New Nursing Act Proclaimed

The new Nursing Act and its regulations are now in effect. The act creates the new Nova Scotia College of Nursing - a single regulatory body for the nursing profession in the province.

“Nurses are an essential part of our health system, and work with other health professionals to provide Nova Scotians the best possible care,” said Health and Wellness Minister Randy Delorey. “The new College of Nursing will continue to regulate the profession and protect the public interest, while being nimble to meet Nova Scotians’ evolving health-care needs.”

The act brings registered nurses, nurse practitioners and licensed practical nurses together under one regulatory body. Existing nursing designations, distinct scopes of practice and entry-to-practice requirements remain the same.

“We are pleased to bring these two mature regulators together as the Nova Scotia College of Nursing,” said Sue Smith, Nova Scotia College of Nursing CEO and registrar. “Having one strong nursing presence and voice will enhance the work we do on behalf of Nova Scotians. By collaborating, we strengthen our commitment to supporting nurses to deliver safe, competent, ethical and compassionate care to the public.”

Provisions in the act enable the college to expand individual scopes of practice, allow more flexibility to grant temporary and conditional licences, and increase options for accountability through fines, like many other regulatory bodies.

The act also requires the college to be more accountable and transparent to government, the public and nurses.

The act and its regulations took effect June 4.