Canadian Nurses Association (CNA)
“Advancing nursing for better health.”
About the CNA (Canadian Nurses Association)
The Canadian Nurses Association (CNA) is the national and global professional voice of registered nurses (RNs), nurse practitioners (NPs), licensed/registered practical nurses (LPNs/RPNs), and registered psychiatric nurses (RPNs) across Canada. CNA represents nearly 460,000 regulated nurses and works to strengthen nursing leadership, advance policy, and improve health for all.
CNA’s work covers areas that directly impact nursing students and the future of the profession, including:
Advocacy & Policy – Leading national advocacy on health policy, scope of practice, and equity in healthcare.
Professional Standards – Setting the Code of Ethics for Registered Nurses and supporting excellence in practice.
Certification & Career Development – Offering nationally recognized specialty certifications and resources to support lifelong learning.
Global Leadership – Representing Canadian nursing on the international stage through the International Council of Nurses (ICN).
Equity & Inclusion – Advancing Indigenous health, cultural safety, anti-racism, and inclusivity in the nursing profession.
The Student Connection: CNA Representation
Within the Canadian Nursing Students’ Association (CNSA), the Director of Communications holds a seat on the CNA Board of Directors as the official student representative. This ensures that the voices of nursing students are included in national-level conversations about nursing leadership, health policy, and the future of the profession.
This partnership creates a bridge between students and professional leaders, helping future nurses develop advocacy and communication skills while amplifying student perspectives within CNA decision-making.
Why the CNA Matters to Nursing Students
The Canadian Nurses Association (CNA) is the national voice of nursing and for students, it plays a key role in shaping the profession you’re stepping into.
1. It Shapes Your Future Practice
CNA influences national standards, policy, and the direction of nursing in Canada. The work they do today affects your scope, your working conditions, and the healthcare system you’ll enter.
2. It Elevates the Student Voice
Through its partnership with CNSA, CNA ensures students are heard on issues like placements, mental health, staffing, and equity. Your experiences help shape national decisions.
3. It Opens Doors to Leadership
CNA connects students to national and global networks, leadership programs, and opportunities in advocacy, research, and policy.
4. It Builds Your Professional Identity
Getting involved helps you see beyond the classroom, understanding workforce realities, national issues, and the power of collective advocacy.
5. It Drives Change on Issues Students Care About
CNA actively pushes for improvements in safe staffing, paid placements, violence prevention, equity, mental health supports, and transition-to-practice.