What are the potential consequences of practicing nursing without CNO registration?

Practicing nursing without being registered with the College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO) is considered illegal. This illegality arises because registration with the CNO is necessary to ensure that nurses have met the required standards for education, competence, and conduct in the nursing profession. Without this registration, individuals are not authorized to provide nursing care, which can pose serious risks to patient safety and undermine public trust in the healthcare system.

Consequently, the potential consequences for practicing without CNO registration can include significant penalties such as fines, criminal charges, or findings of misconduct. These repercussions reflect the seriousness of the offense, as unregistered practice can lead to substandard care and endanger patients. The legal authority of the CNO and the regulatory framework surrounding nursing in Ontario are designed to protect the public and uphold the integrity of the nursing profession, reinforcing that adherence to licensing requirements is critical.