Nursing Ethics and Patient Advocacy Quiz

Overview of Code of Ethics for Nurses

• The code of ethics for nursing sets forth ideals of nursing conduct and provides a common foundation for nursing education.
• Although a code is not a law, it is the standard by which nursing actions are judged throughout the profession.

Code of Ethics for Filipino Nurses

• The code strongly emphasizes the four-fold responsibility of the nurse: to the people they serve, to their co-workers, to society and environment, and to their profession.
• Prior to 1984, Filipino nurses used the code promulgated by the International Council for Nurses (ICN).
• In 1984, the Board of Nursing (BON) adopted the ICN Code of Ethics, adding “promotion of spiritual environment” as the fifth-fold responsibility of the nurse.
• In 1989, the Philippine Nurses Association (PNA) Code of Ethics was approved by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC).
• In 2004, a new Code of Ethics for Filipino Nurses was adopted under Republic Act 9173 and was promulgated by the BON.

Articles of Code of Ethics for Filipino Nurses

Article I: Preamble

• Health is a fundamental right.
• The Filipino RN has the primary responsibility to preserve health at all costs.
• This responsibility encompasses promotion of health, prevention of illness, alleviation of suffering, and restoration of health.

Article I: Patient Records and Confidentiality

• Patient records shall be available only to those directly involved in their care and when required by law.

Article I: Patients' Rights and Advocacy

• Registered Nurses are the advocates of the patients and shall take appropriate steps to safeguard their rights and privileges.
• RNs must respect the “Patients’ Bill of Rights” and provide patients with pertinent information.

Article II: Professional Conduct

• Registered Nurses are aware that their actions have professional, ethical, moral, and legal dimensions.
• RNs must perform their professional duties in conformity with existing laws, rules, and regulations.

Article IV: Registered Nurses and Co-workers

• The Registered Nurse is in solidarity with other members of the health care team in working for the patient’s best interest.
• RNs must maintain a collegial and collaborative working relationship with colleagues and other healthcare providers.

Article V: Registered Nurses, Society, and Environment

• The preservation of life, respect for human rights, and promotion of a healthy environment shall be a commitment of a RN.
• RNs must be involved in community concerns and participate in programs that respond to the problems of society.

Article VI: Registered Nurses and the Profession

• Maintenance of loyalty to the nursing profession and preservation of its integrity are ideal.
• RNs must continuously develop their professional growth and contribute to the development of the nursing profession.