How to report a complaint

There is no time limit to reporting a complaint, as long as the registered nurse is still a regulated member. However, the earlier you submit a complaint, the better you and any witnesses will remember details.  

If you would like the help of an interpreter or translator to submit your complaint, please let us know.  

Nature of the complaintHow to submit a complaint
Involves one or more registered nurses (RN)

We will need:

Your name and contact information. Please note that, if your complaint is followed by an investigation, we will share your name and a copy of the letter of complaint with the nurse being investigated. This will not include your contact information. 

A signature (physical or electronic) from one person, who will be considered the only complainant. If others are involved, they can become witnesses if there is an investigation. The complainant should be the person directly involved, when possible. 

The first and last name of the registered nurse. We are not able to find this name for you. If you aren't sure, you can: 

  • Ask the nurse directly. 

  • Contact the health facility where the nurse works. 

  • Check your health record. This should include  signatures and professional designations (what sort of nurse they are) for those providing care. 

  • Contact the registrar, if you are unable to find the nurse’s name using the steps above 

A short list or description of your concerns about the nurse’s actions. Examples include: 

  • concerns with appropriate nursing care 

  • neglect/abuse (verbal, physical, emotional, sexual) 

  • error in giving medication 

  • patient safety 

  • breach of privacy/confidentiality 

  • theft/fraud/deceit 

  • conflict of interest 

  • use of rude, unprofessional language 

  • inappropriate relationship 

Involves a licensed practical nurse (LPN)Contact the College of Licensed Practical Nurses of Alberta.
Involves a registered psychiatric nurse (RPN)Contact the College of Registered Psychiatric Nurses of Alberta.
About a facilityContact the facility's administration office.
Patient abuse involving any health-care provider, including registered nurses
  • If your complaint regarding patient abuse involves a registered nurse, follow the steps to submitting a complaint to CARNA.
  • You should submit a report to the Protection for Persons in Care (PPIC). You do not need the name of an individual health-care provider to file a complaint with PPC. To report abuse:
    • Call the PPC reporting line at 1.888.357.9339 (Please note, this is not a crisis line. It operates weekdays from 8:15 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.)
    • Report in writing and mail or fax it to:

      Alberta Health
      Attn: Protection for Persons in Care
      Station M, Box 476
      Edmonton, AB T5J 2K1

      Fax: 780.415.8611