PC3: Understanding Medical Assistance in Dying through the CNA National Framework

Presented by: Josette Roussel, RN, MSc, M.Ed, Senior Nurse Advisor, Canadian Nurses Association, Elaine Borg, BNSc, RN, LLB, Legal Counsel, Canadian Nurses Protective Society (CNPS®)

Amendments were made to the Criminal Code of Canada on 17 June 2016 to allow for medical assistance in dying for eligible patients. Given this change in the law and clinical practice, the CNA gathered a national, multidisciplinary task force to create a guidance document for Canadian nurses, the National Framework on Medical Assistance in Dying in Canada. Attend this pre-conference workshop to hear from Josette Roussel, CNA Senior Nurse Advisor, and Elaine Borg, CNPS Legal Counsel, about their experience on the task force and insights into the framework. There will be opportunity for you to ask questions about medical assistance in dying in Canada.

Learner Outcomes: 

• Attendees will understand the lawful role of registered nurses and nurse practitioners in medical assistance in dying.
• Attendees will understand what resources they may access when involved with medical assistance in dying.
• Attendees will have the opportunity to raise questions and discuss related issues.