Standards for nursing practice are based on the following philosophy and principles: •the client is the central focus of the professional service nurses provide, and is a partner in the decision-making process and ultimately makes his or her own decisions •improvement is a necessary component of practice, and the public interest is best served when nurses continually improve their application of knowledge, skill and judgment •the public has entrusted CRNPEI to honour the social contract that we have made with Canadians to act in the public interest through the licensing and regulation of its members •quality practice settings contribute to the provision of competent and professional service •the goal of professional nursing service is the outcome desired by the client that poses noun necessary exposure of risk of harm