The standards of palliative nursing practice are authoritative statements developed by the Hospice and Palliative Nurses Association for the nursing profession and the public. The standards identify the responsibilities for which hospice and palliative nurses are accountable. They may be used as evidence of the standard of care, with the understanding that application of the standards is context dependent. The standards reflect the values and priorities of palliative nursing and provide a framework for the evaluation of practice. The standards are written in measurable terms, defining hospice and palliative nurses’ accountability to the public, and describing obtainable patient and family outcomes.

The standards are divided into two sections: the Standards of Practice and the Standards of Professional Performance. Each standard identifies competencies that may be evidence of compliance with the corresponding standard. The standards remain stable over time, reflecting the philosophical values of the profession. To be consistent with current nursing practice and reflect evidence-based practices; the competencies are periodically revised to incorporate advancements in scientific knowledge, technology, and clinical practice.