WeRPN has issued the following statement in response to news that two Ontario nurses travelled to Washington DC to participate in a rally promoting misinformation about the COVID-19 pandemic:
The Registered Practical Nurses Association of Ontario (WeRPN) was disappointed to learn that a Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) was among those that travelled to Washington D.C. and spoke at an anti-lockdown rally recently. We understand the College of Nurses is investigating this case and are confident they will respond appropriately.
At a time when health care workers, government and the public are battling a deadly pandemic that has cost the lives of thousands of Ontarians, nurses have a professional duty and moral responsibility to ensure they provide accurate and reliable information to the community they serve.
We know patients, residents, clients, as well as broader public will look to nurses for guidance and advice on making informed health decisions. Never before has it been more important to ensure information that’s provided is accurate and evidence-based.
Ontario’s 47,000 Registered Practical Nurses have been working tirelessly and playing a vital role in the frontlines alongside other health professionals and will continue to do. The misguided actions of a few should not overshadow the hard work and dedication of the majority.