Code of Ethics

As a member of society and the health care community, nurses use both personal and professional ethical principles to govern professional practice. Professional organizations have developed codes of ethics for the nursing profession that serve as a way to regulate the nurses’ actions and give guidelines for ethical behavior. By helping health care practitioners become more competent, trustworthy, and accountable, such codes of ethics help safeguard society. The National Federation of Licensed Practical/Vocational Nurses (NFLPN) has developed a code for LPN/LVNs. This code specifies what is expected: (1) to know and function within the scope of practice for a licensed LPN/LVN; (2) to maintain patient confidences; (3) to provide health care without discrimination; (4) to maintain a high degree of professional and personal behavior; and (5) to take an active role in the development of the LPN/LVN profession. The ANA and the CNA have also developed codes of ethics that specify the ethical duties required of the nursing professional.