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Ethical Considerations in the Practice of Physical Therapy

Course #: 03-1123

Price: $27.00

Take the Exam 

Please Note: This course has varying hours depending on the type of credit you need. See Below.

  • Louisiana Physical Therapy Board: 1.50 Hours
  • All Other Organizations: 3.00 Hours

This course is approved for Category 1 hours by the Kentucky Board of Physical Therapy

Take the Exam 

How to Take This Course:

  • 1 View Course Worksheet -  View the course worksheet or print it out to review later
  • 2 Read the Course Material -  As you read through, mark your answers on the course worksheet to be prepared for the exam
  • 3 Take Exam -  You must achieve a score of 70% or higher in order to earn credit for the course.
  • You don't need to pay for an exam until AFTER you pass it. If you have any questions or need more information, please click here.

CE Course Description

Ethics form the base guidelines for behavior in personal and professional activities. Ethics in Physical Therapy are complex and varied, and all situations cannot be solved in the same way. Numerous resources are available for study to assist therapists in the practical application of ethics in regards to practice and personal implementation. Each resource has its differences, however they emphasize common values such as beneficence, non maleficence, justice, respect for autonomy, altruism, and confidentiality. Research suggests that professionals who believe that their ethical standards or values are not shared by the organizations with which they are affiliated have an increased rate of burnout, low job satisfaction, and poor self satisfaction overall. It is vital to explore one's own values and ethics, and improve upon the understanding and application of said principles. This course will provide information for the Physical Therapist and Assistant to review ethical issues, and identify and resolve such ethical crises.

CE Course Objectives

  1. Explore the different resources provided to learn about ethical behavior expectations.
  2. Review guidelines for fraud, waste, and abuse.
  3. Discuss commonly held practices, morals, values, and the therapists’ role concerning them.
  4. Examine ethical self assessment tools.
  5. Evaluate ethical issues related to the medical field and therapy itself.
  6. Identify ethical dilemmas and discuss ways to resolve such dilemmas.

CE Course Outline

Introduction (5 mins)

Section 1: Professional Ethics and Roles (25 mins)

  • Five Roles of the Physical Therapist
  • Core Values
  • Practice Act for Physical Therapy
  • Code of Ethics
  • Individual, Societal, and Organizational Expectations
  • Ethics, Morals, and Professionalism
  • Key Concepts and Terms

Section 2: Fraud, Waste, and Abuse (25 mins)

  • Fraud, Waste, and Abuse in Therapy
  • Preventing Fraud, Abuse, and Waste
  • Campaign Goals for Integrity in Practice
  • Ket Concepts and Terms

Section 3: Ethical Dilemmas in Healthcare (40 mins)

  • Example Case 1
  • Example Case 2
  • Example Case 3
  • Example Case 4
  • Example Case 5
  • Example Case 6
  • Example Case 7
  • Key Concepts and Terms

Section 4: Tools for Handling Ethical Dilemmas (25 mins)

  • Ways to Handle Ethical Dilemmas
  • Tools for Ethical Considerations
  • Key Concepts and Terms

Section 5: Dispute Resolution and Remediation

  • How to Resolve External Disputes
  • Ethics Remediation
  • Key Concepts and Terms

Section 6: Demonstrating Ethical Behavior in Healthcare (25 mins)

  • How to Demonstrate Ethical Behavior in the Medical Field

Conclusion & References (15 mins)

Total Time: 3 Contact Hours

Course Level: Introductory


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Course Date: 2020-04-13

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We will disclose, in advance, any proprietary interest in any product, instrument, device, service, or material to be discussed during the learning event, as well as the source of any third-party compensation related to the presentation. This policy applies to both our organization and contractors. If such proprietary/financial interests exist, we will publish a disclaimer in marketing or instructional materials for a course.

No conflict of interest or relevant financial relationship was identified for this learning activity for individuals in a position to control content.

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Special Needs

If you require ADA or other special needs accommodations, please contact us by email: support@flextherapistceus.com or by phone 1-800-413-9636, so arrangements can be made.


Board Approval Status

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The board approval status information is provided based on our current understanding of the licensing agencies. Please note that it is the responsibility of each licensee to verify acceptance of our courses with their licensing agency.


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