Ethics and Professional Conduct
Ethics questions test professional conduct under the Practice Act and Board rules: consent, confidentiality, boundaries, honesty, and cooperation with the Board. The exam often uses a realistic dilemma rather than asking for a definition.
Core duties
- Provide competent care within scope; do not practice beyond competence without supervision or referral.
- Obtain informed consent; explain evaluation, interventions, risks, and alternatives.
- Protect confidential information; disclosures are limited by law and authorization. HIPAA does not override stricter state or ethical duties.
- Maintain boundaries; avoid dual relationships, exploitation, sexual misconduct, and gifts that create conflicts.
- Document accurately; bill only for services provided; avoid false or misleading advertising.
- Report abuse, neglect, and impairments as required; cooperate with investigations.
Worked example
A patient gives an OT a $300 gift card after discharge. The OT should follow employer policy and Board guidance; accepting a valuable gift may create a dual relationship or the appearance of exploitation. The OT declines or redirects the gift to the organization, documents the offer, and does not let it influence care. Reasoning: the issue is not only the dollar amount but the power imbalance and conflict.
Traps
- Posting “de-identified” details that still identify a patient.
- Discussing patients in public or on social media.
- Assuming a coworker’s impairment is not reportable.
- Retaliating against a complainant or witness.