The ANA Nursing Code of Ethics: A Complete Guide for Nurses

Nurse holds phone screen with the word ethics showing.

The American Nurses Association Code of Ethics is more than a professional guideline—it’s the ethical backbone of nursing practice in the United States. First adopted in 1950 and most recently revised in 2025, the ANA Nursing Code of Ethics provides a structured framework for nurses to make morally sound decisions in complex healthcare environments. This…

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Proper Handwashing for Nurses: Step-by-step Procedure, Timing, and Best Practices

Nurse washing hands

Hand hygiene is the single most effective action nurses can take to prevent healthcare-associated infections (HAIs), protect patients, and reduce occupational exposure. This guide gives a clear, evidence-based hand washing procedure for nurses, answers common search queries (for example: what is the first step in the handwashing procedure?, nurse hand washing steps, 7 steps of…

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The 5 Most Common Nursing Mistakes (and How to Prevent Them)

Nurse upsest in the hallway, head in hans

Nurses play a vital role in patient safety and outcomes. Yet even the most skilled professionals can make errors, especially under pressure. While it’s easy to think in terms of “bad nurses” or “stupid nursing mistakes,” most errors are the result of systemic challenges like understaffing, fatigue, and communication breakdowns. This article reviews the five…

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How to Write Effective Nursing Notes: A Complete Guide

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Accurate and thorough nursing notes are more than just paperwork—they are a critical component of patient care, communication, and legal protection. Clear documentation ensures continuity of care across shifts, supports clinical decision-making, and serves as evidence if legal questions arise. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of nursing notes, including examples, types of progress notes,…

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