5 Ethics and Jurisprudence for the Indiana Physical Therapy Professional: Summary
APTA Guide for Conduct of the Physical Therapist Assistant Purpose : This Guide for Conduct of the Physical Therapist Assistant (Guide) is intended to serve physical therapist assistants in interpreting the Standards of Ethical Conduct for the Physical Therapist Assistant (Standards) of the American Physical Therapy Association. The APTA House of Delegates in June of 2009 adopted the revised Standards, which became effective on July 1, 2010, and were updated in 2019. Interpreting Ethical Standards : The interpretations expressed in this Guide reflect the opinions, decisions, and advice of the Ethics and Judicial Committee (EJC). The interpretations are set forth according to topic. These interpretations are intended to assist a physical therapist assistant in applying general ethical standards to specific situations. They address some, but not all, topics addressed in the Standards and should not be considered inclusive of all situations that could evolve. Preamble to the Standards : The Standards of Ethical Conduct for the Physical Therapist Assistant (Standards of Ethical Conduct) delineate the ethical obligations of all physical therapist assistants as determined by the House of Delegates of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA). The Standards of Ethical Conduct provide a foundation for conduct to which all physical therapist assistants shall adhere. Fundamental to the Standards of Ethical Conduct is the special obligation of physical therapist assistants to enable patients/clients to achieve greater independence, health, and wellness, and enhanced quality of life. No document that delineates ethical standards can address every situation. Physical therapist assistants are encouraged to seek additional advice or consultation in instances where the guidance of the Standards of Ethical Conduct may not be definitive.
Standards of Ethical Conduct for the Physical Therapist Assistant Interpretation : The Standards of Ethical Conduct for the Physical Therapist Assistant were amended in 2010 and updated in 2019. The APTA notes that the standards contain the word shall and describes them as mandatory ethical obligations. Standards and Interpretations Standard 1 : Physical therapist assistants shall respect the inherent dignity, and rights, of all individuals. Standard 2 : Physical therapist assistants shall be trustworthy and compassionate in addressing the rights and needs of patients/clients. Standard 3 : Physical therapist assistants shall make sound decisions in collaboration with the physical therapist and within the boundaries established by laws and regulations. Standard 4 : Integrity of Relationships: Physical therapist assistants shall demonstrate integrity in their relationships with patients/ clients, families, colleagues, students, other health care providers, employers, payers, and the public. Standard 5 : Physical therapist assistants shall fulfill their legal and ethical obligations. Standard 6 : Physical therapist assistants shall enhance their competence through the lifelong acquisition and refinement of knowledge, skills, and abilities. Standard 7 : Physical therapist assistants shall support organizational behaviors and business practices that benefit patients/clients and society. Standard 8 : Physical therapist assistants shall participate in efforts to meet the health needs of
people locally, nationally, or globally. Multiple and Dual Relationships Consideration
Though the standards and principles clearly state that sexual relationships between therapist and client are prohibited, not all multiple and dual relationships are unethical. Relationships can occur outside of the therapeutic setting in the general community, work settings, church,
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