Nursing Code of Ethics
The nursing code of ethics dictates the highest standards of decision-making and moral imperatives to ensure patients receive competent, compassionate, and ethical care. The code of ethics is not a legal document but a guide. But before we delve into a nurse’s ethical obligations, take time to reflect on your personal healthcare journey.
You will realize that veracity has been a cornerstone of your practice. Your career was built on a culture of trust, respect, and dignity, minimizing the gap between provider and patient, thus enhancing the quality of the care you deliver.
The art of nursing intertwines our ethical obligations with a framework of holistic and compassionate care. Upholding veracity is more than meeting a professional standard, but transcending to a personal level, grounding a nurse’s approach to healthcare in empathy, respect, and honesty.
A steadfast commitment to veracity transforms a nurse into a leader, an advocate, and a symbol of integrity within the healthcare sector. Veracity is not a singular event, but a continuous journey in fostering a healthcare environment that is safe and respectful, truthful, and just. Veracity is more than an ethical obligation; it is a commitment to uphold the truth, ensuring that the dignity and autonomy of every individual is respected, delineating a path that is both righteous and honorable.

The American Nurses Association (ANA) Code of Ethics for Nurses is a set of ethical principles that guide nurses in their practice. The Code of Ethics includes seven ethical obligations:
- Accountability – Being responsible for your actions and omissions, principles that foster trust and respect in patient-nurse relationships.
- Autonomy – Respecting the right of patients to make decisions about their healthcare based on their established values and beliefs.
- Beneficence – Promoting the well-being of patients and advocating for their best interests.
- Fidelity – Being true to one’s commitments and responsibilities, maintaining confidentiality, and agreements made to patients.
- Justice – The fair and impartial treatment of patients ensuring equal distribution of healthcare resources.
- Nonmaleficence – The obligation to do no harm, avoiding actions that can cause harm to patients.
- Veracity – The commitment to being honest in all communications and providing information that is accurate and complete.