The ten standards every NBPSWA member commits to.
Adapted from NBPSWA Standards of Practice for Personal Support Workers in New Brunswick (2026, Version 1.0) — Volume 2 of the eight-volume NBPSWA Standards Series, which together set the profession's expectations for entry-to-practice competence, ethics, education, certification, continuing competence, professional conduct, and discipline. These ten standards define how every member is expected to practise — in long-term care, special care homes, community residences, home care, and the community. They apply equally to certified PSWs and associate members working toward certification, and are grounded in the NB Family Services Act, the NB Adult Residential Facility Standards, PIPEDA, the NB Human Rights Act, and NB Occupational Health and Safety legislation.
The Standards of Practice is one of eight volumes that together form the profession's standards library. Additional volumes cover the Entry-to-Practice Competency Framework, Code of Ethics, Educational Standards, Certification Standards, Continuing Competence, Professional Conduct, and Complaints & Discipline. Volumes are published progressively and made available to members in the Member Portal.
Accountability for Practice
PSWs are responsible and accountable for their own practice, actions, and professional decisions at all times — owning their limits and their errors.
Competence & Scope of Practice
PSWs practise within the limits of their competence and authorized scope, and actively maintain the knowledge, skills, and judgement required for safe, effective care.
Ethical Conduct
Honesty, dignity, and confidentiality guide every interaction — including the courage to report abuse, neglect, or unsafe practice through the appropriate channels.
Client-Centred Relationships
The client is a person, not a task. Their preferences, life history, culture, autonomy, and dignity come first in every encounter.
Communication & Documentation
PSWs communicate clearly, professionally, and honestly, and maintain complete, accurate records of care in accordance with employer standards and applicable legislation (including PIPEDA).
Safety & Risk Management
Active, attentive safety practice at every moment of every shift — including emergency preparedness and the responsibility to report unsafe working conditions without fear of reprisal.
Administration of Medication
Medications are administered only where NB Social Development Adult Residential Facility Standards (Section 5.13) apply, only with written operator authorization and required training, and always following full protocol.
Working Within the Care Team
PSWs contribute, collaborate, and support colleagues and regulated health professionals — within the PSW role and never beyond it.
Continuing Competence
Learning is a career-long obligation. PSWs self-assess against the NBPSWA Entry-to-Practice Competency Framework and pursue ongoing professional development.
Professional Conduct & Representation
PSWs conduct themselves as professionals in all settings — at work, in the community, and online — representing the role and NBPSWA with integrity.
Summary adapted from the NBPSWA Standards of Practice (June 2026, Version 1.0). This page is a plain-language overview — the full document, including rationale, practice requirements, guidance, and cross-references to the Entry-to-Practice Competency Framework, governs member conduct.