Title: Describe legal and ethical topics in human services.
Course: Family and Human Services I (19999-I) > Section: Examining Ethical and Professional Concerns

Description should include

- harmful and/or deceptive behaviors (e.g., psychological abuse, physical abuse)
- financial exploitation
- compliance with codes and regulations (e.g., National Association of Social Workers [NASW] Code of Ethics, Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996 [HIPAA])
- client rights (e.g., protection of privacy, confidentiality, dignity, and autonomy) and the ramifications of violating those rights
- standard legal documents (e.g., health directives, legal guardianship and conservatorship, do not resuscitate [DNR]).

Process/Skill Questions:

Thinking

- How can a human services professional protect the rights of the client?

Communication

- To whom should a human services professional communicate concerns about unethical behavior?
- When should communication with law enforcement officials take place?

Leadership

- What responsibility do financial institutions have when fraudulent activity is suspected?

Management

- Why is it important for family and human services workers to provide necessary legal documentation?