CHC Ethics, Scope of Practice & Professional Conduct

Question 1

What is the primary reason for establishing scope of practice for health coaches?

Accepted Answer

To protect public safety and define professional boundaries

Answer

Establishing a scope of practice clearly delineates what health coaches are qualified and permitted to do, preventing them from performing tasks that require licensed medical or psychological expertise. This protects clients from receiving inappropriate or harmful advice and ensures coaches operate within their professional competencies. It also helps maintain the integrity and credibility of the health coaching profession.

Question 2

Which of the following is a violation of a health coach’s ethical responsibilities?

Accepted Answer

Prescribing dietary supplements

Answer

Prescribing dietary supplements falls outside the scope of practice for health coaches, as it requires medical expertise and licensure. Health coaches are trained to guide and support clients in making healthy lifestyle choices, not to diagnose conditions or prescribe treatments. Engaging in such activities would be an ethical violation, potentially harming the client and undermining the professional boundaries of coaching.

Question 3

What does informed consent involve in a health coaching relationship?

Accepted Answer

Giving the client all relevant details before starting

Answer

Informed consent ensures that clients fully understand the nature of the coaching relationship, including its goals, methods, confidentiality policies, and the coach's scope of practice. This transparency allows clients to make an autonomous decision about whether to engage in coaching. It fosters trust and establishes a clear, ethical foundation for the coaching partnership from the outset.

Question 4

A health coach is asked to diagnose a client’s condition. What is the proper response?

Accepted Answer

Refer to a licensed healthcare provider

Answer

Diagnosing medical conditions is strictly outside a health coach's scope of practice and requires the expertise of a licensed medical professional. A health coach's role is to support clients in achieving health goals, not to provide medical advice or diagnoses. Referring the client ensures they receive appropriate and safe care from a qualified practitioner.

Question 5

Which principle is part of the health coaching code of ethics?

Accepted Answer

Maintaining client confidentiality

Answer

Maintaining client confidentiality is a fundamental ethical principle in health coaching, ensuring that personal information shared during sessions remains private. This builds trust and creates a safe space for clients to openly discuss their health challenges and goals without fear of disclosure. Upholding confidentiality is crucial for a respectful and effective coaching relationship.

(CHC) Certified Health Coach Practice Test

(CHC) Certified Health Coach Practice Test

CHC Ethics, Scope of Practice & Professional Conduct