College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO) Practice Test

The term “self-regulation” in nursing refers to the nursing profession's ability to govern itself in the public interest. This concept is central to the practice of nursing as it emphasizes the responsibility of nurses to maintain high standards of care, ethics, and professionalism without external control. Self-regulation allows the nursing community to establish and enforce regulations, standards, and competencies that ensure public safety and trust in the profession.

Through self-regulation, nurses are held accountable not only to their patients but also to their peers and the community. This system fosters continuous professional development, emphasizes adherence to ethical guidelines, and encourages nurses to uphold the standards that define their practice. In essence, self-regulation empowers nurses to make independent judgments and decisions while prioritizing the well-being of their patients and the integrity of the profession.

Other options do not encapsulate the comprehensive purpose of self-regulation in nursing. For instance, while personal work hours and peer reviews are important aspects of a nurse's professional life, they do not directly address the overarching principle of governing the profession itself. Similarly, while reporting among nurses is a professional responsibility, it does not fully capture the essence of self-regulation as it relates to the collective responsibility for public protection and professional standards.