Module 5 Ethical and Legal Implications of Respiratory Care Practice

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What does the World Medical Association define as ethics?

The analysis of societal decision-making processes

The systematic reflection on technological advancements in medicine

The study of medical history and its impact on ethical dilemmas

The study of morality and careful reflection on moral decisions and behavior (correct)

When did ethical principles become a part of medical practice?

During the Renaissance period

Since the time of Hippocrates (correct)

After the World Wars

In the 19th century

What is ethics according to the text?

A subjective interpretation of right and wrong

A static set of moral guidelines

A set of rules imposed by medical authorities

A decision-making process involving reflection and analysis of moral decisions and behavior (correct)

What does the code of ethics for respiratory therapists seek to establish?

Parameters of behavior for members of the profession Signup and view all the answers

What is a key ethical duty imposed on therapists according to the code?

Respect and protect the legal and personal rights of patients Signup and view all the answers

What should respiratory therapists do in terms of professional competence?

Actively maintain and continually improve their professional competence Signup and view all the answers

In what circumstances should therapists divulge confidential patient information?

When disclosure is required for responsible performance of duty or required by law Signup and view all the answers

In legal proceedings, ethical obligations are often used as a tool for:

Cross-examination Signup and view all the answers

What effect can an RT's ignorance of ethical standards during cross-examination have on a jury?

Powerful effect Signup and view all the answers

If an RT expresses opinions or is accused of actions that would violate the ethical duties of the profession, it can lead to:

Citing ethical obligations in legal proceedings Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of quality review processes in healthcare organizations?

To reduce medical liability costs for providers Signup and view all the answers

What is a key challenge faced by healthcare practitioners in terms of professional liability?

Balancing the need to keep costs down with being held accountable for medical errors Signup and view all the answers

What has been a key factor in recent legislation related to medical liability?

Limits on medical liability Signup and view all the answers

What is the likelihood of therapists going to court for a medicolegal claim during their career?

Very few cases actually wind up going to court Signup and view all the answers

What is the most effective way of avoiding lawsuits for respiratory therapists?

Providing excellent care that meets professional standards and documenting that care carefully Signup and view all the answers

What type of documentation is vital for showing that the patient's airway was protected during routine ventilator care?

Frequent documentation of tube position and suctioning Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical aspect of avoiding litigation for respiratory therapists?

Demonstrating precise, accurate documentation of applied knowledge and care Signup and view all the answers

What is important for every clinician in terms of managing risk?

Ensuring an active professional license and staying updated with institutional practice policies Signup and view all the answers

What is a key aspect of risk auditing?

It involves an objective look at the organization's practices and methods Signup and view all the answers

What is a challenge in avoiding malpractice suits?

Unhappy patients may lead to legal claims Signup and view all the answers

What is a requirement for expert witnesses in malpractice suits?

They must bring evidence that their opinion is not based on unscientific personal opinions Signup and view all the answers

What is a key tool to prevent malpractice litigation?

Active risk management practices Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential outcome of failing to manage risks associated with patient care?

Increased likelihood of being sued Signup and view all the answers

What is the importance of ongoing quality improvement?

It is a way to accomplish risk reduction Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of professional development in risk management?

Addressing documentation standards and managing risks associated with patient care Signup and view all the answers

What is a safeguard for clinicians against liability?

Malpractice insurance and having a good legal team Signup and view all the answers

What can lead to a lawsuit being avoided?

Mediation with all involved parties agreeing to settle outside of the courts Signup and view all the answers

What is a critical aspect of avoiding litigation for clinicians?

Active risk management practices and appropriate patient experience policies Signup and view all the answers

What is a key factor in professional development for risk management?

Addressing documentation standards and managing risks associated with patient care Signup and view all the answers

What is the best way to avoid a malpractice suit?

Developing a good, sound relationship with the patient Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary goal of the HIPAA Privacy Rule?

To balance protecting individuals’ health information and facilitating the exchange of necessary healthcare information Signup and view all the answers

Who does the HIPAA Privacy Rule apply to?

All healthcare providers, health plan providers, and healthcare clearinghouses Signup and view all the answers

What does 'protected health information' include according to the HIPAA Privacy Rule?

Records that could identify an individual's past, present, or future physical or mental health or condition Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of a healthcare clearinghouse as per the HIPAA Privacy Rule?

To process insurance claims for payment Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of Health Care Advance Directives?

To allow patients to give direction to health care providers regarding treatment choices in certain circumstances Signup and view all the answers

What are the two types of Advanced Directives mentioned in the text?

Living Will and Durable power of attorney for health care Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary function of a Living Will?

To outline a person's preferences for medical treatment if they are unable to communicate Signup and view all the answers

How many stages of Death and Dying are there?

5 Signup and view all the answers

Do individuals necessarily experience all stages of Death and Dying?

Yes, but in a different order Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum number of stages individuals are likely to experience in Death and Dying?

Two Signup and view all the answers

Module 5 Ethical and Legal Implications of Respiratory Care Practice – Chapter 5

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