ETHICS PRACTICE

INTERNATIONAL CODE OF ETHIC 

Approved by the Members of the International Confederation of Dietetic Associations September 7, 2008 as amended by the Board of Directors November 13, 2010.


International standards are not meant to replace any national standards that exist, but are meant to put on paper those important matters to which we can all agree. They represent the common ground of dietetics around the world.


International Code of Ethics

Dietitians practice in a just and equitable manner to improve the nutrition of the world by:
Being competent, objective and honest in our actions
Respecting all people and their needs
Collaborating with others
Striving for positive nutrition outcomes for people
Doing no harm
Adhering to the standards of good practice in nutrition and dietetics


International Code of Good Practice

Provision of Service and application of knowledge:
Provide high quality, cost efficient services in nutrition and dietetics
Provide services based on the expectation and needs of the community or client
Competently apply the knowledge of nutrition and dietetics and integrate this knowledge with other disciplines in health and social sciences
Work co‐operatively with others to integrate nutrition and dietetics into overall care/service regardless of context
Work in partnership with clients and users of the service

Developing practice and application of research
Interpret, apply, participate in or generate research to enhance practice
Develop a unique body of knowledge
Have an in‐depth scientific knowledge of food and human nutrition

Adopting an evidence-based approach to dietetic practice
Ask questions, systematically find research evidence, and assess the validity, applicability and importance of that evidence
Combine the evidence with the dietitian's expertise and judgment and the client’s or community’s unique values and circumstances to guide decision-making in dietetics
Apply an evidence-based approach to all areas of dietetic practice to improve health outcomes in individual clients, communities and populations
State the source of evidence underpinning practice recommendations and integrate knowledge of other disciplines
Reflect on how a dietitian’s own perspectives or biases may influence the interpretation of evidence

Communication
Communicate effectively through nutrition education, education and training, development of policy and programs
Advocate for nutrition and dietetics, the alleviation of hunger and the value of services
Advance and promote the dietetics profession

Quality in practice
Systematically evaluate the quality of practice and revise practice on the basis of this feedback
Strive to improve services and practice at all times
Maintain continued competence to practice

Continued competence and professional accountability
Ensure accountability to the public
Accept responsibility for ensuring practice meets legislative requirements
Maintain continued competence by being responsible for lifelong learning and engaging in self development