4% of
respondents and in 2002-2003, this was experienced by only 19.4%.
• Nearly 30% saw a change in their marital status as compared to 21.4% in 2002-2003.
• Percentages for significant life changes during the program do not differ drastically
between the program entry sites of Saskatoon and Regina. The two notable changes
respondents had to deal with during the program were 20.0% of those who entered the
program in Regina had to care for dependent children or dependent adults, while in
Saskatoon only 6.9% indicated care giving. Over 40% (40.3%) of the respondents who
entered the program in Saskatoon felt major uncertainty of Nursing as their profession
and only 29.1% of the Regina respondents indicated uncertainty.
• By gender, a greater percentage of women (35.7%) felt major uncertainty of Nursing as
their profession than men (27.3%).
• Nearly 60% of the respondents worked as a Senior Assist during the NEPS program,
while 40.9% did not.
• This compares with the 2002-2003 responses in which 56.3% of those surveyed worked
as a Senior Assist during the program and 43.7% did not.
• Over 70% of those surveyed did have a job, other than as a Senior Assist, while in the
NEPS program, just slightly higher than the previous year when 66.7% of the
respondents had another job.
• On average, 48.2% of the respondents who indicated they had a job, other than as a
Senior Assist, while in the NEPS program, worked 11-20 hours per week in their first year
of the program, followed by 26.8% of respondents who worked 1-10 hours per week.
• On average, 45.2% of the respondents who indicated they had a job, other than as a
Senior Assist, while in the NEPS program, worked 1-10 hours per week in their second
year of the NEPS program, followed by 38.4% who worked 11-20 hours per week.
• On average, 43.8% of the respondents who indicated they had a job, other than as a
Senior Assist, while in the NEPS program, worked 1-10 hours per week in their third year
of the NEPS program, followed by 42.5% who worked 11-20 hours per week.
• On average, 50.9% of the respondents who indicated they had a job, other than as a
Senior Assist, while in the NEPS program, worked 1-10 hours per week in their fourth
year of the NEPS program, followed by 32.7% of respondents who worked 11-20 hours
per week.
• Over 70% of those surveyed received some type of scholarship or bursary during the
program. This was slightly higher than the previous year when 67.0% of the respondents
received scholarships or bursaries.
• Of the respondents who received scholarships or bursaries, over half (55.9%) received
between $5000 and $10,000 while in the NEPS program, followed by 26.9% who
received between $2000 and 5000.
• Over 10% of the respondents who received scholarships or bursaries were given over
$10,000.
73
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
• The average scholarship and bursary amount was $7012, compared to $4,065 from the
2002-2003 survey.
• Government was the major source of scholarship/bursary support for 72.6% of
respondents, as compared with the previous year when government support was the
major source for only 54.5% of those surveyed.
• The Regional Health Authority was the major support for only 9.5% of the respondents in
2003-2004 but in the 2002-2003 survey, 22.7% of respondents indicated the RHA was
their major source for scholarships and bursaries.
• Nearly three quarters of the respondents received student or educational loans during the
NEPS program. This is compared with the 2002-2003 survey, where 79.4% of those
surveyed obtained loans during the program.
• Of the respondents who obtained student loans, 22.3% received between $25,000 and
$30,000, followed by 14.9% who received between $20,000 and $25,000.
• The mean total dollar value of student or educational loans at the completion of the NEPS
program was $28,976, compared to $21,916 from the previous year.
• The majority from both program years completed their studies in April, 46.5% in 2004 and
35.9% in 2003, followed by October, 28.3% in 2004 and 34% in 2003.
• Of those surveyed, 58.3% graduated from the NEPS program in Saskatoon and 41.7%
graduated from the program in Regina, compared with the results from the 2002-2003
survey where 60.8% graduated from Saskatoon and 39.2% graduated from Regina.
3.1.3 Job Search and Anticipated Employment
• Of the respondents, 56.7% have a job as a graduate nurse confirmed, while 43.3% do not.
• This is compared with the survey results from 2002-2003 where 82.4% had a confirmed
nursing job and only 17.6% did not.
