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3. Scope of Practice
o Orthopaedic technologists must work within their legally defined roles and
responsibilities.
o Performing tasks beyond one's certification or training can lead to malpractice
claims.
o State and institutional regulations define the limits of practice.
4. Documentation and Record-Keeping
o Accurate documentation of patient assessments, findings, and interventions is
legally required.
o Maintain precise and objective records to support continuity of care.
o Errors in documentation must be corrected appropriately, with clear notations of
amendments.
5. Mandatory Reporting Obligations
o Healthcare providers must report signs of abuse, neglect, or exploitation.
o Suspected child abuse, elder abuse, and domestic violence cases require
immediate reporting to authorities.
o Failure to report can result in legal consequences and jeopardize patient safety.

Ethical Principles in Patient Evaluation

1. Patient Autonomy
o Patients have the right to make informed decisions about their healthcare.
o Respect patient preferences and cultural beliefs when recommending treatment
options.
o Ensure patients are not coerced or pressured into medical decisions.
2. Beneficence (Acting in the Patient's Best Interest)
o Provide care that maximizes patient benefits while minimizing risks.
o Prioritize patient well-being over convenience or institutional policies.
o Recognize when a patient requires referral for specialized care.
3. Non-Maleficence (Do No Harm)
o Avoid interventions that may cause unnecessary pain, injury, or distress.
o Ensure proper training and competency before performing procedures.
o Monitor for potential side effects or complications from treatments.
4. Justice and Fair Treatment
o All patients must receive equal and fair treatment regardless of race, gender,
socioeconomic status, or insurance coverage.
o Prevent biases from influencing clinical decision-making.
o Allocate healthcare resources fairly and ethically.
5. Professionalism and Integrity
o Maintain honesty and transparency in patient interactions.
o Avoid conflicts of interest that may compromise patient care.
o Continuously update knowledge through education and professional development.

Consequences of Legal and Ethical Violations

• Legal Penalties: Fines, lawsuits, or revocation of professional licensure.