CNM CNM Professional Ethics & Conduct 2 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: What is the primary purpose of a code of ethics in the professional nanny industry?
- To establish consistent standards of conduct that protect children, families, and professionals (Correct answer)
- To ensure nannies earn competitive salaries
- To limit nanny responsibilities to child care only
- To provide legal immunity for nanny managers
Correct answer: To establish consistent standards of conduct that protect children, families, and professionals
A professional code of ethics sets behavioral standards that safeguard all parties and uphold the integrity of the profession.
Question 2: Mandatory reporting laws require a CNM to report suspected child abuse to:
- The appropriate child protective services or law enforcement agency (Correct answer)
- The employing family directly and wait for their response
- Only the nanny agency
- A pediatrician for assessment first
Correct answer: The appropriate child protective services or law enforcement agency
As a mandatory reporter, a CNM must report suspected abuse directly to CPS or law enforcement, not mediate through the employer.
Question 3: Which of the following is an example of maintaining professional integrity on the job?
- Accurately documenting incidents and activities in daily logs (Correct answer)
- Telling parents only positive updates to avoid conflict
- Omitting minor accidents from reports to appear competent
- Using personal social media during child care hours
Correct answer: Accurately documenting incidents and activities in daily logs
Accurate and complete documentation reflects honesty and accountability, which are hallmarks of professional integrity.
Question 4: A CNM witnesses a co-worker taking household items home without permission. The most ethical action is to:
- Report the behavior to a supervisor or the employing family (Correct answer)
- Confront the co-worker privately and let them handle it
- Ignore it to avoid workplace conflict
- Take notes but wait for a second incident before acting
Correct answer: Report the behavior to a supervisor or the employing family
Reporting theft upholds trust and fulfills the nanny manager's ethical obligation to protect the family's household.
Question 5: What is the appropriate way for a CNM to handle disagreements with a family's parenting philosophy?
- Communicate concerns respectfully and professionally, then follow agreed-upon household rules (Correct answer)
- Implement the approach the CNM believes is superior without discussion
- Refuse to work unless the family changes their approach
- Discuss the family's parenting publicly with other nanny colleagues
Correct answer: Communicate concerns respectfully and professionally, then follow agreed-upon household rules
Respectful communication followed by adherence to agreed household protocols respects family autonomy while maintaining professionalism.
Question 6: Why is it important for a CNM to maintain up-to-date certifications such as CPR and First Aid?
- It ensures competency to respond to emergencies and reflects professional commitment (Correct answer)
- It is required only during the initial job application process
- It primarily satisfies agency insurance requirements with no practical value
- It is recommended but rarely relevant in daily nanny work
Correct answer: It ensures competency to respond to emergencies and reflects professional commitment
Current certifications demonstrate ongoing professional readiness and directly impact the nanny's ability to respond effectively in crises.
What is the primary purpose of a code of ethics in the professional nanny industry?