The Registered Nurses Association of Ontario (RNAO) believes patient safety is a priority in public accountability for individual nurses, administrators, organizations, professional associations and all levels of government. In striving for excellence and optimal outcomes of care, registered nurses (RNs), as a key link in the health care system, protect and enhance the health of patients/clients whether the client is an individual, family, or community. In so doing, nurses create environments that support patient safety. Patient safety has emerged as a priority national and provincial issue in health care. The evidence suggests many errors can be prevented. It is therefore incumbent on all health care providers, organizations, and governments to create cultures of safety that support safe practice for both patients and staff.