• From the 2002-2003 Exit survey, more students who graduated in the month of April had
confirmed nursing jobs (88.9%), followed closely by those who graduated in December
(88.5%). A smaller proportion of students who graduated in September had a confirmed
job at 74.3%, followed by February at 60%.
• From the 2003-2004 survey, only 65.6% of the December graduates had confirmed
employment, followed by October graduates at 55.6% and April graduates at 52.5%.
• Of the respondents who do have confirmed employment:
o 53.5% find the location of their first job highly ideal, as compared to 70.2% of those
surveyed in the 2002-2003 survey.
o 42.3% find the client group of their first job highly ideal, as compared with 48.8% of
the respondents from the 2002-2003 survey.
o 43.7% find the responsibilities of their first job highly ideal, as compared with 50% of
the respondents from the 2002-2003 survey.
o 64.3% find the shifts of their first job ideal or highly ideal, as compared with 67.8% of
the respondents from the 2002-2003 survey.
o 71.8% find the work environment of their first job ideal or highly ideal, as compared
with 84.6% of the respondents from the 2002-2003 survey.
• On average, Location and Responsibilities received the highest ratings for meeting the
ideal preferences of the respondents first jobs, at 4.2 and 4.1 respectively (on a scale of
one to five). All ratings were slightly lower than those of the previous year.
• Within the first six months after graduating from the NEPS program, 97.6% of those
surveyed plan to be a nurse. This is similar to the 99% of those surveyed in 2002-2003.
74
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
• Of the three respondents who do not expect to be a nurse within the first six months after
graduating, one respondent plans to travel, one respondent has family responsibilities
and one respondent plans to raise children.
• In the 2002-2003 survey, there was one respondent who did not expect to be a nurse
within the first six months after graduating because he or she was going to attend school.
• Of those surveyed, 89.0% have or would likely have their first job as a graduate nurse in
Saskatchewan, compared with 81.4% of the respondents from the 2002-2003 survey.
• Of those surveyed, 86.6% have or would likely have their first job as a graduate nurse in
an urban location, compared with 80.4% of the respondents from the 2002-2003 survey.
• The number one factor that will or has influenced the respondents choice of work location
with 43.0% of those surveyed was family or community commitments. 55% indicated
family or community commitments in the 2002-2003 survey.
• The second most influential factor in determining work location for the respondents, at
15%, was obtaining the clinical/client group they wanted, followed by 12% who indicated
it was the position they wanted. This is compared with the 2002-2003 survey where 18%
indicated clinical/client group and also 18% who indicated it was the position they
wanted.
• The third most influential factor for respondents for determining work location, at 16%, was
familiarity with the hospital where their practicum took place. Compared with the
previous year none of the respondents in the 2002-2003 survey indicated familiarity with
the hospital. Factors for the 2002-2003 survey concentrated on signing bonus (13%),
salary (12%) and getting the position they wanted (12%).
• Overall, 58% of the respondents indicated Family and community commitments as the
main factor in determining job location, compared with 68% from the previous survey.
• Clinical work has been the most useful strategy in finding a job for 55.1% of those
surveyed, followed by word of mouth at 14.2%.
• This is compared with the results from the previous year when 44.1% felt clinical work was
the most useful strategy, followed by word of mouth at 25.5%.
• Of respondents who have confirmed employment, 58.7% were offered a job from the unit
where they were employed as a Senior Assist, as compared with 52.6% of respondents
from the previous year.
• Over 60% of the respondents were offered a job from the unit where they had their 4th
year senior practicum experience, this is just slightly lower than the results from the 20022003 survey where 67.6% of the respondents were offered a job from a unit where they
had their 4th year senior practicum.
• Of those surveyed, 43.2% found finding their first job the same as they had expected,
compared with 52.9% from the previous year, 30.4% found finding their first job less
difficult than expected, compared with 36.3% from the previous year and 26.4% found it
more difficult, compared with 10.8% from the previous year.
• Of the respondents, 57.5% have or would like to have regular full time hours at their first
job, followed by 24.4% who have or would like to have casual full time hours.
• This is compared with 68% of the respondents from the 2002-2003 survey who have or
would like to have regular, full time hours at their first job, followed by 20.4% who have or
would like to have casual, full time hours.
