Scope of Practice for Registered Nurses

This publication contains information for registered nurses (includes licensed graduate nurses) and nurse practitioners in British Columbia about scope of practice that is established by the BC College of Nurses and Midwives (BCCNM).

The scope of practice for registered nurses and nurse practitioners in British Columbia is set out in the Nurses (Registered) and Nurse Practitioners Regulation under the Health Professions Act. Additional scope of practice information is included in BCCNM's Bylaws and Standards of Practice.

The purpose of this document is to:

• Explain the Regulation and those parts of the Health Professions Act that have an impact on scope of practice for registered nurses
• Set out BCCNM standards, limits and conditions related to scope of practice
• Explain the restricted activities for registered nurses that are outlined in the Regulation
• Explain delegation as it applies under the Health Professions Act and BCCNM Standards of Practice.

Information in this document is subject to change as BCCNM policy is revised or legislation is amended. BCCNM registrants will be notified of changes.

BCCNM Standards of Practice

BCCNM is responsible under the Health Professions Act for setting standards of practice for its registrants. BCCNM Standards include:

• Professional Standards
• Practice Standards
• Scope of Practice Standards, Limits and Conditions

These can be found on the BCCNM website www.bccnm.ca