CNO has created a set of practice standards and guidelines that apply to all nurses in Ontario regardless of their role, job description or area of practice.

This section offers resources to help nurses apply the practice standards to their practice, as well as other documents and resources created by CNO for the benefit of nurses, applicants, employers and the general public.


Standards & Guidelines

Documents designed to support nurses in providing safe and ethical nursing care.

Practice Support FAQs

Questions and answers about practice-related issues nurses encounter.

Educational Tools

Resources to help nurses and employers understand and apply the practice standards in their day-to-day practice.

Practice Support

CNO has Practice Support staff who can help you with your practice-related questions. Email us and we will respond within three business days.

RN Prescribing

Registered Nurses (RNs) in Ontario have the option to expand their scope of practice under the Nursing Act, 1991, to prescribe specific medications and communicate diagnoses for the purpose of prescribing those medications.

Scope of Practice – Proposed changes

Updates on work  to change or expand the scope of practice for NPs, RNs and RPNs.

CNO Documents

 A list of all the documents currently available from CNO, including practice standards and registration guides.

Magazines & Newsletters

Publications produced by CNO to help nurses, employers and members of the public understand CNO’s role in nursing regulation.

Volunteer Opportunities

Information for nurses about how they can volunteer for one of CNO’s committees, focus groups or special projects.

Nursing Links

Links to government agencies, nursing associations and health regulatory bodies in Ontario and abroad.

Pandemic Planning

Information and resources to assist nurses, employers and facility operators in the event of a declared pandemic.