Today, we recognize and celebrate National Indigenous Day, which invites all Canadians to recognize and celebrate the unique heritage, diverse cultures and outstanding contributions of First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. It is an opportunity to learn about the history of Indigenous peoples and how the Government of Canada is working to advance reconciliation and renew the relationship with Indigenous peoples, based on recognition of rights, respect, cooperation and partnership.
San’yas: Indigenous Culture Safety Training Program
For nurses, today serves as a reminder to maintain knowledge and training that will support their practice when working within Indigenous communities. There are unique challenges that these communities face when accessing our healthcare system, and the impacts of colonization are still affecting the health status of Indigenous peoples. Cultural safety is crucial to healthcare – as nurses, we are responsible for fostering an environment where our patients feel safe and cared for, and the San’yas: Indigenous Culture Safety Training Program aims to do just that. 
San’yas: Indigenous Culture Safety Training is an online training program designed to enhance self-awareness and strengthen the skills of those who work both directly and indirectly with Indigenous people. Its goal is to develop understanding and promote positive partnerships between service providers and Indigenous people.
This mission is extremely valuable in helping nurses deliver exceptional care when they encounter Indigenous peoples throughout their practice, and it is one of our most highly-recommended programs – especially for our travel nurses who work in Indigenous communities.
Indigenous culture respect in nursing
Working on the front-lines of the healthcare industry, nurses are expected to continue their education in Indigenous heritage so that they can create a climate where the unique history of Indigenous peoples is recognized and respected. This is important because it helps ensure appropriate care and services in an equitable and safe way, without discrimination.
During the course, nurses will learn about culture, stereotyping, and the consequences and legacies of colonization as well as terminology, diversity, and aspects of colonial history such as Indian residential schools and Indian Hospitals.
Training programs in Manitoba, Ontario and BC
Currently, San’yas: Indigenous Culture Safety Training is available in British Columbia, Manitoba and Ontario. Want to learn more? Check out the San’yas program and its modules.
We support and proudly employ travel nurses with Indigenous heritage, as we recognize the value of diversity and cultural understanding within healthcare. Learn more about our travel nursing opportunities.
Select Medical Connections acknowledges that our office operates on the ancestral and unceded homelands of the hən̓ q ̓əmin̓ əm ̓ and Sḵwx̱wú7mesh speaking peoples.