What is one consequence of unprofessional conduct by a nurse?

Unprofessional conduct by a nurse can lead to serious consequences, with suspension or revocation of the nurse's license being one of the most significant. The primary role of regulatory bodies, like the College of Nurses of Ontario, is to protect the public and maintain the standards of nursing practice. When a nurse engages in unprofessional behavior, it undermines trust in the profession and can endanger patient safety.

As part of the regulatory process, if a nurse is found to have acted unprofessionally, it can result in disciplinary actions that range from reprimands to suspension or the complete revocation of their nursing license. This process ensures that only those who adhere to professional and ethical standards are allowed to practice nursing, thereby fostering a safe and reliable healthcare environment.

The other consequences listed, such as increased salary, obtaining certifications in additional specialties, or promotions to supervisory roles, are generally positive outcomes that would not typically result from unprofessional conduct. Instead, such conduct is likely to lead to serious penalties aimed at enforcing accountability and promoting professionalism within the nursing field.