Facts
The Member admitted that she engaged in professional misconduct. In October 2023, the Member was selected to participate in a Quality Assurance (“QA”) assessment. Despite her knowledge of the requirement to complete mandatory QA activities and receipt of all the written communications from the QA Committee, the Member failed to complete the program requirements.
Discipline Committee’s Findings
Based on the Member’s admissions, a panel of the Discipline Committee of the College of Nurses of Ontario (the “Panel”) found that the Member:
- failed to cooperate with the Quality Assurance Committee or any assessor appointed by that committee; and
- engaged in conduct, relevant to the practice of nursing, that, having regard to all the circumstances, would reasonably be regarded by members as unprofessional.
Discipline Committee’s Order
The College of Nurses of Ontario (“CNO”) and the Member presented the Panel with a Joint Submission on Order requesting that the Panel make an order that included the following:
- an oral reprimand;
- a 2-month suspension;
- terms, conditions and limitations, including:
- attending 2 meetings with a Regulatory Expert.
The Panel accepted the Joint Submission on Order, concluding that the proposed penalty was reasonable and in the public interest. The Panel noted that the Member cooperated with the CNO and accepted responsibility by agreeing to the facts and a proposed order. The Panel further noted that compliance with quality assurance is vital because it ensures patient safety, consistent and evidence-based care and professional accountability.