LIBERTY UNIVERSITY
COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES
Navigating Ethical Challenges in Physical Therapy: Insights from Recent Literature
ETHC101-B01
Introduction to Ethics
by
Havana N. Randall
July 1, 2024 1
Ethical Application Assignment
Navigating Ethical Challenges in Physical Therapy: Insights from Recent Literature
Ethics plays a pivotal role in physical therapy, providing essential guidance to
practitioners as they navigate the complex landscape of patient care, professional relationships,
and the healthcare system. This reflective piece delves into the ethical dilemmas in physical
therapy, drawing on recent articles to illuminate these issues. By examining the role of ethics in
addressing these challenges, physical therapists can enhance their ethical decision-making
abilities and uphold the highest standards of professionalism in their practice.
The article “ Why Measure Patient Experience in Physical Therapy?” by Eversole et al.
(2021) sheds light on the ethical challenges and dilemmas faced by professionals in
physical therapy. One key ethical challenge highlighted in the article is the delicate
balance between patient-centered care and evidence-based practice. Physical therapists
must prioritize the patient's experience and preferences while adhering to established
clinical guidelines and best practices. This can create a dilemma when patient preferences
conflict with recommended treatment protocols, requiring therapists to navigate these
situations ethically.
Furthermore, the article emphasizes the ethical responsibility of physical therapists
to maintain transparency and open communication with patients regarding their care. This
includes obtaining informed consent, providing clear information about treatment
options, risks, and benefits, and respecting patient autonomy in decision-making.
However, balancing the obligation to fully inform patients with the need to ensure
comprehension and cooperation can present ethical challenges for therapists.
COLLEGE OF ARTS AND SCIENCES
Navigating Ethical Challenges in Physical Therapy: Insights from Recent Literature
ETHC101-B01
Introduction to Ethics
by
Havana N. Randall
July 1, 2024 1
Ethical Application Assignment
Navigating Ethical Challenges in Physical Therapy: Insights from Recent Literature
Ethics plays a pivotal role in physical therapy, providing essential guidance to
practitioners as they navigate the complex landscape of patient care, professional relationships,
and the healthcare system. This reflective piece delves into the ethical dilemmas in physical
therapy, drawing on recent articles to illuminate these issues. By examining the role of ethics in
addressing these challenges, physical therapists can enhance their ethical decision-making
abilities and uphold the highest standards of professionalism in their practice.
The article “ Why Measure Patient Experience in Physical Therapy?” by Eversole et al.
(2021) sheds light on the ethical challenges and dilemmas faced by professionals in
physical therapy. One key ethical challenge highlighted in the article is the delicate
balance between patient-centered care and evidence-based practice. Physical therapists
must prioritize the patient's experience and preferences while adhering to established
clinical guidelines and best practices. This can create a dilemma when patient preferences
conflict with recommended treatment protocols, requiring therapists to navigate these
situations ethically.
Furthermore, the article emphasizes the ethical responsibility of physical therapists
to maintain transparency and open communication with patients regarding their care. This
includes obtaining informed consent, providing clear information about treatment
options, risks, and benefits, and respecting patient autonomy in decision-making.
However, balancing the obligation to fully inform patients with the need to ensure
comprehension and cooperation can present ethical challenges for therapists.
