What does the AANA recognize as the foundation for ethical values, duties, and responsibilities in nursing practice?

• A. The American Nurses Association (ANA) Code of Ethics
• B. The International Council of Nurses code
• C. National Council Licensure Examination guidelines
• D. World Health Organization ethics code

Answer: (D)

The foundation for ethical values, duties, and responsibilities in nursing practice is the American Nurses Association Code of Ethics. This code lays out the nurse’s obligations to patients, to colleagues and the profession, and to society as a whole, providing a framework for ethical decision-making across all settings. It is the standard most directly referenced by nursing organizations like the AANA when guiding professional conduct and evaluating ethical issues in practice. While the International Council of Nurses code offers broad international guidance, the NCLEX guidelines relate to licensure testing rather than ethical foundations, and there isn’t a World Health Organization ethics code that serves as the primary standard for U.S. nursing ethics.