Integrity is an ethical stance that leads an individual to adhere to his or her values. An ethical code is a listing of principles, values and aspirations based on desired conduct and born in the traditions of the healing professions. It is more than a set of polite rules or an excuse for promoting self-interest. Codes serve as a touchstone by which all members of a profession can judge the acceptable parameters of behavior and is the basis for self-regulation. This is why being a professional person is a privilege and carries both benefits and responsibilities.