Professional Practice, Ethics, and Consultation
Core concepts
Know the APTA Code of Ethics and core values (accountability, altruism, collaboration, compassion, duty, excellence, integrity, social responsibility), informed consent, confidentiality, scope of practice, supervision and delegation, documentation standards, and billing compliance. Understand consultation and referral (when to refer to another professional), interprofessional collaboration, and conflict resolution. Recognize ethical dilemmas: patient autonomy vs safety, resource allocation, truth-telling, and boundary issues. Understand advocacy and health equity.
Traps
Questions test whether you recognize the limits of your scope and the duty to refer. Watch for scenarios where the ethical answer is to disclose, consult, or decline rather than accommodate. Do not confuse supervision requirements for assistants and aides. Documentation must be accurate, timely, and non-fraudulent.
Rule of thumb
When facing an ethical question, ask: what does the patient want, what is my scope, what does the code require, and who should I consult? Transparency and patient autonomy usually guide the correct answer.
Worked example
A patient asks you to document treatment that was not provided: decline, explain the professional and legal obligation, document accurately, and involve a supervisor if pressure continues.