Introduction

In animal practice, there is a three-way relationship between the veterinary practitioner, the animal owner and the patient. Veterinary professionals are required to provide appropriate care to their patients, but they also have legal, moral and ethical obligations to their clients. A knowledge of the legal and ethical frameworks within which veterinary professionals work is essential to ensure safe, effective practice. However, issues may arise which cause conflict between the animal physiotherapist and client, particularly when there are breakdowns in communication. This course explores some of the major causes of conflict between healthcare workers and clients, as well as suggesting ways to strengthen these relationships.

Learning outcomes

At the end of this course you will be able to:

• discuss norms, laws and ethics and their relationship to veterinary practice
• explain informed consent in relation to veterinary practice
• list seven factors that have been associated with malpractice complaints in healthcare settings
• identify four areas which may cause owners to feel disappointed about veterinary care
• propose strategies to build positive relationships between an animal physiotherapist and a client based on a case scenario

Target audience

This course is aimed at Physiotherapy and Physical Therapy clinicians, students and assistants. Other interested professionals such as athletic trainers, occupational therapists, nurses or medical doctors interested in this subject are also invited to participate.

Practicalities

• Availability - this course is online and can be completed on your own schedule.
• Hours of Learning - No deadlines are applied to this course and it can be started and completed in your own time according to your personal schedule. We expect the required elements to take around 2-2.5 hours depending on your schedule and learning style. Additionally there are many optional resources provided and if you choose to review these the course could take longer to complete.
• Types of Activities - This course includes instructional and/or practical videos, reading activities, AI supported learning activities, reflection, evaluation forms, a quiz and additional resources.
• Certificates - At the end of the course, when you have completed all of the required elements, you will be able to download a certificate of completion and 1.8 Plus points will be added to your personalised learning dashboard.

Instructor financial and non-financial disclosures

Ansi van der Walt: No relevant relationships disclosed by instructor.

Accessibility and Non-Discrimination Policy

Physiopedia Plus is committed to providing an inclusive and accessible learning environment for all participants. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, colour, national origin, religion, sex, disability, military status, sexual orientation or age in any aspect of our continuing education services. We are dedicated to ensuring that all learners can fully participate in our programmes. Participants who require accommodations or have special needs are encouraged to contact us with details so that we can make all reasonable efforts to meet these requirements.