The Nursing Council of New Zealand Code of Conduct: Guiding Ethical and Professional Practice

The Nursing Council of New Zealand’s (NCNZ) Code of Conduct is a cornerstone document for all nurses practicing in New Zealand. It clearly outlines the ethical and professional standards expected of the profession, serving as both a guide for nurses and a benchmark for the public regarding the conduct they can expect. For internationally qualified nurses preparing for the IQN theoretical examination and seeking registration in New Zealand, a deep understanding and commitment to this Code are essential.

The Code is built upon four core values:

• Respect: Valuing the worth, dignity, and uniqueness of individuals.
• Trust: Building confidence and reliance in the nurse-patient relationship and the profession.
• Partnership: Collaborating with health consumers in their care and decision-making.
• Integrity: Acting with honesty, consistency, and strong moral principles.

These values underpin eight primary principles that detail the expected conduct of nurses:

Principle 1: Respect the dignity and individuality of health consumers.

This principle emphasizes treating every person with inherent respect, recognizing their unique identity, values, and beliefs, regardless of their background or health status.

Principle 2: Respect the cultural needs and values of health consumers.

Aligned with the Competencies for Registered Nurses and the importance of cultural safety, this principle specifically addresses the need to understand and respect the cultural background, beliefs, and practices of all health consumers, particularly Māori, as the indigenous people of New Zealand.

Principle 3: Work in partnership with health consumers to promote and protect their well-being.

This principle highlights the collaborative nature of nursing in New Zealand, where nurses work with patients and their whānau (family) to make informed decisions about their care and achieve the best possible health outcomes.

Principle 4: Maintain health consumer trust by providing safe and competent care.

Competence and safety are fundamental. This principle underscores the nurse’s responsibility to maintain their knowledge and skills, practice within their scope, and ensure the care they provide is of a high standard and does not put health consumers at risk.

Principle 5: Respect health consumers’ privacy and confidentiality.

Maintaining the privacy and confidentiality of health consumers’ personal information is a legal and ethical obligation. This principle emphasizes the importance of protecting sensitive information and using it only for professional purposes.

Principle 6: Work respectfully with colleagues to best meet health consumers’ needs.

Nurses are part of a healthcare team. This principle stresses the importance of professional and respectful relationships with colleagues from all disciplines to ensure seamless and effective care for health consumers.

Principle 7: Act with integrity to justify health consumers’ trust.

Integrity in practice builds trust. This principle requires nurses to be honest, maintain professional boundaries, avoid conflicts of interest, and act in a way that upholds the reputation of the nursing profession.

Principle 8: Maintain public trust and confidence in the nursing profession.

This overarching principle reinforces that the conduct of individual nurses reflects on the entire profession. Nurses are expected to behave in a manner that maintains the public’s trust and confidence in nurses and nursing care in New Zealand.

Relevance to the IQN Exam:

Questions in the IQN theoretical examination, particularly in the areas of Ethics and Professional Conduct and Legal and Regulatory Aspects, will assess your understanding and application of the principles outlined in the Code of Conduct. You may be presented with scenarios that require you to:

• Identify ethical dilemmas and apply the principles of the Code to determine appropriate nursing actions.
• Demonstrate an understanding of professional boundaries and how to maintain them.
• Explain how you would ensure patient privacy and confidentiality.
• Outline your responsibilities regarding safe and competent practice.
• Describe how you would work collaboratively and respectfully with colleagues.
• Show awareness of the importance of cultural sensitivity and the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi in your practice.

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