A nurse uses a guide that provides principles of right and wrong to care for patients. Which guide is the nurse using?

A. Standards of professional performance describe the competent level of behavior in the professional role, such as ethics, education, and collaboration. While it includes ethics, its primary focus is on the objective behaviors and expectations of the nurse as a professional. It serves as a benchmark for professional accountability rather than a foundational guide for moral principles. B. Standards of practice consist of the nursing process (assessment, diagnosis, outcomes identification, planning, implementation, and evaluation) to ensure quality care. These standards outline the significant responsibilities that the nurse is expected to perform competently in clinical practice. They are technical and procedural frameworks rather than a philosophical guide for distinguishing right from wrong. C. A code of ethics is a collective statement of shared values, expectations, and moral obligations that provides a framework for right and wrong. It serves as an articulation of the nurse's commitment to the patient and the public regarding ethical behavior and decision-making. This document guides the nurse in navigating complex moral dilemmas and maintaining professional integrity in all clinical interactions. D. Quality and safety education for nurses (QSEN) is a framework designed to prepare future nurses with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes necessary to improve healthcare quality. It focuses on competencies like patient-centered care, teamwork, and informatics to enhance systemic safety. While vital for clinical excellence, it is not the primary guide for moral and ethical principles in nursing.