NEW Code of Professional Conduct in effect June 1, 2025
Effective Date: June 1, 2025
The College of Registered Nurses of Newfoundland and Labrador is introducing a new Code of Professional Conduct for all Registered Nurses (RNs) and Nurse Practitioners (NPs), effective June 1, 2025.
What’s New:
• The Code sets clear expectations for professional, ethical, and competent practice.
• It replaces the College’s Standards of Practice for Registered Nurses and Nurse Practitioners (2019) and the CNA Code of Ethics (2017) as regulatory benchmarks.
• NPs have advanced educational preparation and experience, as well as advanced competencies; therefore, a Nurse Practitioner Standards of Practice document remains in place, which describes the additional expectations for NP practice in NL.
Why It Matters:
The Code strengthens public trust and guides RNs/NPs in delivering safe, inclusive, and accountable care in all practice settings—whether in-person or virtual.
Key Features:
Six principles supported by core behaviours:
• Principle 1: RNs/NPs respect clients’ dignity.
• Principle 2: RNs/NPs provide inclusive and culturally safe care by practising cultural humility.
• Principle 3: RNs/NPs provide safe, competent, and ethical care.
• Principle 4: RNs/NPs work respectfully with the health care team to best meet clients’ needs.
• Principle 5: RNs/NPs act with integrity in clients’ best interest.
• Principle 6: RNs/NPs maintain public confidence in the nursing profession.
The Code can function as a guide for decision-making, self-reflection, and continuous learning.
Support Available:
The College offers podcasts, education sessions, and consultation to help NPs and RNs understand and apply the Code. Regular updates are shared through the Notes from the Practice Team e-newsletter.
• Code of Professional Conduct Page
• Code of Professional Conduct Document
• Code of Professional Conduct FAQs
For more information, visit CRNNL.ca or contact practice@crnnl.ca