RPN Scope of Practice

The Newfoundland and Labrador College of Nurses¹ is the regulatory body for nurses in Newfoundland and Labrador (NL). The College’s mandate is to ensure that the public interest is protected in all matters relating to the practice of nursing and the practice of psychiatric nursing.

Purpose

This document has been adapted to guide the introduction of Registered Psychiatric Nurses (RPNs) in NL and defines the scope of practice for the RPN profession in NL. It can be utilized when RPNs consider whether a competency or intervention falls within their individual scope of practice and whether they should perform that competency/intervention. The scope of practice principles within this document apply to RPNs across all domains of psychiatric nursing practice: direct care, education, research, and administration.

The College defines scope of practice for RNs and NPs as the range of roles, functions, responsibilities, and activities for which registrants are educated, authorized, and competent to perform. This same definition applies for RPNs. It includes knowledge, skills, and critical thinking. Scope of practice for RPNs is based on an education program that integrates theory, lab work, and clinical practicum that prepares RPNs to provide safe and ethical care, and the continuous development of their competencies by building on their foundational knowledge.

NOTE: This document uses the same elements in the College’s Scope of Practice Framework for RNs and NPs (education, authorization, competence), with the addition of practice setting as the fourth element.

Introduction

The practice of psychiatric nursing in NL is regulated under the Registered Nurses Act, 2008. An RPN is permitted to participate in the practice of psychiatric nursing in NL only when they have met the legal requirements and possess the necessary competencies.

The scope of practice as defined within this document can be seen as an overarching framework. It defines the RPN scope broadly to encompass the varied and complex nature of psychiatric nursing practice. The RPN scope of practice reflects the diverse and evolving spectrum of client populations, roles, and environments where an RPN may practise. Psychiatric nursing practice is continuously evolving to address the dynamic needs of client populations and the health care system, and to stay current with changes in legislation, regulation, and evidence. RPNs are required to maintain and acquire skills depending upon their role and what is authorized within their practice setting.

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