Chapter 6: Veterinary Ethics and Legal Issues

These flashcards cover key terms and concepts from veterinary ethics and legal issues pertinent for the Veterinary Assisting exam.

Veterinary Practice Act

Legislation that outlines the laws and regulations governing veterinary professionals, varying from state to state.

VCPR (Veterinary-Client-Patient Relationship)

A relationship that requires veterinarians to examine animals before treatment and maintain care standards.

Ethics

Rules governing proper conduct, often based on higher standards than minimal requirements.

Malpractice

Professional failure to meet the standard of care expected, leading to harm.

Negligence

Failure to perform a required duty in practice, resulting in injury or damage.

Common Law

Law based on legal precedents rather than written statutes.

Confidentiality

The obligation to keep patient and client information private and secure.

Controlled Substances

Drugs that have potential for abuse and must be carefully regulated by law.

Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA)

The agency responsible for enforcing controlled substance laws in the U.S.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) laws

Laws that protect against workplace discrimination.

Medical Records

Documents containing patient information that are confidential and property of the veterinary facility.

Continuing Education (CE)

Ongoing training required for veterinary professionals to maintain their licenses.

Veterinary Medical Ethics

A set of principles guiding moral conduct for veterinary professionals, often exceeding legal minimums to ensure animal welfare and professional integrity.

Ending VCPR

The veterinary-client-patient relationship can be legally ended by either party, but the veterinarian must ensure the patient's immediate care needs are met and proper notice is given.

Statutory Law

Written law passed by a legislative body, distinct from constitutional law or common law.

FDA (Food and Drug Administration) and Function

A federal agency responsible for protecting public health by regulating veterinary drugs, food for animals, and some medical devices.

Medical Waste Management

The systematic process of handling, treating, and disposing of waste generated from medical activities, guided by federal, state, and local regulations.

OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration)

A federal agency ensuring safe and healthy working conditions for employees by setting and enforcing workplace safety standards.

ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act)

A comprehensive civil rights law prohibiting discrimination based on disability, ensuring equal opportunities.

FLSA (Fair Labor Standards Act)

A federal law establishing minimum wage, overtime pay, record-keeping, and youth employment standards for covered employers.

Animal Welfare Act (AWA)

A federal law regulating the treatment of animals in research, exhibition, transport, and by dealers.