What are the differences between ONA, RNAO and the CNO?
The Ontario Nurses’ Association is a trade union representing more than 54,000 registered nurses and allied health professionals in hospitals, community health, long-term care, Canadian Blood Services, clinics and industry. The Registered Nurses Association of Ontario (RNAO) is the professional association representing over 27,000 registered nurses in Ontario. Since 1925, RNAO has lobbied for healthy public policy, promoted excellence in nursing practice, increased nurses’ contribution to shaping the health-care system, and influenced decisions that affect nurses and the public they serve. The College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO) is the governing body for the 140,000 registered nurses (RNs) and registered practical nurses (RPNs) in Ontario. The College sets requirements to enter the profession, establishes and enforces standards of nursing practice, and assures the quality of practice of the profession and the continuing competence of nurses.