The code of ethics for nurses

Area of Science:

• Nursing Ethics
• Healthcare Policy

Background:

• Nurses face increasing ethical complexities in practice.
• International codes exist, but a national code offers culturally-specific guidance.
• A national code aligns ethical decision-making with the Iranian-Islamic context.

Purpose of the Study:

• To detail the compilation, amendment, and approval process of the National Code of Ethics for Nurses in Iran.
• To present the core concepts embedded within the national code.
• To emphasize the necessity of ongoing code development and updates.

Main Methods:

• Collaborative project involving stakeholders from 2009-2011.
• Approval by the Health Policy Council of the Ministry of Health and Medical Education.
• Dissemination to all universities, healthcare centers, hospitals, and research centers.

Main Results:

• The National Code of Ethics for Nurses was successfully compiled and approved in early 2011.
• The code provides a framework for ethical decision-making tailored to the Iranian context.
• Key concepts of the code were identified and will be presented.

Conclusions:

• The development of national nursing ethics codes is crucial for addressing practice challenges.
• Codes must be dynamic, evolving with scientific advancements and emerging ethical issues.
• Continuous updating ensures the relevance and pertinence of ethical codes to nursing practice.