Duty to Report

Legal and Professional Obligation

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Nurses have a legal and ethical obligation to report situations that may place clients or the public at risk of harm. This duty applies regardless of client consent and may override privacy and confidentiality when safety is at stake.

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Circumstances Requiring a Report:

• A report will be made to the appropriate authority in the following circumstances, including but not limited to:

• Child Protection: If there are reasonable grounds to suspect that a child is at risk of abuse or neglect, a report will be made to Family and Children’s Services, as required by the Child, Youth and Family Services Act (CYFSA).

• Abuse of Vulnerable Adults: Concerns regarding abuse, neglect, or unsafe care of a client in a long-term care home or retirement home will be reported under the Long-Term Care Homes Act or Retirement Homes Act.

• Unsafe Healthcare Providers: If another healthcare provider is believed to be practicing unsafely, is incompetent, or is impaired, a report may be made to their regulatory body (e.g., CNO, CPSO).

• Other Legal Requirements: Reports may also be made in cases of certain communicable diseases, fitness to drive concerns, or other mandatory reporting requirements under Ontario law.

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How Reports Are Made:

Reports will be made in good faith to the appropriate agency, regulatory college, or authority. Information disclosed will be limited to what is necessary to meet the legal obligation.

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Client Communication

Wherever possible and appropriate, clients will be informed if a report is being made. However, in urgent or legally mandated situations, reports may need to be made without prior client notification.

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Accountability

All staff and nurses working with Vampire Nurse on Wheels are expected to understand and uphold the duty to report requirements. Failure to comply with these obligations may result in professional and legal consequences.