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, 2, 3 and 4. In this post, we will discuss Provision 5.

The nurse has moral duties to self as a person of inherent dignity and worth, including an expectation of a safe place to work that fosters flourishing, authenticity of self at work, and self- respect through integrity and professional competence

5.1. Personal Health and Safety

Nurses have a duty to prioritize their own health and safety, defining their well-being, risk tolerance, and work-life balance. The demands of care can lead to fatigue, burnout, or mental health struggles. Nurses must recognize signs of distress and seek appropriate remedies. Their safety should never be sacrificed for patient care. A respectful, supportive work environment is essential, and nurses should not tolerate abuse. Mental health concerns, including stress, anxiety, and depression, must be addressed. Protecting nurses’ well-being is vital for both their health and the quality of patient care.

5.2. Wholeness of Character

 Wholeness of character emphasizes nurses being authentic in their practice, acknowledging their unique perspectives and life experiences. This ethical concept encourages nurses to express their individuality while respecting patients and creating an inclusive, moral environment. Nurses must provide compassionate care even when personal values conflict with professional duties, such as in controversial care situations. Conscience-based objections should be expressed with respect for patient dignity, ensuring timely communication for alternative care. This concept promotes balance between personal integrity and patient rights, fostering moral courage and accountability in nursing practice.

5.3 Integrity

Personal integrity is essential for nurses, requiring reflection and moral discernment. It involves acting according to personal and professional values, not just following rules. Nurses must resist actions that compromise their integrity, such as deceiving patients or falsifying records. They have the right to speak up when their integrity is threatened, whether individually or collectively, ensuring their actions do not harm their moral identity or relationships with others in the healthcare environment.

5.4. Professional Competence

Competence is essential for nurses, impacting care quality and self-respect. Nurses must maintain professional competence, seek excellence, and engage in lifelong learning, both formal and informal. Leadership roles involve developing evaluation criteria and supporting peer and self-assessments. Continuous learning enhances both technical skills and understanding of human relationships.

5.5. Human Flourishing

Flourishing is about living a meaningful life in community with others, tied to virtue, goodness, and practice. Nursing acknowledges human interdependence and the need for care, advocating for healthy environments and nurturing social relationships. Nurses contribute to both the nursing and world communities, supporting growth, innovation, and ethical conduct to foster flourishing for themselves and others.

In our next ethics post, we will discuss Provision 6: Nurses, through individual and collective effort, establish, maintain, and improve the ethical environment of the work setting that affects nursing care and the well- being of nurses.

Please share your thoughts about Provision 5 in the comments below.