What is a consequence of not adhering to the CNO’s standards of practice?

Not adhering to the College of Nurses of Ontario's standards of practice can lead to potential legal action against the nurse. The CNO establishes these standards to ensure safe and effective nursing care. When a nurse fails to follow established standards, it can result in harm to patients or a breach of professional conduct, which may trigger investigations or legal proceedings. This would not only jeopardize the nurse’s license but could also result in financial liability or disciplinary measures. Legal action can arise from malpractice claims, regulatory complaints, or other forms of accountability tied to the care provided.

In contrast to this, the other outcomes such as increased job opportunities, enhanced professional reputation, or assured promotions are unlikely to result from non-compliance with professional standards. Instead, failure to adhere to the standards typically leads to negative consequences, emphasizing the importance of maintaining high standards of practice in nursing.