On December 19, 2025, the Ministry of Health approved changes to CRNS Bylaws that replace the Canadian Nurses Association (CNA) Code of Ethics for Registered Nurses with the CRNS Code of Conduct.
The CRNS Code of Conduct (the Code) is a set of six principles that describes the accountabilities RNs have to clients, employers, colleagues and the public. The Code explains what the public can expect from RNs, and what RNs do to maintain professionalism, competence and ethical behavior to deliver safe client care.
The Code is effective February 17, 2026.
Although the words may be different, the practice expectations of RNs and NPs have not changed. Getting to know the Code is a great focus for your 2026 Continuing Competence Program learning plan. A couple of resources to help familiarize yourself with the Code are:
- CRNS Code of Conduct
- CRNS Code of Conduct FAQ
- Key differences between the Code of Conduct and Code of Ethics
CRNS Practice and Education Nursing Advisors are available to answer your questions by phone at 1.800.667.9945 or 306.359.4227 or by email at practiceadvice@crns.ca.