Which of the following is an example of non-maleficence in occupational therapy?

Which of the following is an example of non-maleficence in occupational therapy?

• A. Ensuring client safety during therapy sessions.
• B. Increasing the intensity of therapy without client approval.
• C. Disregarding client feedback on treatment efficacy.
• D. Prioritizing administrative tasks over client care.

Answer: (A)

Ensuring client safety during therapy sessions is an example of non-maleficence in occupational therapy because this ethical principle emphasizes the obligation to avoid causing harm to clients. Non-maleficence is rooted in the idea that healthcare providers should take active steps to protect clients from potential harm or injury, whether that harm is physical, emotional, or psychological. By focusing on client safety, occupational therapists demonstrate their commitment to providing care that respects the well-being of the individual and aims to prevent any adverse effects that could arise during therapy. In contrast, the other options highlight actions that could lead to harm or undermine the client’s well-being, such as increasing therapy intensity against the client's wishes, dismissing their feedback, or prioritizing administrative over direct client care. These actions would not only disregard the principle of non-maleficence but can also violate other ethical principles, such as respect for autonomy and beneficence, by failing to prioritize the client's best interests.

Ensuring client safety during therapy sessions is an example of non-maleficence in occupational therapy because this ethical principle emphasizes the obligation to avoid causing harm to clients. Non-maleficence is rooted in the idea that healthcare providers should take active steps to protect clients from potential harm or injury, whether that harm is physical, emotional, or psychological. By focusing on client safety, occupational therapists demonstrate their commitment to providing care that respects the well-being of the individual and aims to prevent any adverse effects that could arise during therapy.

In contrast, the other options highlight actions that could lead to harm or undermine the client’s well-being, such as increasing therapy intensity against the client's wishes, dismissing their feedback, or prioritizing administrative over direct client care. These actions would not only disregard the principle of non-maleficence but can also violate other ethical principles, such as respect for autonomy and beneficence, by failing to prioritize the client's best interests.