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Standards, limits and conditions

Part 1: The basis for scope of practice

Standards, limits and conditions

BCCNM has authority under the Health Professions Act to establish, monitor and enforce standards, limits and conditions for registered nurses' practice.

Standard: An expected and achievable level of performance against which actual performance can be compared. It is the minimum level of acceptable performance.

Limit: Specifies what registered nurses are not permitted to do. For example, registered nurses may not carry out endotracheal intubation.

Condition: Sets out the circumstances under which registered nurses may carry out an activity. For example, registered nurses who order X-ray or ultrasound for the purpose of screening or triage or treating a condition must successfully complete additional education.

Whenever possible, BCCNM uses standards (rather than limits and conditions) to provide direction for practice.