Why the Nursing Code of Ethics Matters

The Evolution of the Nursing Code of Ethics

The origins of nursing ethics trace back to the "Nightingale Pledge" of the 1890s, inspired by Florence Nightingale's commitment to compassionate care. In 1950, the ANA formalized the Code of Ethics for Nurses, establishing a set of principles to guide nursing practice. The 2025 revision builds upon this legacy, reflecting the evolving challenges and responsibilities of the nursing profession. NCLEX Practice Tests+1Nurses Code of Ethics 2025+1

The Ten Provisions of the 2025 Code

The updated Code is structured around ten provisions, each addressing a fundamental aspect of ethical nursing practice:

Respect for Human Dignity: Nurses practice with compassion and respect for the inherent dignity, worth, and unique attributes of every person.Nurses Code of Ethics 2025

1. Commitment to the Patient: The nurse's primary commitment is to the patient, whether an individual, family, group, community, or population.
2. Advocacy and Protection: Nurses promote, advocate for, and protect the rights, health, and safety of the patient.
3. Accountability and Responsibility: Nurses are responsible and accountable for their individual nursing practice and determine the appropriate delegation of tasks consistent with their obligation to provide optimum patient care.
4. Duties to Self and Others: Nurses owe the same duties to themselves as to others, including the responsibility to preserve integrity and safety, maintain competence, and continue personal and professional growth.
5. Ethical Environment: Nurses establish, maintain, and improve the ethical environment of the work setting and conditions of employment that are conducive to safe, quality health care.
6. Advancement of the Profession: Nurses advance the profession through contributions to practice, education, administration, and knowledge development.
7. Collaboration for Human Rights: Nurses collaborate with other health professionals and the public to protect human rights and reduce health disparities.
8. Social Justice: Nurses integrate principles of social justice into nursing and health policy.
9. Global Health and Sustainability: Nurses participate in the global community to promote health, protect the environment, and reduce health disparities worldwide.

Applying the Code in Practice

The ANA provides resources to help nurses understand and implement the Code in their daily practice. These include online learning courses such as "Decoding the Code," which offer insights into each provision. Nurses are encouraged to engage with these materials to enhance their ethical decision-making skills.

Staying Informed and Engaged

Nurses should regularly review the Code of Ethics for Nurses to stay current with ethical standards and expectations. The ANA's official website offers access to the full text of the Code, interpretive statements, and additional educational resources.

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