Code of Ethics
Person-Centered Supports
Communication
ETHICAL DILEMMAS
Scenarios
100

Promotes physical and emotional well-being

Promoting Physical and Emotional Well-Being

100

Focuses on persons preferences, goals, and needs

Person-Centered Planning

100

Using clear, simple language

Effective Communication

100

Coworker on phone instead of supporting

Address and report if needed

100

A person refuses medication but understands risks

Respect self-determination and document

200

Builds respectful relationships

Respect

200

Supporting persons to make their own choices

Choice-Making

200

Listening fully and responding thoughtfully

Active Listening

200

Person supported spends all money at once 

Educate but respect choice

200

A coworker is disrespectful to an person we support 

Address and report appropriately

300

Ensures persons direct their own lives

Self-Determination

300

Encouraging independence in daily activities

Skill Building

300

Communicating without words

Nonverbal Communication

300

Posting person supported on social media without consent

Confidentiality violation

300

A person wants independence but safety is a concern

Balance dignity of risk with safety

400

Supports fairness and equal access

Justice, Fairness, and Equity

400

Respecting cultural background and identity

Cultural Competence

400

Adjusting communication based on needs

Adaptability

400

Skipping documentation due to time

Violates integrity and responsibility

400

Family asks for private information

Maintain confidentiality

500

Maintaining professional boundaries and accountability

Integrity and Responsibility

500

Helping person supported set and achieve personal goals

Goal-Oriented Support

500

Respecting confidentiality when sharing information

Professional Communication Ethics

500

Staff override person supported 

Violates self-determination

500

Person supported wants to make a risky life choice

Support dignity of risk

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