What should a physical therapist do if they encounter a dual relationship with a patient?

When a physical therapist encounters a dual relationship with a patient, the most appropriate course of action is to assess the situation and avoid potential conflicts of interest. This is crucial because dual relationships, which occur when a therapist has more than one type of relationship with a patient (such as being a friend or business associate), can complicate the therapeutic relationship and potentially impact the quality of care provided.

Assessing the situation allows the therapist to understand the nature and implications of the dual relationship. It helps them identify any ethical dilemmas or conflicts of interest that may arise. By proactively addressing these issues, the therapist can take steps to ensure that the patient's best interests are prioritized and maintained throughout the course of therapy.

Avoiding potential conflicts of interest is essential to preserving the integrity of the professional relationship. If a therapist allows personal feelings or interests to interfere with the therapeutic process, it may compromise patient trust and the effectiveness of treatment.

In contrast, ignoring the dual relationship may lead to unrecognized biases or impacts on clinical judgment, while discussing the dual relationship with the patient’s family could violate the patient's confidentiality and compromise trust. Limiting contact with the patient can also undermine the professional relationship without addressing the core issues of the dual relationship directly. Therefore, assessing the situation and actively