The College of Registered Nurses of Nova Scotia (CRNNS)is a member of the Regulated Professions Network Act of Nova Scotia. As a network member, CRNNS must demonstrate that there is a scope of practice, standards of practice and code of ethics in their statute. (Regulated Health Professions Network Act, 2012,48).
All nurses in Nova Scotia are required to maintain a license to practice with the College of Registered Nurses. Nursing is a self regulated profession therefore CRNNS is required to ensure that the nurses of Nova Scotia uphold the standards and that they practice according to the ethics set out by the college (crnns.ca/about-crnns/self-regulation).
As clinical Leader for the operating room, post anesthetic unit and day surgery it is my main responsibility to ensure the smooth running of all three departments, problem solve where necessary, advocate for the patients and be a resource for staff. I am also responsible that staff conduct themselves in a professional and ethical manner as well as work within the guidelines of our standards set by CRNNS and The Nova Scotia Health Authority. I am also required that the Collective Agreement is maintained and that the nursing staff are treated fairly. My role in the system is a supervisory one to the front-line staff and one in which I report to the manager of the Perioperative Department. As Clinical Leader I see to the day to day functioning of the department with the support of the manager.
I am represented by the Nova Scotia Nurses Union (NSNU) which is also a member of the Regulated Health Professions Network Act. According to the act, the union advocates on behalf of the nurses as required (Regulated Health Professions Network Act, 2012,48). Nova Scotia has two unions that represent nurses. NSNU represents most of the nurses whereas Nova Scotia Government and General Employees Union Local 97 represents the nurses at two of the hospitals in the province. Currently the province is in negotiations to create a one union to represent nurses.
My professional values are demonstrated by my voluntary membership with Operating Room Nurses Association of Canada (ORNAC) and Perioperative Registered Nurses Association of Nova Scotia (ORNANS). In my role as Clinical Leader I ensure that the nursing staff follow and maintain these standards. Patients safety is very important and by not following these standards and guidelines may result in injury of patient or staff.
As a member of these associations I have the opportunity to attend education sessions and conferences which I then am able to share what was learned with staff. Attending these sessions and conferences allows me to maintain my Canadian Nurses Association Certification in Perioperative Nursing. Having this certification is voluntary and is maintained by attending a specific number of education hours every five years (www.cna-aiic.ca).
Professionally I want to be a leader in the Perioperative Portfolio. With this goal I am aware that anyone can view my social media content. I refuse to share views and posts that go against my personal and professional views.
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