Which of the following best describes the term "CNO"?

The term "CNO" refers to the College of Nurses of Ontario, which serves as the regulatory body for nursing practice in Ontario. This organization is responsible for setting the standards of practice for nurses, ensuring that licensed individuals are qualified and competent to provide care. It oversees the registration of nurses, the establishment of ethical guidelines, and the enforcement of professional standards.

The primary goal of the CNO is to protect the public by ensuring that nurses possess the necessary education and skills to provide safe and effective care. By regulating the profession, the CNO plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity of nursing as a practice and safeguarding patient welfare.

The other options describe roles or functions that do not accurately capture the core responsibility of the CNO. While aspects like evaluating nursing schools or promoting admissions into nursing colleges may be relevant to some nursing organizations, these are not the main functions of the College of Nurses of Ontario. The CNO’s focus is distinctly on regulation and supporting nursing practice rather than acting purely as a professional association or an admissions body.