What document outlines the responsibilities of nurses in Ontario?

The document that outlines the responsibilities of nurses in Ontario is the College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO) practice standards. These practice standards serve as a foundational framework that guides nurses in their professional conduct and practice. They articulate the expectations for nursing care, emphasizing accountability, professional behavior, and ethical considerations.

The CNO's practice standards are developed based on the principles of safe and competent practice, providing clear guidelines to ensure that nurses can deliver high-quality care while maintaining the public's trust. This includes defining the roles and responsibilities of nurses, which is crucial for both their professional development and the protection of patient safety.

In contrast, the other options serve different purposes. Ministry of Health regulations establish a broader legal framework and public health policies within which health care operates but do not specifically outline the daily responsibilities of nurses. Hospital policies and procedures focus on organizational guidelines for specific facilities and may vary from one institution to another, rather than providing a unified standard applicable to all nurses in Ontario. Similarly, patient care guidelines are more focused on specific health conditions or procedures rather than defining the overall responsibilities of nursing professionals. Therefore, the CNO practice standards are the primary source for understanding the responsibilities of nurses in Ontario.