Ethics Glossary Terms

The degree of care (i.e. the average degree of skill, care and diligence) that a reasonable prudent person should exercise in the circumstance in question. In professional malpractice, standard of care is applied to measure the competence as well as the degree of care shown by the professional’s actions

Guidelines for ethical behavior which members of a healthcare profession are committed to by virtue of their participation in a profession, usually expressed in a Code of Ethics document.

The belief that healthcare professionals have an ethical responsibility to contribute to the health and well-being of their clients.

To sincerely and faithfully pledge and live our promise to serve the best interests of our clients.

The belief that healthcare professionals have an ethical duty or responsibility to make sure that they do not harm their clients.

Conforming and /or adapting our actions and behaviors in accordance to a policy, code or regulation which we have committed ourselves to.

To be answerable for the practice of the profession and to act in a manner consistent with one’s professional responsibilities and Standards of Practice.

The safeguarding of information learned in the context of the professional relationship. The assurance that this information is only shared with the client’s informed consent or as may be legally required.

Care that respects human rights and is sensitive to the values, customs and beliefs of all people.

The blending or merging of a professional relationship with another potentially incompatible role.

The duty to treat all people fairly.

Our core beliefs about right and wrong, good and bad which guide our decisions and actions.

A central ethical belief that holds that all human beings have innate worth and value by virtue of their humanity and consequently should be treated at all times with respect and dignity.

A therapist who demonstrates that he or she has the appropriate knowledge, skills, professional attitude and judgement necessary to provide safe, effective and ethical massage therapy.

The belief that healthcare professionals must be loyal and faithful people who clients can trust to keep their commitments to them

The idea that an individual has control over his or her own actions and is free to make their own decisions and choices.

: Refers to the client’s mental ability to make decisions about his or her healthcare.

The quality of being sincere, honest and trustworthy in making choices and decisions consistent with our stated personal and professional values.