Speak Out April 2018

Principles-based approach worksheet

Which ethical principles apply? If so, in what way? • Respect and fairness

The problem

To Carleigh as a new grad employee who requires support from more experienced colleagues; to Alysha as an employer who should receive communication on significant matters in an appropriate way; to clients who require ongoing services. • Professional integrity Both Alysha and Carleigh should communicate effectively with each other as professional colleagues, to demonstrate respect and care for each other and work co-operatively to support each other. Alysha should acknowledge the imbalance in the relationship between a new grad and an experienced clinician/employer, and provide systems to support open communication. Alysha’s obligation to support and supervise any employee and in particular Carleigh as a new grad. Both Alysha’s and Carleigh’s obligation to communicate in a respectful and effective manner as colleagues, to work co-operatively and support each other, and to plan service delivery options to allow for access to ongoing services. • Laws Possibly breach of Carleigh’s contract if she does resign and does not comply with the restraint of trade clause or entices clients away from SP Speech Clinic. What and where is the conflict? • Between principles: demonstration of respect, fairness and professional integrity by both Carleigh and Alysha. What is my/our decision? Alysha identifies that communication between them has been lacking in the past few months, and this may have contributed to the situation reaching this point. Alysha is also aware that it might be easier for her (as the senior, more experienced speech pathologist and employer) to initiate contact with Carleigh at this stage. To demonstrate her professionalism, Alysha calls Carleigh at 8.30 the next morning to offer that they meet face to face as soon as possible. They agree that both will have the opportunity to discuss their concerns, which will be listened to in a respectful and objective manner. Which duties, obligations or rules are not being met? If so, in what way? • Standards of practice by professional bodies

(mapping to the Code of Ethics)

Proposed decision

TASK

RESPONSIBLE

DEADLINE

Action plan

Phone call to plan a face to face meeting Meet in person to have a discussion about Carleigh’s plans Identify concerns re workload, access to supervision and support, develop strategies to address these issues If Carleigh stays, begin planning and implementation of strategies as soon as possible

Alysha

The next day

both

As soon as possible, within one week

both

If Carleigh does leave, before she finishes so that Alysha can work on developing policies and systems for the next employee

both

ongoing

How will I/we evaluate and reflect on this process and its outcome? Regular face to face interactions which demonstrate professionalism, respect and care, an ability to listen objectively to another person’s viewpoint, consider appropriate responses and work collaboratively towards an agreed outcome. Policies and systems to ensure appropriate workload and communication channels are agreed and utilised, and regularly reviewed during supervision sessions.

Evaluation and reflection plan

Trish Johnson Senior Advisor, Ethics and Professional Issues

30

April 2018 www.speechpathologyaustralia.org.au

Speak Out