• The hours respondents will work or expect to work are the preference for 72.4% of
respondents, as compared to 79% of those surveyed in the previous year.
75
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
• Of the respondents who do not prefer their hours or expected hours of their job (27.6%),
60% do not prefer casual full time hours, followed by 22.9% who do not prefer regular
part time hours.
• Over 60% of those surveyed expect to have an orientation that will last 6 to 30 days,
followed by 34.6% who expect to have an orientation of 2-5 days.
• This is compared with the results of the 2002-2003 survey where 72.3% expect 6-30 days
of orientation, followed by 23.8% who expect 2-5 days of orientation.
• Over 70% of respondents expect to work at one site for their first job as a graduate nurse,
followed by 24.4% who expect to work at two sites.
• This is compares to the 2002-2003 survey responses, in which 76.5% expect to work at
one site for their first job as a graduate nurse, followed by 19.6% who expect to work at
two sites.
• The primary working site for 86.1% of respondents who have confirmed nursing positions
after graduation will be in a general hospital with more than 100 beds, this is compared
with the 2002-2003 survey where 63% of the respondents would be in a general hospital
with more than 100 beds.
• Of respondents who have confirmed nursing positions after graduation, 12.5% will work at
a general hospital with less than 100 beds at their primary working site , this is compared
with the previous year when 25% would work at a general hospital with less than 100
beds.
• Of the respondents who have a confirmed nursing job after graduating from NEPS, eleven
respondents indicated they will be working at a secondary site. For six of these
respondents, they will be at a general hospital with more than 100 beds, this is compared
with the 2002-2003 survey where 5 of the respondents indicated they would be working
in a general hospital with more than 100 beds.
• The third working site for one of the respondents will be a general hospital with less than
100 beds, this is compared with the 2002-2003 survey where one of the respondents
would be in a general hospital with more than 100 beds, one respondent in a mental
health facility, one respondent in long term care and one respondent in a private nursing
home.
• The position at the primary site for 94.4% of the respondents with confirmed employment
will be staff nurse.
• The position at the secondary site for eleven of the respondents who have confirmed
employment will be staff nurse.
• The position at the third site for one of the respondents who have confirmed employment
will be staff nurse.
• At their primary site, the main area of responsibility for 100% of the respondents with
confirmed employment will be direct care.
• The main area of responsibility at the secondary site for eleven respondents who have
confirmed employment after graduating, will be direct care.
• The main area of responsibility at the third site for one of the respondents who has
confirmed employment after graduating, will be direct care.
• For 63.9% of those surveyed who have confirmed employment after graduating,
medical/surgical will be the type of direct care at the primary working site, similar to the
2002-2003 Exit survey, where 62.3% would be providing care in a medical/surgical area.
• For six respondents who have confirmed employment after graduating, medical/surgical
will be the type of direct care at the secondary working site. This is compared to the
previous year when pediatrics, geriatrics, community health and maternal/newborn were
the primary areas of direct care at the second site.
76
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
• For one graduate who was surveyed, who has confirmed employment after graduating,
pediatrics will be the type of direct care at the third working site. Geriatric and
maternal/newborn were the areas of care for two respondents in the 2002-2003 survey.
• On average, the respondents with confirmed employment after graduating, will work 35.4
hours at the primary site and 16.1 hours at the second site.
• Over 30% of the respondents expect to earn between $40,000 and $44,999 a year, before
taxes; compared with 26% of those surveyed in 2002-2003 who expected to earn
between $40,000 and $44,999.
• Expected annual incomes are the lowest in Saskatchewan and increase eastward through
Canada and then are the highest in the US.
• Female respondents have a lower expected annual income compared with their male
classmates.
3.1.4 General Questions
• Over 90% of those surveyed will be registering with SRNA, compared to 90.9% in the
2002-2003 Exit survey who indicated they would be registering with SRNA.
• Four respondents indicated they would be registering with SRNA and RPNAS and no
respondents plan to register with just RPNAS, compared with eight respondents who
planned to register with RPNAS in the previous year.
• Of those surveyed, 91.3% were female and 8.7% were male, compared to 86% of the
respondents in 2002-2003 were female and 14% were male.
