Overview
This lecture outlines the ASHA Assistants Code of Conduct, emphasizing ethical standards, responsibilities to clients and the public, and professional relationships for certified audiology and speech-language pathology assistants.
Introduction and Scope
- The Code of Conduct guides certified audiology and speech-language pathology assistants in ethical practice.
- It ensures the welfare of clients and upholds the integrity of the profession.
- Applies to certified assistants, certification applicants, and emphasizes assistants are not independent practitioners.
- Supervision by qualified audiologists or speech-language pathologists is mandatory.
- All certified and applying individuals fall under ASHA Board of Ethics jurisdiction.
Key Principles of Conduct
Principle I: Responsibility to Persons Served
- Engage only in activities delegated by a supervising professional and within regulatory limits.
- Work only within areas of competence, based on qualifications and training.
- Do not discriminate based on age, disability, ethnicity, gender identity, national origin, or other listed factors.
- Protect confidentiality and security of client records; only allow access as directed or required by law.
- Maintain accurate, timely records and communicate credential status transparently.
- Seek help for substance abuse or health issues affecting job performance and report colleagues unable to provide safe services.
- Continue professional development and use technology appropriately under supervision.
Principle II: Responsibility to the Public
- Provide accurate information and do not misrepresent services or credentials.
- Avoid fraud, dishonesty, or negligence in payments, research, or services.
- Prevent conflicts of interest that could bias professional judgment.
- Complete all communications and records honestly and without omissions.
Principle III: Professional Relationships
- Collaborate harmoniously with colleagues and other professionals.
- Avoid any conduct reflecting poorly on fitness to practice, including harassment or abuse.
- Do not engage in romantic/sexual relationships with clients, except under pre-existing consensual circumstances.
- Reference all sources correctly and do not plagiarize.
- Report code violations appropriately and do not misuse the reporting process for retaliation.
- Comply with local, state, and federal laws, and self-report legal convictions or professional discipline to ASHA.
Key Terms & Definitions
- Confidentiality — Not sharing client information without consent or legal requirement.
- Conflict of Interest — A situation where private interests may corrupt professional judgment.
- Misrepresentation — Making false or misleading statements.
- Negligence — Failing to exercise reasonable care, causing harm.
- Plagiarism — Using others' work or ideas without proper acknowledgment.
- Self-report — Obligation to disclose legal or professional disciplinary actions to ASHA.
Action Items / Next Steps
- Review ASHA Code of Ethics for additional guidelines.
- Ensure supervision arrangements are in place.
- Stay updated on laws and regulations relevant to your practice.
- Engage in ongoing professional development activities.