Reference Guide to the Occupational Therapy Code of Ethics and Ethics Standards

Whether in a research, education, or practice setting, occupational therapists, occupational therapy assistants, and students can face complex ethical problems at various levels. They have an obligation to demonstrate ethical conduct that reflects professional values when working with clients, families, caregivers, administrators, colleagues, policymakers, payers, and other health care professionals.

Students and faculty must uphold academic integrity, as must researchers who also need to respect participants, use the highest scholastic standards for their work, and honestly and accurately report evidence. Practitioners must work hard to ensure competent, appropriate interventions for clients and their families or caregivers, respecting both them and their situations.

This edition of the Reference Guide to the Occupational Therapy Code of Ethics and Ethics Standards helps occupational therapy personnel explore and analyze ethical dilemmas and take action when challenges arise. Recognizing the many contexts in which occupational therapy personnel work, the Reference Guide arms occupational therapy students, practitioners, faculty, and researchers with both a foundation of professional values and guidance in the face of complex dilemmas.