American Nurses Association Code of Ethics and the International Code of Nurses

American Nurses Association Code of Ethics and the International Code of Nurses

Introduction

Nurses all over the world are expected to follow a precise code of ethics in their practice. The two main code of ethics outlined are the American Nurses Association Code of Ethics and the International Code of Nurses. The two laws have so many aspects intertwined because the codes nurses use to cut across both codes.

Similarities Between the Codes.

First and foremost, it is evident that the main similarity is the functions of a nurse, which are to promote health, prevent illnesses, restore health, and alleviate suffering. The priority roles mentioned are stipulated in both codes of ethics. As a nurse, one is expected to care for patients while looking out for them to prevent depriving them of their human rights (American Nurses Association, 2015)

. This feature is similar to both codes of ethics. In addition to this nurses are asked to maintain decorum while at work and maintain a cordial relationship with their colleagues to ensure proper healthcare is offered (International Council of Nurses, 2012)

. As a medical practitioner, many new conditions are coming up in the world.

For this reason, both codes advocate for the nurse to carry out research and further their studies to expound on the knowledge they have. As a nurse, one cannot promote the health of patients only. The nurses also need to observe personal growth as well as not neglect their wellbeing. The final similarity that was hard to miss is that the nurse is expected to care for the patient as well as their family members and community, whether ill or not.

Differences

As much as the codes are similar, few unique differences assist in telling the two codes apart. The first visible difference is the principles driving the two codes. The ANA code is driven by nine provisions (American Nurses Association, 2015)

while the ICN is driven by four principles (International Council of Nurses, 2012)

. Another core difference is that in the ANA code of ethics, a nurse can make decisions that are vital for the patient to get better (American Nurses Association, 2015)

. The ICN does not, however, sign of this directive. The nurse must wait for approval before carrying out any rash decision (International Council of Nurses, 2012)

.

Conclusion

To sum it all up, it is evident that these codes of ethics have many similarities than differences. The minor disparity between them does not mean that one of the codes is wrong. They should still apply to all nurses.

References

American Nurses Association. (2015). Code of Ethics PDF. ANA. https://www.nursingworld.org/coe-view-only

International Council of Nurses. (2012). THE ICN CODE OF CONDUCT FOR NURSES. https://www.icn.ch/sites/default/files/inline-files/2012_ICN_Codeofethicsfornurses_%20eng.pdf