Preamble
Ethical professional conduct is expected of every member of the American Society of Radiologic Technologists and every individual registered by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists. As a guide, the ASRT and the ARRT have issued a code of ethics for their members and registrants. By following the principles embodied in this code, radiologic technologists will protect the integrity of the profession and enhance the delivery of patient care.
Adherence to the code of ethics is only one component of each radiologic technologist’s obligation to advance the values and standards of their profession. Technologists also should take advantage of activities that provide opportunities for personal growth while enhancing their competence as caregivers. These activities may include participating in research projects, volunteering in the community, sharing knowledge with colleagues through professional meetings and conferences, serving as an advocate for the profession on legislative issues and participating in other professional development activities.
By exhibiting high standards of ethics and pursuing professional development opportunities, radiologic technologists will demonstrate their commitment to quality patient care.
Code of Ethics
The radiologic technologist conducts himself or herself in a professional manner, responds to patient needs and supports colleagues and associates in providing quality patient care.
The radiologic technologist acts to advance the principal objective of the profession to provide services to humanity with full respect for the dignity of mankind.
The radiologic technologist delivers patient care and service unrestricted by concerns of personal attributes or the nature of the disease or illness, and without discrimination on the basis of sex, race, creed, religion or socioeconomic status.
The radiologic technologist practices technology founded upon theoretical knowledge and concepts, uses equipment and accessories consistent with the purpose for which they were designed and employs procedures and techniques appropriately.
The radiologic technologist assesses situations; exercises care, discretion and judgment; assumes responsibility for professional decisions; and acts in the best interest of the patient.
The radiologic technologist acts as an agent through observation and communication to obtain pertinent information for the physician to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of the patient and recognizes that interpretation and diagnosis are outside the scope of practice for the profession.
The radiologic technologist uses equipment and accessories, employs techniques and procedures, performs services in accordance with an accepted standard of practice and demonstrates expertise in minimizing radiation exposure to the patient, self and other members of the health care team. The radiologic technologist practices ethical conduct appropriate to the profession and protects the patient’s right to quality radiologic technology care.
The radiologic technologist respects confidences entrusted in the course of professional practice, respects the patient’s right to privacy and reveals confidential information only as required by law or to protect the welfare of the individual or the community.
The radiologic technologist continually strives to improve knowledge and skills by participating in continuing education and professional activities, sharing knowledge with colleagues and investigating new aspects of professional practice.