New Licensed Practical Nurses Act Proclaimed

The new Licensed Practical Nurses (LPN) Act was proclaimed today, June 10. The act defines the scope of practice of LPNs and reflects their growing contribution to health-care delivery.

"This is a significant step forward for the nursing profession and for the future of health care in Nova Scotia," said Health Minister Jamie Muir. "LPNs are a vital part of our health-care system and this new legislation will allow us to fully benefit from their skills, abilities and training."

The new act also allows for a name change from the Practical Nursing Licensing Board to the College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Nova Scotia. The change to a college clearly demonstrates that LPNs regulate their own professional practice in the best interest of the public. It follows a trend among self-regulating professions, such as physicians and surgeons, physiotherapists and occupational therapists. The College of Registered Nurses of Nova Scotia also recently made the change to a college.

Other provisions in the new LPN Act include the ability to grant temporary or conditional licences, a fairer and speedier disciplinary process and changes to the board membership process.

"This is very welcome news," said Ann Mann, executive director of the College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Nova Scotia. "The new act is a pivotal piece of legislation for licensed practical nursing in Nova Scotia. It reflects revisions to the LPN curriculum, adds clarity to the LPNs' role and makes it possible for them to practise to their full potential."

A new Registered Nurses Act, which recognizes the role of nurse practitioners, was proclaimed on Jan. 2.