Speech-Language Pathology Assistants Ethics

Questions and Answers

What is the purpose of Issues in Ethics statements?

To override the Code of Ethics (2016) in certain situations

To heighten sensitivity and increase awareness of ethical issues (correct)

To provide certification to speech-language pathology assistants

To absolutely prohibit or require specified activity

What is the title of the revised document that this Issues in Ethics statement is based on?

Support Personnel (2004)

Code of Ethics (2016)

ASHA Policy Regarding Support Personnel (1979)

Speech-Language Pathology Assistants (2014) (correct)

What determines whether an activity is ethical?

The Issues in Ethics statement

The Code of Ethics (2016)

The decision of the Board of Ethics

The facts and circumstances surrounding a matter of concern (correct)

What is the function of the Board of Ethics?

To review and update Issues in Ethics statements periodically Signup and view all the answers

What is the intended audience for this Issues in Ethics statement?

Speech-language pathology assistants and their supervisors Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the ASHA's policy for the use of SLPAs?

To provide guidance on ethical considerations related to SLPA practice parameters Signup and view all the answers

What is a requirement for SLPA preparation according to the Speech-Language Pathology Assistant Scope of Practice policy document?

An approved course of academic study, field work under the supervision of an ASHA-certified and/or licensed SLP, and on the job training Signup and view all the answers

What may be a task performed by an SLPA?

Assisting the SLP with speech, language, and hearing screenings without interpretation Signup and view all the answers

Who is responsible for the supervision of SLPAs?

The ASHA-certified and/or licensed SLP Signup and view all the answers

What is a key factor in determining the tasks that can be performed by SLPAs?

Proper training and supervision by an ASHA-certified and/or licensed SLP Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

About This Document

Published in 2017, this Issues in Ethics statement revises previous documents, including Speech-Language Pathology Assistants (2014), Support Personnel (2004), and ASHA Policy Regarding Support Personnel (1979).
The document has been updated to align with the Code of Ethics (2016).

Issues in Ethics Statements

Issues in Ethics statements aim to increase awareness and promote thoughtful consideration of ethical issues.
These statements do not prohibit or require specific activities, as the facts and circumstances surrounding a matter of concern will determine whether the activity is ethical.

Speech-Language Pathology Assistants (SLPAs)

SLPAs assist speech-language pathologists (SLPs) in providing various services across different work settings.
They may hold different job titles, such as communication aide, paraprofessional, speech aide, technician, and therapy assistant, and may hold credentials from organizations or training programs.
SLPAs may or may not be regulated by state laws and regulations, and their activities may or may not be recognized by funding sources.

ASHA Policy for SLPAs

This Issues in Ethics statement describes ASHA's policy for the use of SLPAs, but does not supersede federal legislation and regulation requirements or state licensure laws.
The Code provides guidance on ethical considerations related to SLPA practice parameters.

Preparation and Scope of Practice for SLPAs

SLPAs must complete an approved course of academic study, fieldwork under SLP supervision, and on-the-job training specific to SLPA responsibilities and workplace behaviors.
Tasks performed by SLPAs vary widely and may include preparation of materials, equipment checks, instruction in augmentative and alternative communication devices, and assisting SLPs with assessments and treatment plans.
Differing levels of SLPAs exist across work settings, states, or organizations, and some tasks can be performed successfully by individuals other than SLPs if properly trained and supervised by ASHA-certified SLPs.