We have begun our review of the new 2025 Code of Ethics for Nurses published by the American Nurses Association with a review of Provision 1 and 2. In this post, we will discuss Provision 3: The nurse establishes a trusting relationship and advocates for the rights, health, and safety of recipient(s) of nursing care.

Provision 3:  The nurse establishes a trusting relationship and advocates for the rights, health, and safety of recipient(s) of nursing care

3.1. Privacy and Confidentiality

Nurses play a critical role in safeguarding patient privacy and confidentiality within the nurse-patient relationship. They discern between clinically relevant and personal information, ensuring that sensitive details are shared only when necessary. Patients have the right to control their information, and nurses create environments that respect this privacy, especially when discussing sensitive issues like abuse or trauma. Confidentiality is essential to maintaining trust, requiring nurses to protect personal and clinical data across all settings, including electronic records and social media. When facing mandatory reporting laws, nurses navigate ethical dilemmas with compassion, transparency, and a commitment to patient rights.

3.2. Advocating for Persons Who Receive Nursing Care

 Nurses ensure ethical informed consent by supporting patient autonomy and recognizing vulnerabilities. They provide clear, relevant information about treatment options, risks, and alternatives in an accessible manner. Patients must be free from undue influence and empowered to make decisions aligned with their values. Nurses build trust through relational consent, respecting patient choices and fostering transparency. As technology advances, nurses balance clinical expertise with AI integration while maintaining ethical care. By prioritizing patient-centered communication and informed decision-making, nurses uphold trust and integrity in all care encounters.

3.3 Responsibility in Promoting a Culture of Safety

Nurses play a key role in developing and following policies that enhance patient safety and reduce errors. When errors or near misses occur, they assess patients, report incidents promptly, and ensure responsible disclosure. Collaboration with the healthcare team helps identify system flaws and implement improvements. A just culture supports learning from mistakes rather than assigning blame, encouraging open reporting and continuous improvement. Nurses are accountable for their practice, advocating for systemic changes while ensuring ethical transparency. Maintaining a culture of safety protects patients, fosters trust, and promotes a healthier healthcare environment.

3.4. Protection of Patient Health and Safety by Acting on Practice Issues

Nurses safeguard patients, the public, and the profession by recognizing and addressing impaired practice. They support colleagues affected by mental health issues, substance misuse, or fatigue while reporting impairment to protect patient safety. Ethical reporting should be free from retaliation, and nurses advocate for recovery and remediation when possible. Leaders should establish intervention programs, and all nurses must follow workplace policies and legal guidelines. Seeking help for personal impairment is equally vital. Professional associations and assistance programs provide essential support for maintaining safe, effective nursing practice.

In our next ethics post, we will discuss Provision 4:  Nurses have authority over nursing practice and are responsible and accountable for their practice consistent with their obligations to promote health, prevent illness, and provide optimal care.

Please share your thoughts about Provision 3 in the comments below.