As the professional regulatory body for registered nurses in Manitoba, the College of Registered Nurses of Manitoba has a responsibility to protect the public. To this end, the College utilizes professional conduct review processes to address allegations of unacceptable conduct and practice by registered nurses. This process involves investigation, discipline and appeal processes. It is conducted in accordance with The Registered Nurses Act and with the principles of fairness, transparency and administrative efficiency.
Achieving an appropriate balance between the safety and interests of the public and the roles and responsibilities of registered nurses is a primary goal when dealing with complaints. In all cases, the safety of the public takes precedence over the interests of the nurse or the profession. In each situation consideration is given to resolving the complaint with educational and supportive strategies that correct and improve the member's nursing practice.
A complaint about a registered nurse should be in writing and sent to the Executive Director of the College. The Executive Director refers formal written complaints to the Investigation Committee (the Committee). The Committee is composed of two public representatives and four registered nurses. The Registered Nurses Act offers the Committee a broad range of decisions from which to choose. Following the review of a complaint the Committee decides whether to attempt an informal resolution, to direct an investigation and appoint an investigator or to make a decision in accordance with Section 23(1) of the Act. Section 23(1) includes the following: that no further action be taken, refer the matter to the discipline committee for a hearing, or if the member agrees, censure the member, enter into an agreement, accept an undertaking, accept the voluntary surrender of the member's registration, or take any other action that it considers appropriate in the circumstances and is not inconsistent with or contrary to the Act.
The complaints, investigations and discipline process is one of the ways the College demonstrates protection of the public. It is part of our work of setting standards for registered nursing practice, supporting registered nurses in meeting the standards and taking action when the standards are not met.
Complaints Statistics
For more information about the complaints, investigations or discipline process please contact:
Deb Elias, Manager, Complaints Resolution
Telephone: (204) 774-3477
Toll free (Manitoba only): (800) 665-2027
Fax: (204) 775-6052
Email:
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