Final answer:
Psychiatric nursing is regulated by law and guided by ethical principles and the standards of practice as defined by professional organizations such as the ANA.
Step-by-step explanation:
The practice of psychiatric nursing is regulated by law but it is guided by ethical principles and standards of practice. These are defined by the profession of nursing, like the American Nurses Association (ANA). Ethical principles ensure that nurses conduct themselves with honesty and integrity, respecting the dignity and rights of the individuals they care for. Standards of practice, on the other hand, provide a framework for nurses to deliver high-quality care that is based on the best available evidence and reflects the values of the nursing profession.