Province’s phased approach will speed up standardization of nursing policies
In over 240 clinical policies, the Saskatchewan government and the Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) have abolished provisions that restricted the scope of practice for licensed practical nurses (LPNs), registered psychiatric nurses (RPNs), and nurse practitioners (NPs) as of May 15.
With more than 15,240 of these practitioners working in Saskatchewan’s hospitals, long-term care and community care facilities, and other settings, the provincial government explained that this change empowers qualified and trained nurses to work within their full scope of practice under relevant legislation.
“By removing more than 240 policy barriers, we are maximizing the contribution of LPNs, RPNs and NPs, and strengthening how care is delivered across our health system to ensure patients receive the right care, in the right place, at the right time,” said Jeremy Cockrill, Saskatchewan health minister, in the media release.
Saskatchewan and the SHA eliminated these practice barriers in an effort to modernize and optimize the scope of practice for healthcare providers under the Patients First Health Care Plan.
Derek Miller, SHA chief operating officer, highlighted the importance of the updated clinical policies and standards to enabling “health care teams to base practice decisions on modern standards that strengthen timely, safe, quality patient care.”
Standardization effort
Via a phased approach expected to wrap up by Sept. 30, SHA will also speed up the standardization of the nursing policies and clinical standards governing LPNs, RPNs, and NPs.
This standardization will cover intravenous care, pain management support, and devices for delivering medications, fluids, and other treatments. The approach will include education, competency validation, and local leadership support.
Support from regulators’ leaders
“The College of Registered Nurses of Saskatchewan supports the Government's commitment to optimizing scope of practice,” said Cindy Smith, the college’s executive director and registrar, in the province’s media release.
“Nurse Practitioners in Saskatchewan have one of the largest scopes in Canada, and SANP supports consistency in allowing NPs to work to their full scope in all health care settings,” said Toni Giraudier, president of the Saskatchewan Association of Nurse Practitioners.
“Enabling all health care providers to work to the top of their expertise strengthens access to care, supports workforce sustainability and ultimately benefits clients, residents and families across Saskatchewan,” said Lynsay Kurjata, executive director of the College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Saskatchewan.
“Patient safety and quality care delivery depends on nurses practicing to their full scope, as supported by their education and professional standards,” said Beverly Balaski, chief executive officer and registrar of the College of Registered Psychiatric Nurses of Saskatchewan.
“We commend this deliberate, phased approach and look forward to continued partnership to ensure nurses are fully empowered to meet the evolving needs of patients and communities across Saskatchewan,” said Del Essien, executive director of the Association of Professional Nurses of Saskatchewan.
