The NMC Code of Conduct & Communication

Nursing students and midwives are often held to higher standard than the general public, and "need to take care to uphold the reputation of the profession in their personal lives as well," says Carmel Lloyd, midwifery adviser, as cited in the "Guardian."

History

• According to The Nursing & Midwifery Council website, "The Nursing and Midwifery Council regulates nurses and midwives in England, Wales, Scotland, Northern Ireland and the Islands." The NMC provides "The Code," setting standards for these health professionals in the United Kingdom. Standards encompass communication and ethics, offering guidance on protocol for various scenarios in dealing with the public.

Guidelines

• Guidelines require nondiscrimination, respect for privacy, collaboration with patients, consent and professional distance. According to the Royal College of Nursing, the NMC requires mentors for student nurses and midwives to protect the public by ensuring professional competence in their practice.

Communications

• Communications guidelines instruct the professional to listen, support and respect patients' opinions and concerns. Professionals must ensure they are communicating with the patient in an understandable manner and make accommodations for speakers of other languages.