Code of Ethics

[Pelotari]

Hi all.

I am, with some fellow EMT's in my service, working on the creation of a Code of Ethics for our service. I am into politics so I've read many of them, however, I also know that they are seldom (if ever) useful without other actions.

I wonder if your service has a Code of Ethics, if it has one, is it in your opinion useful? If not, why is it not useful? Can you give me some suggestions for it or, even better, send me that of your service because so far I've only found one (that is the Code of Ethics of the NAEMT).

Thanks in advance :wink: ,

Mariana

[NYC-EMS]

At the time of being admitted as a member of the medical profession:

* I solemnly pledge to consecrate my life to the service of humanity;

* I will give to my teachers the respect and gratitude that is their due;

* I will practice my profession with conscience and dignity;

* The health of my patient will be my first consideration;

* I will respect the secrets that are confided in me, even after the patient has died;

* I will maintain by all the means in my power, the honour and the noble traditions of the medical profession;

* My colleagues will be my sisters and brothers;

* I will not permit considerations of age, disease or disability, creed, ethnic origin, gender, nationality, political affiliation, race, sexual orientation, social standing or any other factor to intervene between my duty and my patient;

* I will maintain the utmost respect for human life;

* I will not use my medical knowledge to violate human rights and civil liberties, even under threat;

* I make these promises solemnly, freely and upon my honour.

Declaration of Geneva

[Michael]

* I will respect the secrets that are confided in me, even after the patient has died

For interest, some discussion about that here, some statutes here, a relevant incident here, and a challenge (apparently) here.

[Dustdevil]

Having a code of ethics is really awesome, it in my opion. It helps keep ones head on straight on the field.

Very good point. I wholeheartedly agree. But you have to do more than just "have" the Code Of Ethics. You have to study it, understand it, and believe in it. Perhaps if they did away with that day in EMT school where they talk about stupid things like "duplex" and "repeater" radio systems, and spent a day coming to understand and respect the ethical demands of the profession, the people in this profession might begin to take it more seriously. Hell, even Boy Scouts do that! Shouldn't we?