Authority and intent

Authority and intent.

(1) The definitions of this chapter are adopted by the board pursuant to the authority delegated by ss. 15.085 (5) (b) and 448.527 , Stats., to establish the standards of ethical conduct by physical therapists and physical therapist assistants.

(2) Physical therapists and physical therapist assistants are guided by values of accountability, altruism, compassion, caring, excellence, integrity, professional duty, and responsibility. As representatives of the physical therapy profession, they are obligated to empower, educate, and enable patients to facilitate greater independence, health, wellness, and enhanced quality of life. Physical therapists and physical therapist assistants must therefore act, at all times, with honesty, compliance with the law, reasonable judgment, competence, and respect for the patient’s dignity.