CNO Engages with Employers to Promote RN Prescribing Implementation in Ontario

The College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO) is actively collaborating with employers to facilitate the integration of Registered Nurse (RN) prescribing in various practice settings throughout the province.

RN prescribing, which officially began on November 6, 2023, empowers qualified RNs to prescribe specific medications and provide diagnoses for prescribing purposes.

This expanded scope of practice not only enhances patient access to medications but also streamlines healthcare delivery while enabling RNs to play a more significant role in patient treatment plans.

According to Catriona Mill, the Manager of Practice Quality at CNO, the implementation of RN prescribing is a significant achievement for nurses, the healthcare sector, and the public, emphasizing the importance of constructive dialogue and collaboration with employers to enhance patient care access.

In jurisdictions where legislation permits RN prescribing, employers retain the authority to decide on the incorporation of this scope change in their practice settings while ensuring its safe implementation.

Employers are responsible for facilitating access to consultative and mentoring support for prescribers, evidence-based decision-making resources, as well as establishing appropriate workplace policies to support RN prescribing.

Discussions with employers emphasize the necessity of collaborative efforts in expanding RN prescribing across diverse practice settings in Ontario, focusing on promoting safe nursing practices, improving care access, outlining the advantages of RN prescribing, supporting its integration within interdisciplinary care teams, ensuring culturally competent care, and providing employer assistance.

David Aoki, the Director of Infectious Diseases and Chief Nursing Officer at the Region of Waterloo Public Health, who is also a member of CNO’s advisory body, acknowledges the value of ongoing discussions regarding the progress, requirements, and implications of RN prescribing for employers.

Aoki mentions the willingness of CNO to offer workplace support through consultations and guidance, should employers opt to adopt RN prescribing within their organizations.

CNO remains dedicated to engaging with employers to ensure the safe implementation of RN prescribing, providing resources, support, and consultations for those interested in incorporating this practice change.

Employers seeking more information on RN prescribing can access additional resources on CNO’s official website and reach out for assistance, consultative services, or request presentations to aid in decision-making.

Stay tuned for further updates as CNO continues to collaborate with partners in upholding patient safety and advancing the RN prescribing initiative across Ontario.