What ethical obligation does an OT have regarding a client who is discharged early?

What ethical obligation does an OT have regarding a client who is discharged early?

• A. To ensure the client receives necessary follow-up services
• B. To ignore their case until they re-establish contact
• C. To recommend other therapies regardless of the client’s wishes
• D. To discharge them without further action

Answer: (A)

An occupational therapist has an ethical obligation to ensure that a client receives necessary follow-up services when they are discharged early. This responsibility stems from the commitment to client safety and well-being, as identified in the ethical standards of the profession. It reflects a dedication to continuity of care, ensuring that clients have access to the resources and support they need to continue their rehabilitation or to maintain their functional abilities after discharge. By facilitating connections to follow-up services, the therapist helps to minimize potential setbacks in the client’s progress and addresses any ongoing needs related to their therapy or overall health. This practice not only supports the client's recovery but also aligns with principles of advocacy and responsibility that underpin ethical practice in occupational therapy. The other options do not align with the ethical standards expected of an occupational therapist. Ignoring the case or discharging without further action neglects the ongoing needs of the client, while recommending therapies against the client's wishes disregards their autonomy and informed decision-making rights.

An occupational therapist has an ethical obligation to ensure that a client receives necessary follow-up services when they are discharged early. This responsibility stems from the commitment to client safety and well-being, as identified in the ethical standards of the profession. It reflects a dedication to continuity of care, ensuring that clients have access to the resources and support they need to continue their rehabilitation or to maintain their functional abilities after discharge.

By facilitating connections to follow-up services, the therapist helps to minimize potential setbacks in the client’s progress and addresses any ongoing needs related to their therapy or overall health. This practice not only supports the client's recovery but also aligns with principles of advocacy and responsibility that underpin ethical practice in occupational therapy.

The other options do not align with the ethical standards expected of an occupational therapist. Ignoring the case or discharging without further action neglects the ongoing needs of the client, while recommending therapies against the client's wishes disregards their autonomy and informed decision-making rights.