The Canadian Nurses Association's Code of Ethics for Registered Nurses

In Canada, registered nurses are governed by a set of rules and regulations established by The Canadian Nurses Association. The Code of Ethics is a guideline to help nurses on all levels deal with ethically challenging situations. The Code&'s overall objective states, "The Canadian Nurses Association&'s Code of Ethics for Registered Nurses is a statement of ethical values of nurses and of nurses&' commitments to persons with health-care needs and persons receiving care."

Function

• The Code of Ethics was developed by nurses for nurses, and it is used in conjunction with the professional standards, laws and regulations. The Code states that its purpose, "serves as a foundation for nurses&' ethical practice." It is also used as a tool for nurses to evaluate themselves as well as their peers. They can offer feedback to each other, where needed, as well.

Accountability

• Since nurses are part of a self-regulating profession, if they do not adhere to the primary nursing values under the Code of Ethics, they will be accountable to their governing body. They are required to practice with honesty and within the limitations of their competence. Their fitness to practice must also be maintained, and they must be in a capacity to operate competently at all times. Nurses must identify any conflicts of interest, clearly represent themselves with respect to their name, role and title and be aware of any colleagues who are unable to fulfill their duties. Finally, they must share their knowledge, mentorship and feedback with prospective students, colleagues, student nurses and other health-care professionals.

Transparency

• When nurses provide honest information to individuals seeking health care, those individuals will be able to make adequate decisions on behalf of themselves and their families. This will have positive effects on everyone. Nurses are required to disclose if anyone fails to respect the dignity of the individuals in their care and must maintain professional boundaries with respect to the individuals in their care.

Primary Values

• Nurses must be competent, show compassion and provide safe and ethical care when dealing with individuals. They must work with these individuals to help them attain the highest possible level of care and be honest when providing information so that they can make informed decisions for themselves and their families. Nurses must feel that under the Privacy and Confidentiality Act, any information that they provide will be kept in confidence.

Benefits

• Nurses understand the advantage of being members of a self-regulated profession and have a direct responsibility to the nursing body. The Code of Ethics allows other health-care professionals and the general public to be aware of the responsibilities that all nurses are committed to fulfill as part of their profession.