Code of Professional Conduct and Ethics

The new Code of Professional Conduct and Ethics has been developed by the Nursing and Midwifery Board of Ireland (NMBI) and is effective from 10 December 2014. It replaces the Code of Professional Conduct for Each Nurse and Midwife (2000) and follows an extensive consultation process.

The purpose of the Code is to guide nurses and midwives in their day-to-day practice and help them to understand their professional responsibilities in caring for patients in a safe, ethical and effective way.

This section of the NMBI website provides full details of the new Code. It also includes a message from NMBI former President Paul Gallagher (2012-2015) on the significance of the Code to the professions of nursing and midwifery.

Use the links below to read each chapter in the Code. Alternatively, you can download the Code in PDF format from the final link on this page:

Purpose, aims and structure of the Code:

• Principle 1: Respect for the dignity of the person.
• Principle 2: Professional responsibility and accountability.
• Principle 3: Quality of practice.
• Principle 4: Trust and confidentiality.
• Principle 5: Collaboration with others.

Following the Code’s launch in late 2014, NMBI commenced an awareness campaign to familiarise nurses and midwives with its content. More than 400 people attended eight information sessions throughout the country.  

Code of Professional Conduct and Ethics for Registered Nurses and Registered Midwives

(PDF, 0.32 MB)

Download