Definition
A code of ethics is a guide for an individual or group to follow in making decisions regarding ethical issues
A code of ethics is an implied contract through which the profession informs society of principles and rules by which it functions
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- lines to the
Significance
Ethical codes help with professional self
regulation. They serve as a guide
members of the profession, who then can meet the societal need for trustworthy, qualified, and accountable caregivers. It is important to remember that codes are useful only if they are upheld by the members of the profession
-

The ICN Code of Ethics for Nurses

An international code of ethics for nurses was
adopted
in
first
by the International Council of Nurses (
1953. It has been revised and reaffirmed at
ICN) various
times completed in
and revision
since, most recently with this review 2012

1. Nurses
The
to
and
nurse’s primary professional responsibility is
people

people requiring
nursing care.
In providing care, the nurse promotes an
environment in
customs and spiritual beliefs of family and community are respected.
which the
human rights, values,
the individual
,

2. Nurses and
practice
nurse carries personal responsibility and nursing practice, and for
continual learning

The
accountability for maintaining competence by
.

3. Nurses and the
profession
nurse assumes the major role in determining acceptable standards of

The
and implementing
clinical nursing and education.
practice, management
, research

4. Nurses and
co
nurse sustains a collaborative and respectful
co
-
workers

The
relationship with other fields.
-
workers in nursing and


American Nurses Association Code of Ethics
The nurse provides services with respect for human dignity and the uniqueness of the client, unrestricted by considerations of social or economic status, personal attributes, or the nature of
.
protecting information of a confidential nature
The nurse acts to safeguard the client and the public when health care and safety are affected by the incompetent, unethical or
.

health problems
The nurse safeguards the client's right to privacy by judiciously
.
illegal practice of any person

American Nurses Association Code of Ethics
The nurse assumes responsibility and accountability for
.
individual nursing judgments and actions
The nurse maintains competence in nursing
.
The nurse exercises informed judgment and uses individual competence and qualifications as criteria in seeking consultation, accepting responsibilities, and delegating nursing activities to
.
development of the profession's body of knowledge

others
The nurse participates in activities that contribute to the ongoing
.

American Nurses Association Code of Ethics
The nurse participates in the profession's efforts to implement
.
The nurse participates in the profession's effort to establish and maintain conditions of employment conducive to high quality
.
The nurse participates in the profession's effort to protect the public from misinformation and misrepresentation and to
.
The nurse collaborates with members of the health professions and other citizens in promoting community and national efforts
.

nursing care
and improve standards of nursing


maintain the integrity of nursing