Re: Student -- CI Ethics Question

March 5, 2012

I'd say none of the above, but closest to D.

Being a manager and a male, I am aware of concerns that something inappropriate

could appear to be the case if this was done in a private area with no one but

the student and the CI present, even if it was unintentional or misinterpreted.

There is also an element of " know your audience, " as there is always potential

that a guest/customer/patient could find this distasteful or inappropriate.

I think the best way to handle would be out of sight of patients UNLESS it's to

help teach a student in a patient-care experience AND the patient agrees to it

when explained to them. It would be advisable to avoid this 1:1 in a closed

treatment room as there is the potential for misinterpretation given the

CI/student relationship not being equal.

Great topic and I don't think there is one right answer--I've enjoyed reading

others' responses.

>

> I was posed with an ethical question on a recent Continuing Ed course. It got

me thinking. and I am looking for your feedback.

> Scenario: A female PT student and male PT CI are reviewing myofascial

techniques. They were in an open gym area with patients around and both were

clothed. The PT had the student locate an area on his back and demonstrate some

of the techniques.

> A) No problem. This is within the acceptable range of a learning experience.

Don't think too much about it. Better to try on each other than to learn on a

patient. Not a problem but this should have occurred in a private treatment

room.C) Not a problem but this type of learning experience should happen between

same sex persons.D) Problem. This learning experience needs to happen with the

CI guiding the approaches while working on a patient. Misinterpreted intentions

are possible if CI and Student practice on each other.

> E) Crosses acceptable boundaries. Needs to cease immediately.

> F) Crosses acceptable boundaries. Warrants discipline.

> If this is problematic, what is your greatest concern?

>

> Thank you for your feedback.

>

> Alan PetrazziRehab DirectorPittsburgh, PA

>

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