The International Council of Nurses Code of Ethics for Nurses

Purpose:
The International Council of Nurses (ICN) Code of Ethics for Nurses outlines the ethical values, responsibilities, and professional accountabilities of nurses and nursing students. It is designed to guide ethical nursing practice across the diverse roles nurses hold globally.

While not a code of conduct, the ICN Code serves as a framework for ethical decision-making and supports professional standards set by regulatory bodies.

What the Code Covers:
The Code offers ethical guidance related to nurses’ duties, behaviours, and professional judgment, as well as their relationships with:

• Patients and individuals receiving care

• Colleagues and other health professionals

• The broader health care system and society

It is intended to be used alongside national laws, regulations, and professional standards, and applies to all nurses regardless of setting, role, or domain of practice.

The ICN Code is a foundational resource for ethical nursing worldwide.