Key terms
someone 18 years or older
adult
Self-determination. Patients have the right to make decisions about they health care.
autonomy
Developed by professional organizations, health care professionals are guided principles outlined in occupation-specific
Codes of ethics
Developed by professional organizations, health care professionals are guided principles outlined in occupation-specific
Codes of ethics
Touching a patient or performing a procedure without their permission and is a crime
battery
someone who has the authority to represent another person
agent
A legal right to privacy concerning their medical affairs
Confidentiality
Formalized promises that are enforced by law
contracts
A situation in which there is no clear answer
ethical dilemma
Financial responsibility
damages
Written instructions that outline individuals desires regarding care should they become unable as the result of illness or injury, to make these decisions.
advance directives
A patient gives his or her permission
consent
Disclosing unauthorized information that can result in being charged with harming the reputation of another
Defamation of character
A system of principles (fundamental truths that serve as the foundation for a system of beliefs) a society develops to guide decisions about what is right and wrong. Helps people make daily decisions as well as deal with difficult and complex problems that lack easy answers
ethics
If patients are held against their will, unless they are mentally incompetent or a danger to themselves
False imprisonment
Individuals younger than age 18 who are financially independent, married, in the military, or have been emancipated by a court
emancipated minors
Being careful about what you say, preserving confidences, and respecting privacy
discreet
A form of dishonesty that involves cheating or trickery
fraud
Standard methods for performing tasks
protocols
Written form of defamation of character
libel
Designated health care surrogate/representative, sometimes called a “health care power of attorney”; individuals designate specific people to act on their behalf if they become unable to make health care decisions
Durable power of attorney for health care
Indicated by the patient’s actions: showing up for a medical appointment, opening the mouth for the dentist to administer an injection, or participating in therapeutic exercises
implied consent
Fairness, justice requires all patients, regardless of race, economic status, religion, nationality, or personal characteristics receive the same level or care and considerations
justice
If one of the parties fails to fulfill his part of the agreement
Breach of contract
Health care instructions, outlines an individual’s wishes regarding the type and extent of care to be given
living will