A professional code of ethics: providing a moral compass for turbulent times.

PURPOSES/OBJECTIVES: To describe the importance of a professional code of ethics and values in guiding and supporting the practice of nurses and to present the proposed Oncology Nursing Society (ONS) Statement of Core Values.

DATA SOURCES

Published articles and books on nursing ethics and bioethics, as well as authors' clinical experiences.

DATA SYNTHESIS

Ethical quandaries are commonplace for nurses, and the contemporary context of health care has created new concerns and redefined others. Throughout its history, nursing has been an ethical endeavor, with nurses attempting to sift through complex ethical issues and fulfill their professional responsibilities. A professional code of ethics and values explicates the goals and norms of the profession and provides direction for practice.

CONCLUSION

Together, the profession's code of ethics and the proposed ONS Statement of Core Values serve as a resource to guide oncology nurses as they develop an ethically competent practice and confront contemporary ethical challenges.

IMPLICATIONS FOR NURSING PRACTICE

The goal of developing an ethically competent practice, maintaining professional integrity, and rendering quality patient care is of vital concern to oncology nurses. Familiarity with and commitment to the primary ethical precepts and values of the profession are essential to accomplishing this goal.