R. Mokhtari
1* 
, A. Safdari
2, M. Jaras
31 Department of Medical Surgical Nursing, Nursing Faculty, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
2 Student Research Committee, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
3 Department of Health Nursing, Nursing Faculty, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Arak, Iran
*Corresponding Author: Tel: +98 (86) 34173505 Fax: +98 (86) 34173506 Post Address: Department of Medical Surgical Nursing, Nursing Faculty, Arak University of Medical Sciences, Sardasht Street, Arak, Iran. Postal Code: 3816956545, Email:
razieh.mokhtari91@gmail.com
Abstract
Aims: The aim of this study was to investigate the observance of professional ethics codes for nurses and nursing students of Kashan University of Medical Sciences.
Materials & Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was performed on 200 students and 360 nurses after convenience sampling after adapting to the inclusion criteria. The data collection tool was a valid and reliable researcher-made questionnaire, which included two sections of demographic information and 20 questions on a 5-point Likert, in order to comply with the codes of ethical regulations of the nursing profession. Data were analyzed using SPSS software version 16 According to the results of this study, the mean scores of professional ethics in both groups of nurses (3.99) and students (4.25) were higher than the average (i.e., hypothetical average = 3). In other words, the level of professional ethics was above average. The mean scores of professional ethics in nurses and students were not significantly different except for education and research. Statistical tests did not show a significant relationship between the demographic characteristics of nurses and nursing students and the mean scores of compliance with professional ethics codes.
Conclusion: Considering the relatively favorable level of professional ethics codes in nurses and nursing students, it seems that maintaining and improving the current situation should be considered by the authorities through the adoption of appropriate strategies.