Which of the following is a function of CNO in regulating nursing?

• A. Setting criteria for becoming a nurse in Ontario
• B. Providing direct patient care
• C. Certifying hospitals
• D. Regulating physicians' scope of practice

Answer: (A)

Regulatory bodies determine who can practice and how they must practice. The College of Nurses of Ontario sets the entry-to-practice criteria for nurses in Ontario and issues licenses once those standards are met. It also defines standards of practice and codes of conduct, and it can take action when those standards aren’t followed. This structure protects the public by ensuring nurses are qualified and competent to work. It doesn’t provide direct patient care, it doesn’t certify hospitals, and it doesn’t regulate physicians’ scope of practice, which are handled by other regulators.