RPN Scope of Practice
The scope of practice for Registered Psychiatric Nurses (RPNs) can be seen as an overarching framework. The RPN scope is defined broadly to encompass the varied and complex nature of psychiatric nursing practice. To determine whether RPNs are able to perform a particular type of care or competency within a specific area of practice, four elements must be considered: Education, Authorization, Competence, and Practice Setting.
The RPN Scope of Practice document has been adapted to guide the introduction of 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.
Along with the RPN Scope of Practice document, the College developed Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) to help further understand scope of practice for RPNs.