The “EC2024-755 Regulated Health Professions Act Registered Nurses Regulations Amendment” updates the regulatory framework for registered nurses and registered psychiatric nurses in Prince Edward Island under the Regulated Health Professions Act (R.S.P.E.I. 1988, Cap. R-10.1). The amendments aim to expand the scope of regulation to include psychiatric nursing as a designated health profession alongside general nursing.

A new definition of psychiatric nursing describes it as a specialized health profession incorporating evidence-based psychiatric nursing theory and human sciences to promote mental health, manage mental illness, and help individuals, families, and communities achieve optimal health.

Nursing and psychiatric nursing are now formally designated as regulated health professions, meaning both fields are subject to the regulatory provisions and oversight outlined in the Act. The introduction of a psychiatric nurses register is another key change. This register is divided into three classes: the general class for fully registered psychiatric nurses, the provisional class for those working under supervision but who have not met all the requirements, and the special class for psychiatric nurses registered under specific circumstances.

The amendment also updates the designations and reserved activities for nurses. Titles and abbreviations for both registered nurses (RN) and registered psychiatric nurses (RPN) are revised, including special authorizations for nurses who can prescribe or perform specific medical activities. A list of reserved activities for psychiatric nurses is introduced, which includes administering substances, performing certain diagnostic procedures, and providing psycho-social interventions.

Both registered nurses and psychiatric nurses can apply for special authorization to perform additional reserved activities, including diagnosing diseases, prescribing medications like antibiotics or contraceptives, and administering specific treatments.

The amendments also address the currency of professional knowledge, shifting the requirement for maintaining professional competency from a strict 900-hour practice rule to a more flexible standard, requiring practice “to an extent acceptable to the Council.”

Additionally, psychiatric nurses must now meet specific professional liability insurance requirements, ensuring coverage of at least $10 million per claim or occurrence across all practice settings within Prince Edward Island. The provisional class of registration allows applicants who have not passed the required examination or met professional currency requirements to practice under supervision for a limited time. The special class applies when the Council grants registration under unique circumstances, though it cannot be renewed or reinstated.

Prince Edward Island (EC2024-755) August 10, 2024