Which statement reflects a misconception about the ANA code of ethics?

• A. The American Nurses Association (ANA) code of ethics reviews and revises the code regularly to reflect changes in practice.
• B. The basic principles of the ANA code remain constant.
• C. A nurse's point of view offers a unique voice in the resolution of ethical dilemmas by including knowledge based upon clinical and psychosocial observations.
• D. Standards ethics in healthcare consist of autonomy, beneficence, nonmaleficence, justice, and fidelity.

Answer: (B)

The idea being tested is that the ANA Code of Ethics is a living document that evolves as nursing practice and societal expectations change. While the core values—such as respect for patient autonomy, beneficence, nonmaleficence, justice, and fidelity—guide nurses, the specific standards and interpretations are regularly reviewed and updated to address new challenges, technologies, and diverse patient populations. Saying that the basic principles remain constant is a misconception because the code is revised to reflect current practice and ethical expectations. The other statements reflect accurate aspects: the code is updated to reflect changes in practice, a nurse’s clinical and psychosocial observations contribute to ethical decision-making, and the widely recognized ethical framework includes autonomy, beneficence, nonmaleficence, justice, and fidelity.