Clinical meaning
Ethical nursing practice for RPNs is grounded in six core principles: autonomy (respecting patient self-determination), beneficence (acting in the patient's best interest), nonmaleficence (do no harm), justice (fair and equitable treatment), fidelity (keeping promises and commitments), and veracity (truthfulness in all interactions). RPNs must maintain professional boundaries by establishing therapeutic relationships while avoiding dual relationships that could compromise objectivity or create conflicts of interest. Confidentiality and privacy are legally protected under frameworks such as PHIPA in Ontario and HIPAA in the United States, requiring RPNs to safeguard all personal health information. RPNs are expected to practice within their defined scope, advocate for patient safety, recognize when to escalate ethical concerns to the appropriate authority, and report unsafe practice or suspected abuse as mandated by law.