According to the College of Nurses of Ontario, the purpose of nursing is to “restore, maintain and advance the health of individuals, groups or entire communities”. Nurses practice across the full spectrum of healthcare delivery settings, from acute care to long-term care, rehabilitation, community-based settings, and beyond. We are involved in a broad range of healthcare activities, from health promotion to palliation. We also take part in lobbying efforts to improve health locally, provincially, nationally, and globally.

In Ontario, there are two categories of nurses: Registered Nurses (RNs) and Registered Practical Nurses (RPNs). The two most significant areas of difference between RNs and RPNs are educational requirements and scope of practice. Additionally, the Extended Class refers to RNs who have completed additional education focusing on advanced knowledge and decision-making skills.

Profiling Ontario Nursing on the ONC

We think the ONC website is the perfect place to profile Ontario nursing!
• Click on “Profiles” to watch streaming video interviews with 6 exceptional Ontario nurses.
• Click on “Nursing Specialties” to find out more about the different roles that are available to RNs and RPNs and hear first-hand from practicing nurses.
• Click on the Educational requirements link to find out more about becoming a nurse in Ontario.

College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO)

Nursing in Ontario is regulated by the CNO, with a mandate to protect the public interest. All nurses in Ontario must be members of the CNO. For further information about the CNO and a full list of nursing educational programs offered in Ontario, please visit www.cno.org.