Question
How can speech-language pathologists apply an ethical decision-making model in clinical practice to ensure better outcomes?
Answer
The process begins by clearly defining the problem to accurately frame the issue, preventing premature conclusions and allowing for thoughtful analysis.
Next, gather all relevant information, including professional codes, workplace policies, laws, and contextual/cultural factors. Consulting colleagues or supervisors is essential to offer perspectives and ensure no important details are overlooked.
Then, identify and evaluate possible courses of action. SLPs weigh alternatives against core ethical principles, such as beneficence (doing good), nonmaleficence (avoiding harm), autonomy (the client's right to choose), and justice (fairness). This involves considering the effect on client well-being and professional integrity.
A concise model for practical reasoning involves:
Identify the Ethical Question/Dilemma: Pinpoint the core issue.
Gather the Facts: Collect all relevant details, policies, and codes.
Identify Alternatives: Brainstorm possible actions.
Evaluate Each Alternative: Assess alignment with ethical principles and impact on client welfare.
Select the Best Course of Action: Choose the option that upholds ethical values and maximizes client benefit.
Implement and Reflect: Act, transparently document the decision, evaluate the outcome, and use insights to guide future practice.
The final, reflective, and iterative process cultivates ongoing ethical awareness and professional growth, strengthening moral reasoning and confidence, and leading to an enhanced ability to uphold the highest standards of care.
This Ask the Expert is an edited excerpt from the course, Ethical Practice in Speech-Language Pathology: Core Principles and Emerging Challenges, presented by presenter, Farzana Vela, MS, CCC-SLP, BSRC, RRT-NPS.
