Professional Practice, Ethics, and Regulation
Core concepts
Candidates should understand scope of practice, licensure and certification, standards of professional performance, and the code of ethics: beneficence, nonmaleficence, autonomy, justice, and veracity. Know informed consent, confidentiality, conflict of interest, and cultural humility. Understand regulatory frameworks including HIPAA privacy, documentation requirements, reimbursement, and credentialing. Recognize the role of evidence-based practice and continuing competence. Know how to handle ethical dilemmas such as conflicts between patient wishes and clinical recommendations.
Traps
Questions often test whether an action falls within scope of practice or requires referral. Another trap is confusing ethical principles, such as autonomy with beneficence. Watch for items that ignore confidentiality or informed consent. Also beware of questions that present a conflict of interest as acceptable practice.
Worked example
A patient refuses a recommended intervention after being fully informed. Respecting autonomy means documenting the discussion and continuing supportive care rather than overriding the decision. Rule of thumb: when principles conflict, identify the specific principle at stake and document the reasoning.