Hospice ofRutherfordCounty
Policies and Procedures
Category: Administrative Code: A008
Subject: Ethics Page: 1 of 2
Policy Date: 09/03 Revised: 10/06
Approval: ________________ Date: ________
Hospice of Rutherford County is committed to providing services according to the Ethical Principles defined by the National Hospice and Palliative Care Organization (NHPCO). The ethical principles of Autonomy, Veracity, Beneficence, Non-Maleficence and justice are considered when attempting to identify ethical concerns regarding patient care. Hospice staff shall be trained regarding professional relationships, boundaries, conflicts of interest and ethical principles. Staff is informed of the procedure to report concerns that may involve ethical dilemmas.
Ethical Principles
In providing patient care and services the following principles are to be considered.
Autonomy - A person with mental capacity has the right to determine what will be done with their own person.
Veracity - The duty to be truthful.
Beneficence - The principle of doing or promoting good.
Non-maleficence – The principle of removing or avoiding harm.
Justice – The principle of fairness
The Ethical Principles as defined by the NHPCO
Access
Promote universal access to comprehensive hospice a palliative care services.
Admission
Offer open access and care for hospice and palliative care patients and their families.
Conflict of Interest
Avoid activities that conflict with their responsibilities to patients and their families.
Development and Fundraising
Be open and transparent in soliciting and accepting support.
Discontinuation of Care
Discontinue care only upon the voluntary consent of the patient or when the hospice and palliative care provider can no longer provide competent care or provide care without compromising the ethical or professional integrity of the caregivers.
External Collegial Relationship
Work cooperatively with others to provide compassionate and high-quality end-of-life care.
Governance
Adhere to governance structure that ensures that hospice and palliative care providers fulfill their mission and purpose.
Information Management, Confidentiality and Privacy
Respect and protect confidential information.
Hospice ofRutherfordCounty
Policies and Procedures
Category: Administrative Code: A008
Subject: Ethics Page: 2 of 2
Policy Date: 09/03 Revised: 10/06
Approval: ________________ Date: ________
Marketing and Referrals
Follow marketing and referral practices that promote compassionate, high quality care for patients and their families.
Public Information
Disseminate accurate, fair and timely information.
Research
Support the advancement of knowledge to improve the practice of hospice and palliative care.
Staff and Volunteer Relations
Ensure that hospice and palliative care staff and volunteers are treated with respect.
