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What is the Code of Ethics for Nurses?

The Code of Ethics for Nurses (Code) is the definitive standard for ethical nursing practice. This essential resource guides nurses as they make patient care and practice decisions in today’s complex healthcare environment. The Code also supports nurses in maintaining their professional integrity in all care settings. Anchored in nursing’s moral traditions, the Code emphasizes the profession’s 21st Century imperative to advance social justice and health equity.

Life and death decisions are a part of nursing, and ethics are therefore fundamental to the integrity of the nursing profession. Every day, nurses support each other to fulfill their ethical obligations to patients and the public, but in an ever-changing world – there are increased challenges. Learn more about how the Code of Ethics for Nurses, or “the Code”, is a vital tool for nurses now and in the future.

Why the Code is a must-have:

  • Trustworthy Resource: Trusted by the nursing community, the Code provides a clear framework for navigating complex ethical challenges in modern healthcare.
  • Practical Insights: Packed with actionable guidance, it’s an indispensable tool for nurses and educators, supporting real-world decision-making and professional growth.
  • Legacy of Excellence: Rooted in nursing’s relational ethical tradition, the Code evolves to address today’s pressing healthcare demands while preserving its commitment to integrity and compassion.

Online Learning Courses

Expand your understanding of the Code’s provisions by enrolling in a series of peer-reviewed online courses. Register now to earn CNE and empower yourself to practice with ethical excellence.

Available Courses:

Decoding the Code: Provision 1

Learn how to navigate ethical challenges while practicing with compassion and respect for the inherent dignity and worth of every individual.

Decoding the Code: Provision 2

Deepen your understanding of prioritizing care for individuals, families, and communities with integrity and professionalism.

Decoding the Code: Provision 3

Strengthen your ability to establish trust and advocate for the rights, health, and safety of those you serve.

Related Resources

Deepen your understanding of nursing’s ethical foundation with The Code of Ethics for Nurses. Access essential resources to guide your practice, empower decision-making, and support compassionate, ethical care in every setting.

Decoding the Code: Nurse-to-Patient Relationship Bundle

Gain the knowledge to uphold ethical standards and strengthen patient trust—all in one streamlined package. This comprehensive bundle offers a tailored deep dive into the Code of Ethics for Nurses Provisions 1-3, which lays the foundation for ethical Nurse-to-Patient care.

This bundle includes an exploration of three essential courses Decoding the Code Provision 1-3 courses from the Code of Ethics for Nurses. ​

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Decoding the Code: Nurse-to-Patient Relationship Bundle

Gain the knowledge to uphold ethical standards and strengthen patient trust—all in one streamlined package. This comprehensive bundle offers a tailored deep dive into the Code of Ethics for Nurses Provisions 1-3, which lays the foundation for ethical Nurse-to-Patient care.

This bundle includes an exploration of three essential courses Decoding the Code Provision 1-3 courses from the Code of Ethics for Nurses. ​

Learn More

Decoding the Code: Nurse-to-Colleague Relationship Bundle

Strengthen your nursing practice with the Nurse-to-Colleague Relationship Bundle, a convenient 3-in-1 continuing education package focused on key provisions of the Code of Ethics. This bundle explores Provisions 4, 5, and 6, empowering nurses to uphold professional accountability, protect patient safety, and foster ethical, supportive relationships with colleagues.

This bundle offers a tailored deep dive into the Code of Ethics for Nurses Provisions 4-6 

LEARN MORE

Download The Code of Ethics Poster

Let the Code of Ethics for Nurses inspire and guide your journey in nursing as you contribute to the health and dignity of individuals and communities.

DOWNLOAD POSTER

Important Notice Regarding the Newly Revised Code of Ethics

We want to inform our readers that the initial publication of the 2025 Code of Ethics for Nurses contained errors, and ANA sent those customers who purchased that edition an errata sheet of corrections. If you wish to obtain the errata sheet, click the link below.

We have since reprinted the Code with all the corrections made.  This edition is now available in both print and electronic versions.

DOWNLOAD ERRATA SHEET