Ethics

Ethics for Regulated Nurses in Canada

Coming July 14

CNA is pleased to announce the release of the 2025 Code of Ethics for Nurses, a revamped ethical framework applying to all categories of nurses (licensed and registered practical nurses, nurse practitioners, registered nurses, and registered psychiatric nurses).

This updated Code emphasizes several new key areas, including:

• Reconciliation and anti-racism: a foundational value with strong language addressing the impact of colonization and systemic inequities
• Nurse well-being: new expectations for self-care, resilience, and psychologically safe workplaces
• Contemporary challenges: explicit ethical guidance for MAID, harm reduction, gender-affirming care, and more
• Leadership: ethical obligations in formal and informal leadership roles
• Modernized language: clearer, more inclusive terminology

The 2025 Code is organized around seven core values with guiding principles, context for practice, and ethical responsibilities. This replaces the previous two-part format.

Why is the Code of Ethics a must-have?

The Code of Ethics for Nurses is an indispensable resource for all regulated nurses because it:

• Provides guidance: offers a framework for ethical decision-making in complex and challenging situations
• Ensures accountability: sets out the ethical responsibilities of nurses, contributing to public trust and professional integrity
• Promotes best practice: supports nurses in delivering safe, competent, compassionate, and ethical care
• Upholds professional standards: defines the ethical values that are central to the nursing profession in Canada
• Navigates contemporary issues: offers direction on emerging ethical dilemmas in health care, such as those related to technology, social justice, and evolving patient needs

The 2025 Code of Ethics for Nurses supersedes the 2017 edition of the Code.