How I Follow CNO Best Practice Guidelines as an Independent Foot Care Nurse in Ontario
As a foot care nurse in Ontario running my own practice, following the College of Nurses of Ontario (CNO) guidelines is not just a requirement — it’s the foundation of how I deliver safe, ethical, and professional care every day.
Independent nursing can be incredibly rewarding, but it also demands a strong commitment to regulation, accountability, and continual learning. Here’s how I align my independent nurse practice with CNO’s best practice guidelines at Becky’s Medical Foot Care.
1. Upholding Professional Standards in Independent Practice
CNO’s Professional Standards guide every nurse in Ontario — and that includes independent nurses like myself. These standards include:
Accountability
Continuing competence
Ethics
Knowledge
Leadership
Professional relationships
In my practice, this translates to proper client assessments, clear communication, informed consent, and collaboration with other health professionals when needed.
2. Ongoing Learning to Stay Competent
As a registered foot care nurse, I’m committed to lifelong learning. CNO requires that all nurses maintain and improve their knowledge, skill, and judgment — and I do this through:
Advanced foot care courses and continuing education
Attending industry conferences and workshops
Participating in mentorship opportunities — both learning and teaching
Regularly reviewing evidence-based practice and foot care research
This ensures my clients receive up-to-date, evidence-informed care.
3. Proper Nursing Documentation in Private Practice
CNO has clear Documentation Standards — and as an independent nurse, I follow them carefully:
Clear, accurate clinical notes for every visit
Documentation of assessments, care plans, and outcomes
Secure storage and confidentiality of all client records, in line with Ontario’s PHIPA legislation
Proper documentation isn’t just good practice — it protects both the client and the nurse.
4. Ethics and Safe Decision-Making
The CNO’s Ethics Practice Standard plays a key role in every decision I make as a nurse. Whether I’m trimming thick nails for a senior or treating painful calluses, I work with:
Compassion
Respect for autonomy
Cultural sensitivity
A strong client-first approach
Ethical nursing is safe nursing.
5. Practicing Within My Scope
As a foot care nurse in Ontario, I practice within my legislated scope and individual competence. If a client shows signs of a medical issue outside of my expertise — such as diabetic ulcers or suspected infection — I refer them to a physician or specialist immediately.
Knowing your limits is part of CNO’s guidelines for nurses in Ontario, and it’s one I take seriously to ensure client safety.
Final Thoughts from a Foot Care Nurse in Ontario
Being an independent foot care nurse means I get to bring personalized, professional care directly to clients in the community. By staying true to CNO’s Best Practice Guidelines, I provide safe, ethical, and effective care — all while helping people feel better on their feet.
Whether you’re a nurse starting your own practice or someone in need of foot care in the Ottawa area, feel free to reach out — or visit www.cno.org to learn more about nursing standards in Ontario.
Becky Smith, RN, FCN
Independent Foot Care Nurse | Becky’s Medical Foot Care