• Over 90% of those surveyed grew up in Saskatchewan.
o 29.1% grew up in rural Saskatchewan (compared to 26.3% from the previous year).
o 17.3% grew up in Saskatoon (compared to 9.1% from the previous year).
o 17.3% grew up in a town in Saskatchewan (compared to 24.2% from the previous
year).
o 14.2% grew up in Regina (compared to 15.2% from the previous year).
o 14.2% grew up in another city in Saskatchewan (compared to 17.2% from the
previous year).
• Of those surveyed, 8.7% were of Aboriginal ancestry, this figure was up from 5.9% from
the previous year.
• Of the respondents who are of Aboriginal ancestry, 81.8% were Metis, 9.1% were Nonstatus and 9.1% were Status. This was compared with the 2002-2003 Exit survey where
50% were Status/Treaty, 33.3% were Metis and 16.7% were Non-status.
• Of the total respondents, 55.1% were single, 43.3% were married or common law and
1.6% were divorced. This was compared to the previous year where 67% were single,
30% were married or common law and 2% were divorced.
• Of those surveyed, 63.0% were satisfied with their educational experience in the NEPS
program, as compared with the respondents from the previous year, which 71.3% were
satisfied.
• Over 15% of those surveyed were dissatisfied with their experience, compared with the
respondents from the previous year, which 9.9% were dissatisfied
77
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
• Over 10% of the respondents were very satisfied, which was similar to the results of the
previous year.
• Over three quarters who entered the NEPS program in Saskatoon and 69.1% of the
respondents who entered the program in Regina were satisfied or very satisfied with the
NEPS education program.
• Over 70% of the female respondents and 63.6% of the male respondents were satisfied
with the NEPS education.
• Nearly 75% of those surveyed believe the NEPS educational program prepared them well
or very well for a career in nursing, followed by 15.8% who believe the program did not
prepare them well or prepared them poorly.
• This is compared to the results of the previous year where 77.2% of those surveyed felt
the NEPS program prepared them well or very well for a career in nursing and 14.9%
who believe the program did not prepare them well or prepared them poorly.
• Almost 80% of the respondents who entered the program in Saskatoon and 69% who
entered the program in Regina felt they were well or very well prepared for a job in
nursing.
• Almost 80% of the respondents who graduated in Saskatoon and 69.8% who graduated in
Regina felt well or very well prepared for a nursing career.
• Nearly 60% of respondents plan to pursue graduate studies at some time in the future,
compared with 53.5% from the 2002-2003 survey.
• Over 60% of respondents who graduated in Regina and 58.1% who graduated in
Saskatoon plan to pursue graduate studies at some time in the future.
• Nearly 30% of the respondents who gave additional comments felt there should be more
practical experience during the NEPS program, followed by 16.1% who felt there were
inconsistencies in grading by the instructors.
• Of the respondents who gave additional comments, 14.3% felt the NEPS program was
good.
78
2004 NEPS Graduate Exit Survey
July 2004
Appendix A
Please specify the degree(s)/diploma(s)/certificates (including field of
study) you held prior to starting the program:
(12) Bachelor of Arts
(5) Bachelor of Science
(5) LPN
(3) EMT
(1) Accounting diploma
(1) Audiovisual communications diploma
(1) Broadcasting
(1) Chemical Dependency Certificate
(1) CLXT
(1) Dental Assisting Certificate
(1) Diploma Business Administration
(2) HC/SCA certificate
(1) Hotel Restaurant Administration Diploma from SIAST
(1) Office Education
(1) OTA/PTA certif.
(1) Rehabilitation Worker Certificate
(1) Ambulance attendant
(1) Care-Aide-diploma
(1) Certificate of cosmetology
(1) Corrections worker
(1) CPR-C
(1) Fashion Merchandising
(1) Field of Study: Theology
(1) Some University Classes
(1) First Aid
(1) Occupational First Aid
(1) Office education
(1) AED Provider
(1) Reflexologist
79
#113-15 Innovation Blvd Saskatoon, SK S7N 2X8 Canada
info@insightrix.com T e l 866.888.5640 Fax 306.384.5655
We bsite : http://www.insightrix.com