Ethical Responsibilities
Ethics
System of principles a society develops to guide decisions about what is right and wrong. (Pg. 84)
Assault
Any threatened or implied act, whether carried out or not. Violent physical attack. (Pg. 93)
Autonomy
Self-determination. (Pg. 92)
Legislation
Law. (Pg. 94)
Emancipated minors
Individuals younger than 18 who are financially independent. (Pg. 92)
Values
Reflect what we care about most and guide our decisions and behavior. (Pg. 87)
Battery
Touching a patient or performing a procedure without their permission. Unauthorized touching of another person. (Pg. 93)
Informed consent
Process in which the patient receives information about treatment and gives his or her permission. (Pg. 92)
Breach of contract
If one of the parties fails to fulfill his part of the agreement. (Pg. 99)
False imprisonment
If patients are held against their will, unless they are mentally incompetent or a danger to themselves. (Pg. 93)
Principles
Fundamental truths that serve as the foundation for a system of beliefs. (Pg. 84)
Negligence
An action performed incorrectly or from the failure to take a necessary action. (Pg. 101)
Confidentiality
Patients have a legal right to privacy concerning their medical affairs. (Pg. 97)
Express contract
When parties discuss clearly and in detail what is to take place and agree on specific terms and conditions. (Pg. 100)
Defamation of character
Disclosing unauthorized information can result in being charged with harming the reputation of another. (Pg. 99)
Codes of Ethics
Health care professionals are guided by principles outlined in occupation-specific. (Pg. 86)
Improper, illegal, or negligent professional activity or treatment. (Pg. 101)
Living will
Health care instructions that outlines an individual’s wishes regarding the type of extent of care to be given. (Pg. 94)
Implied contract
The actions of the parties create the contract. (Pg. 100)
Invasive procedures
Involve punctures or incisions of the skin or insertion of instruments or foreign material into the body. (Pg 92)
Euthanasia
Mercy killing. Performing an action that results in the death of a patient to alleviate suffering or when it is believed there is no hope for recovery. (Pg. 90)
Fraud
Form of dishonesty that involves cheating or trickery. (Pg. 96)
Durable power of attorney for health care
Individuals designate specific people to act on their behalf if they become unable to make health care decisions. (Pg. 94)
Respondeat superior
Employers can be held liable for the behavior and actions of their employees. (Pg. 100)
Damages
Financial responsibility. (Pg. 93)