January 2024

The Supported Decision-Making and Representation Act, also known as Bill 20 in the New Brunswick Legislature, received Royal Assent on December 16, 2022, and came into force January 1, 2024.

The Supported Decision-Making and Representative Act allows adults 19 years of age or older in New Brunswick with an intellectual disability to retain the presumption of capacity and make decisions with the assistance and support they require. The Act defines capacity and outlines how assistance supports the decision-making process. The Act replaces New Brunswick’s Infirm Persons Act.

In accordance with the Act, a nurse practitioner (NP) lawfully entitled to practice in the province is identified as an assessor and authorized to complete the capacity assessment and record the results of the assessment conducted for the purposes of a court application under the  Act, as set out in the  NEW BRUNSWICK REGULATION 2023-66 under the Supported Decision-Making and Representation Act.

A capacity assessment is considered to be an entry-level competency for NPs. NP assessors must ensure they have the required knowledge, skill and competency to complete the capacity assessment as outlined in the Act.  

Nursing Practice Q&As: New Supported Decision-Making and Representation Act

If you have any questions, please contact Practiceconsultation@nanb.nb.ca.

The steps required to complete the Continuing Competency Program (CCP) are similar to the nursing process. Annually, each nurse must assess their nursing practice, determine their learning needs, develop, and implement a learning plan, and evaluate its impact on their nursing practice.

At this point, you should be nearing completion of your self-assessment, identified at least one indicator that you will focus on in 2024, and developed your learning plan, so you can proceed with the completion of your learning activities throughout the practice year.

The following resources can assist to plan your CCP activities, and to develop and implement your learning plan:

• CCP Annual Planning Guide
• Five Steps to a Great Learning Plan

Visit NANB's website for more information on the Continuing Competency Program.

Mark your calendars! This year's virtual AGM will be held on May 16, 2024. Stay tuned to NANB's website and upcoming emails with details as they become available including: online registration, agenda, resolutions, proxy voting...and more.

Deadline to submit resolutions: April 1, 2024

Written resolutions must be received by the NANB according to the pre-determined deadline of April 1, 2024, in order to be reviewed by the Resolutions Committee. 

For details on how to submit a resolution or clarification on the process, contact NANB.