Effective January 2, 2024, the NSCN Board approved the Canadian Council for Practical Nurse Regulators’ (CCPNR) ‘Code of Ethics for Licensed Practical Nurses’ to be adopted in Nova Scotia. The new code of ethics will replace the existing document that was established in 2013.
The Code of Ethics articulates the ethical values and responsibilities that LPNs uphold and are accountable to and it is reflective of feedback provided by LPNs across Canada and Nova Scotia. It guides LPNs’ ethical reflections and decision-making across all areas of practice and informs the public about the ethical values and responsibilities of the LPN profession.
There are six fundamental principles identified in the 2023 ‘Code of Ethics for Practical Nurses’, which must be fully understood and upheld by LPNs in Nova Scotia. They are as follows:
- LPNs promote optimal health and well-being.
- LPNs provide care that is physically, psychologically, and culturally safe.
- LPNs provide and advocate for client dignity, autonomy, and self-determination.
- LPNs develop therapeutic relationships while maintain professional boundaries.
- LPNs maintain their well-being.
- LPNs contribute to a healthy practice environment.
The Code of Ethics for Licensed Practical Nurses also includes helpful definitions and a comprehensive resource to support ethical decision-making and questions for reflection in support of LPN practice. Please learn more and download a copy of your ‘Code of Ethics for Licensed Practical Nurses’ here.
Finally, NSCN would like to thank the many LPNs in Nova Scotia who provided feedback during the consultation phase in 2022 for helping to shape the 2023 ‘Code of Ethics for Licensed Practical Nurses’.
