Facts
The Member admitted that he engaged in professional misconduct. The Member engaged in a pattern of behaviour towards a colleague that was unwanted, inappropriate and of a sexual nature. Some of this behaviour occurred in the presence of patients. The Member was repeatedly advised by the colleague that his behaviour was unwanted and inappropriate.
Discipline Committee’s Findings
Based on the Member’s admissions, a panel of the Discipline Committee of the College of Nurses of Ontario (the “Panel”) found that the Member:
- contravened a standard of practice of the profession or failed to meet the standards of practice of the profession; and
- engaged in conduct or performed an act, relevant to the practice of nursing, that, having regard to all the circumstances, would reasonably be regarded by members disgraceful, dishonourable or unprofessional.
Discipline Committee’s Order
The College of Nurses of Ontario (“CNO”) and the Member presented the Panel with a Joint Submission on Order requesting that the Panel make an order that included the following:
- an oral reprimand;
- a 6-month suspension; and
- terms, conditions and limitations including:
- successfully completing the CPEP Improving Inter-professional Communication Seminar;
- attending at least 2 meetings with a Regulatory Expert; and
- employer notification for 18 months.
The Panel accepted the Joint Submission on Order, concluding that the proposed penalty was reasonable and in the public interest. The Panel noted that the Member cooperated with the CNO and, by agreeing to the facts and a proposed penalty, has accepted responsibility.