Phlebotomy : Legal and ethical considerations

A system of moral principles or standards governing conduct

Code of ethics

The granting of permission by the patient for another to perform an act

Consent

Nonverbal consent suggested by the actions of a patient

Informed consent

A voluntary agreement made by a well advised and mentally competent patient

Liability

Healthcare provides responsibility even if not at fault, for any harm or injury to the patient

Assault

The threat of unlawful-touching of another

Battery

The unlawful touching of another without consent

Neglect

Failure to adhere to one of the following: duty to act, causation, and damages

Abuse

Injurious, pathological, or alignment treatment of a person or living thing

Slander

Verbal untruths