Ethics & the PTA Student (RIPS Model)

Primary Purpose of the Ethical Compass Module

To help physical therapy professionals recognize, decide, and act in ethical situations.

Three Core Steps in Professional Ethical Practice

Recognize ethical situations, make ethical decisions, and implement a course of action.

RIPS Model Core Components

Realm, Individual Process, and Situation.

Realm (RIPS Model)

The context of an ethical situation (e.g., individual, organizational, or societal).

Individual Process (RIPS Model)

The ethical capability required (e.g., moral sensitivity, judgment, motivation, or courage).

Situation (RIPS Model)

The specific ethical classification (e.g., ethical issue, dilemma, distress, temptation, or silence).

APTA Standards for PTAs

Standards of Ethical Conduct for the Physical Therapist Assistant.

APTA Social Media Policy

Standards of Conduct in the Use of Social Media.

Law (Definition)

A minimum societal standard.

Ethics (Definition)

A system of rational reflection.

Autonomy

The right of a patient to self-determination.

Beneficence

The desire to promote good and produce positive outcomes.

Non-maleficence

The duty to prevent harm.

Justice

Fairness in ethical decision-making.

Ethical Dilemma

A 'Right vs Right' situation where two alternative courses fulfill an important duty.

Ethical Distress

Knowing the right course of action but lacking empowerment or authorization to perform it.

Ethical Temptation

A choice between right and wrong where one stands to benefit from doing wrong.

Three Resolution Approaches (RIPS)

Rule-based, ends-based, and care-based approaches.

PTA Standard 1

Respect the inherent dignity and rights of all individuals.

PTA Standard 2

Be trustworthy and compassionate in addressing patient/client rights and needs.

PTA Standard 3

Make sound decisions in collaboration with the physical therapist and within legal boundaries.

PTA Standard 4

Demonstrate integrity in relationships with patients, families, colleagues, employers, and the public.

PTA Standard 5

Fulfill legal and ethical obligations.

PTA Standard 6

Enhance competence through lifelong acquisition and refinement of knowledge, skills, and abilities.

PTA Standard 7

Support organizational behaviors and business practices that benefit patients/clients and society.

PTA Standard 8

Participate in efforts to meet the health needs of people locally, nationally, or globally.

PTA Standard 3E (Supervision)

Provide services under PT direction/supervision and communicate when status requires plan modifications.

PTA Standard 4D (Reporting Abuse)

Report suspected cases of abuse involving children or vulnerable adults to the supervising PT and authority.

Accountability

Active acceptance of responsibility for the roles, obligations, and actions of the PT/PTA.

Altruism

Placing the needs of patients and clients ahead of the PT or PTA's self-interest.

Collaboration

Working together with patients, families, communities, and professionals to achieve shared goals.

Compassion and Caring

Compassion is identifying with another's experience; Caring is empathy and consideration for others' needs.

Duty

Commitment to meeting obligations to provide effective PT services and serve the profession.

Excellence

Consistently using current knowledge and skills, understanding limits, and embracing advancement.

Inclusion

Creating a welcoming and equitable environment for all while elevating diverse voices.

Integrity

Steadfast adherence to high ethical principles, truthfulness, fairness, and following through on commitments.

Social Responsibility

Promoting mutual trust between the profession and public by responding to societal health needs.