Interpreting and modifying the scope of practice of the registered nurse /

To incorporate new roles, functions and accountabilities that are 2 © 2015 College of Registered Nurses of Nova Scotia not within the scope of RN practice and where the new addition is restricted by a statute regulating the practice of another health profession, CRNNS may seek a modification to the scope of practice of the profession via legislative changes to the RN Act and Regulations. [...] However, with a modification of the scope of practice for the RN, as with a new interpretation to scope of RN practice, the new role/function becomes a permanent part of the RNs scope of practice. [...] It is not intended to be an academic paper but rather a document which will provide direction in assisting the registered nurse, the regulator and the employer in making decisions to allow registered nurses to practice to their optimal scope of practice and to add to the legislated scope of practice for the profession. [...] An interpretation of scope of practice can be considered an interpretation when the role, function or accountabilities have not traditionally been within the practice of nursing but are consistent with the definition of the practice of nursing in the enabling legislation. [...] A modification to the scope of practice may be required when 1) the role, function or accountability is not currently within the scope of practice of nursing 2) the new addition is restricted by a statute regulating the practice of another health profession.