Which document provides the ethical framework and standards for the nursing profession?

Which document provides the ethical framework and standards for the nursing profession?

• A. American Nurses Association (ANA) Code of Ethics
• B. Nurse Practice Act
• C. HIPAA Regulations
• D. Joint Commission Standards

Answer: (A)

The ethical framework and standards guiding nursing practice are provided by the American Nurses Association Code of Ethics. This document lays out the profession’s values, duties, and commitments to patients, families, communities, and the profession itself, and it offers guidance for ethical decision-making and handling dilemmas like patient autonomy, confidentiality, and advocacy. It sits apart from regulatory or organizational rules: the Nurse Practice Act establishes legal licensure and scope of practice; HIPAA regulations govern privacy and the protection of health information; and Joint Commission Standards focus on accreditation, safety, and quality systems within health care organizations. Therefore, the ANA Code of Ethics best provides the ethical framework and standards for the nursing profession.

The ethical framework and standards guiding nursing practice are provided by the American Nurses Association Code of Ethics. This document lays out the profession’s values, duties, and commitments to patients, families, communities, and the profession itself, and it offers guidance for ethical decision-making and handling dilemmas like patient autonomy, confidentiality, and advocacy. It sits apart from regulatory or organizational rules: the Nurse Practice Act establishes legal licensure and scope of practice; HIPAA regulations govern privacy and the protection of health information; and Joint Commission Standards focus on accreditation, safety, and quality systems within health care organizations. Therefore, the ANA Code of Ethics best provides the ethical framework and standards for the nursing profession.