Professional Practice, Ethics, and Scope
Domain 8 - Professional Practice, Ethics, and Scope
This domain tests professional boundaries: scope of practice, informed consent, confidentiality, referral, documentation, conflicts of interest, and compliance issues such as supplements and NCAA rules.
Core rules and concepts
- Work within your education, training, and credential. Do not diagnose, prescribe diets, or treat medical conditions outside your scope.
- Obtain informed consent for assessment and coaching, explaining purpose, risks, benefits, and alternatives.
- Confidentiality has limits: risk of harm, legal requirements, and mandated reporting may require disclosure. Explain this before data collection.
- Refer to dietitians, physicians, mental health professionals, or compliance staff when the question exceeds your role.
- Avoid dual relationships and conflicts of interest; document objectively and securely.
- Supplement advice must consider anti-doping rules and third-party testing. Do not guarantee a product is safe or permitted.
Worked example
An athlete asks whether a fat-burner is allowed. Reasoning: do not endorse it. Check the NCAA banned-substance list and institutional compliance guidance, refer to a qualified dietitian, and document the conversation. The athlete’s question is about eligibility and health, not just product choice.
Traps that cost marks
- Practicing outside scope because you “know the answer.”
- Promising absolute confidentiality.
- Recommending supplements without anti-doping checks.
- Diagnosing an eating disorder instead of referring.
- Letting a personal relationship distort objectivity.
Exam takeaway
Know your lane, obtain consent, document decisions, and refer early.