Summary Codes of Ethics

Medical Ethics and Human Rights

  • Physician Responsibilities

    • Physicians must explain consequences of medical decisions, especially for vulnerable populations like prisoners.

    • The Declaration of Tokyo condemns physician involvement in torture and inhumane treatment, yet some physicians may still participate due to

      • Monetary incentives

      • Political intimidation

    • Engaging with these conflicts of interest violates the duty owed to patients.

International Council of Nurses (ICN) Code of Ethics

  • Established in 1953 and revised, with the latest version in 2012.

  • Preamble Responsibilities of Nurses:

    • Promote health

    • Prevent illness

    • Restore health

    • Alleviate suffering

  • Emphasizes respect for human rights and diversity in care provision.

  • Responsibility to:

    • Individuals requiring care

    • Ensure accurate and timely information for informed consent

    • Maintain confidentiality of personal information

    • Advocate for social justice in healthcare access

    • Uphold values like respect, compassion, and integrity

    • Protect the welfare of others against harmful practices.

Florence Nightingale Pledge

  • Pledge highlights the ethical and professional commitment of nurses:

    • Commitment to purity and fidelity in practice

    • Abstain from harmful practices or drugs

    • Maintain professional standards and confidentiality

    • Assist physicians and prioritize patient welfare.

Codes of Healthcare Ethics in South Africa

  • Governed by the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA) and the South African Nursing Council.

  • Ethical violations may lead to disciplinary action or loss of practice license.

  • Ethical guidelines help navigate dilemmas resulting from resource limitations and high patient loads, especially concerning HIV.

South African Nursing Council Code of Ethics for Nursing Practitioners

  • Promulgated in May 2013, emphasizes ethics as foundational to nursing practice.

  • Must comply with ethical codes in conjunction with national laws and international policies (e.g., Universal Declaration of Human Rights).

Core Ethical Principles for Nurses

  • Social Justice: Act fairly and advocate for vulnerable populations.

  • Non-Maleficence: Refrain from causing harm.

  • Beneficence: Act with kindness and do good for patients.

  • Veracity: Maintain truthfulness and honesty in patient information.

  • Fidelity: Protect patient confidentiality and maintain factual integrity.

Values for Nurses

  • Commitment to human life and dignity.

  • Right to access quality healthcare.

  • Culture of safety and ethical responsibility.

Nurses' Pledge of Service - South Africa

  • Pledge to uphold the dignity of the profession and prioritize patient health.

  • Emphasize respect for all individuals, regardless of background or status.