Ethics

Ethics for Registered Nurses

Access the Code of Ethics for Registered Nurses

The CNA Code of Ethics for Registered Nurses (2017) is a statement of the ethical values of registered nurses and nurses licensed in extended roles, such as nurse practitioners. It demonstrates nurses’ commitment to persons with health-care needs and persons receiving care.

The Code is both aspirational and regulatory:

  • It is an aspirational document designed to inform everyone about the ethical values, subsequent responsibilities and endeavours of nurses.
  • It is also a regulatory tool. Nursing in Canada is a self-regulating profession; thus, nurses are bound to a code of ethics as part of a regulatory process that serves and protects the public.

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Highlights of the 2017 edition

This current edition of the Code contains new and updated content that reflects contemporary practice needs.

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  • medical assistance in dying
  • advance care planning
  • equity
  • primary health care
  • job action
  • workplace bullying
  • ethical models for reflection including Oberle and Raffin Bouchal
  • advocating for quality work environments
Table of contents [PDF, 69.5 KB]