ALA Professional Ethics and Conduct

Question 1

What is the foundational principle of professional ethics in ALA practice?

Accepted Answer

Acting in the best interest of the client or patient

Answer

Maximizing organizational revenue

Answer

Following only personal moral beliefs

Answer

Avoiding all risk-taking

Question 2

What should a ALA professional do when facing a conflict of interest?

Accepted Answer

Disclose the conflict and recuse if necessary

Answer

Ignore it if no one notices

Answer

Proceed as normal without disclosure

Answer

Delegate to an unqualified colleague

Question 3

Which action constitutes a breach of client confidentiality?

Accepted Answer

Sharing client information with unauthorized parties without consent

Answer

Discussing a case with a supervisor for consultation

Answer

Documenting information in the secure client record

Answer

Reporting suspected abuse as required by law

Question 4

What is the ethical obligation regarding continuing education?

Accepted Answer

Maintaining current knowledge and competence throughout ones career

Answer

Completing only the minimum required hours

Answer

Focusing solely on the most profitable skills

Answer

Avoiding new approaches to maintain consistency

Question 5

How should a professional handle a situation where institutional policy conflicts with ethical standards?

Accepted Answer

Advocate for policy change while following ethical guidelines

Answer

Always follow institutional policy without question

Answer

Ignore both and use personal judgment alone

Answer

Resign immediately without addressing the issue

Question 6

What is the purpose of a professional code of ethics?

Accepted Answer

To establish standards of conduct and protect the public

Answer

To create barriers to entry for new professionals

Answer

To generate revenue for professional organizations

Answer

To replace legal requirements entirely