Standards of Practice
The ‘Standards of Practice’ of a profession describe the requirements for professional practice. Health regulatory bodies like the NSCRT are required to develop and maintain standards of practice. The standards, as well as relevant legislation (including regulations and bylaws), position statements, policies and practice guidelines, establish a framework for the practice of Respiratory Therapy in Nova Scotia. Standards of Practice establish the following:
- The level of quality and safety required of professional services provided to the public by its Members.
- A legal framework for the professional practice for all Members, in all classes of registration regardless of their roles, job descriptions, and areas of practice.
- A means to determine whether appropriate standards of practice and professional responsibilities have been met or are being maintained by Members.
- A reference against which to consider any complaints about the practice of NSCRT Members.
- A mechanism to promote the continuing competence of self-regulated health care professionals by helping Members to identify continuing quality improvement opportunities.
Members of the NSCRT are professionally accountable to practice in accordance with these Standards. Standards of Practice can be revised at any time, and it is individual practitioners’ responsibility to be aware of any changes relevant to their practice. Employers may have policies in place that relate to specific Standards. If an employer’s policies are more restrictive than the NSCRT’s expectations, an RT must abide by the employer’s policies. Where an employer’s policies are more permissive than those of the NSCRT, the RT must adhere to the NSCRT's requirements.