Professional Standards & Ethics Flashcards
7 cards from real CRE practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Professional Standards & Ethics flashcards as text
A respiratory educator discovers a colleague is providing incorrect inhaler technique instructions to patients. What is the most appropriate initial action?
Answer: Address the concern with the colleague privately and professionally
The CRE should first address the concern directly with the colleague, as this respects professional relationships and allows for immediate correction.
Which principle of biomedical ethics requires a respiratory educator to act in the patient's best interest?
Answer: Beneficence
Beneficence is the ethical principle that obligates healthcare providers to act in ways that promote the patient's well-being.
A patient refuses to use a prescribed nebulizer despite clear medical necessity. Under the principle of autonomy, the CRE should:
Answer: Document the refusal and ensure the patient understands the risks
Respecting autonomy means honoring competent patients' right to refuse treatment after being fully informed of the consequences.
What does the term 'scope of practice' mean for a Certified Respiratory Educator?
Answer: The range of services and activities a CRE is qualified and authorized to perform
Scope of practice defines the procedures, actions, and processes a CRE is permitted to perform based on education, experience, and licensure.
A CRE is asked by a pharmaceutical representative to recommend a specific inhaler brand to all patients in exchange for conference travel funding. This situation represents:
Answer: A conflict of interest that should be disclosed or avoided
Accepting personal benefits from pharmaceutical companies in exchange for product recommendations creates a conflict of interest that compromises professional integrity.
Which ethical principle is MOST directly violated when a respiratory educator shares a patient's diagnosis with the patient's employer without consent?
Answer: Autonomy
Sharing confidential health information without consent violates the patient's autonomy and right to control their own health information.
A respiratory educator is uncertain whether a clinical task falls within their competency. The best course of action is to:
Answer: Consult with a supervisor or more experienced colleague before proceeding
When uncertain about competency, consulting with experienced colleagues or supervisors is the professionally responsible action to ensure patient safety.