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There are six basic principles and standards of conduct established by the American Journal of Occupational Therapy. These points are required for professionals working in the field. These principles are useful in evaluating times when a licensed professional has been accused of inappropriate actions and are intended to guide therapists toward ethical choices. When unusual circumstances and decisions arise, it helps to have an idealized set of principles as a guide.

Benefit

Those who provide occupational therapy must be concerned about the well-being of their patients. “Benevocacy” is a fancy word used primarily when discussing ethics and questioning whether participants benefit from a particular study or procedure. Wherever possible, personalized treatments can be designed for patients, but it is also important for a therapist to periodically assess whether a particular treatment is benefiting the recipient.

non-maleficence

Maleficence is a bad or harmful act, the opposite of beneficence. Nonmaleficence, logically, is refraining from causing harm. One of the best known parts of the Hippocratic Oath taken by physicians, non-maleficence is a reminder to be careful when harm is possible. Especially when helping people recover from past injuries, a poor choice of exercise activities can exacerbate the problem. While there are certainly more than a few sadistic people in the world, this principle is primarily aimed at professionals who may inadvertently cause harm.

Autonomy

In dealing with an individual’s right to autonomy, the principle of autonomy ensures that each independent patient has the right to privacy, self-determination, consent, and confidentiality. While extremely personal issues may not be discussed often during occupational therapy, it is still important to respect the patient’s privacy.

Justice

Objectivity and fairness are hallmarks of justice as it pertains to this professional field. People deserve to be treated equally, regardless of their race, beliefs, orientation, or financial means. Those who lack the necessary funds may be directed to charitable organizations and other alternatives for proper treatment.

Veracity

It is critical that professionals maintain a level of respectability and candor that reflects positively on others in the field. Misinformation and deception can be detrimental to patients and the reputation of other therapists. Truthfulness is particularly valuable when it comes to certifications, qualifications, and experience. Plagiarism and failure to give proper credit is also a violation of this ethical standard.

Fidelity

Rooted in the Latin word “fidelis,” fidelity refers to loyalty and following through on one’s commitments. Staff working in an occupational therapy office must be loyal to their peers, co-workers, patients, and the larger community of fellow therapists. One must be prepared to identify and report conflicts of interest and errors. As in any workplace, colleagues must be treated with respect and dignity.

Published principles and standards of conduct provide protection for those who provide these types of therapeutic services. These rules make it clear when someone has gone out of bounds and serve as a reminder in times of difficult decisions.

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