Ethics & Professional Standards Flashcards

What is the primary purpose of a code of ethics in CO practice?

Answer: To establish professional conduct standards and guide ethical decision-making

A code of ethics provides a framework of professional values and behavioral standards that guides practitioners in ethical decisions while maintaining public trust.

In CO practice, what constitutes a conflict of interest?

Answer: When personal interests could compromise professional judgment

A conflict of interest occurs when personal, financial, or other interests could potentially influence professional judgment and decisions.

What should a CO professional do upon discovering a colleague's unethical conduct?

Answer: Report through appropriate channels with proper documentation

Professionals have an obligation to report misconduct through proper channels while documenting observations to support investigation.

What does professional competency require of a CO practitioner?

Answer: Maintaining current knowledge through continuing education

Professional competency requires ongoing education, staying current with developments, and practicing only within qualified areas.

What is informed consent in CO professional practice?

Answer: Providing complete information about services, risks, and alternatives for voluntary decisions

Informed consent requires clear, complete information about proposed services, risks, outcomes, and alternatives so clients can make knowledgeable decisions.

What is a CO professional's obligation regarding confidentiality?

Answer: Protecting client information and disclosing only with authorization or legal requirement

Confidentiality requires protecting all client information from unauthorized disclosure, sharing only with consent or legal mandate.