The Code of Ethics is established to provide moral standards for the ethical behaviour of the profession and to provide direction to registered psychiatric nurses for ethical decision-making in registered psychiatric nursing practice.

The Core Values that provide the framework for this Code of Ethics are:

• Accountability
• Responsible Caring
• Integrity in Relationships
• Professional Responsibilities
• Responsibility to Society

Accountability

1. Registered psychiatric nurses are responsible to promote mental health by providing individualized and holistic prevention, treatment and rehabilitation services;
2. Registered psychiatric nurses promote confidence in all members of the health team and as such are responsible to report unethical practice.

Responsible Caring

1. Registered psychiatric nurses demonstrate an active concern for the well-being of any individuals with whom they relate in a professional role;
2. Registered psychiatric nurses demonstrate responsible caring as a holistic process;
3. Registered psychiatric nurses respect the uniqueness and integrity of individuals.

Integrity in Relationships

1. Registered psychiatric nurses acknowledge and respect the dignity and autonomy of every individual;
2. Registered psychiatric nurses ensure the confidentiality of information regarding individuals and the treatment they receive;
3. Registered psychiatric nurses acknowledge and respect the autonomy and privacy of individuals in relationships.

Professional Responsibilities

1. Registered psychiatric nurses, as professionals, are expected to maintain standards of personal conduct that reflect credit upon the profession;
2. Registered psychiatric nurses will maintain current theoretical and clinical knowledge and will enhance that knowledge through continuing education and evidence-based practice;
3. Registered psychiatric nurses recognize, respect and collaborate with appropriate others;
4. Registered psychiatric nurses recognize that relationships are of a professional nature and thereby acknowledge that the professional relationship does not end upon termination of services. Therefore, registered psychiatric nurses will maintain the difference between closeness and intimacy;
5. Registered psychiatric nurses demonstrate professional judgment and accept responsibility for their professional practice. They will demonstrate honesty and integrity to avoid situations of conflict of interest.

Responsibility to Society

1. Registered psychiatric nurses are responsible to maintain public confidence and trust, and thereby act in the best interests of the public.

Approved by membership May 15, 2001

Approved by the Minister of Health August 2001