ANA Code of Ethics

Definition

The ANA Code of Ethics is a foundational document that provides ethical guidance for nurses, ensuring they act with integrity and uphold professional standards. It emphasizes patient safety, dignity, and ethical decision-making in clinical practices including pharmacology.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The ANA Code of Ethics contains nine provisions that outline the fundamental values and commitments of the nursing profession.
2. It stresses the importance of reporting drug errors promptly to ensure patient safety and improve healthcare outcomes.
3. Nurses are ethically obligated to advocate for patients' rights and well-being, especially when medication errors occur.
4. Maintaining patient confidentiality is a key component, even when discussing medication administration and potential errors.
5. The Code emphasizes continuing education and competence in pharmacology to minimize medication errors.

Review Questions

• What are some key responsibilities outlined in the ANA Code of Ethics related to drug error prevention?
• How does the ANA Code of Ethics guide nurses in handling drug errors?
• Why is continuing education in pharmacology important according to the ANA Code of Ethics?

Related terms

Informed Consent: A process by which a patient voluntarily confirms their willingness to undergo a particular treatment after being informed of all possible risks, benefits, and alternatives.

Patient Advocacy: The act of speaking or acting on behalf of a patient's needs and well-being within the healthcare system.

Confidentiality: The ethical principle that requires healthcare providers to keep a patient's personal health information private unless consent to release it is provided by the patient.