What is the primary legal document that governs nursing practice in Ontario?

The primary legal document that governs nursing practice in Ontario is the Nursing Act, 1991. This Act is specifically designed to regulate the practice of nursing and establishes the framework within which nurses operate. It outlines the scope of practice for registered nurses, the standards of care expected, and the responsibilities of nurses in providing safe and competent care. Additionally, it addresses the authority, roles, and functions of the College of Nurses of Ontario, which oversees nursing practice to ensure public safety and professional accountability.

The other documents play important roles in the broader healthcare landscape but are not specific to nursing practice. The Regulated Health Professions Act sets out general regulatory provisions applicable to various health professions, while the Health Care Consent Act governs the processes related to obtaining consent for treatment. The Personal Health Information Protection Act focuses on the privacy and handling of personal health information. Each of these documents contributes to the overall framework of healthcare in Ontario, but the Nursing Act, 1991 is uniquely dedicated to the practice of nursing, making it the primary governing document for nurses.