Standards, limits and conditions

BCCNM has authority under the Health Professions Act to establish, monitor and enforce standards, limits and conditions for registered nurses' practice.

Standard: An expected and achievable level of performance against which actual performance can be compared. It is the minimum level of acceptable performance.

Limit: Specifies what registered nurses are not permitted to do. For example, registered nurses may not carry out endotracheal intubation.

Condition: Sets out the circumstances under which registered nurses may carry out an activity. For example, registered nurses who order X-ray or ultrasound for the purpose of screening or triage or treating a condition must successfully complete additional education.

Whenever possible, BCCNM uses standards (rather than limits and conditions) to provide direction for practice.