Environmental Safety, Ethics, and Infection Control in Therapeutic Office Practice

Individuals' rights

Basic protections patients have when receiving care, including dignity, information, choices, and privacy.

Autonomy

The patient's right to be the primary decision-maker regarding their own body.

Informed consent

The process by which a patient voluntarily agrees to treatment after receiving and understanding relevant information.

Disclosure

The provision of necessary information to help a patient make an informed decision.

Capacity/competence

The ability of a patient to make informed decisions regarding their care.

Comprehension

The patient's understanding of the information presented to them.

Voluntariness

The condition in which a patient's decision is free from coercion or inappropriate pressure.

HIPAA

Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act; a federal law protecting the privacy of health information.

Protected Health Information (PHI)

Information that identifies a patient and relates to their health or payment for care.

Minimum necessary standard

The principle that limits use/disclosure of PHI to only what is necessary to perform a job.

Chemical hazards

Substances that can cause harm through exposure; includes disinfectants and sterilizing agents.

Electrical hazards

Risks related to electrical devices that can cause shock, burns, or fires.

Aquatic hazards

Risks associated with water that can lead to slips, trips, falls, and infection control issues.

Aseptic technique

Methods used to reduce the number of microorganisms and prevent their spread.

Sterile technique

Methods used to eliminate microorganisms and maintain sterility in a field.

Hand hygiene

The practice of cleaning hands to prevent the spread of infection.

Personal protective equipment (PPE)

Gear worn to protect against exposure to health hazards.

Safety Data Sheets (SDS)

Documents providing information about the hazards of chemicals and safety precautions.

Informed refusal

When a patient declines a recommended treatment after being informed of the risks and alternatives.

Implied consent

Assumed consent in emergency situations where a patient cannot provide consent.

Ethical duty

The obligation to respect a patient's autonomy and rights during care.

Fire risk

Increased probability of fire in the presence of oxygen-enriched environments.

Pressure/mechanical risk

The danger posed by pressurized gas cylinders if mishandled.

Infection control

Measures taken to prevent the spread of infectious agents.

Microbial growth

The increase in number of microorganisms that can lead to infection if not controlled.

Cleaning and disinfection

Processes that remove and reduce microorganisms from surfaces.