Question

A client passed the behind the wheel assessment and has completed all driving rehabilitation sessions required to return to driving. The client is pleased with the results and offers the OTR a cash gift. The therapist refuses the money; however, the client is insistent that the OTR take the gift. Which is the BEST response for the therapist?

1) Take the money and buy groceries for family
2) Use the money to buy lunch for the entire staff
3) Donate the money to the driving rehabilitation program
4) Decline the gift and explain why the gift cannot be accepted

Answer 1

The therapist should decline the gift and explain why it cannot be accepted as it goes against professional ethics.

Step-by-step explanation:

The BEST response for the therapist in this situation would be to decline the gift and explain why the gift cannot be accepted. As a healthcare professional, accepting cash gifts from clients can compromise the therapist's professional ethics and integrity. It is important for the therapist to maintain a boundary between their personal and professional lives, and accepting gifts from clients can blur those lines.

The therapist can politely explain to the client that while they appreciate the gesture, it goes against their professional code of conduct to accept gifts. They can express gratitude for the client's generosity and assure them that the successful completion of the driving rehabilitation sessions is reward enough.

If the client is insistent on expressing their gratitude, the therapist can suggest alternative ways the client can show their appreciation, such as leaving a positive review or providing feedback about their experience with the driving rehabilitation program.