10 Tips for Becoming a Nurse in Remote Regions in Quebec

Do you work in the health industry or are you pursuing training for this purpose? Do you dream of large spaces and autonomy at work? Have you ever considered becoming a nurse in remote regions in Quebec? Let’s discover the requirements for this type of work, but also our best advice to start this new career with ease!

Quebec Requirements to Work in the Health Field

Before considering taking on the expanded role of nurse in remote areas in Quebec, it is important to ensure that you have the skills and training necessary for the health industry in the province.

As a nurse or nursing assistant, you must be part of the Ordre des infirmières et infirmiers du Québec (OIIQ). If you are not yet part of it, start with this. Thereafter, you will have to send several forms to demonstrate that you have received nursing training, that you have work experience and that you have complied with the order or the association that managed nurses in the country or province where you previously lived.

In addition to your diploma and your membership in order, you will need at least two years of experience in critical care to hold this type of job in Northern Quebec and remote regions of the province.

Moreover, it is important for a nurse to demonstrate openness, have a great sense of initiative and autonomy in addition to acting with independence and professional curiosity. French-English bilingualism is also mandatory.

Tips for Preparing to Work in Remote Areas in Quebec as a Nurse

1. Check your Eligibility for the Profession in Quebec

The first step in the process is to meet the criteria listed in the previous section before proceeding, depending on the type of nurse you are.

2. Check Language Requirements

In the list of regions served, you will discover the languages spoken by the local communities. In the North of Quebec, mainly Cree and Inuktitut are spoken, but your common language with the population will be English. In other regions of Quebec, the main language will be French, and you will need to be fluent in English to provide bilingual service to patients.

3. Complete Expanded Role Nursing Education

You know the tasks of a nurse thanks to your experience in the health field, but care in remote regions of Quebec can vary greatly. Expanded role training becomes your best ally for success!

You will sometimes work without a doctor and will have to provide additional care such as prescribing medications and diagnosing patients. Think of obstetrics, pediatrics, or even mental health! If you have not yet worked in these fields, you will receive all the information and practice required to give you confidence and expertise!

4. Discover the Social Benefits

Becoming a nurse in remote regions in Quebec presents a multitude of advantages that make the experience more enjoyable. In addition to the classic benefits, you will receive a competitive salary as well as tax-free bonuses to offset the cost of living in a remote area.

We will organize your transportation to reach your place of work and will include your lodging in shared accommodation with a private room.

You will enjoy flexible vacations and multiple career advancement opportunities.

5. Gather Your Documents 

To submit your application to Nordik Premier Health once the training is completed, you will need to send us several documents depending on the profile you are looking to apply for. Group all your documents into one folder. Include your diplomas, your training and certificates, your documents from the OIIQ, etc.

6. Prepare Your CV/Resume 

Create your resume to reflect all your work experience. Add a summary of your documents collected in the previous point so that recruiters can consult your training, certifications, and experience at a glance. Remember to include your language skills as well as any information relevant to living in the north!

7. Prepare a Cover Letter

To accompany your CV, we recommend that you write a cover letter that will highlight your greatest strengths and the reasons for your application.

You will then have to fill in the application form on our site, attaching the cover letter and your CV.

8. Prepare for Interviews

Once you have informed us of your desire to join the team, we will quickly communicate with you. Be sure to prepare for the potential interview that comes your way.

Imagine the questions you will be asked about your motivations and be able to explain your past or current tasks. You will have plenty of time to ask your own questions about the expanded role of nurse in remote regions in Quebec, so write them down not to forget!

9. Follow Up on Your Application

If the interview goes well, you may have other meetings with members of our team to gather additional information from both our side and yours.

Otherwise, you will receive an email or a call explaining the next steps to start the adventure!

10. Find Out About Life in Remote Areas of Quebec

Now that the start date of your nursing job in Quebec is approaching, take the time to discover the realities of life in remote regions. Will you be leaving for Eeyou Istchee-Baie-James, Obedjiwan, Mauricie, Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean or Abitibi-Témiscamingue region? Or will you enjoy the maritime landscapes of Côte-Nord, the Magdalen Islands or Gaspésie?

Each of these regions offers a different environment both culturally and in terms of nature and pace of life. Find out more to leave with full knowledge and thus guarantee the success of your experience.

Whatever stage you are at in the process of changing careers, being a nurse in Quebec in remote regions is a rewarding profession filled with energizing challenges. Contact us to learn more.