Every jurisdiction has its own regulatory college and standards to guide its nurses. The College of Registered Nurses of Alberta (CRNA) is the regulatory body for registered nurses (RNs) and nurse practitioners (NPs) practising in Alberta. Nurses may be registered and practising in more than one jurisdiction and must be aware of and follow the standards for each jurisdiction.
The CRNA develops standards that set the minimum expectations of RNs and NPs. Standards outline what the public can expect from an Alberta RN and NP to provide safe, competent and ethical care.
The primary purpose of standards is to outline, guide and direct RN and NP practice and help them meet their legal and professional responsibilities. The standards outline the professional regulatory expectations of RNs and NPs by stating specific criteria that must be met to successfully meet each standard.
Failure to meet the standards of practice could lead to further investigation by the CRNA to ensure the public is protected.