Code of Ethics

A very important thing to remember as a practitioner is the AOTA Code of Ethics. This provides a guide line for OT's to help the recognize and resolve ethical dilemmas, practice at the expected standard, and educated their clients. There are seven principals that each address a specific aspect of the correct behavior.

Principal 1: Beneficence
OT practitioner will contribute to good health and well fare of the client. This includes treating the client fairly and equitably, advocating for services that are needed, promoting health and wellness, and to charge fees directly relating to the services provided.

An example of this is helping a client who can no longer pay for services, giving them home therapy treatment but not charging them.

Principal 2: Nonmaleficence
The practitioner will not inflict harm on the client. This includes avoiding exploiting the client physically, emotionally, physiologically, socially, sexually, or financially.

An example of this is referring a client to a new practitioner if they become emotionally attached in an inappropriate manner.

Principal 3: Autonomy
Confidentiality of the clients information in all aspects.

An example of this is avoiding gossip about a client nurses or other therapist are talking them.

Principal 4: Social Justice
Practitioners provide services in a fair and equitable manner to all.

An example is advocating for a client who still needs therapy, but their insurance company will not longer pay for it.

Principal 5: Procedural Justice
Obligation to comply with the laws and regulations that guide the profession. This includes federal, state, and local laws.

An example of this would be refraining from working without a license after moving to a new state,  even though you are qualified for the job.

Principal 6: Veracity
Duty of practitioners to tell the truth and accurately represent qualifications, education, training, and competence.

An example of this is refraining from giving a patient false hope in order to make them be more active in therapy.

Principal 7: Fidelity
Faithfulness in professional relationships by maintaining confidentiality about staff and colleagues and reporting any misconducts to the appropriate person.

An example of this is an OT student witnessing a therapist over charging their client during field work and reporting it.

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