April 2004

 Introduction

The reasons for Standards of Practice are to:

• Ensure protection of the public good;
• Regulate the practice of the practitioner;
• Serve as a reference for professional practice;
•  Provide a basis for position descriptions and performance appraisals;

• Interpret the scope of practice as a reference to describe "reasonable and prudent" practice;

• To inform the public of the professional nature of practice.

 A standard is a desired and achievable level of performance against which actual performance can be measured.  Standards reflect the values and beliefs of the profession and clarify what the profession expects of its members.  The standards set levels below which performance is unacceptable. 

 Standard 1

A Licensed Practical Nurse recognizes nursing as an art and a human science, the essence of which is caring.

Indicators:

1. Collaborates with individuals and their families to assist them in meeting their health needs and achieving their health goals.
2. Knows how and where to seek out information necessary for competent nursing care.
3. Shares pertinent information with individuals under their care and colleagues.
4. Displays knowledge relevant to the nursing service provided.
5. Presents an informed view to others about practical nursing and about its role within the family of nursing and the health delivery system.
6. Provides rationale for nursing decisions and interventions.
7. Uses skills of therapeutic communication and social interaction appropriate to the situation.

 Standard 2

A Licensed Practical Nurse, in partnership with the individuals under their care and the health care team identifies actual and potential strengths and limitations, plans and performs interventions and evaluates outcomes.

Indicators:

1. Collects necessary information from various sources using skills, such as, observation, communication, inspection, auscultation and palpation.
2. Appropriately shares collected information with clients and health team members.
3. Develops and implements care plans.
4. Sets priorities when planning and giving care.
5. Maintains the appropriate knowledge, skills, attitudes and judgements to perform interventions.
6. Evaluates responses to interventions and revises them as necessary.
7. Maintains clear, concise, accurate and timely records of care and observations.
8. Initiates, maintains and terminates the nurse-client relationship.

 Standard 3

A Licensed Practical Nurse provides nursing and health care services.

Indicators:

1. Communicates and consults with individuals under their care and members of the health care team about the individual's care.
2. Exercises judgement in providing nursing services.
3. Co-ordinates activities of others providing nursing care.
4. Participates in activities that promote quality nursing and health care services.

Educates and informs individuals under their care and others, as appropriate, about the purpose, nature and effects of care.

 Standard 4

A Licensed Practical Nurse adheres to ethical obligations for practice.

Indicators:

• 1. Ensures that practice is consistent with the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
• 2. Adheres to the Code of Ethics for Saskatchewan Licensed Practical Nurses.
• 3. Ensures that practice is consistent with the Health Information Protection Act and the Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act.
• 4. Demonstrates honesty and integrity.
• 5. Reports professional practice problems and unacceptable behaviour to appropriate person/s.

Advocates for individuals under their care; protects and promotes their rights to independence, respect, dignity, privacy, informed consent, informed decision-making in relation to treatment; and, access to information in their relationship with the health care system.

 Standard 5

A Licensed Practical Nurse practices within the scope of practice, standards of practice and professional behaviour in accordance with the Licensed Practical Nurses Act and Bylaws and in accordance with the policies established in conjunction with such Act and Bylaws.

Indicators:

• 1. Assumes accountability and takes responsibility for own actions and decisions at all times.
• 2. Follows, maintains and helps to improve professional, departmental and agency mission statements, guidelines, policies, procedures and standards.
• 3. Advocates for improvements in nursing practice and health care services.
• 4. Practices in a manner consistent with all external relevant legislation.

Standard 6

A Licensed Practical Nurse assumes responsibility for maintaining competency and fitness to practise and for acquiring new knowledge and skills.

Indicators:

1. Invests time, effort, and/or other resources to maintain and enhance knowledge, skills, attitudes and judgements relevant to current practice.
2. Keeps current with changes occurring within the profession.
3. Practices within own level of competence.
4. Maintains a mental, emotional, spiritual and physical well being.

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