Code of Ethics for Health Care Technicians PDF

Code of Ethics  Introduction - Overview of ethics in healthcare - Importance of ethics for health care technicians - Lecture objectives: Define ethics and explain their importance Review the responsibilities of healthcare technicians Examine the ethical standards...

Code of Ethics  Introduction - Overview of ethics in healthcare - Importance of ethics for health care technicians - Lecture objectives: Define ethics and explain their importance Review the responsibilities of healthcare technicians Examine the ethical standards governing their practice  What is Ethics? - Definition: Moral principles that govern behavior - Fundamental principles: Autonomy Beneficence Non-maleficence Justice  What is Ethics? Autonomy: Refers to the right of individuals to make their own choices and decisions. → In healthcare, it emphasizes respecting the patient's independence and their right to be involved in decisions about their own care. Beneficence: This principle involves acting in the best interests of the patient. →It requires healthcare professionals to promote the well- being of others and take actions that benefit patients.  What is Ethics? Non-maleficence: This principle is closely related to beneficence but emphasizes avoiding harm. → It requires healthcare providers to not cause injury or harm to patients, summarized by the phrase "first, do no harm." Justice: This principle involves fairness and equality in the distribution of healthcare resources and the treatment of individuals.→ It ensures that everyone has equal access to care and that healthcare decisions are made without discrimination. Importance of Ethics in Healthcare - Ensures patient safety and well-being - Builds trust between patients and healthcare providers - Enhances legal and professional accountability - Promotes fairness and non-discrimination in care Who Are Health Care Technicians? - Lab technicians, radiology technicians, etc. - Support diagnosis and treatment processes - Collaborate with doctors, nurses, and other professionals - Ensure technical and patient-care responsibilities are met  What is a Code of Ethics? - A set of principles guiding professional conduct - Provides a framework for ethical decision- making - Protects patient rights and privacy - Promotes accountability and integrity in practice Key Ethical Principles for Health Care Technicians - Confidentiality: Protecting patient information. - Informed Consent: Ensuring patients understand their options. - Competency: Maintaining up-to-date skills and knowledge. - Professionalism: Acting with integrity and respect.  Confidentiality and Privacy - Importance of protecting sensitive patient data - Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) - Consequences of breaches in confidentiality - Ensuring secure handling of medical records  Informed Consent - Definition: Patients' right to make informed decisions - Role of health care technicians in explaining procedures - Verifying patient understanding - Respecting patient autonomy and choices Competency and Continuous Learning - Staying up-to-date with medical and technological advancements - Commitment to lifelong learning and improving patient care  Professionalism and Integrity - Conducting oneself with respect and honesty - Avoiding conflicts of interest - Maintaining boundaries with patients - Representing the profession in a positive light Case Study: Confidentiality Breach - Scenario: A technician shares patient data without consent - Discussion: What went wrong? How should it have been handled? - Ethical implications and consequences  Case Study: Informed Consent - Scenario: A patient undergoes a procedure without full explanation - Discussion: Was the consent valid? What should have been done? - Lessons learned and application to practice  Addressing Ethical Concerns - Steps to take when facing an ethical dilemma - Reporting unethical behavior: Who to contact? - Importance of seeking guidance from supervisors - Maintaining transparency and accountability Future Trends in Healthcare Ethics - Increasing complexity in patient care - Advances in technology (AI, robotics) and their ethical implications - Globalization and multicultural considerations in care - Evolving regulations and ethical standards