What is a key component of the CNO’s Code of Conduct?

The key component of the CNO’s Code of Conduct is the requirement for nurses to maintain professionalism and integrity in all interactions. This is crucial as it underpins the trust that patients and the public place in nurses and the nursing profession as a whole. Professionalism entails showing respect, compassion, and ethical behavior in all aspects of nursing practice, including interactions with patients, families, colleagues, and the healthcare team.

Maintaining integrity means adhering to ethical principles, following the standards of practice, and ensuring that patient care is always the top priority. This focus on professionalism and integrity fosters a safe, respectful, and supportive healthcare environment, which is essential for effective patient care and effective teamwork.

Engaging in peer review, while valuable, is a specific activity that contributes to professional development and quality improvement, but it is not as foundational to the entire code as maintaining professionalism and integrity. Avoiding difficult patients is not aligned with the principles of nursing, as nurses must provide care to all individuals, regardless of the challenges they may present. Promoting unregulated care does not align with the responsibilities of regulated healthcare professionals, which emphasize safe and competent practice within the regulatory framework.