Problem: Initiation regulations under the Regulated Health Professions Act, 1991 allows RNs and RPNs to independently carry out controlled acts authorized to nursing in the absence of an authorizing mechanism such as a direct order. RPNs are authorized to initiate cleansing, soaking and dressing a wound. Nurses must also follow the legislation relevant to her or his practice setting. As a nurse practising in the community, you can initiate according to the Nursing Act, 1991. (Under the Public Hospitals Act, though, a nurse practising in a hospital must have an order to perform wound care.