Registered Practical Nurse (RPN) Practice Test

According to the Canadian Code of Ethics, nurses are accountable for which of the following?

1. Their personal beliefs

2. Their actions and practice

3. The opinions of their colleagues

4. Their education level

The correct answer is: Their actions and practice

In the context of the Canadian Code of Ethics, nurses have a fundamental responsibility to be accountable for their actions and practice. This includes the concept of accountability, which means that nurses must take responsibility for the care they provide, ensuring that it meets the professional standards and ethical guidelines set for nursing practice. Being accountable for their actions means that nurses must not only follow established protocols and procedures but also engage in continual self-reflection and professional development. This accountability extends to decision-making in clinical practice, as nurses must critically assess their own competencies and the potential outcomes of their care to ensure safety and effectiveness for their patients. This accountability is integral to maintaining trust in the nurse-patient relationship and ensuring that patient care is prioritized and delivered ethically and effectively. It emphasizes that nurses must work within their scope of practice and seek assistance or additional resources when needed, reflecting a commitment to professional integrity and quality care. In contrast, while personal beliefs and opinions of colleagues may influence a nurse's practice, they do not carry the same weight of accountability as the actions taken in a professional setting. The education level of a nurse is important for establishing competencies, but it is the practicing actions and adherence to ethical standards that truly determine accountability as outlined in the Canadian Code of Ethics.