A physical therapist acting under employer direction must:

In the context of ethical practice and professional responsibility, a physical therapist acting under employer direction must prioritize ethical standards over compliance with requests that may be deemed unethical. This responsibility is crucial to uphold the integrity of the profession and to ensure that patient care remains the top priority.

When faced with a request from an employer that could compromise ethical standards, it's imperative for the physical therapist to recognize their obligation to refuse those requests. The American Physical Therapy Association Code of Ethics emphasizes the importance of making decisions in the best interest of patients, which includes advocating for them and rejecting practices that could be harmful or misleading. This reflection not only protects the patients but also fosters a positive therapeutic environment.

By prioritizing ethical considerations over following directives without question, the physical therapist demonstrates their commitment to the principles of beneficence and non-maleficence in patient care. This action also contributes to the advancement of the profession by setting standards that align with ethical practice.